Just a month ago we reviewed the Pentax Optio 330 which is the world's smallest 3-megapixel, 3X optical zoom digital camera (as of June 2001) and this month it's the Optio 430 - "the world's smallest and lightest 4 megapixel, 3X optical zoom digital camera (compared to all other 4-megapixel as of Oct. 2001). These two cameras are physically identical on the outside and only differ on the inside by the resolution of their CCD imagers. They are small, measuring a mere 3.6" wide, 2.3" high, and 1.2" thick and weighing in at 8.5 ounces, including battery and CF card. Such a compact design was achieved by using an ultra-compact zoom lens and integrating the CPU, ASIC, and memory chip into an MCM (Multi Chip Module). The result is a stylish design that is flat and easy to carry, with an attractive and highly durable stainless steel exterior.

The full-featured Optio 430 offers a selection of five shooting modes including Standard, Night Scene, Metered Manual (exposure up to 2 seconds), Movie, and Multiple-exposure as well as options for exposure, focusing, and flash. High-quality images up to 2240 x 1680 pixels is possible thanks to its 4.13 megapixel, primary color filter CCD. The high- performance 3X zoom lens (equivalent to 37-112mm in 35mm format) delivers high image resolution and low image distortion and is further enhanced by a 2X smooth digital zoom. To ensure that images are crisp and clear, seven-point wide autofocus and spot AF are both available. Spot AF can be centered in the frame or the user can select the focus point anywhere within the image area on the LCD monitor.

Accurate exposures are assured with a choice of six-segment metering, center-weighted metering, and spot metering. Exposure compensation is available with a range of +/-2EV in 1/3EV steps. Exposure levels can be viewed in histogram format during shooting and playback. The Optio 430 has six white balance modes, including Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten Light, Fluorescent Light and Manual.

The Optio 430 can also record movies with a duration of up to 30 seconds at 15 frames/sec. (recording pixels: 320 x 240 pixels). Movies are recorded in AVI format and can be easily played back on your PC. When you want to view your recorded images, you can do so with the 1.6-inch LCD monitor. To search for an image, use the nine-image display screen. And, with a 4X magnification, images can be enlarged to check for accurate focus and small details.

The Optio 430 is compatible with CompactFlash Type I memory cards and comes standard with a 16MB card. It is powered by its own rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which is included with the camera along with a charger. It can also be powered by an optional AC adapter. The Optio 430 utilizes Epson's PRINT Image Matching technology, which ensures that the camera and a PIM-enabled printer work perfectly together to produce the best prints possible.

Optio 430 Features:

• Very compact (3.6 x 2.3 x 1.2") and lightweight (8.5 oz)
• Stylish and durable stainless steel body
• 4-megapixel CCD for images up to 2240 x 1680
• 3x optical zoom (37-112mm) with 2x digital zoom
• 1.6-inch color LCD monitor
• Five shooting modes: Standard, Night Scene, Metered Manual (up to 15 seconds), Movie and Multi-exposure
• Exposure compensation of ±2EV in 1/3EV steps.
• Six white balance modes, including Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten Light, Fluorescent Light and Manual
• Seven-point wide autofocus and spot AF with selectable focus point
• Matrix, Center-weighted or Spot metering modes
• Histogram display during record and playback
• QuickTime 320x240 video @ 15fps up to 30 secs.
• Auto or Manual focus with Macro to 5.5 inches
• Epson PRINT Image Matching™ compatible
• High-speed USB port for image downloading
• Includes rechargeable lithium battery and charger
• CompactFlash Type I memory cards

Pentax Optio 330/430 and the Nikon Coolpix 885 for comparison.

Compare the size of the Optio 330/430 to a pack of non-100 cigarettes.