Pentax Optio MX

It may not be the Holy Grail, but so far no one has figured out how to successfully squeeze high-quality photo- and video-recording into a single compact device. The Pentax Optio MX mostly succeeds because it doesn't try to be supersmall, and its specs aren't overly ambitious. In this case, you really do get what you pay for: a 3.2-megapixel digital camera, a VGA-resolution 30fps MPEG-4 camcorder, a 10X optical zoom, a swiveling 1.8-inch LCD monitor, and a selection of shooting modes that function much as you would expect with a full-size digital camera or camcorder. Compared with the shirt-pocket hybrids (such as the optical-zoomless Panasonic SV-AV50), it makes fewer compromises. We did experience performance lags with both photo and video captures, but on the whole, the Optio MX is worth considering if you're willing to accept the size and weight necessary to maintain a moderate level of image quality.In size and appearance, the Pentax Optio MX resembles a small camcorder more than it does a digital camera. As on a camcorder, the zoom lens doesn't extend on start-up; it expands and contracts internally. The silver-color plastic body feels relatively sturdy. A side-mounted grip swivels 180 degrees, letting you hold the camera securely with your right hand. Unfortunately, the weight isn't evenly distributed when the grip is extended, so the camera may tilt to the side unless you support it with your left hand. When the grip is retracted, you can mount the camera on a tripod.