Waterproof to a depth of 10m, capable of withstanding the shock of a 1.5m fall and crushproof under 100kg of weight, it would appear as though the Olympus mju 700 SW Olympus mju 770 SW (also known as the Olympus Stylus 770 SW in the US) is a camera capable of taking anything thrown at it and still keeps coming back for more.

Aside from being ‘life-proof’, the 770SW features a 3x optical zoom, covering 38-114mm focal length equivalent, an 80-1600 ISO range and a respectable 7.1-megapixel resolution.

However, the first thing that strikes you about this feature-laden compact is its build. A visible screw-and-panel fascia, accompanied by brush-metal plating give the mju 770 SW an almost industrial feel, befitting its industrial capabilities.

Reviewing and composing images takes place (somewhat slowly) on a vivid 2.5in HyperCrystal LCD, while an extensive 24 scene modes feature, such as underwater macro and underwater snapshot. Shutter priority and manual modes aren’t offered, and are missed, but this is an understandable compromise for a compact camera with fantastic capabilities.

Image Quality
The mju 770 SW is designed for all-round versatility and performance and this is reflected in the image quality. The 7.1-megapixel sensor is by no means market leading, yet still produces rich images suitable for great prints up to 7x5in. Noise is noticeable towards the higher end of the ISO range but is otherwise well managed. Images tend to be sharp, with minimal fringing.