Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom
Announced February 12, 2004
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Good
The Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom is a durable, high-quality camera that delivers vibrant, sharp images with excellent color accuracy and fast operational speeds. Although it offers a robust build and professional-style controls, it is hampered by slow RAW write times and limited performance at higher ISO settings.
Weighted from 6 reviewer scores
Pros
- Excellent image quality with high resolution, sharp details, and accurate color reproduction
- Superior build quality featuring a robust magnesium alloy body
- Fast startup, autofocus, and shutter response times
- Intuitive control layout with extensive external buttons and shortcuts
- Versatile zoom lens range with bright apertures
Cons
- Poor image quality and visible noise at higher ISO settings
- Significant delays when writing or reviewing RAW image files
- Difficult menu navigation and cumbersome manual focus implementation
- Unreliable or slow autofocus performance in certain conditions
- Heavy and bulky physical design
- Launch price $1,149 (USD)
- Sensor 8MP Smaller than 1-inch CCD
What the Reviewers Say
All 6 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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My first impression of the C-8080 Wide Zoom was, “at last a prosumer camera that feels as though it is worth its price tag”.
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Given the functional superiority of the Sony, and the fact that there will be highly competitive cameras coming along soon from Nikon, Canon and Minolta, it’s hard to see how one can recommend the Olympus C-8080.
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If you can live with the limited effective ISO range, I would highly recommend the Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom to you. It's a great all-in-one solution and a real alternative to the weight and bulk of a DSLR with several lenses.
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The C-8080 is a solid workhorse, and quick one too. Although it takes some hits on ease of use, it produces great images. The Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom is a top choice for serious shooters 5 Oct 2004.
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A distinctive shape, prominent lens, high-rising flash and smart black body give the Olympus C-8080 a quality appearance.
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[...] I think the C-8080 was indeed ahead of its time, it got a lot of things right, and some even better than modern cameras.
