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Gift Guide: Show Mom The Tech Love

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3. Pentax Optio RS1500

Want to get mom a camera? We picked out 3. How about an all-in-one or HDTV for the den/office/bedroom? We've got those too, plus more tech accessories mom will appreciate.

Pentax Optio RS1500


Because point-and-shoot cameras are undoubtedly the most popular mothers’ day gift gadget, we’ve selected three new options that should bring out the shutterbug in lots of different moms.

The first, Pentax’s Optio RS1500, is the most customizable of our selections. Most digicams look the same: metallic body, vaguely curvy shape. This one stands out. Without any dressing, the Optio is available in white or silver and the front faceplate is finely etched. Its shape is boxy—but it works, in a retro, simple sort of way. But Pentax includes two ways to make the camera look different. The first is the option of snapping on a black or orange lens ring. The second is the ability to use the lens ring to help hold in place one of 10 colorful and textured faceplates that snap on to the front of the camera. Mom can design her own personal faceplate at Pentax’s site. We’re not saying personalization is crucial to the enjoyment of a digital camera—we’re  just saying it’s fun and different.

But beneath those colorful faceplates is a solid point-and-shoot. With 14MP, 4X optical zoom,  a 3-inch LCD  and 720p video recording, you’d expect this “designer” camera to cost upwards of $200. Not so—it can be found for under $150. Features like smile detection and a variety of modes and filters (natural skin mode isn’t a feature we see every day) will make the photos taken by the camera as personalized as the camera itself.

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bit_user 04/30/2011 10:36 AM
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Nice idea, but needs moar inspiration, pls. My mom already has all of these types gadgets (at least, of the ones she'd actually use).

Thanks, but try harder.

Anonymous 05/02/2011 1:04 AM
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save money, trade moms with your best friend, I'm' your mother lover

Tomsguiderachel 05/02/2011 6:44 PM
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bit_user, what are you getting your mom this year?
Your mom is very unusual and lucky to already have all of these types of gadgets. When it comes to digital cameras, we find that though most people already have one, most people replace theirs every 3-4 years, so for at least 25% of our readers, this year might be the year to buy a new one.

As for "try harder," why don't you try a little harder with your suggestions?

Thanks for reading.

Rachel Rosmarin
Managing Editor, Tom's Guide

dallaswits 05/04/2011 6:55 PM
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My mother is addicted to Mishi Bags (correct spelling?), so I know what to get her.
But the techy wife just had a birthday i blew the bank on, i think ill get her the NPR keychain.
Glad you listed it!!

pritishah 03/23/2012 12:52 PM
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For my tech-savvy mom, this is one of the best mothers day gifts. All packed in one…a TV, a DVD player, a computer, a camera and more. : http://www.infibeam.com/Mothers_Day_Gifts/