Last update 05 May’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ Photography Review
Olympus Stylus 1050SW is a 10.1 megapixel digital image stabilized all weather point-and-shoot digital camera that features a 2.7 inch LCD, 3x optical zoom, waterproof, shockproof, snow proof and an ISO range from 80 to 1600.
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Review Index – (updated 05 May’09)
Photography Review
“Trading some image quality for the 1050 SW’s shockproof, waterproof build is a fair compromise in my book. In the end I’m pretty pleased with most of the photos I took with it. They take a little more work in Photoshop than another camera might, but they’re good once I’m done with them. The most important thing is I don’t worry about dropping the camera or getting it wet or snowy. Those things are non-issues with the Olympus Stylus 1050 SW. And that’s really what it’s all about.”
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CNET
“The Olympus Stylus 1050 SW is ultimately disappointing. I really like the Tap Control, so it’s great to see it carried over to newer models. But everything else about the camera, save for a few features and its “-proofing,” is comparable to an average point-and-shoot camera that you can find for less. So if you don’t need the Tap Control and extra protection, go elsewhere.”
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Wired
“Most photos looked pretty decent if you discounted the occasional autofocus flub or the macro issue. We were certainly stoked that you can shoot video until you run out of space on your card. Olympus also includes a microSD adapter with the camera, so you have greater media versatility, and if you have a microSD-to-SD adapter, you can slap a card into most current notebooks, which lack xD readers.”
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BikeRadar
“Our issue with the camera was the shock-proof claim. We managed to break both of our samples using Olympus’s 1.5m drop test onto a concrete floor. This is a harsh test, though, and more than it would experience if you had a crash with it in your backpack.”
Rating:
DPInterface
“At the lower range of ISO settings, 80 to 200, the Stylus 1050SW produces fairly good image quality. Give ISO a bump to 400 and you’ll start seeing some noise, which is more noticeable than on competing cameras.”
DigitalCameraReview
“It’s not too much to ask to expect the camera to also focus quickly and reliably (even indoors!), take usable ISO 1600 pictures, and offer decent battery life. Unfortunately, these performance and image quality issues form a contingent of concerns that will likely steer many advanced shooters away from the otherwise capable Stylus 1050.”
InfoSync
“On the whole, we weren’t very impressed with the Olympus Stylus 1050 SW’s image performance, particularly because of the camera’s inherent urge to underexpose images captured in less than ideal lighting.”
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CameraLabs
“While the image quality is par for the course for a 10 Megapixel compact, there’s more softening and colored fringing towards the corners than several rivals we tested at the same time.”
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PCWorld
“The 1050 SW fared particularly well in color accuracy tests, exposure levels, and overall image quality. Battery life earned a rating of Good, as the 1050 SW fired off 250 shots on a single charge.”
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DigitalCameraInfo
“We like the multitude of scene modes, the high-speed still mode (albeit at reduced resolution) and the panoramic photo modes, which are easy to use and turn out fun results.”
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Buy-n-Shoot
“To quickly preview images, engage or disable shadow adjustment, select your flash option, and allow for tap control mode simply double tap the top, back, and sides of the Tough 1050SW body with your index finger and voila, the respective feature control appears on screen.”
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Photoxels
“I find that the AF works well most of the time, only hesitating when the subject is not contrasty enough. There is no AF-assist light but there is a LED illuminator that you can use to light your subject (and provide the light needed to lock focus).”
CNET.co.uk
“In normal use it’s not as slick or as elegant as, say, a Sony T-series CyberShot, and in more extreme environments you’re going to want something fat and grippy, not a slippery little superslim like this one.”
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PC Magazine (PCMag.com)
“Unless you’re dead set on a ruggedized or waterproof camera, there are plenty of options that will deliver sharper 10.1-megapixel shots and a lot less shutter lag.”
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Steves Digicams
“This is one of the easiest cameras to operate in difficult or extreme conditions. With good image quality and all of the great features offered from the “SW” line, even the price is reasonable.”
Cameras.co.uk
“Without doubt the main attraction of the Olympus MJU 1050SW is its robustness. If you are looking for a family camera or just one you can use around the pool and on ski slopes then the picture quality is fine for snapshots.”
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CNET Australia
“While the 1050SW has some excellent features for casual swimmers, skiers and action lovers, the older 1030SW is a more robust and tough camera for dedicated divers and enthusiasts. However, the 1050SW is much more capable in normal settings, looking and feeling like a standard point-and-shoot.”
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Actual Owner Feedback
“So if you are thinking about getting this camera, I would tell you, it’s not a horrible camera. It takes pictures. But I would definitely not get it again. There are cameras out there that are a lot better. Get one of them instead.”
Portion of user comment on Amazon.com
Sample Photos
[ISO Comparison Samples @ Photography Review]
[Image Quality Samples at DPInterface]
[Sample Photos at CameraLabs]
[Sample Photos at DigitalCameraInfo]
[Sample Photos at Photoxels]
[Sample Photos at Steves Digicams]
[Sample Photos at Cameras.co.uk]
Specifications & Camera Profile
Press Excerpt
London, 25 August 2008 – The newly-redesigned µ [mju:] 1050 SW is ready for practically any adventure: toss it about, dunk it in the pool or bury it in the snow without thinking – because you don’t have to. The incorporation of an innovative TAP control interface makes adjusting settings and reviewing shots as easy as the tap of a finger. Coming with a bundled microSD attachment, this model affords users even more flexibility when it comes to storing memories. The all new µ [mju:] 1050 SW will be available in a choice of Dolphin Grey, Pacific Blue, Midnight Black or Misty Rose late September for an RRP of £259.99.
Unbeatable
Do what you will to the 10.1 Megapixel µ 1050 SW: drop it, wash it or shoot with it in below-freezing temperatures. Shockproof to 1.5m, waterproof to 3m and freezeproof to -10°C, this extension to Olympus’ most robust compact line-up sports a chic new design that makes it even more fun to take with you no matter you go. A newly-developed TAP control interface lets users trade the press of a button for the tap of a finger: adjust settings and review images on the µ [mju:] 1050 SW’s extra large 6.9cm/2.7” HyperCrystal II LCD by applying a simple tap or two to the exterior of the camera. The integrated 3x optical zoom (38-114mm*) guarantees safety in action with its use of an inner-folded light path – one of the keys to this camera’s uniquely compact design.
Technologies galore
With the µ [mju:] 1050 SW, users can concentrate on getting great shots without distractions. Dependably sharp shots are assured every time thanks to Digital Image Stabilisation which automatically adjusts ISO levels to compensate for blur at slow shutter speeds. Meanwhile, integrated Advanced Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment Technology detect human subjects (up to 16 faces) and shadowy parts of an image to optimise the exposure and sharpness – so results come out closer to what the human eye sees. What’s more, the effect of various settings on the outcome – such as exposure compensation – can be previewed with the Perfect Shot Preview function. Incorporation of BrightCapture Technology also means that it is always easy to frame and review shots on the LCD, even in low light. And the TruePic III image processor provides triple enhancement to image results with improved noise reduction, significantly faster image processing speeds and more realistic reproduction of colours.
All the trimmings
There’s a µ [mju:] 1050 SW for everybody. With a unique exterior available in an array of exciting colours including Dolphin Grey, Pacific Blue, Midnight Black and Misty Rose, this model lets users express themselves like never before. Plus, the availability of menus in 39 different languages ensures that virtually anyone across the world can operate the µ [mju:] 1050 SW in their native tongue. What’s more, the inclusion of a bundled attachment, photographers can store their memories on microSD Card in addition to xD-Picture Card.
The shockproof**, waterproof*** and freezeproof (to -10°C) Olympus µ [mju:] 1050 SW will be available at the end of September 2008.
Current Price Info At Amazon.com
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi, bought a Olympus 1050SW a few weeks ago for trip to Vanuatu. Used it 6 times no deeper than 1m and was extra careful to soak it in fresh water and then dry it and checked all compartments. On the last day went to use it and found significant condensation inside the LCD screen and minor inside the lens and in battery compartment. Left all waterproof doors open for 12 hours to try to dry it out but LCD screen went “stripey” and controls only work intermittently. Have returned it to shop so will be interesting to see what happens.
Cheers
Bought this camera a few weeks ago and I love it!!!! couldnt ask for a better camera…waterproof drop-proof and freeze proof all in a digital camera that is 10 mp!!! I owned the older model 720 sw and loved it as well it was just time to upgrade. I love scaring people and throwing it in the pool. Great camera, i do however advise to get the floating strap if you plan on taking it in the ocean, too bad this camera isnt sink-proof
I am very disappointed with this camera. The auto focus is the worst I’ve ever seen, and does not work reliably even in bright light. It low light it doesn’t work at all. While it takes good quality photos when the auto focus works, I would not recommend this camera to anyone due to the very poor and slow focusing.