Pentax has announced two new compact cameras, the 12 megapixel A40 and the slim 8 megapixel V10.

The high end Optio A40 uses a 1/1,7 inch 12 megapixel CCD. The slightly larger sensor than the now widespread 1/2.5 inch CCD-s promises better low light performance, less noise and a wider dynamic range.



It has a 3X (37-111mm) zoom lens and uses CCD shift image stabilization. Too bad Pentax didn't use a slightly wider lens on this one. Relatively compact in size, the camera measures 91 x 56.5 x 23.5 mm (3.6 x 2.2 x 0.9 in) and weighs 130 g (4.5 oz). It's equipped with a 2.5 inch, 230k pixel screen.

The Optio V10 is aimed at the less demanding, fashion minded customers. This slim 8 megapixel camera sports a large 3 inch 230k pixel screen, but lacks image stabilization.



The 1/2.35" CCD is smaller than on the A40, and the lens is slightly worse of in terms of aperture (36-108mm, F3.1-5.9). It's constructed from an aluminum alloy and weighs 120 (4.2 oz) and just 19mm thick.

We still have no details concerning pricing or availability.