*Ist DS vs K100D (Super) build quality

*Matjazz* · 10-16-2007, 03:18 AM

I'm considering to upgrade my *Ist DS with a K100D Super and was wondering if anyone else has noticed lesser build quality of the latest?
I noticed it first on a presentation of K10D where I played with K100D as well. The shell parts of K100D just didn't seem to be sealed as well together as those of DS. Later on, my suspicions got bigger as my friend bought K100D and got dust behind both LCD screens quite fast while my DS got muddy finger prints and got sprayed with watter without any consequences whatsoever.

What's your take on DS vs K100D build quality?

Here are photos of DS after one of the many adventures.

wlachan · 10-16-2007, 03:46 AM

I have the DS and handled the K100D a couple of time. They are basicaly the same IMHO, except the K100D has pentamirror which is lighter and makes the camera feels less solid (but they are the same really). As to dust resistance, I have no idea but it has nothing to do with the built quality itself.

Finn · 10-16-2007, 05:46 AM

I can't speak for the *ist DS, but I got dust in the rear LCD almost immediately on my K100D. Other than that I haven't had any issues with the build integrity. Seems very tightly built all in all.

*volosong* · 10-16-2007, 11:07 AM

Have two DS bodies, one heavily used, the other rarely (backup), and a K100D. To me...the build quality appear to be equal. Have lots of dust specks in the one DS, but they only became noticeable after changing the focusing screen, (and it is almost three years old now). Got specks in my K10D too, but again, I changed the screen. It is noticeable, but not worrisome. I really should clean the things some day...in a clean room.

joelw135 · 10-16-2007, 05:05 PM

I have both the DS and the K100D super, and the Super feels more rugged if that is the word. And the dust removal actually works well. I am not sure but the frame of the Super is SS which should make it stronger, It is heavier also.

Eddie · 10-17-2007, 12:57 AM

The DS also has a SS frame.

*Matjazz* · 10-17-2007, 04:08 AM

One other thing that got me thinking *Ist DS has better build quality is it's price. It was 730€ body only when it was already out of production and it's starting price was 830€. Now I can buy K100D Super for 500€ in the same shop.
It's a big difference even thou electronics get cheaper and K100D lacks penta prism. Oh and mind that K100D has shake reduction which adds to price.
So I was thinking that K100D has lesser build quality (buttons, card door...) I don't know how else Pentax could cut price so much. Or did I over pay my DS?