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In anticipation of CES, Pentax has added two new point-and-shoot digicams to its Optio line: the Pentax Optio P70 and Optio E70.

Premium P70 features ultra-thin construction
Joining Pentax's high-performance line Optio P models, the ultracompact Optio P70 features a 12 megapixel sensor and a 4x optical zoom with wide-angle coverage out to an equivalent 28mm.

Just a bit over half an inch thick at its narrowest point, the metal-encased P70 sports a 2.7 inch wide-view display, an advanced face recognition system, and sensitivity to ISO 6400.

The P70 is one of a handful of Optios to feature HD movie capture, with the new model recording video clips in 720p (albeit only at 15 fps). The rest of the model's specs sheet is all about easy auto shooting, with Smile Capture and Blink Detection technologies, eight Auto Picture shooting presets, and even a cell-phone cam style Vertical Snap mode joining the new model's collection of features.

The P70 also advertises a new Pixel Track Shake Reduction image stabilization technology, which claims to produce "sharp images in challenging lighting conditions without adding high ISO noise." It's not clear whether the technology is optical/mechanical (it seems that it's not) or some kind of electronic system – we'll try and track down some additional details from Pentax about the new technology.

Overall, the P70 – which comes in red, white, or silver – is a sharp looking little camera that packs in a lot of features for its price.

Optio E70 provides option for casual shutterbugs
In addition to the premium P70, Pentax is also unveiling the more pedestrian and budget-friendly Optio E70 this week.

The AA-powered E70 comes equipped with a 3x zoom ranging from 35-105mm, a 2.4 inch LCD, and a 10 megapixel CCD imager. Other specs and features include Fast Face Recognition, Smile Capture, Blink Detection, ISO 6400 shooting, and Pentax's Auto Picture mode.

Like the P70, the E70 also utilizes the new Pixel Track Shake Reduction image stabilization system.

With its use of conventional alkalines and simplified interface, the E70 clearly targets casual and novice shooters looking for an easy-to-use snapshot camera.

Pricing and availability
Both models will be available for purchase next month. The P70 is priced at a seemingly very reasonable $199.95, with the E70 coming in at a suggested $139.95.

Pentax Optio P70 Specifications

Pentax Optio E70 Specifications

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