Waterproof Olympus Stylus 770 SW Camera - A Review in Steve's Digicams

Fri - June 8, 2007

Waterproof Olympus Stylus 770 SW Camera - A Review in Steve's Digicams

There are two lines of compact waterproof digital cameras ideal for paddling:

Pentax Optio WP/WPi/W10/W20/W30, and
Olympus Stylus SW 720/725/770

Generally, they are similar in features and image quality. I am loyal to Pentax Optio cameras (the original WP, and now W10). They are somewhat cheaper than Olympus models and offer better video options (30 fps versus 15 fps) which is important for me since I am shooting movie clips from my paddling.

Of course, I am watching all new models of waterproof cameras on market. The new Olympus Stylus SW 770 was released about 3 months ago and first on-line reviews are getting available. Here are the conclusions from a comprehensive review by Steve's Digicams:

A good ergonomics - compact enough to be carried in the smallest pocket or handbag, while still large enough to fit comfortably in your hands, functional controls, the lens position makes it prone to fingerprints
A good 2.5" LCD, but it would benefit from a antiglare coating.
Quite good image quality for a 7-megapixel consumer model
A good shoting performance for a camera in this price range: 2.2 seconds from power up to first image captured; shutter lag was 1/10 of a second when pre-focused and 3/10 of a second including autofocus.
New feature: a built-in manometer that measures air and water pressure to calculate the altitude and depth of your photos.

Bottom line - the Stylus 770 SW is a good digicam for the active user needing a weather resistant/water proof camera,while Olympus claims it is also "Shock Proof" up to 5 feet, we opted not to test this feature. The 770's 7-megapixel SHQ images have plenty of resolution to create high-quality prints up to 13x19 inches or larger, however we had some issues with the poor position of the lens and the below average results of its VGA movie mode. With an MSRP of $379.99, it offers a good value for a 7-megapixel underwater capable digicam.

Amazon.com offers good prices and a free shipping, so I usually buy my cameras and other electronic gadgets from them, but you should also check prices from other vendors for Olympus Stylus 770 SW and Pentax Optio W30. Unless you are absolutely sure that you need a waterproof camera, I would also consider one of splashproof cameras from Olympus, e.g, Olympus Stylus 1000 for paddling and other outdoor activities.