Which k-70 package?

Dan Neeton · 12-20-2018, 07:55 AM

Looking at buying k-70 for landscape, architecture and commercial outside shoots. Which package should I go for?

K-70 with kit 18mm-135mm or
K-70 18-50 & 50-200mm

Both working out about £650 on jessops.

Is there any difference in lens quality? If not then my thoughts are I get more coverage with the two lens set up.

Cheeers

**FozzFoster** · 12-20-2018, 08:19 AM - **4 Likes**

I replaced my 18-50 with a 18-135 and was very, very happy with the change. Better range and image quality.
I would suggest getting a 55-300 instead of the 50-200 (again better range and image quality).

So, I would go for package number 1 with the K-70 and the 18-135. When you feel you've mastered that setup, look into getting a 55-300 lens.

DA 50mm f/1.8 would also be welcome in that kit to explore fast apertures!

That's what I'd do!

All the best,

reh321 · 12-20-2018, 08:25 AM - **2 Likes**

Originally posted by FozzFoster

I replaced my 18-50 with a 18-135 and was very, very happy with the change. Better range and image quality.
I would suggest getting a 55-300 instead of the 50-200 (again better range and image quality).

So, I would go for package number 1 with the K-70 and the 18-135. When you feel you've mastered that setup, look into getting a 55-300 lens.

DA 50mm f/1.8 would also be welcome in that kit to explore fast apertures!

That's what I'd do!

All the best,

I totally agree.

Pentax currently has two 55-300mm lenses on the market. Regardless of any price differences, I would get the 'PLM' lens - it is much quieter (*) and focuses more quickly.

(*) my wife used to comment on noise from the older lens focusing as we went on bird walks; I barely hear anything from the 'PLM' variant.

Bengan · 12-20-2018, 08:31 AM - **1 Like**

I would go with the 18-135.

I initially bought the two screwdrive lenses, but decided to buy the 18-135 when it was on sale. Found it to be superior to the screwdrive combination and I have never used the screwdrives since. Sure, you get a little more coverage with the 50-200, but I found that I wanted better and longer. The 18-135 is a great walkaround lens and you don't have to change lens when you're out.

I bought the Sigma 18-300 Contemporary for my wife. It is surprisingly sharp and the only drawback I have found so far is that it's not weather sealed. Again, no need to change lens outdoors.

**gump** · 12-20-2018, 08:58 AM - **2 Likes**

As I was saving for the 55-300 PLM I went with the DA L 18-55 package. The lens does well in mid-range, as i am told most lens do. therefore the 18-135 (good reviews) by that standard would be more versatile and supports the adage you get what you pay for. It was this versatility that made me want the 55-300 PLM rather than the 200mm and I have not been disappointed. It is my leave it on the camera lens. My next purchase will probably be the 50mm 1.8 as soon as i can justify what i need it for, I might have to snap formal portraits someday. For landscapes and such consider a wide angle. I went with a Rokinon 16mm based on price and PF user reviews and it seems good but i have not worked with it much as yet.

DrawsACircle · 12-20-2018, 09:02 AM

I got mine with the 18-135mm, later I’ve bought the 55-300PLM and the DA 50mm f1,8 (plus 6 other lenses).
I would do it again

**FozzFoster** · 12-20-2018, 09:13 AM - **3 Likes**

Originally posted by gump

I went with a Rokinon 16mm

Lots of people say "Every kit needs a 16mm" for the wide angle.. but I personally feel that adage is meant for full frame cameras.

With the crop factor of the K-70 considered, a 10 or 11mm would provide about the same field of view on APSC as a 16mm of full frame.

Since OP does express interest in landscape and architecture, perhaps find a nice used 10-20 Sigma or a Pentax 12-24mm to get that Ultra Wide Angle view.

Last edited by FozzFoster; 12-20-2018 at 09:45 AM.

**Just1MoreDave** · 12-20-2018, 09:44 AM - **1 Like**

If you really need to have a very small light camera plus lens package, go with the 18-50 and 50-200. The 18-135 plus 55-300 has better image quality and isn't that much more (as lens prices go). But the lenses are bulkier. Unfortunately, no combination is really pocketable, so chasing smallness still means a substantial camera.

Qman · 12-20-2018, 10:53 AM - **1 Like**

I would buy just the body and purchase a couple of lenses separately. If you're doing commercial work you'll want the best lenses possible. For a zoom the best choice is the 16-85mm. It has better image quality than the kit lenses. For architecture and landscape you may want something wider. I'd suggest the DA14 f2.8 or DA15 f4 or DA12-24. All three will give much better results than the kit lenses. You can save some money by purchasing used lenses.

**mikesbike** · 12-20-2018, 12:55 PM - **3 Likes**

I don't know what is offered where you are, but in the US there are great savings with the DA 18-135mm kit, and it is a great combo. This lens is remarkably compact. Especially for its zoom range, and it is far better built than the usual 18-55mm kit lens. Its AF is also far better- quiet, very fast, and accurate. When you acquire additional lenses, you still won't have to change lenses as often. Later, you can add a DA 55-300mm and the excellent DA 12-24mm ultra wide angle, as well as a couple of fast prime lenses such as the fine DA 35mm f/2.4 and DA 50mm f/1.8 as you wish.

Paul the Sunman · 12-20-2018, 01:25 PM - **1 Like**

I agree with those recommending the 18-135. It's a good all purpose lens, and adding the 55-300 later is also a good idea.

Although it's probably not a kit option where you are, the DA 16-85 is optically superior to the 18-135, especially near the edges. My recommended "best" 2-lens kit for an APS-C Pentax camera would be the 16-85 + 55-300. The PLM version of the 55-300 is to be preferred for quietness and fast focussing, but the older screw-drive version renders beautifully and can be had more cheaply.

One of the "plastic fantastic" DA primes (35 or 50mm) can be added for low light use at very little cost.

HoutHans · 12-20-2018, 01:32 PM

Originally posted by Dan Neeton

Looking at buying k-70 for landscape, architecture and commercial outside shoots. Which package should I go for?

K-70 with kit 18mm-135mm or
K-70 18-50 & 50-200mm

Both working out about £650 on jessops.

Is there any difference in lens quality? If not then my thoughts are I get more coverage with the two lens set up.

Cheeers

I had the 18-50 for a while and I was very happy to replace it with the 18 - 135. Better IQ, better handling, so i'd go for the 18 135 package. That'll work fine for the plans you have.

**mikesbike** · 12-20-2018, 04:04 PM - **2 Likes**

I agree the DA 16-85mm can go to a somewhat wider angle, and also produces better edge performance than does the DA 18-135mm lens, particularly beyond 70mm. The edge performance of the latter was the reason it was downgraded in its score by test reviewers. However, this is not reflective of reality, in real-world use.

When comparing good lenses, it is invariable that each will have its own advantages and disadvantages. Much depends on individual needs and preferences. The DA 16-85mm does have those advantages, but it is also much bulkier and considerably more expensive. I have never seen it offered at discounted price when sold together with the K-70 or any other camera body.

The DA 18-135mm has its own advantages, in addition to lower price and its amazing compactness. it can maintain a wide open aperture of f/4.5 out to 70mm. Not many wide-to-tele zoom lenses can do this. One reason is for portrait use. At 70mm, which is an excellent portrait FL, an aperture of f/4.5 can produce a somewhat better degree of background defocus blur to make the subject stand out more from it. It could be rather close to the degree of blur one can expect from a good portrait lens such as a 50mm f/1.8 prime lens, yet without getting as close to the subject. Its bokeh is also very good (the smoothness of background blur), both factors being exceptional for this type of lens. As one zooms more to a greater FL, as a general rule the edges of the image become less important anyway. It would be a more uncommon need, doing landscape type images at tele range where edges might be a factor. With this lens, central image performance remains very good to excellent throughout its zoom range. It can produce some very fine closeup work also, and at a tele range beyond what the DA 16-85mm offers. Some good examples can be found in the Pentax SLR Lens Discussion section of these forums, within the thread: "DA 18-135mm WR show us what it can do" so you can see its possibilities as various photographers have demonstrated.

rickc118 · 12-20-2018, 05:26 PM - **1 Like**

I agree with everyone recommending the 18-135. I have the K-70, along with a total of five other lenses (three zooms, two primes), and the lens that spends the most time on my camera is the 18-135 due to its versatility. The lens that comes in second would be the 55-300 PLM, which I also highly recommend for its combination of reach, quick focus, IQ, form factor, and value.

I'm guessing you will end up totally loving your K-70...enjoy!

**shardulm** · 12-20-2018, 05:33 PM

K-70 with kit 18mm-135mm. That lens covers 60-70% of focal length situations as in group and portrait shots and is decently sharp (definitely sharper than the other kit lenses in the competition. Also the DC motor is more silent than the screw drive and there is WR on this one.

12-20-2018, 07:55 AM	#1
Dan Neeton New Member Join Date: Dec 2018 Posts: 11	Which k-70 package? Looking at buying k-70 for landscape, architecture and commercial outside shoots. Which package should I go for? K-70 with kit 18mm-135mm or K-70 18-50 & 50-200mm Both working out about £650 on jessops. Is there any difference in lens quality? If not then my thoughts are I get more coverage with the two lens set up. Cheeers

12-20-2018, 01:25 PM - 1 Like	#11
Paul the Sunman Pentaxian Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: Melbourne Photos: Gallery Posts: 4,847	I agree with those recommending the 18-135. It's a good all purpose lens, and adding the 55-300 later is also a good idea. Although it's probably not a kit option where you are, the DA 16-85 is optically superior to the 18-135, especially near the edges. My recommended "best" 2-lens kit for an APS-C Pentax camera would be the 16-85 + 55-300. The PLM version of the 55-300 is to be preferred for quietness and fast focussing, but the older screw-drive version renders beautifully and can be had more cheaply. One of the "plastic fantastic" DA primes (35 or 50mm) can be added for low light use at very little cost. Last edited by Paul the Sunman; 12-20-2018 at 01:53 PM.

12-20-2018, 04:04 PM - 2 Likes	#13
mikesbike Site Supporter Join Date: Dec 2016 Location: Southeastern Michigan Posts: 4,566	I agree the DA 16-85mm can go to a somewhat wider angle, and also produces better edge performance than does the DA 18-135mm lens, particularly beyond 70mm. The edge performance of the latter was the reason it was downgraded in its score by test reviewers. However, this is not reflective of reality, in real-world use. When comparing good lenses, it is invariable that each will have its own advantages and disadvantages. Much depends on individual needs and preferences. The DA 16-85mm does have those advantages, but it is also much bulkier and considerably more expensive. I have never seen it offered at discounted price when sold together with the K-70 or any other camera body. The DA 18-135mm has its own advantages, in addition to lower price and its amazing compactness. it can maintain a wide open aperture of f/4.5 out to 70mm. Not many wide-to-tele zoom lenses can do this. One reason is for portrait use. At 70mm, which is an excellent portrait FL, an aperture of f/4.5 can produce a somewhat better degree of background defocus blur to make the subject stand out more from it. It could be rather close to the degree of blur one can expect from a good portrait lens such as a 50mm f/1.8 prime lens, yet without getting as close to the subject. Its bokeh is also very good (the smoothness of background blur), both factors being exceptional for this type of lens. As one zooms more to a greater FL, as a general rule the edges of the image become less important anyway. It would be a more uncommon need, doing landscape type images at tele range where edges might be a factor. With this lens, central image performance remains very good to excellent throughout its zoom range. It can produce some very fine closeup work also, and at a tele range beyond what the DA 16-85mm offers. Some good examples can be found in the Pentax SLR Lens Discussion section of these forums, within the thread: "DA 18-135mm WR show us what it can do" so you can see its possibilities as various photographers have demonstrated. Last edited by mikesbike; 12-20-2018 at 07:20 PM.

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12-20-2018, 08:19 AM - 4 Likes	#2
FozzFoster Custom User Title Join Date: Jan 2016 Location: Alberta Photos: Albums Posts: 6,808	I replaced my 18-50 with a 18-135 and was very, very happy with the change. Better range and image quality. I would suggest getting a 55-300 instead of the 50-200 (again better range and image quality). So, I would go for package number 1 with the K-70 and the 18-135. When you feel you've mastered that setup, look into getting a 55-300 lens. DA 50mm f/1.8 would also be welcome in that kit to explore fast apertures! That's what I'd do! All the best,

12-20-2018, 08:25 AM - 2 Likes	#3
reh321 Pentaxian Join Date: Nov 2014 Location: South Bend, IN, USA Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 23,186	Originally posted by FozzFoster I replaced my 18-50 with a 18-135 and was very, very happy with the change. Better range and image quality. I would suggest getting a 55-300 instead of the 50-200 (again better range and image quality). So, I would go for package number 1 with the K-70 and the 18-135. When you feel you've mastered that setup, look into getting a 55-300 lens. DA 50mm f/1.8 would also be welcome in that kit to explore fast apertures! That's what I'd do! All the best, I totally agree. Pentax currently has two 55-300mm lenses on the market. Regardless of any price differences, I would get the 'PLM' lens - it is much quieter () and focuses more quickly. () my wife used to comment on noise from the older lens focusing as we went on bird walks; I barely hear anything from the 'PLM' variant.

12-20-2018, 08:31 AM - 1 Like	#4
Bengan Pentaxian Join Date: Nov 2012 Location: Stockholm Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 1,767	I would go with the 18-135. I initially bought the two screwdrive lenses, but decided to buy the 18-135 when it was on sale. Found it to be superior to the screwdrive combination and I have never used the screwdrives since. Sure, you get a little more coverage with the 50-200, but I found that I wanted better and longer. The 18-135 is a great walkaround lens and you don't have to change lens when you're out. I bought the Sigma 18-300 Contemporary for my wife. It is surprisingly sharp and the only drawback I have found so far is that it's not weather sealed. Again, no need to change lens outdoors.

12-20-2018, 08:58 AM - 2 Likes	#5
gump Site Supporter Join Date: Apr 2018 Location: Canton, Ohio Posts: 1,016	As I was saving for the 55-300 PLM I went with the DA L 18-55 package. The lens does well in mid-range, as i am told most lens do. therefore the 18-135 (good reviews) by that standard would be more versatile and supports the adage you get what you pay for. It was this versatility that made me want the 55-300 PLM rather than the 200mm and I have not been disappointed. It is my leave it on the camera lens. My next purchase will probably be the 50mm 1.8 as soon as i can justify what i need it for, I might have to snap formal portraits someday. For landscapes and such consider a wide angle. I went with a Rokinon 16mm based on price and PF user reviews and it seems good but i have not worked with it much as yet.

12-20-2018, 09:02 AM	#6
DrawsACircle Veteran Member Join Date: Dec 2016 Location: Ulfborg, Denmark Photos: Albums Posts: 434	I got mine with the 18-135mm, later I’ve bought the 55-300PLM and the DA 50mm f1,8 (plus 6 other lenses). I would do it again

12-20-2018, 09:13 AM - 3 Likes	#7
FozzFoster Custom User Title Join Date: Jan 2016 Location: Alberta Photos: Albums Posts: 6,808	Originally posted by gump I went with a Rokinon 16mm Lots of people say "Every kit needs a 16mm" for the wide angle.. but I personally feel that adage is meant for full frame cameras. With the crop factor of the K-70 considered, a 10 or 11mm would provide about the same field of view on APSC as a 16mm of full frame. Since OP does express interest in landscape and architecture, perhaps find a nice used 10-20 Sigma or a Pentax 12-24mm to get that Ultra Wide Angle view. Last edited by FozzFoster; 12-20-2018 at 09:45 AM.

12-20-2018, 09:44 AM - 1 Like	#8
Just1MoreDave Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Aurora, CO Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 6,340	If you really need to have a very small light camera plus lens package, go with the 18-50 and 50-200. The 18-135 plus 55-300 has better image quality and isn't that much more (as lens prices go). But the lenses are bulkier. Unfortunately, no combination is really pocketable, so chasing smallness still means a substantial camera.

12-20-2018, 10:53 AM - 1 Like	#9
Qman Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2017 Posts: 232	I would buy just the body and purchase a couple of lenses separately. If you're doing commercial work you'll want the best lenses possible. For a zoom the best choice is the 16-85mm. It has better image quality than the kit lenses. For architecture and landscape you may want something wider. I'd suggest the DA14 f2.8 or DA15 f4 or DA12-24. All three will give much better results than the kit lenses. You can save some money by purchasing used lenses.

12-20-2018, 12:55 PM - 3 Likes	#10
mikesbike Site Supporter Join Date: Dec 2016 Location: Southeastern Michigan Posts: 4,566	I don't know what is offered where you are, but in the US there are great savings with the DA 18-135mm kit, and it is a great combo. This lens is remarkably compact. Especially for its zoom range, and it is far better built than the usual 18-55mm kit lens. Its AF is also far better- quiet, very fast, and accurate. When you acquire additional lenses, you still won't have to change lenses as often. Later, you can add a DA 55-300mm and the excellent DA 12-24mm ultra wide angle, as well as a couple of fast prime lenses such as the fine DA 35mm f/2.4 and DA 50mm f/1.8 as you wish.

12-20-2018, 01:32 PM	#12
HoutHans Pentaxian Join Date: Aug 2016 Location: Appingedam Photos: Gallery Posts: 3,126	Originally posted by Dan Neeton Looking at buying k-70 for landscape, architecture and commercial outside shoots. Which package should I go for? K-70 with kit 18mm-135mm or K-70 18-50 & 50-200mm Both working out about £650 on jessops. Is there any difference in lens quality? If not then my thoughts are I get more coverage with the two lens set up. Cheeers I had the 18-50 for a while and I was very happy to replace it with the 18 - 135. Better IQ, better handling, so i'd go for the 18 135 package. That'll work fine for the plans you have.

12-20-2018, 05:26 PM - 1 Like	#14
rickc118 Junior Member Join Date: Apr 2018 Posts: 28	I agree with everyone recommending the 18-135. I have the K-70, along with a total of five other lenses (three zooms, two primes), and the lens that spends the most time on my camera is the 18-135 due to its versatility. The lens that comes in second would be the 55-300 PLM, which I also highly recommend for its combination of reach, quick focus, IQ, form factor, and value. I'm guessing you will end up totally loving your K-70...enjoy!

12-20-2018, 05:33 PM	#15
shardulm Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: Cumming, GA Posts: 793	K-70 with kit 18mm-135mm. That lens covers 60-70% of focal length situations as in group and portrait shots and is decently sharp (definitely sharper than the other kit lenses in the competition. Also the DC motor is more silent than the screw drive and there is WR on this one.