K-01 Critics and Camera Price

Biro · 02-05-2012, 02:04 PM

While I personally am still in "wait and see" mode with the K-01, I have a question for those who don't like the camera for reasons varying from styling to size and weight to the lack of a viewfinder. MSRP for the K-01 body-only is $749. What if the price was $549 or even $449? Would you be more likely to buy the K-01 then... or is the camera just so "wrong" in your mind that you would never go for it under any circumstances? And if price is a factor, what would be the tipping point for you?

Adam · 02-05-2012, 02:09 PM - **1 Like**

Inevitably the price will fall...to at least $649 quite quickly I'm willing to bet. However, even at full MSRP, the IQ this camera will deliver is well worth the money IMO. If you're an amateur looking for a camera that takes outstanding pictures, the K-01 is for you. The good thing there is that most people in that category don't even know what a viewfinder is, which is the primary complaint against the K-01! I've had friends attempt to use my K-5 and ask me why they couldn't see anything on the LCD

Docrwm · 02-05-2012, 02:09 PM

If it were at the $449-549 level then using it as a backup body would become more likely for me.

ytterbium · 02-05-2012, 02:18 PM

I remember when k100ds and k110d were on sale, what was the price of k110d? This, if not less, is where i would place the k-01 price wise to make it justified.

Philoslothical · 02-05-2012, 03:00 PM

I have no use for a camera without a viewfinder, and I'm not a fan of this mirrorless fad either - unless they can make it do something a DSLR can't, like attain 20 FPS or 1/10,000th sec shutter speed, or high speed flash, make it do something extraordinary. So, no, a lower price would not pique my interest at all.

Originally posted by Adam

If you're an amateur looking for a camera that takes outstanding pictures, the K-01 is for you. The good thing there is that most people in that category don't even know what a viewfinder is, which is the primary complaint against the K-01! I've had friends attempt to use my K-5 and ask me why they couldn't see anything on the LCD

Those people are not going to own any Pentax glass, or know the first thing about it. Why on Earth would they select the K-01 over something cheaper/better/more well known? The K-01 being K mount caters to Pentax users, but is likely to be a hindrance to anyone else, as it will limit cross brand compatibility of lenses the same way our DSLRs are, due to the longer register. We've already established that the lack of a VF is a turnoff for most Pentax DSLR users, so with the exception of a niche market of people who own glass and want the video capabilities, the K-01 seems a dead end product, before it's even hatched.

JinDesu · 02-05-2012, 03:02 PM

I would definitely get it as a backup to a k-5/k-5 replacement if it were 500. So I'll wait a bit.

Opethian · 02-05-2012, 03:07 PM

In my opinion, the lack of a viewfinder has been blown out of proportion. Sure it's a negative. But if it performs smoothly as much recent Panasonic M4/3's cameras, then we have a winner here.

Biro · 02-05-2012, 03:22 PM

I agree with Adam's prediction that the K-01 will drop by $100 fairly quickly. Myself, given that the price of a Ricoh GXR with S10 module runs $549 (street), the Fujifilm X10 is $599, and the Olympus E-PL3 with kit lens is now going for about $649 - and all of these cameras have sensors smaller than the K-01 - I think $599 to $649 is the magic range for many.

Keep in mind that MSRP on Canon's G1-X is $799. It will be particularly interesting to see how the new Pentax does against this camera, which is a not particularly small brick itself:

http://camerasize.com/compare/#285,257

I was corresponding with some Pentaxians on another site this weekend. The group tends to run a bit on the older and more traditional side. I was struck by how enthusiastic most of them seemed to be about the K-01.

wlachan · 02-05-2012, 03:27 PM

I think the initial price is reasonable consider it is new with aluminum body. The lack of VF and the flimsy rubber cover aren't what I expect though. But if Ricoh managed to manufacture them super reliable, maybe there is still hope.

RonHendriks1966 · 02-05-2012, 03:54 PM

Well I'm in for a good deal on K-01 yellow with 40mm lens for 610 euro. I think I will do that.

m2richard · 02-05-2012, 04:20 PM

I guess it will have it's place. I can't see it being used much outdoors unless you want to go back to the time when you covered your head with a hood when you took a picture. Just IMO

konraDarnok · 02-05-2012, 04:24 PM

Originally posted by Philoslothical

mirrorless fad

I'm telling you, these buggy whips are a growing market!

vonBaloney · 02-05-2012, 04:43 PM

A hoodman type eyepiece/loupe (I saw a picture of someone already with the K-01 and such a device -- where was that?) seems like a viable option -- then you're putting the camera up to your eye (within 3-4 inches) and can hold it more or less normally.

creampuff · 02-05-2012, 04:46 PM

Originally posted by Philoslothical

...
Those people are not going to own any Pentax glass, or know the first thing about it. Why on Earth would they select the K-01 over something cheaper/better/more well known? The K-01 being K mount caters to Pentax users, but is likely to be a hindrance to anyone else, as it will limit cross brand compatibility of lenses the same way our DSLRs are, due to the longer register. We've already established that the lack of a VF is a turnoff for most Pentax DSLR users, so with the exception of a niche market of people who own glass and want the video capabilities, the K-01 seems a dead end product, before it's even hatched.

Your assumption is flawed and fails to recognize that there is a large segment who do want a step up in quality from their mobile phones and point and shoot cameras. Now the K-01 is reasonably priced and delivers very good image quality plus an entry point into affordable Pentax and third party K-mount lenses (whether new or legacy lenses). With regards to cross compatibility with other lenses and mounts, most people want simple solutions, not one involving the use of lens adapters that limit portability and restrict full functionality. What many like you fail to understand is people who buy a Pentax K-01 will likely bolster the sales of other Pentax products including cameras and lenses. This is a good thing for everyone.

**Douglas_of_Sweden** · 02-05-2012, 04:55 PM

Originally posted by creampuff

Your assumption is flawed and fails to recognize that there is a large segment who do want a step up in quality from their mobile phones and point and shoot cameras. Now the K-01 is reasonably priced and delivers very good image quality plus an entry point into affordable Pentax and third party K-mount lenses (whether new or legacy lenses). With regards to cross compatibility with other lenses and mounts, most people want simple solutions, not one involving the use of lens adapters that limit portability and restrict full functionality. What many like you fail to understand is people who buy a Pentax K-01 will likely bolster the sales of other Pentax products including cameras and lenses. This is a good thing for everyone.

Well spoken (or written to be precise).

02-05-2012, 02:04 PM	#1
Biro Veteran Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Posts: 1,200	K-01 Critics and Camera Price While I personally am still in "wait and see" mode with the K-01, I have a question for those who don't like the camera for reasons varying from styling to size and weight to the lack of a viewfinder. MSRP for the K-01 body-only is $749. What if the price was $549 or even $449? Would you be more likely to buy the K-01 then... or is the camera just so "wrong" in your mind that you would never go for it under any circumstances? And if price is a factor, what would be the tipping point for you?

02-05-2012, 04:20 PM	#11
m2richard New Member Join Date: Sep 2011 Posts: 6	K-01 I guess it will have it's place. I can't see it being used much outdoors unless you want to go back to the time when you covered your head with a hood when you took a picture. Just IMO

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02-05-2012, 02:09 PM - 1 Like	#2
Adam Administrator Site Webmaster Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Arizona Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 51,594	Inevitably the price will fall...to at least $649 quite quickly I'm willing to bet. However, even at full MSRP, the IQ this camera will deliver is well worth the money IMO. If you're an amateur looking for a camera that takes outstanding pictures, the K-01 is for you. The good thing there is that most people in that category don't even know what a viewfinder is, which is the primary complaint against the K-01! I've had friends attempt to use my K-5 and ask me why they couldn't see anything on the LCD Adam PentaxForums.com Webmaster (Site Usage Guide \| Site Help \| My Photography) PentaxForums.com server and development costs are user-supported. You can help cover these costs by donating or purchasing one of our Pentax eBooks. Or, buy your photo gear from our affiliates, Adorama, B&H Photo, KEH, or Topaz Labs, and get FREE Marketplace access - click here to see how! Trusted Pentax retailers:

02-05-2012, 02:09 PM	#3
Docrwm Veteran Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Somewhere in the Southern US Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 12,285	If it were at the $449-549 level then using it as a backup body would become more likely for me.

02-05-2012, 02:18 PM	#4
ytterbium Veteran Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 1,076	I remember when k100ds and k110d were on sale, what was the price of k110d? This, if not less, is where i would place the k-01 price wise to make it justified.

02-05-2012, 03:00 PM	#5
Philoslothical Veteran Member Join Date: May 2011 Posts: 1,889	I have no use for a camera without a viewfinder, and I'm not a fan of this mirrorless fad either - unless they can make it do something a DSLR can't, like attain 20 FPS or 1/10,000th sec shutter speed, or high speed flash, make it do something extraordinary. So, no, a lower price would not pique my interest at all. Originally posted by Adam If you're an amateur looking for a camera that takes outstanding pictures, the K-01 is for you. The good thing there is that most people in that category don't even know what a viewfinder is, which is the primary complaint against the K-01! I've had friends attempt to use my K-5 and ask me why they couldn't see anything on the LCD Those people are not going to own any Pentax glass, or know the first thing about it. Why on Earth would they select the K-01 over something cheaper/better/more well known? The K-01 being K mount caters to Pentax users, but is likely to be a hindrance to anyone else, as it will limit cross brand compatibility of lenses the same way our DSLRs are, due to the longer register. We've already established that the lack of a VF is a turnoff for most Pentax DSLR users, so with the exception of a niche market of people who own glass and want the video capabilities, the K-01 seems a dead end product, before it's even hatched.

02-05-2012, 03:02 PM	#6
JinDesu Veteran Member Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: New York City Photos: Gallery Posts: 5,638	I would definitely get it as a backup to a k-5/k-5 replacement if it were 500. So I'll wait a bit.

02-05-2012, 03:07 PM	#7
Opethian Forum Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: London Posts: 57	In my opinion, the lack of a viewfinder has been blown out of proportion. Sure it's a negative. But if it performs smoothly as much recent Panasonic M4/3's cameras, then we have a winner here.

02-05-2012, 03:22 PM	#8
Biro Veteran Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Posts: 1,200 Original Poster	I agree with Adam's prediction that the K-01 will drop by $100 fairly quickly. Myself, given that the price of a Ricoh GXR with S10 module runs $549 (street), the Fujifilm X10 is $599, and the Olympus E-PL3 with kit lens is now going for about $649 - and all of these cameras have sensors smaller than the K-01 - I think $599 to $649 is the magic range for many. Keep in mind that MSRP on Canon's G1-X is $799. It will be particularly interesting to see how the new Pentax does against this camera, which is a not particularly small brick itself: http://camerasize.com/compare/#285,257 I was corresponding with some Pentaxians on another site this weekend. The group tends to run a bit on the older and more traditional side. I was struck by how enthusiastic most of them seemed to be about the K-01.

02-05-2012, 03:27 PM	#9
wlachan Veteran Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Canada Photos: Albums Posts: 2,625	I think the initial price is reasonable consider it is new with aluminum body. The lack of VF and the flimsy rubber cover aren't what I expect though. But if Ricoh managed to manufacture them super reliable, maybe there is still hope.

02-05-2012, 03:54 PM	#10
RonHendriks1966 Banned Join Date: Jan 2009 Photos: Gallery Posts: 9,675	Well I'm in for a good deal on K-01 yellow with 40mm lens for 610 euro. I think I will do that.

02-05-2012, 04:24 PM	#12
konraDarnok Veteran Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Photos: Albums Posts: 969	Originally posted by Philoslothical mirrorless fad I'm telling you, these buggy whips are a growing market!

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02-05-2012, 04:43 PM	#13
vonBaloney Pentaxian Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: Albuquerque, NM Posts: 6,029	A hoodman type eyepiece/loupe (I saw a picture of someone already with the K-01 and such a device -- where was that?) seems like a viable option -- then you're putting the camera up to your eye (within 3-4 inches) and can hold it more or less normally.

02-05-2012, 04:46 PM	#14
creampuff Veteran Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: Singapore Photos: Gallery Posts: 3,953	Originally posted by Philoslothical ... Those people are not going to own any Pentax glass, or know the first thing about it. Why on Earth would they select the K-01 over something cheaper/better/more well known? The K-01 being K mount caters to Pentax users, but is likely to be a hindrance to anyone else, as it will limit cross brand compatibility of lenses the same way our DSLRs are, due to the longer register. We've already established that the lack of a VF is a turnoff for most Pentax DSLR users, so with the exception of a niche market of people who own glass and want the video capabilities, the K-01 seems a dead end product, before it's even hatched. Your assumption is flawed and fails to recognize that there is a large segment who do want a step up in quality from their mobile phones and point and shoot cameras. Now the K-01 is reasonably priced and delivers very good image quality plus an entry point into affordable Pentax and third party K-mount lenses (whether new or legacy lenses). With regards to cross compatibility with other lenses and mounts, most people want simple solutions, not one involving the use of lens adapters that limit portability and restrict full functionality. What many like you fail to understand is people who buy a Pentax K-01 will likely bolster the sales of other Pentax products including cameras and lenses. This is a good thing for everyone.

02-05-2012, 04:55 PM	#15
Douglas_of_Sweden Site Supporter Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Stockholm Photos: Gallery Posts: 3,374	Originally posted by creampuff Your assumption is flawed and fails to recognize that there is a large segment who do want a step up in quality from their mobile phones and point and shoot cameras. Now the K-01 is reasonably priced and delivers very good image quality plus an entry point into affordable Pentax and third party K-mount lenses (whether new or legacy lenses). With regards to cross compatibility with other lenses and mounts, most people want simple solutions, not one involving the use of lens adapters that limit portability and restrict full functionality. What many like you fail to understand is people who buy a Pentax K-01 will likely bolster the sales of other Pentax products including cameras and lenses. This is a good thing for everyone. Well spoken (or written to be precise).