Originally posted by photogem The K-r was that bit more advanced than the K-x and also has better LiveView but the same (good) sensor which in those days was ISO-wise and also in other respects a step above the Samsung-Sensor of the K20D/K7 (a matter of taste maybe, the K20D was quite a DSLR then and very well built). Also of course the K-r had the 3" LCD which is more comfortable.
I enjoyed this little camera for years as my lightweight model before I gave it to friends, after having found a fantastic deal on a new K-S2 with the 18-50mm kit lens for next to nothing more. At an incredibly low $508 for both, I saw my chance to have the K-S2's many upgraded features in a likewise lightweight body. I have been enjoying it very much in that usage. I paid nearly $100 more than that for the K-r (body-only) many years before! The K-r is definitely better than the K20D for low light/higher ISO use. Back in 2011, I chose it over my K20D to photograph their university graduation ceremony with excellent success. But as you say, the K20D is a very well-built, and a fine camera for use in good lighting.
Thanks to your very valuable and very knowledgeable advice, photogem, I have decided to always buy Pentax brand batteries for my cameras from now on, and make Pentax brand batteries my primary ones to take in-camera, and only take one of my off-brand batteries as a spare to be used just until I can get the primary battery re-charged. My friends don't use the K-r I gave them very much, but next time I visit them I will check to make sure the battery I gave them is a Pentax brand, and if not, I will replace it on the spot. I gave them the charger that came with that camera, so I know it is ok. I also gave them 3 lenses- my old 18-55mm II kit lens, the DA 55-300mm non-WR, and a new DA 50mm f/1.8, which came free as part of my 2nd KP purchase. They have two small children. On my next visit, I will also show them a few things, including how to make some nice portraits with the DA 50mm. They have only known making cell-phone photos. The wife/mother has done a great job of organizing some of their best results from cell-phone use, and employing an on-line service in making their family albums. She has a good eye for framing. The DA 55-300mm will also make for catching their kids in action from a distance- under good lighting, of course.
It is too bad the K-3 III no longer comes with a charger as have previous models. No doubt, many who buy a new K-3 III will unknowingly purchase cheaper 3rd party chargers for their new cameras, as well as cheaper spare batteries- which has been a common practice.
Last edited by mikesbike; 08-07-2022 at 01:08 PM.