Apr 20, 2020

HD Pentax-D FA 70-210mm F4 ED SDM WR

Introduction

Since the launch of their first full frame DSLR, Pentax has been hard at work fleshing out the line-up of lenses compatible with that format. Some well-regarded older designs, such as the FA Limited, have been kept, and a number of modern lenses have also been released.

The most recent addition to this list is the HD D FA 70-210mm F4, a high-quality, relatively fast aperture, telephoto zoom.

In many ways, the new 70-210mm can be seen as a smaller and lighter option when compared to the well-regarded D FA* 70-200mm F2.8. For some, it will also be a direct competitor to the DA* 60-250mm F4, especially when modified for full frame.

The 70-210mm is rumoured to be, at least in part, inspired by the equivalent Tamron lens made for other mounts. While the level of involvement of Tamron is not known, a few hints suggest that the two lenses share some DNA. This is not a bad thing if true, since the Tamron lens is generally well-regarded.

The new 70-210mm F4 lacks the Pentax's premium "star" label, but offers a relatively light and compact option for users looking for a fast tele lens. It offers weather resistance, a focus limiter, a 3X zoom range, and uses the new KAF4, meaning that it lacks mechanical aperture coupling and will not work on older bodies (older than the K-50).

In this review, we look at the D FA 70-210mm's optical and mechanical capabilities, to determine if this lens is a worthy addition to the Pentax line-up.


facebook.com/PentaxForums PentaxForums @PentaxForums News | Reviews | Forum

Support Pentax Forums Donate to Pentax Forums Support Pentax Forums