| Latest Review Posted | Pentax K-50
While I am reviewing only the K-50 here, I’m certain that a lot of what I say will apply to the entire Pentax line of DSLRs, and probably more precisely to the K-30 and the K-500. I have owned a few Pentax film SLRs, but this is my first Pentax DSLR.
I bought my brand-new K-50 body for $129, so this review might be a little skewed in its favor. Before Christmas, Samy's Camera was selling a kit that included the K-50, and 18-55 WR lens, and flash for $349, with a $100 Promaster rebate. I received the rebate, sold the lens and flash. Even a middling camera is going to seem better when purchased for such a reasonable price. Did I say reasonable price? I guess I mean ridiculously low.
However, the K-50 is certainly not a middling camera—in fact, it is a steal even at the current asking price of $295 for body only. This camera would be a steal at $400.
There's only one thing I miss on the K-50: it doesn't have an articulated screen—those things are indispensable for getting down-to-earth or over-the-crowd shots. Once you’ve used one, you’ll never want to go back.
I can’t say very much about the K-50’s auto-focus capabilities, because I seldom use AF lenses. The only auto-focus lens I own, in fact, is the 18-135 WR. It's a good lens, but not nearly as fast (aperture- and focus-wise) as the 25-400mm (equivalent) on my FZ-1000; however, it covers a good range... and it's weatherproof. When I use it, focus seems to be quick and precise. I also use a Rokinon 8mm—I guess y... |
