Pentax Optio 330 $297 + shipping after MIR

[Princeman]

You can find the rebate form here.

3.3 mp, 3x optical zoom, compactdisk, lithium ion battery, small camera...

The camera is here for $397. $100 rebate till 6-30-02.

The camera looks nice and Amazon has it with a free compactflash for you AMEX pricematchers.

The CameraCity place has very poor reviews at the resellerratings place here .

Credit goes to Moshimoro at fw for some of info.

Is it worth it? How can we sweeten the deal? Review here

 

[GnatGoSplat]

This camera is just a hair larger than the Canon S110/S200, but way smaller than the Canon S300/S330. It even fits into the S110 case.

It's better than the Canon S110/S200 in that it has:
- 3.34MP instead of 2.1
- 3x optical zoom instead of 2x
- Full manual modes for aperture, shutter speed, and even focus

What it lacks:
- Microphone for movie mode
- Low light AF assist lamp

Overall, way better buy than any of the Digital ELPHs, IMO.

 

[Kraeji]

is this a good deal? what do you guys think? im "this" close to ordering it

 

[GnatGoSplat]

This camera is a way hotter deal than the Canon Digital ELPH deal that was posted, IMO.

 

[Smack]

DPReview doesn't have a particularly good opinion of the image quality: "Lens resolution lets down its 3 megapixel label." and "If you're looking for a properly pocketable digital camera and you're shooting primarily for the web or personal electronic albums then the Optio 330 should be high on your list, but make sure you also check out some of the ultra-compact 2 megapixel competition."

 

[GnatGoSplat]

That may be true when comparing it to other fullsize 3.34MP digital cameras which will have larger optics.
However, it's a compact camera and comparing its resolution to other compact cameras like the Canon S300/S330, the Optio's resolution IS superior. The resolution tests on DPreview does show the 3.34MP CCD does allow for better resolution than a 2.1MP CCD. At this pricepoint, it's competitive with a 2.1MP compact camera.

Even though the small optics are a resolution bottleneck, the higher resolution CCD does have benefits. And at this price, there's no point to choosing a lower MP alternative. The feature set is better on the Optio as well.

 

[randomlinh]

depends on what you want really, the iso 50 on the canon and low light assist are big features i like. and for me the s330 is as small as i'll go. hehe. plus, don't have to wait for the rebate. just depends on what your needs are... but at this price.. it's definately an exellent deal.