The Pentax Optio M40 joins the dense market of sub-$200 digital cameras. The 8-megapixel Optio M40 carries the standard specifications that characterize this popular category: a 2.5-inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens. The camera boasts high ISO settings and Digital Shake Reduction, but Pentax should not be so eager to brag, as many comparable cameras are more impressive.
The Pentax Optio M40 has poor color accuracy. Yellows and blues are undersaturated, making pictures look dull. Furthering the color inaccuracy are the camera’s poor white balance settings, which are especially inaccurate under tungsten light, producing a yellowish overcast in photos. The colors, coupled with a lens that yields blurry corners and barrel distortion, makes for unattractive images.
In low light situations, such as nightclubs or evening weddings, the Optio M40 suffers from weak dynamic range and high noise, translating into speckled photos with limited tonal range. Images taken in bright light at low ISO settings, however, have low noise levels and good dynamic range.
The camera touts a high 3200 ISO sensitivity setting with Pentax’s Digital Shake Reduction system, offering more low light flexibility than the Casio Exilim EX-Z77, with an 800 ISO maximum, or the GE G1, with a maximum 1600 ISO. Pictures taken with the M40 at 3200 ISO, however, are barely useable because of the high noise levels.
The Pentax M40 lacks optical or mechanical image stabilization to help prevent blurry photos. While it is rare at this price point, comparable cameras have it, including the Canon PowerShot A570 IS and multiple Panasonic Lumix models. Competing cameras have better Movie modes, too. The M40’s Movie mode disables both optical and digital zoom.
While the camera’s flaws are considerable, the Pentax M40 has some successes. The Optio point-and-shoot is easy to use, with an attractive, lightweight design. The included software is better than most with a well organized, customizable interface.
The camera has an effective menu system that is easy to use, even for novices. With face detection and digital stabilization, the Optio M40 makes solid upgrades from the M30. The M40 also offers an expanded flash range and increased sensitivity options.
Unfortunately, the M40’s lengthy list of cons outweigh its pros. The Pentax Optio M40’s poor image quality, limited Movie mode, and lack of manual control leave it lagging behind the curve. The Pentax Optio M40 is ultimately a lackluster camera in an overpopulated category.
For a more in-depth review, visit the Pentax Optio M40 Review at our partner DigitalCameraInfo.com
