Rating: 
Summary: Warranty will not be honored, no matter what
Review: I bought my Optio based on the reputation of the Pentax name. I used it happily for about five months and then the auto focus began to fail. In a series of five pictrues I am able to document the moment things went from crisp, clear images to blury and undistinguishable. When my five month old camera started to fail, I was not too concerned because it was still covered under the warranty. Imagine my surprise when I recieved a letter from Pentax telling me it would cost me $150 to repair the camera due to it being dropped or crushed. They even went so far as to include the cost of replacing the outer casing, which was in no way damaged when they camera was sent to them, very well-packed, and insured. No amount of arguing the point will change their stance--either I pay them $150 or they will not repair the camera, plus, I must pay the return postage if I opt to have them return the now-useless 6 month-old camera to me.
Never again will I buy a Pentax product.
Rating: 
Summary: Pentaz Optio S
Review: This I would have to say has been the best purchase I have made in years. I figured it was some sort of joke and my wife was pressing for a small camera that could be easily put away when need be. We found this one on sale and never been happier.
The pros out number the cons on this product. Here is my list.
The Pros are:
The size (it is small, I mean really small)
The LCD screen, for a camera this size you wouldn't expect much for a screen but you will be surprised.
The quality of picture.
Battery life is great.
Easy to use.
The cons:
The cost of replacement batteries( 50 Bucks)
The size of the buttons( can't complain the camera itself is small.)
I recommend this camera if anyone is looking for a unique camera and that is durable in all areas of the world. It went with me to Alaska and survived the temp there and the turned around and went to Hawaii a few months later and survived the temp and humidity out there with no problems.
Rating:
Summary: Altoid?
Review: The Pentax Optio S contains a lot of features for its size. Small enough to fit inside my Altoids container, the Optio S sports a 1.5" screen that is clear and easy to see. The buttons are big enough for human fingers (unlike some others that I have viewed...) and they are clearly labeled. The menu is easily readable and easy to use. There are almost too many different options for this small camera its stunning.PLUS-SIDE:
The Optio sports different color schemes including blue, red, purple, yellow, black & white, and sepia (my fav.) in addition to a few others.
It offers 3x optical zoom, which I was personally impressed by exactly how far it can zoom in. It has an adjustable flash option for any lighting. The Optio takes pictures in four different pixel measurements. Its video card is usually cheaper than any other card (and holds the same). Its movie capability is spectacular for any digital camera. Its computer software is easy to use, including options such as downloading, uploading, and sychronizing.
Some features it contains are Self-Portrait, Night-time Photos, Movie Filmer, Stretching (distorting the pictures, sometimes this can give an unusual effect to those who desire it), a 3D option with included 3D glasses, the aforementioned colors and many, many other variations. Lighting can also be specified. DOWN-SIDE
Shutter-speed. It's shutter lag is very annoying, and can drive anyone nuts. For me, shutter speed is a small consequence for such a stunning machine, but the lag can immediately turn anyone away, so buy carefully.
Internal memory. Without the card, the Optio has a pathetic 11mb storage--or about 10 pictures at high quality.
Battery length. This is what almost crossed the camera off my list. At full length, this battery can last anywhere from 1-4 hours. It's been a heartbreak on some instances when I could not take anymore pictures. One has to recharge it for about 3-6 hours just to get 1-2 hours of decent camera usage. Unpleasant. OVERALL:
Like any camera, it has its setbacks. But for this $300- miniature super-camera, I think it is worth it above others. Its inexpensiveness and its eclectic of features makes it a must-buy for camera-lovers or family members. Its perfect for that summer getaway to Rome or that Winter break in Colorado with the extended family.
Rating: 
Summary: Beware warranty service
Review: I have had this camera for over 6 mos and have been happy with the small size and the picture quality. It has a great macro lens for closeups of flowers etc. I did find that the flash is marginal, but the camera was designed as a small, easy to carry camera. That is where I have now had problems. It is apparently fairly fragile for a camera designed for active use. Several other reviewers have commented on the lack of warranty service by Pentax. My display button quit working, and when I sent the camera in they blamed it on moisture and would not repair. I checked with several camera stores and, according to them, most of the Warranties from most companies are very poor. If you plan on using this camera for hiking, bicycling or general travel be very careful, because if ANYTHING happens it will NOT be covered by warranty. The 4 megapixel model may be better, or you may want to go to the small camera of another company. I will not purchase another Pentax. If you buy a camera for active use, you may want to consider an extended warranty such as that offered by Best Buy.
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