I've not had a problem with the shutter release spring, that one appears to be much stronger than the other buttons. However when one or more of the other buttons are depressed the camera locks up and will not shoot.
Agreed. This is my experience as well.
Next compact camera I get will probably be suitable for 10m, and then use it in a 40m+ housing for a belts and braces approach. That should be suitable for almost anything other than a catastrophic flood.
Agreed again! Almost seems like if I want a housing that performs at 40 metres, I need to buy one rated at 60 metres or more!