Pentax has announced three new digital cameras in its Optio digital camera line. The Optio S5z, the Optio S55, and the Optio S45 will ship to dealers next month. The company's sixth DA lens will ship in June as well.
The 5 MP Pentax Optio S5z is the fifth in the series and features a 2.5 inch monitor and 3x optical zoom. The camera's small size (3.3" x 2.8" x .8") is made possible by the Pentax Sliding Lens system that moves the lens up and away as it retracts into the camera. The camera will be available for under $350.
The Pentax Optio S55 will also deliver 5 MP resolution, 3x optical zoom, and a 2.5 inch LCD monitor. The camera will also have an on-board help feature to reduce dependency on the manual. Pentax is marketing this camera to newcomers, stating "no experience required." The camera will sell for just under $300.
The third Pentax digital is the Optio S45, a compact digital camera featuring 4.0 MP resolution, 3x optical zoom, and a 2.5 inch LCD monitor. This camera will ship for under $230 in a limited distribution.
Each of the new cameras will ship with PhotoShow Express software, allowing users to manage, search, and share their digital pictures. Users will also be able to create musical slide shows with their images.
Pentax will also ship the new lightweight 4x telephoto zoom DA lens for use with digital SLR cameras. The smc Pentax-DA 50mm-200mm f4-f5.6 ED was announced at the PMA trade show in February and will ship next month for $300.
