Pentax announces 26x superzoom X-5 camera

Pentax announces 26x superzoom X-5 camera
Close, yet far: 26x optical zoom and Macro shots from 1cm away

Pentax has lifted the lid on its new X-5 camera, which arrives packing a rather impressive 26x optical zoom setting.

The "powerful high-magnification optical 26X super-telephoto zoom lens" is undoubtedly the headline feature on this bridge camera, which also brings 16-megapixel still shots.

Powered by AA batteries, the X-5 has an equivalent focal length of 22.3-580mm and a backllit-illuminated CMOS sensor that promises low-noise imagery at ISO settings of up to 6400.

In contrast to the insanely large optical zoom offering, there's also a Macro mode which allows clear and crisp shots from a mighty-close 0.4-inches away. We'll have to put that claim to the test, for sure. It'll also fire-off up to 10 images per second.

Ideal travel companion

"The new X-5 features classic PENTAX styling. It is the ideal compact travel companion for photo enthusiasts who want a digital camera with them wherever they go that's capable of taking every type of image from gorgeous portraits, to scenic landscapes to extreme close-ups and more," said John Carlson, Sr. Manager of Sales and Marketing, at Pentax.

The X-5 can also shoot video in full HD 1080p at 30 frames per second and will record in the H.264 format. It has an electronic viewfinder and a tilt-able 3.0-inch LCD screen on the rear of the device.

The device is launching next month for $279.99 (£175).

Chris Smith

A technology journalist, writer and videographer of many magazines and websites including T3, Gadget Magazine and TechRadar.com. He specializes in applications for smartphones, tablets and handheld devices, with bylines also at The Guardian, WIRED, Trusted Reviews and Wareable. Chris is also the podcast host for The Liverpool Way. As well as tech and football, Chris is a pop-punk fan and enjoys the art of wrasslin'.