I am in the market for a camera or system in the range of $1000 or less. A couple of years ago I owned K-5ii with the 18-135 lens, along with the DA35 2.4. I preferred the K-5 to the K-30 ergonomics and AF performance. I was actually quite happy with the 18-135, but soon moved on to a Sony A6000 to save weight. Nothing wrong with the Sony's performance, but it was less satisfying to use and additional lenses are very expensive. I thought that was so with Pentax, but even more so with Sony.
So, I am considering the following:
Keep total costs in check by going with a fixed lens camera FZ1000 ($750) or RX10 ($650 used), and I would not have to buy any more lenses
This is the way I am leaning, but I am also considering a Pentax DSLR system at the current low prices:
1) K-50 with 18-135 or Sigma 17-70, roughly $650.
2) K-50 with DA20-40 Ltd. $950. Am I crazy or would this be a nice kit?
3) K-3 with 50mm 1.8 for $650. Add the 18-135 or Sigma 17-70 for $400.
Question
- In comparison to the 1 inch sensor cameras, would either of these Pentax cameras with the 18-135 zoom provide better sharpness, dynamic range, focus speed, or low light performance? I have a suspicion that it would require prime lenses to dramatically exceed the RX10 or FZ1000 image quality, and the it becomes a challenge to minimize total cost and size of the system.
In my mind it comes down to which system will provide the most fun and satisfaction - and not require any additional investment for 2 - 3 years.