Pentax Optio S vs Minolta Dimage Xt (and yes, I've done searches and read up already)

[Eric C]

Hi Minolta Fans,

Help me out here. I'm currently deciding between the Optio S and the Dimage Xt. (Like many others before me). I have already done an archive search and read the other threads about this, but there seems to be no clear consensus. I was hoping that since some time has passed maybe you have some new perspectives you can share.

I already did reviews searches on megapixel.net, cnet.com, and a plethora of all other sites. Most praise both units, but for different reasons. Put them head to head and at times it seems you're comparing apples to oranges.

I cut and paste one person's comments below on some of the main differences. Before that, a little background:

I'm a point a shooter mostly who is looking for this as a take-with-you in the pocket camera for all occasions. I already own a Olympus UZI (2100UZ) and 2020Z and this is more of a parties/fun occaisions camera. However, I see myself in these situations more often than not, so this might end up being my main camera and my UZI my secondary!

As such, it would be good to have good indoor flash photography, proper indoor exposure, etc and be overall good. Let me say I LOVE the 2020Z and it's excellent exposures.

Both of these cameras are small, it appears from reviews the Optio S has a slight edge in functionality with more features (manual white balance, 3d mode, filters), more battery life (35 percent longer), and slightly better color reproduction (based on test photos). It's also slightly smaller and fits in the Altoids case which would be cool to show off.

The Xt however destroys it in terms of shot to shot speed and start up time (around 1 second). This alone is a very serious consideration I'm keeping in mind. It's also slightly cheaper and more established in the mainstream marketplace.

My concerns based on BOTH cameras are that because they are so small you'll get blurry photos due to shutter delay and small body size.

Here are some other differences I got from other threads:

Optio S is 40 grams lighter, I can fit it into pockets easily, because it IS a little shorter. You can't put Xt into cellular phone cases, unlike the Optio S.

-The Optio S battery lasts longer (about 35% longer I think). Spare battery is cheap (don't know about Xt)

-Unlimited video capacity of Xt.

-The non-telescoping lens of the Xt is convenient, especially if you carry it on with you in extreme sports

-The Optio S has faster auto-focus and the lens zooms faster to full tele than the Xt does. Plus the zoom buttons on Optio S are better than Xt's zoom rocker.

-Minolta Xt has a lot better continuous shooting mode (2-3 seconds between shots for Optio S)

-Optio S has more options (like shooting modes).

-Optio S has manual white balance (a very convenient feature) and the Xt does not.

-If you want a really easily operated camera, then Xt is better beacuse it has less buttons and options (doesn't distract you when shooting in tough conditions)

-Xt has a marine kit, the Optio S does not.

It's like a tit for tat battle, each unit does some things better than the other.

Given my circumstances, which do you think would be a better choice?

Thanks

 

[wazza]

As you have found, reviews and written material can not make the decision for a buyer. The best way is to get both camera's and try them out. Manyhsops will let you use a demo model over the weekend and compare them to find the one that suits your needs.

I was looking at the F700 and Optio 450. The F700 looked better specs on paper (except the Optio had a 5x zoom but the F700 had better video) so I tried them both and made the decision based on that (Optio 450 !)

Don't rely on a review for your decision. It can help but shouldn't be the solution.

Sorry I can't be more specific

Hi Minolta Fans,

Help me out here. I'm currently deciding between the Optio S and
the Dimage Xt. (Like many others before me). I have already done an
archive search and read the other threads about this, but there
seems to be no clear consensus. I was hoping that since some time
has passed maybe you have some new perspectives you can share.

I already did reviews searches on megapixel.net, cnet.com, and a
plethora of all other sites. Most praise both units, but for
different reasons. Put them head to head and at times it seems
you're comparing apples to oranges.

I cut and paste one person's comments below on some of the main
differences. Before that, a little background:

I'm a point a shooter mostly who is looking for this as a
take-with-you in the pocket camera for all occasions. I already own
a Olympus UZI (2100UZ) and 2020Z and this is more of a parties/fun
occaisions camera. However, I see myself in these situations more
often than not, so this might end up being my main camera and my
UZI my secondary!

As such, it would be good to have good indoor flash photography,
proper indoor exposure, etc and be overall good. Let me say I LOVE
the 2020Z and it's excellent exposures.

Both of these cameras are small, it appears from reviews the Optio
S has a slight edge in functionality with more features (manual
white balance, 3d mode, filters), more battery life (35 percent
longer), and slightly better color reproduction (based on test
photos). It's also slightly smaller and fits in the Altoids case
which would be cool to show off.

The Xt however destroys it in terms of shot to shot speed and start
up time (around 1 second). This alone is a very serious
consideration I'm keeping in mind. It's also slightly cheaper and
more established in the mainstream marketplace.

My concerns based on BOTH cameras are that because they are so
small you'll get blurry photos due to shutter delay and small body
size.

Here are some other differences I got from other threads:

Optio S is 40 grams lighter, I can fit it into pockets easily,
because it IS a little shorter. You can't put Xt into cellular
phone cases, unlike the Optio S.

-The Optio S battery lasts longer (about 35% longer I think). Spare
battery is cheap (don't know about Xt)

-Unlimited video capacity of Xt.

-The non-telescoping lens of the Xt is convenient, especially if
you carry it on with you in extreme sports

-The Optio S has faster auto-focus and the lens zooms faster to
full tele than the Xt does. Plus the zoom buttons on Optio S are
better than Xt's zoom rocker.

-Minolta Xt has a lot better continuous shooting mode (2-3 seconds
between shots for Optio S)

-Optio S has more options (like shooting modes).

-Optio S has manual white balance (a very convenient feature) and
the Xt does not.

-If you want a really easily operated camera, then Xt is better
beacuse it has less buttons and options (doesn't distract you when
shooting in tough conditions)

-Xt has a marine kit, the Optio S does not.

It's like a tit for tat battle, each unit does some things better
than the other.

Given my circumstances, which do you think would be a better choice?

Thanks

 

[Eric C]

Thanks for the reply. I might even end up waiting for the S4 as a lot of folks seem to be doing...but that means 2 more months of waiting. And when the S4 comes out some other camera will be better, etc etc...

Should I wait? Or should I get one of these two? HELP! I will try to find a store to test them out in the meantime. Although I never heard of a store letting you take them home and compare.

I was looking at the F700 and Optio 450. The F700 looked better
specs on paper (except the Optio had a 5x zoom but the F700 had
better video) so I tried them both and made the decision based on
that (Optio 450 !)

Don't rely on a review for your decision. It can help but shouldn't
be the solution.

Sorry I can't be more specific

Hi Minolta Fans,

Help me out here. I'm currently deciding between the Optio S and
the Dimage Xt. (Like many others before me). I have already done an
archive search and read the other threads about this, but there
seems to be no clear consensus. I was hoping that since some time
has passed maybe you have some new perspectives you can share.

I already did reviews searches on megapixel.net, cnet.com, and a
plethora of all other sites. Most praise both units, but for
different reasons. Put them head to head and at times it seems
you're comparing apples to oranges.

I cut and paste one person's comments below on some of the main
differences. Before that, a little background:

I'm a point a shooter mostly who is looking for this as a
take-with-you in the pocket camera for all occasions. I already own
a Olympus UZI (2100UZ) and 2020Z and this is more of a parties/fun
occaisions camera. However, I see myself in these situations more
often than not, so this might end up being my main camera and my
UZI my secondary!

As such, it would be good to have good indoor flash photography,
proper indoor exposure, etc and be overall good. Let me say I LOVE
the 2020Z and it's excellent exposures.

Both of these cameras are small, it appears from reviews the Optio
S has a slight edge in functionality with more features (manual
white balance, 3d mode, filters), more battery life (35 percent
longer), and slightly better color reproduction (based on test
photos). It's also slightly smaller and fits in the Altoids case
which would be cool to show off.

The Xt however destroys it in terms of shot to shot speed and start
up time (around 1 second). This alone is a very serious
consideration I'm keeping in mind. It's also slightly cheaper and
more established in the mainstream marketplace.

My concerns based on BOTH cameras are that because they are so
small you'll get blurry photos due to shutter delay and small body
size.

Here are some other differences I got from other threads:

Optio S is 40 grams lighter, I can fit it into pockets easily,
because it IS a little shorter. You can't put Xt into cellular
phone cases, unlike the Optio S.

-The Optio S battery lasts longer (about 35% longer I think). Spare
battery is cheap (don't know about Xt)

-Unlimited video capacity of Xt.

-The non-telescoping lens of the Xt is convenient, especially if
you carry it on with you in extreme sports

-The Optio S has faster auto-focus and the lens zooms faster to
full tele than the Xt does. Plus the zoom buttons on Optio S are
better than Xt's zoom rocker.

-Minolta Xt has a lot better continuous shooting mode (2-3 seconds
between shots for Optio S)

-Optio S has more options (like shooting modes).

-Optio S has manual white balance (a very convenient feature) and
the Xt does not.

-If you want a really easily operated camera, then Xt is better
beacuse it has less buttons and options (doesn't distract you when
shooting in tough conditions)

-Xt has a marine kit, the Optio S does not.

It's like a tit for tat battle, each unit does some things better
than the other.

Given my circumstances, which do you think would be a better choice?

Thanks

 

[wazza]

A digital camera will always be a compromise. Hopefully we will get the technology one day that will overcome this.

My advice would be to try both (even in store). The other options could be the QV R4 (has focus assist so good for indoor and very compact but poor video and no sound and no vid out) the F700 (great video and focus assist lamp but some issues with image sharpness). I like the Optio 450 for it's zoom and still being a compact but it is ot so fast under low light. You can move up from there to the Oly 750 which accepts add on lens but is not really a compact.

So, I agree there are lots of options. Just try each out and look at the images and decide what feature YOU need. Any of the cameras above are great cameras but they all have their strengths and weaknesses.

I suggest you don't wait for too long - just buy one and enjoy digital photography. There will always be newer better models. I have accepted that I will probably probabaly upgrade every 4-5 years just like my computer. Then give the old model to your kids or sell it.

Should I wait? Or should I get one of these two? HELP! I will try
to find a store to test them out in the meantime. Although I never
heard of a store letting you take them home and compare.

I was looking at the F700 and Optio 450. The F700 looked better
specs on paper (except the Optio had a 5x zoom but the F700 had
better video) so I tried them both and made the decision based on
that (Optio 450 !)

Don't rely on a review for your decision. It can help but shouldn't
be the solution.

Sorry I can't be more specific

Hi Minolta Fans,

Help me out here. I'm currently deciding between the Optio S and
the Dimage Xt. (Like many others before me). I have already done an
archive search and read the other threads about this, but there
seems to be no clear consensus. I was hoping that since some time
has passed maybe you have some new perspectives you can share.

I already did reviews searches on megapixel.net, cnet.com, and a
plethora of all other sites. Most praise both units, but for
different reasons. Put them head to head and at times it seems
you're comparing apples to oranges.

I cut and paste one person's comments below on some of the main
differences. Before that, a little background:

I'm a point a shooter mostly who is looking for this as a
take-with-you in the pocket camera for all occasions. I already own
a Olympus UZI (2100UZ) and 2020Z and this is more of a parties/fun
occaisions camera. However, I see myself in these situations more
often than not, so this might end up being my main camera and my
UZI my secondary!

As such, it would be good to have good indoor flash photography,
proper indoor exposure, etc and be overall good. Let me say I LOVE
the 2020Z and it's excellent exposures.

Both of these cameras are small, it appears from reviews the Optio
S has a slight edge in functionality with more features (manual
white balance, 3d mode, filters), more battery life (35 percent
longer), and slightly better color reproduction (based on test
photos). It's also slightly smaller and fits in the Altoids case
which would be cool to show off.

The Xt however destroys it in terms of shot to shot speed and start
up time (around 1 second). This alone is a very serious
consideration I'm keeping in mind. It's also slightly cheaper and
more established in the mainstream marketplace.

My concerns based on BOTH cameras are that because they are so
small you'll get blurry photos due to shutter delay and small body
size.

Here are some other differences I got from other threads:

Optio S is 40 grams lighter, I can fit it into pockets easily,
because it IS a little shorter. You can't put Xt into cellular
phone cases, unlike the Optio S.

-The Optio S battery lasts longer (about 35% longer I think). Spare
battery is cheap (don't know about Xt)

-Unlimited video capacity of Xt.

-The non-telescoping lens of the Xt is convenient, especially if
you carry it on with you in extreme sports

-The Optio S has faster auto-focus and the lens zooms faster to
full tele than the Xt does. Plus the zoom buttons on Optio S are
better than Xt's zoom rocker.

-Minolta Xt has a lot better continuous shooting mode (2-3 seconds
between shots for Optio S)

-Optio S has more options (like shooting modes).

-Optio S has manual white balance (a very convenient feature) and
the Xt does not.

-If you want a really easily operated camera, then Xt is better
beacuse it has less buttons and options (doesn't distract you when
shooting in tough conditions)

-Xt has a marine kit, the Optio S does not.

It's like a tit for tat battle, each unit does some things better
than the other.

Given my circumstances, which do you think would be a better choice?

Thanks

 

[Eric C]

Thanks for the tips.

I already own two digitals and am quite experiened, I was just asking for people's opinions who have compared these two exact models. This is to be used as a backup/replacement camera, I'm only looking at ultracompacts.

A digital camera will always be a compromise. Hopefully we will get
the technology one day that will overcome this.

My advice would be to try both (even in store). The other options
could be the QV R4 (has focus assist so good for indoor and very
compact but poor video and no sound and no vid out) the F700 (great
video and focus assist lamp but some issues with image sharpness).
I like the Optio 450 for it's zoom and still being a compact but it
is ot so fast under low light. You can move up from there to the
Oly 750 which accepts add on lens but is not really a compact.

So, I agree there are lots of options. Just try each out and look
at the images and decide what feature YOU need. Any of the cameras
above are great cameras but they all have their strengths and
weaknesses.

I suggest you don't wait for too long - just buy one and enjoy
digital photography. There will always be newer better models. I
have accepted that I will probably probabaly upgrade every 4-5
years just like my computer. Then give the old model to your kids
or sell it.

 

[Garth Sweet]

Hi Minolta Fans,

Help me out here. I'm currently deciding between the Optio S and
the Dimage Xt. (Like many others before me). I have already done an
archive search and read the other threads about this, but there
seems to be no clear consensus. I was hoping that since some time
has passed maybe you have some new perspectives you can share.

I already did reviews searches on megapixel.net, cnet.com, and a
plethora of all other sites. Most praise both units, but for
different reasons. Put them head to head and at times it seems
you're comparing apples to oranges.

I cut and paste one person's comments below on some of the main
differences. Before that, a little background:

I'm a point a shooter mostly who is looking for this as a
take-with-you in the pocket camera for all occasions. I already own
a Olympus UZI (2100UZ) and 2020Z and this is more of a parties/fun
occaisions camera. However, I see myself in these situations more
often than not, so this might end up being my main camera and my
UZI my secondary!

As such, it would be good to have good indoor flash photography,
proper indoor exposure, etc and be overall good. Let me say I LOVE
the 2020Z and it's excellent exposures.

-The Optio S has faster auto-focus and the lens zooms faster to
full tele than the Xt does. Plus the zoom buttons on Optio S are
better than Xt's zoom rocker.

-If you want a really easily operated camera, then Xt is better
beacuse it has less buttons and options (doesn't distract you when
shooting in tough conditions)

I only left a relevent bit of your original post above. I would recommend the Xt. I have owned the Dimage X (and use that as my point of comparison) and now own the Optio S. I love the Optio S but it has it's shortcomings. Specifically.

1) Indoor flash photos require a very steady hand if the indoor conditions are well lit. On the flip side if the indoor conditions are not well lit the Optio S (although it claims to be better in low light) will not focus in areas the Dimage X will.

2) The Dimage X does have a slower Zoom BUT (big BUT) the Dimage X allowed the zoom to be stopped anywhere between Full Wide and Full Zoom. The Optio S has 7 zoom positions from full Wide to Full Zoom which I find very annoying! You cannot exactly frame your subject with the Optio S like you can with the Dimage X.

3) The Dimage X had fewer features but for 90% of Point and Shoot shots it's better. The Dimage X did a better job with it's Automatic choices then the Optio S does. To get a really good picture with the Optio S I have to tweak some things each time. With the Dimage X I quickly took a shot, knew it would be decent and could move on.

4) I've mentioned this to others. The Dimage X (and Xt) have a screen with 110,000 pixels. The Optio S have 84,000 pixels. The Dimage X screen is stunning compared to the Optio S. I find the Optio S screen grainy and does not represent the images well. If I pop pictures taken from my Optio S onto the old Dimage X I drool at the improved on screen quality.

That's my 2 cents!

 

[Arn]

-The Optio S has faster auto-focus and the lens zooms faster to
full tele than the Xt does. Plus the zoom buttons on Optio S are
better than Xt's zoom rocker.

-If you want a really easily operated camera, then Xt is better
beacuse it has less buttons and options (doesn't distract you when
shooting in tough conditions)

These are relevant points (I think it was me who said that second part...)

2) The Dimage X does have a slower Zoom BUT (big BUT) the Dimage X
allowed the zoom to be stopped anywhere between Full Wide and Full
Zoom. The Optio S has 7 zoom positions from full Wide to Full Zoom
which I find very annoying! You cannot exactly frame your subject
with the Optio S like you can with the Dimage X.

Hey, you can always move your feet a few inches...

3) The Dimage X had fewer features but for 90% of Point and Shoot
shots it's better. The Dimage X did a better job with it's
Automatic choices then the Optio S does. To get a really good
picture with the Optio S I have to tweak some things each time.
With the Dimage X I quickly took a shot, knew it would be decent
and could move on.

Optios S has the best color accurace on ANY camera, tested by Popular Photography in a recent mag. How much tweaking do you need? I mostly use only manual white balance and that is a MUST HAVE feature, an important feature missing from the Dimage X-Xt!

4) I've mentioned this to others. The Dimage X (and Xt) have a
screen with 110,000 pixels. The Optio S have 84,000 pixels.

You´re really mistaken here. Must be mixing with Cazio Z3, which has that amount of pixels in the LCD. Optio S has more.
my 2 euro cents...
-Arn

 

[pimlottc]

If you're not aware of it, I would suggest you take a look at the recently announced Pentax Optio 33WR, which looks to be more directly comparable to the Xt. No reviews yet, though, and it comes out in October.

http://www.dpreview.com/news/0309/03090301pentax33wr.asp
http://www.pentaxusa.com/products/cameras/camera_overview.cfm?productid=18047

 

[Nudibranco]

I have an optio 550 and an xi minolta.

For P&S the Minolta has no equal. The fact that its zoom does not extend is just unique, nobody knows it's on, it is perfect for underwater, it is fast.

That alone is what makes me put it on top. The lens is maybe a bit softer but hey I get great portrait shots and 3MP is enough for letter size prints.

I wished focusing was better and I cannot compare that to the Optio-s.
More control on speed or aperture would have been perfect.

Cheers,

andrea

 

[Garth Sweet]

4) I've mentioned this to others. The Dimage X (and Xt) have a
screen with 110,000 pixels. The Optio S have 84,000 pixels.

You´re really mistaken here. Must be mixing with Cazio Z3, which
has that amount of pixels in the LCD. Optio S has more.
my 2 euro cents...
-Arn

I think I am correct regarding pixels. I was so dismayed when I first saw the LCD screen that I emailed Pentax. I've subsequently seen the same resolution mentioned somewhere else too. Here is the response I got when questioning Pentax Canada.

----------------------------------

Dear Garth Sweet,

THANK YOU FOR CONTACTING PENTAX CANADA INC..
Please accept our apologies in the delayed reply to your inquiry.
In regards to your e-mail, the Optio S LCD Resolution is as follows.

Optio S 1.6-inch TFT 84K pixels. K=1000

I hope that I have been of some assistance to you today.

Should you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Dan Savoie
Technical Support
Pentax Canada Inc.

 

[Eric C]

For the major difference in shot to shot and startup time alone, I might be picking the Xt...granted, in October the S4 will come out, but that will take a while and the price will be $399...I can get a new Dimage Xt right now for about $300 or less, give or take. I also hear the Dimage Xt takes excellent P mode photos, while the S needs consistent tweaking to get the best photos, although it's much more flexible.

The S400 is really nice but it's a bit too expensive and large for my tastes...I'm looking for something I can carry in my pocket.

Any reason I should change my mind, everyone?

I have an optio 550 and an xi minolta.

For P&S the Minolta has no equal. The fact that its zoom does not
extend is just unique, nobody knows it's on, it is perfect for
underwater, it is fast.

That alone is what makes me put it on top. The lens is maybe a bit
softer but hey I get great portrait shots and 3MP is enough for
letter size prints.

I wished focusing was better and I cannot compare that to the Optio-s.
More control on speed or aperture would have been perfect.

Cheers,

andrea

 

[Arn]

you must be right. Well, the pixels have been enough for me. I mainly use the LCD to frame the picture and to set correct exposure (via the picture and histogram). I can delete most of the blurry shots on the lcd too. I haven't found the LCD to be major problem, although I admit that it could be better.

4) I've mentioned this to others. The Dimage X (and Xt) have a
screen with 110,000 pixels. The Optio S have 84,000 pixels.

You´re really mistaken here. Must be mixing with Cazio Z3, which
has that amount of pixels in the LCD. Optio S has more.
my 2 euro cents...
-Arn

I think I am correct regarding pixels. I was so dismayed when I
first saw the LCD screen that I emailed Pentax. I've subsequently
seen the same resolution mentioned somewhere else too. Here is the
response I got when questioning Pentax Canada.

----------------------------------

Dear Garth Sweet,

THANK YOU FOR CONTACTING PENTAX CANADA INC..
Please accept our apologies in the delayed reply to your inquiry.
In regards to your e-mail, the Optio S LCD Resolution is as follows.

Optio S 1.6-inch TFT 84K pixels. K=1000

I hope that I have been of some assistance to you today.

Should you have any further questions or concerns, please do not
hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Dan Savoie
Technical Support
Pentax Canada Inc.

----------------------------------