The 10-megapixel Pentax Optio A30 is equipped with anti-shake technology and offers full manual control in a chic and compact body

Product Overview

Overall rating:

89%

Pentax Optio A30

Overall score:89%
Features:90%
Value:90%
Image Quality:85%
Performance:90%
Design:90%

Pros:

  • Quality build, Full manual mode, Design and feel

Cons:

  • Lack of wider zoom range

Product:

Pentax Optio A30 Review

Manufacturer:

Price as reviewed:

£170.00

The compact market is forever evolving with growing pixel counts and a multitude of features. The Pentax Optio A30 possesses several of the latter yet offers full manual control in a chic and compact body.

Features

Image capture takes place on a 10MP 1/1.8in CCD. The 3x optical zoom (38-114mm equivalent) is modest, as is the maximum ISO 1600, with the result of all of the above displayed on a striking 2.5in LCD screen.

Design and Performance
It is in use that the A30 really impresses, both in shooting and its general look and feel. The matt black finish and steel highlights of the body give the A30 a real feel of quality. The weight, while not heavy, continues the overall impression of a refined compact. And whereas a lot of compacts impress in design yet frustrate in use, the A30 continues the advanced feel throughout.

Image Quality
Images are consistently, but not overly, sharp while noise is minimal right up to ISO 800.

Verdict

A beautifully designed compact with full manual mode and impressive functionality

Details

Power:Li-ion
Connectivity:USB 2.0
Memory Card:SD + 22MB int memory, SDHC compatible
Flash Modes:4
White Balance:Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten light, Fluorescent light, Manual setting
ISO Range:64-3200
Metering System:TTL Multi-segment metering, Center-weighted metering, Spot metering
Exposure Modes:Auto Picture (Normal, Night Scene, Landscape, Portrait), Program / Shutter-priority / Manual + 14 scene modes
Shutter Speeds:1/2000 sec. to 4 sec
File Formats:JPEG
LCD:2.5in
Lens:38-114mm
Sensor:10mp
Dimensions:57.5 x 89.5 x 23.5mm
Weight:130g
Other:-