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Sophisticated good looks aren't the only reason to like this compact camera, although we admit being smitten with the Pentax Optio 750Z when we first laid eyes on it. Beyond its handsome face, however, are many covetable goodies: a 7-megapixel sensor, 5x optical zoom and an abundance of manual features. Yet snapshooters who want a good looking camera that will deliver big prints shouldn't shy away. The 750Z has enough preset program and scene modes to keep you happy, too.
Made from an aluminum alloy with a rubberized leathergrained front panel, the 750Z doesn't feel quite as good as it looks. It's sturdy, yes, and we like the non-slip handhold. Still we were a little surprised by the chintzy feel and alignment of the swivel-and-fold LCD. Otherwise, the camera is well-made and designed for efficiency.
With a feature set that rivals higher-end cameras, the 750Z offers everything from manual exposure control to a full range of bracketing options and custom settings. Creative filter effects, 11 selectable focus points, real-time alerts to areas of over- and under-exposure, multiple exposure mode only skim the surface of this camera's capabilities. Sure, you're going to have to read the manual, but it will be well worth the effort. Or, you can simply go the snapshot route and make use of the camera's scene modes.
Whatever road you choose, you won't be disappointed with the camera's performance. It's not the fastest on the block at start-up, but it's speedy and focuses well in low light. Other than image noise in broad expanses of sky in our outdoor shots and at higher ISOs, we were pleased with the camera's accurate exposure, true color rendition and good detail capture.
While you may be miffed at the bundled Windows-only software, the 750Z offers so many features that experienced users and those who want room to grow won't be disappointed.
-THEANO NIKITAS
OPTIO 750Z: 
Pentax | www.pentaxdigital.com | 800-877-0155 | $550
Pros: Attractive design, swivel-and-fold LCD, sophisticated and full feature set, good image quality, 5x optical zoom.
Cons: Need to purchase highcapacity/ high-speed SD card (32MB card included), Windowsonly bundled image management software, LCD feels a little chintzy, image noise in skies and at higher ISOs.
Requires: USB port, OS 9.2 or later
macHOME recommends: High-capacity/highspeed SD card
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