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**MichaelaPDX** · 02-24-2018, 11:28 AM

I've pretty much decided to buy the K-70 but now I'm torn between getting it with the 18-55 or the 18-135.

On my film cameras I always prefer a prime lens and normally shoot a 28mm lens but I have the 135 and 200 prime to move to if needed. So for the K-70 I can't decide if I should go with the 18-55 since that is where I will work most or spend a little more to get the 18-135.

Any pros and cons for the two lens options?

Adam · 02-24-2018, 11:30 AM - **2 Likes**

Definitely the 18-135mm if you can afford it. The IQ is a little better, you get faster and quieter AF, and the added versatility.

**StiffLegged** · 02-24-2018, 11:58 AM - **1 Like**

16-85mm is what I'd go for if I was you, which I'm not. It would sit nicely with your longer primes. Your call!

hcc · 02-24-2018, 12:11 PM - **2 Likes**

I would follow Adam's advice for the DA18-135mm. It is a relatively small light lens, lighter than the DA16-85mm. The DA16-85mm is said to be better IQ however.
If this is you first lens, go for the simple DA18-135mm. I shoot primes, but I continue to use the DA18-135mm as my all-around WR lens.
My 5 cents.

**Pentax Syntax** · 02-24-2018, 01:01 PM

Second the suggestion of the 16-85 given your preferences. It’s really a perfect travel lens. The 18-135 is also a very good lens.

**Cerebum** · 02-24-2018, 01:05 PM

I had the 18-55mm and replaced it with the 18-135mm. The 18-55mm is a good lens whereas the 18-135mm is excellent and highly regarded, see https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/10-pentax-slr-lens-discussion/179869-da-...at-can-do.html
you could buy the 18-55mm and a prime (or if we are talking vintage glass, a couple) or a longer zoom like an SMC 100-300 f4.7 for the same price as the 18-135mm and you will still get great results. I love the IQ of the 18-135mm but whichever direction you go in you will have fun

**MichaelaPDX** · 02-24-2018, 01:13 PM

Originally posted by Cerebum

I had the 18-55mm and replaced it with the 18-135mm. The 18-55mm is a good lens whereas the 18-135mm is excellent and highly regarded, see DA 18-135 WR, Show us what it can do - PentaxForums.com
you could buy the 18-55mm and a prime (or if we are talking vintage glass, a couple) or a longer zoom like an SMC 100-300 f4.7 for the same price as the 18-135mm and you will still get great results. I love the IQ of the 18-135mm but whichever direction you go in you will have fun

Thanks for the reply. I do have the vintage glass in 135mm and 200mm prime. I also have a 2x teleconverter that I've never used. I guess I'm wrestling with my mindset of using only prime lenses and shying away from zoom. I was always told to use prime lenses as they are better quality than zoom lenses, but maybe that advice would not apply to modern day digital zoom lenses.

rickmayberry · 02-24-2018, 01:14 PM

I would definitely recommend the 18-135mm. I also have the 18-55mm, 50-200mm, and 55-300mm lenses, but find that the 18-135mm is the most useful and flexible of the bunch!!!

gm4life · 02-24-2018, 01:20 PM - **1 Like**

No question... 18-135, which I think is kitted with the K70. If a 16-85 was kitted it would get the nod, however I know the K70 only comes a few ways kitted.

I have taken a great plenty shots with the gen 1, 18-55 not a bad lens but optically not on the same planet as the 18-135 (dad just got and loves) or the 16-85.

Spend the extra for the better lens upfront.

Na Horuk · 02-24-2018, 04:09 PM

The 18-55mm is a decent kit lens to start with, but pretty much any lens in the lineup is better than the 18-55mm. The 18-135mm will be much more useful to you. Add a 55-300mm if you want telephoto on a budget. And a DA 50mm f1.8 to get an affordable high quality, bright aperture for lens.

So, yes, as above: 18-135mm

**Des** · 02-24-2018, 06:49 PM

Originally posted by mikecnorthwest

I guess I'm wrestling with my mindset of using only prime lenses and shying away from zoom. I was always told to use prime lenses as they are better quality than zoom lenses, but maybe that advice would not apply to modern day digital zoom lenses.

The aversion to zooms is a legacy from the old SLR days, when there was generally a big gap between primes and zooms. The gap has narrowed a lot. In fact a good zoom will often beat a mediocre prime. I've got 5 zooms and 7 primes, so I like both. I still get more "wow" images with the primes, but the versatility of the DA 18-135 is invaluable, and it can produce some very good images. Here are a few DA 18-135 samples to illustrate its range, capability and flare-resistance.

**MichaelaPDX** · 02-24-2018, 11:15 PM

Originally posted by Des

The aversion to zooms is a legacy from the old SLR days, when there was generally a big gap between primes and zooms. The gap has narrowed a lot. In fact a good zoom will often beat a mediocre prime. I've got 5 zooms and 7 primes, so I like both. I still get more "wow" images with the primes, but the versatility of the DA 18-135 is invaluable, and it can produce some very good images. Here are a few DA 18-135 samples to illustrate its range, capability and flare-resistance.

Nice photographs. I borrowed a friend's K-50 today and went to a local wildlife refuge to experiment with his camera and lens set. Based on that testing, and the responses in this thread, I've pretty much decided to go with the 18-135. I have several Pentax K mount prime lenses that I can throw on the K-70 to mix things up. I did that today with my SMC Pentax M 200mm lens just to make sure it worked with the DSLR and I got some great photographs.

MrB1 · 02-25-2018, 12:22 AM

As you have a couple of longer lenses, for a standard lens you might consider the Tamron 17-50 which has f/2.8 available throughout the zoom range. See the user reviews here on Pentax Forums. There is also a Sigma equivalent, although the Tamron is more compact, lighter, and better value.

**Des** · 02-25-2018, 01:37 AM

Originally posted by mikecnorthwest

Nice photographs. I borrowed a friend's K-50 today and went to a local wildlife refuge to experiment with his camera and lens set. Based on that testing, and the responses in this thread, I've pretty much decided to go with the 18-135. I have several Pentax K mount prime lenses that I can throw on the K-70 to mix things up. I did that today with my SMC Pentax M 200mm lens just to make sure it worked with the DSLR and I got some great photographs.

A good zoom for general use and some primes when you want something you can't get with the standard lens - be it wide aperture, corner to corner sharpness, distinctive rendering, reach, width, or whatever. Great combination.

Nice to have the opportunity to try before you buy too. I don't think you'll regret it.

Originally posted by MrB1

As you have a couple of longer lenses, for a standard lens you might consider the Tamron 17-50 which has f/2.8 available throughout the zoom range. See the user reviews here on Pentax Forums. There is also a Sigma equivalent, although the Tamron is more compact, lighter, and better value.

We didn't ask whether most of the shooting would be indoors or outdoors. The Tamron seems like a good option if you need f2.8 and don't need a wide range or WR. But since the question was a choice between 18-55 and 18-135, it doesn't seem that a wide aperture is Mike's priority.

**MichaelaPDX** · 02-25-2018, 07:09 AM

Originally posted by Des

We didn't ask whether most of the shooting would be indoors or outdoors. The Tamron seems like a good option if you need f2.8 and don't need a wide range or WR. But since the question was a choice between 18-55 and 18-135, it doesn't seem that a wide aperture is Mike's priority.

I shoot exclusively outdoors... railroad, wildlife/landscape, and some general street photography.

02-24-2018, 11:28 AM	#1
MichaelaPDX Site Supporter Join Date: Sep 2016 Location: Portland, Oregon Posts: 126	Which lens option for a new K-70? I've pretty much decided to buy the K-70 but now I'm torn between getting it with the 18-55 or the 18-135. On my film cameras I always prefer a prime lens and normally shoot a 28mm lens but I have the 135 and 200 prime to move to if needed. So for the K-70 I can't decide if I should go with the 18-55 since that is where I will work most or spend a little more to get the 18-135. Any pros and cons for the two lens options?

02-24-2018, 11:30 AM - 2 Likes	#2
Adam Administrator Site Webmaster Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Arizona Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 51,608	Definitely the 18-135mm if you can afford it. The IQ is a little better, you get faster and quieter AF, and the added versatility. 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:

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02-24-2018, 11:58 AM - 1 Like	#3
StiffLegged Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2018 Photos: Gallery Posts: 4,636	16-85mm is what I'd go for if I was you, which I'm not. It would sit nicely with your longer primes. Your call!

02-24-2018, 12:11 PM - 2 Likes	#4
hcc Pentaxian Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Brisbane, Australia Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 4,005	I would follow Adam's advice for the DA18-135mm. It is a relatively small light lens, lighter than the DA16-85mm. The DA16-85mm is said to be better IQ however. If this is you first lens, go for the simple DA18-135mm. I shoot primes, but I continue to use the DA18-135mm as my all-around WR lens. My 5 cents.

02-24-2018, 01:01 PM	#5
Pentax Syntax Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Maryland Posts: 595	Second the suggestion of the 16-85 given your preferences. It’s really a perfect travel lens. The 18-135 is also a very good lens.

02-24-2018, 01:05 PM	#6
Cerebum Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2017 Location: Lancaster Photos: Gallery Posts: 3,829	I had the 18-55mm and replaced it with the 18-135mm. The 18-55mm is a good lens whereas the 18-135mm is excellent and highly regarded, see https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/10-pentax-slr-lens-discussion/179869-da-...at-can-do.html you could buy the 18-55mm and a prime (or if we are talking vintage glass, a couple) or a longer zoom like an SMC 100-300 f4.7 for the same price as the 18-135mm and you will still get great results. I love the IQ of the 18-135mm but whichever direction you go in you will have fun

02-24-2018, 01:13 PM	#7
MichaelaPDX Site Supporter Join Date: Sep 2016 Location: Portland, Oregon Posts: 126 Original Poster	Originally posted by Cerebum I had the 18-55mm and replaced it with the 18-135mm. The 18-55mm is a good lens whereas the 18-135mm is excellent and highly regarded, see DA 18-135 WR, Show us what it can do - PentaxForums.com you could buy the 18-55mm and a prime (or if we are talking vintage glass, a couple) or a longer zoom like an SMC 100-300 f4.7 for the same price as the 18-135mm and you will still get great results. I love the IQ of the 18-135mm but whichever direction you go in you will have fun Thanks for the reply. I do have the vintage glass in 135mm and 200mm prime. I also have a 2x teleconverter that I've never used. I guess I'm wrestling with my mindset of using only prime lenses and shying away from zoom. I was always told to use prime lenses as they are better quality than zoom lenses, but maybe that advice would not apply to modern day digital zoom lenses.

02-24-2018, 01:14 PM	#8
rickmayberry Forum Member Join Date: Jan 2017 Location: Oregon Posts: 53	I would definitely recommend the 18-135mm. I also have the 18-55mm, 50-200mm, and 55-300mm lenses, but find that the 18-135mm is the most useful and flexible of the bunch!!!

02-24-2018, 01:20 PM - 1 Like	#9
gm4life Veteran Member Join Date: Dec 2016 Posts: 602	No question... 18-135, which I think is kitted with the K70. If a 16-85 was kitted it would get the nod, however I know the K70 only comes a few ways kitted. I have taken a great plenty shots with the gen 1, 18-55 not a bad lens but optically not on the same planet as the 18-135 (dad just got and loves) or the 16-85. Spend the extra for the better lens upfront.

02-24-2018, 04:09 PM	#10
Na Horuk Veteran Member Join Date: Feb 2012 Location: Slovenia, probably Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 11,186	The 18-55mm is a decent kit lens to start with, but pretty much any lens in the lineup is better than the 18-55mm. The 18-135mm will be much more useful to you. Add a 55-300mm if you want telephoto on a budget. And a DA 50mm f1.8 to get an affordable high quality, bright aperture for lens. So, yes, as above: 18-135mm

02-24-2018, 06:49 PM	#11
Des Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2014 Location: Victoria Australia Photos: Albums Posts: 6,424	Originally posted by mikecnorthwest I guess I'm wrestling with my mindset of using only prime lenses and shying away from zoom. I was always told to use prime lenses as they are better quality than zoom lenses, but maybe that advice would not apply to modern day digital zoom lenses. The aversion to zooms is a legacy from the old SLR days, when there was generally a big gap between primes and zooms. The gap has narrowed a lot. In fact a good zoom will often beat a mediocre prime. I've got 5 zooms and 7 primes, so I like both. I still get more "wow" images with the primes, but the versatility of the DA 18-135 is invaluable, and it can produce some very good images. Here are a few DA 18-135 samples to illustrate its range, capability and flare-resistance.

02-24-2018, 11:15 PM	#12
MichaelaPDX Site Supporter Join Date: Sep 2016 Location: Portland, Oregon Posts: 126 Original Poster	Originally posted by Des The aversion to zooms is a legacy from the old SLR days, when there was generally a big gap between primes and zooms. The gap has narrowed a lot. In fact a good zoom will often beat a mediocre prime. I've got 5 zooms and 7 primes, so I like both. I still get more "wow" images with the primes, but the versatility of the DA 18-135 is invaluable, and it can produce some very good images. Here are a few DA 18-135 samples to illustrate its range, capability and flare-resistance. Nice photographs. I borrowed a friend's K-50 today and went to a local wildlife refuge to experiment with his camera and lens set. Based on that testing, and the responses in this thread, I've pretty much decided to go with the 18-135. I have several Pentax K mount prime lenses that I can throw on the K-70 to mix things up. I did that today with my SMC Pentax M 200mm lens just to make sure it worked with the DSLR and I got some great photographs.

02-25-2018, 12:22 AM	#13
MrB1 Pentaxian Join Date: May 2013 Location: Hertfordshire, England Posts: 845	As you have a couple of longer lenses, for a standard lens you might consider the Tamron 17-50 which has f/2.8 available throughout the zoom range. See the user reviews here on Pentax Forums. There is also a Sigma equivalent, although the Tamron is more compact, lighter, and better value.

02-25-2018, 01:37 AM	#14
Des Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2014 Location: Victoria Australia Photos: Albums Posts: 6,424	Originally posted by mikecnorthwest Nice photographs. I borrowed a friend's K-50 today and went to a local wildlife refuge to experiment with his camera and lens set. Based on that testing, and the responses in this thread, I've pretty much decided to go with the 18-135. I have several Pentax K mount prime lenses that I can throw on the K-70 to mix things up. I did that today with my SMC Pentax M 200mm lens just to make sure it worked with the DSLR and I got some great photographs. A good zoom for general use and some primes when you want something you can't get with the standard lens - be it wide aperture, corner to corner sharpness, distinctive rendering, reach, width, or whatever. Great combination. Nice to have the opportunity to try before you buy too. I don't think you'll regret it. Originally posted by MrB1 As you have a couple of longer lenses, for a standard lens you might consider the Tamron 17-50 which has f/2.8 available throughout the zoom range. See the user reviews here on Pentax Forums. There is also a Sigma equivalent, although the Tamron is more compact, lighter, and better value. We didn't ask whether most of the shooting would be indoors or outdoors. The Tamron seems like a good option if you need f2.8 and don't need a wide range or WR. But since the question was a choice between 18-55 and 18-135, it doesn't seem that a wide aperture is Mike's priority.

02-25-2018, 07:09 AM	#15
MichaelaPDX Site Supporter Join Date: Sep 2016 Location: Portland, Oregon Posts: 126 Original Poster	Originally posted by Des We didn't ask whether most of the shooting would be indoors or outdoors. The Tamron seems like a good option if you need f2.8 and don't need a wide range or WR. But since the question was a choice between 18-55 and 18-135, it doesn't seem that a wide aperture is Mike's priority. I shoot exclusively outdoors... railroad, wildlife/landscape, and some general street photography.

Which lens option for a new K-70?

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