Originally posted by Srhphoto There's been a few comments about the kit lenses. Between the 18-55 and 18-135, which has the best IQ? If I were to want a decent wide angle, what is the best in Pentax mount from both OEM and third party?
As for kit lenses, my experience is that the 18-135 is notably better than the 18-55. The edge sharpness of the 18-135 isn't the best at the long end, but the centre sharpness is quite good even at 135mm. My experience is very similar to the test just published here on Pentax Forums - you'll find it on the the main page.
Best wide angle? You will find a good deal of fans of the DA 15 Limited (with good reason, I'd say!). But there are several alternatives; the DA 12-24, DA 10-17, Sigma 8-16, DA 14, Samyang 10/14/16, Tamron 10-24, Zenitar 16, FA 20... It all depends on your priorities, whether it is sharpness, size, colour, rendering etc that is most important.
Short story, I find the DA 15 to be my favourite. It's a tiny lens, and renders beautifully. Vibrant colours and practically immune to flares. Not necessarily the sharpest lens out there, though, nor the fastest. But it's always with me.