Key Features
Mar 02 2011
Announced
14 megapixels
Resolution
Brand | Pentax |
Sensor Type | 1/2.3-inch |
Sensor | CCD |
Weight | 157g |
MSRP | $199USD |
Other similar cameras

Pentax Optio WG-1
Released Feb 07 2011 | 14MP resolution

Pentax Optio RS1500
Released Mar 16 2011 | 14MP resolution

Pentax Optio RZ10
Released Jul 19 2011 | 14MP resolution
Overview of the Optio S1
The Pentax Optio S1 is a compact camera with big capabilities. With its 14-megapixel sensor, 5x optical zoom, and HD video recording, this camera packs a punch in a small package. But what sets it apart from other compact cameras is its sleek design and affordable price tag. Whether you're looking for a camera to capture family memories or to take on your next adventure, the Pentax Optio S1 is a versatile option that won't break the bank. In this blog post, we'll dive into some of the key features of the Pentax Optio S1 and why it's a great choice for amateur photographers looking for a compact camera that still delivers quality results.
Pentax Optio S1 Pros and Cons
Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Pentax Optio S1 camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!
Pros
Cons
Build and Construction
Body and dimensions
Pentax Optio S1
Weather sealed | |
Dimensions | 114 x 58 x 28mm |
Weight | 157g |
Thickness | 28mm |
Weather Sealing
The Pentax Optio S1 is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.
Design and Handling
Main design features
View Finder | None |
Screen Type | Fixed Type |
Screen Resolution | 230k dots |
Body type | Compact |
Suitable for:
Photography | Above Avg. |
Videography | Above Avg. |
Travel | Above Avg. |
LCD Screen
This camera has a fixed type 2.70" screen, with a display resolution of 230k dots. This makes the Pentax Optio S1 not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.
Viewfinder
Pentax Optio S1 does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the Optio S1 camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.
Image Quality
Pentax Optio S1 has a 14MP sized CCD sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 14 pixels. Pentax Optio S1 has a native ISO range of 80 - 6400 which can be boosted to null - null.
Key Features
Mar 02 2011
Announced
80 - 6400
ISO Range
Sensor | 1/2.3-inch |
Extended ISO | null - null |
Max resolution | 4288 x 3216 pixels |
DXO Sensor Scores
Overall
not tested
Color Depth
not tested
Dynamic Range
not tested
Low Light ISO
not tested
DXO mark sensor scores
The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Pentax Optio S1 camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the Optio S1 is excellent
Crop Factor
Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.
Size comparison
Crop factor calculator
Crop factor
1x
Full frame equivalent
24mm
This camera: 1/2.3-inch
24mm
Connectivity, storage, battery
Storage | SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal |
Battery Life | 260 shots |
Battery Model | D-LI92 |
HDMI | |
USD | |
Wireless Connectivity |
Storage
The Pentax Optio S1 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.
Battery
The Pentax Optio S1 uses the D-LI92 model of battery pack. This is rated for 260 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.
Photography Features
Flash
The Pentax Optio S1 has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. However it lacks an external flash shoe, which limits you to using the built-in flash.
Shutter
The Pentax Optio S1 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/1500s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.
With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.
Autofocus
The Pentax Optio S1 includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 9 number of focus points.
While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.
Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.
On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.
FAQ
The Pentax Optio S1 features a CCD sensor
No the Optio S1 does not have weather sealing.
The Pentax Optio S1 was announced on Mar 02 2011
Yes the Optio S1 does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.
The Optio S1 has a native ISO range of 80-6400, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.
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