Shooting in the rough: Rugged compact digital cameras

Joshua Goldman
Senior editor March 2, 2010 (updated on: October 4, 2010)

Rugged digital cameras aren't a new thing, but models were generally only available from two vendors: Olympus and Pentax. In 2009, though, Canon, Panasonic, Casio, and Fujifilm also released waterproof and/or shockproof cameras, along with offerings from Olympus and Pentax.

Canon has always had waterproof casings for its cameras and the D10 comes across as one of its point-and-shoot PowerShots tucked inside a shockproof, waterproof, and freezeproof shell. It's not the most attractive camera, looking a little awkward away from the water, but it took the best photos of the bunch we tested.

Unlike Canon's PowerShot D10, the Pentax Optio W90 is well suited for double duty as a rugged and everyday pocket camera. People unconcerned with appearance and size but who want the best image quality would be better off with the D10. However, the W90 gives you a durable, lightweight, and waterproof package with very good photo quality and performance for its price.

The Olympus Stylus Tough 8010 can take some serious abuse and it'll easily slip into a life-vest pocket, ski jacket, or backpack. Because of its slow performance and poor high-ISO photo quality, it's only recommend if you're shooting mostly landscapes and portraits outdoors in good lighting.

Most of these manufacturers have 2010 models with improved features and in some cases more-rugged builds. Sony has also joined the pack with its TX5. We'll be reviewing them as soon as possible, but until then here's how the available models we've tested stack up.