Waterproof camera?

Can you folks help me choose a waterproof camera. I have googled several but would like to know what NCKA folk use and abuse.

 

Sherm

 Pentax offers the Optio 20 and newer Optio 30 popular line of waterproof cameras. Olympus has the 720sw and newer 770sw that can handle more water depth and abuse (stainless steel case) check them out.
 
I had a Optio 20 but my son took it snowboarding and it came back with a broken lens cover. I want to replace it with  a Olympus 770SW  (B-day hopefully!). Olympus also offers a waterproof housing for deep diving.
 

 Thanks Mark I will check them out.

Sherm

Pentan Optio and good.  I have never had problem...unless it is low on battery or low on disc space.

Ken kickfish

Got the Olympus 770SW  and it has preformed very well. Also have beaten the bejesus out of it with no problem. Not as pretty as it was but still takes great shots. Read the specks on impact they are pretty impressive and I know I have a record of trashing my equipment just ask the guys I fish with...

These are both great cameras but like Shimmy said, the Olympus can take some serious abuse since it's shockproof. But for this attribute you need to pay more than the Pentax.. and you can tell it's a bit more. I'm frugal to the core so got the Pentax on Ebay.

Z

My first gen Optio finally crapped out after 3 years of extreme abuse, it really took a BEATING...great product.

Both are shock-proof, many reviewers skip the shock test and take the word of the manufacturer. I have the Optio W30. The only thing I worry about is the time lapse between pressing the button and the moment the picture is taken...can be up to almost 2 seconds.

Howard

I got the 770 SW, and it takes great underwater video and picks, up (or down to 33ft)..

Thanks guys, lots of good help. While I was looking at the reviews  of the cameras I found full functional waterproof case. Does anyone have an opinion of those.

Sherm

 I've been using a canon elph in a housing for a few years. The housing adds a  lot of bulk even with a small camera, so storing the camera is an issue. You can keep a waterproof camera on you for quicker access. Blurry photos from water on the lens is my biggest problem unless you are diving. A camera you can keep in your PFD or around your neck is faster and easier to use. I leave the housing at home now and keep my Elph in a small waterproof bag with a strap. That way the lens stays dry and it is quick to access around my neck. The waterproof camera is more convenient.
 

Another Optio user here 

Optio WP = 5MP

2 Years of abuse and still capturing "the moments" 

* Very light and compact....no need for a housing or waterproof bag

Glad to hear the Optio takes a bit of abuse as well. Those are some really good testimonials. Can't wait to get mine on the water for some pics. Just curious, where does everyone store their camera? You want to have it handy but don't wanna damage it either.

Z

Just curious, where does everyone store their camera? You want to have it handy but don't wanna damage it either.

Z,

I keep mine in a neoprene beer coaster - the optio fits in perfectly - together with a key chain float....which goes inside my PFD pocket 

If you want a beer coaster, send me your address and I'll mail you one.

I'll post some pics later....

My Optio has been trashed and still takes pics. I used to put it in the cup holder of my P15 and it would soak in a little water all day.  I have a W20 but the W30 looks pretty sweet.

http://www.amazon.com/Pentax-Optio-Digital-Camera-Optical/dp/B000LXZYKW/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-9848175-2668954?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1189184670&sr=8-1