Pentax Imaging is back again with a new camera but this time it’s an extended zoom compact digital camera for the point-and-shoot crowd. The new Pentax Optio RZ18 will be launched in October for $299.95 and for that money buyers will be able to get the RZ18 in either Black, White or Orange body colors. Features wise Pentax sums up the new RZ18 in ten bullet points: Generous 18X zoom (equivalent to 25-450mm) with extra wide-angle lens captures subjects near and far. High resolution 16 megapixel sensor for large prints or aggressive image cropping. Slim footprint for outstanding portability and inconspicuous use.
Multiple PENTAX Shake Reduction (SR) image stabilization options, including sensor-shift SR, for sharp images in any lighting.
Large 3 inch LCD with HVGA resolution (460,000 dots).
Powerful automatic shooting modes such as Auto Picture and scene modes take the guesswork out of great photography.
Creative special effects filters add artistic flair to the common snapshot.
Advanced 9-point Autofocus with a 4cm super macro mode.
Face detection for perfectly focused and exposed portraits, includes a dedicated pet recognition feature.
Widescreen HD video in 720p at 30 frames per second.
When compared feature for feature with other similarly priced extended zoom point-and-shoot cameras the new Pentax Optio RZ18 looks good on paper. When Pentax launches this camera they’ll be in competition with the likes of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS10.