PMA 2010: Pentax megazoom gets minor updates

(Credit: Pentax)

Pentax's X70 24x zoom camera was one of the better extreme megazooms we tested last year. The 2010 version of it--the 12-megapixel X90--features a slightly longer 26x f2.8-5 26-676mm-equivalent lens in a compact body measuring 4.4 inches wide by 3.3 inches deep by 4.3 inches deep with a weight of 15 ounces. Other than the lens, the X90 doesn't change much from 2009.

The X90 has full manual and semimanual controls, sensor-shift image stabilization, 2.7-inch LCD and electronic viewfinder, and support for Eye-Fi wireless SD memory cards.

It isn't overflowing with shooting features like those models using backside-illuminated CMOS sensors, but it does have high-speed continuous burst shooting at up to 11 frames per second at a 5-megapixel resolution; macro focus down to less than an inch from a subject; you can add digital filters including Toy Camera, Fisheye, and Retro; and dynamic range adjustment for highlight and shadow correction. Movies can be shot at resolutions up to 720p HD at 30fps (Motion JPEG) and there's a miniHDMI out for playback on an HDTV or monitor.

And because I know this is important to a lot of people, it's powered by a lithium ion rechargeable pack and stores to SD/SDHC cards. Pentax claims improved battery life, which was a weakness for the X70.

All in all, the X90 seems like a well-rounded megazoom targeted more at photographers that are interested in taking control of their results more than gee-whiz gadgetry.

Look for it to ship in April for about $400.