I have a DA 18-55mm lens, and a DA-L II lens. I dont' see any real difference between them when shooting on my K10D body. My questions are:
1) what are the differences?
2) what camera bodies will the DA-L II lens be compatible with, not as regarding the mount, but resolution characteristics? Thank you.

[boriscleto]

The primary difference is the optical formula.

The original DA 18-55 has 12 elements in 9 groups.
SMC Pentax-DA 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL Reviews - DA Zoom Lenses - Pentax Lens Reviews & Lens Database

The DA 18-55 II has 11 elements in 8 groups.
SMC Pentax-DA 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL II Reviews - DA Zoom Lenses - Pentax Lens Reviews & Lens Database

There is also a WR version that has the same optics as the II but with weather sealing.
SMC Pentax-DA 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL WR Reviews - DA Zoom Lenses - Pentax Lens Reviews & Lens Database

The II was introduced at the same time as the K-20D because the original lacked the resolution for the 14 MP sensor.

[jatrax]

There are several variations of the DA 18-55 including first generation, second generation, DAL version, and WR version. Supposedly all except the first generation are optically the same. The difference between DA and DAL are that the DAL version is only sold as part of a kit with a camera body and has a plastic mount, no hood is supplied and it does not have quick shift.

Not sure I understand your second question, it is the 'kit' lens so certainly not premium glass. But it is compatible with all Pentax DSLR cameras. It is considered to be a quite good lens for the price considering the next step up might be the DA*16-50 which runs close to $1,000.

Thank you! Great info.

[lytrytyr]

Jay, you may find this new review helpful:

Pentax-DA 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 WR Review - Introduction - PentaxForums.com