Look familiar? Granted, Pentax’ Optio H90 was released back in January, but this is “Want One†and months later – we still want one. This compact camera is functionally sound, but really stands out with its budget price and unique, two-tone, minimalist design.
The striking orange and silver design of the Optio H90 makes for a fine first impression, with the pleasant minimalism part of Pentax’ “functional beauty†concept, and apparently based on “Japanese lifestyle trends†– whatever that means. Either way, it’s a looker, with brains to match its beauty – with a wide-to-telephoto 5X optical zoom lens, 12.1 MP, a large, easy-to-view LCD monitor, and the ability shoot 70p HD movies.
Ostensibly a lower-budget, “popular-class†digital camera, the H90 won’t blow away budding professional photographers, but it’s a fantastic entry model, offering stylish looks and a light, compact shape to ensure it won’t drag you down when you’re feeling snap-happy.
We especially like the control layout of the H90, with all the main buttons within easy reach of your thumb while you’re taking a photo. The LCD screen is extremely large for a budget camera also, another intuitive design feature for this budget camera. The camera is also Eye-Fi connected, meaning it’s been optimised for use with Eye-Fi wireless memory cards, a handy time-saver. For the uninitiated, Eye-Fi automatically transfers pictures from your camera to your computer, removing the need for cables.
In all, the Optio H90 is an exceptional entry to the budget camera market, performing exceptionally well whilst including features many of its price-range rivals have omitted, such as 720p HD video and Eye-Fi support. When you factor in the H90’s exquisite looks, Pantex have created an admirably unique entry for an all-too-often homogenous market.
The Pentax Optio H90 is available exclusively through all good electronics and camera stores. Pixmania.ie is currenty offering the camera at a 18% discount for €129 ex vat.
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