Pentax K-500 Review
Kit Lenses
The K-500 is available in one of two lens kits: with the DA L 18-55mm only, or with the DA L 18-55mm and the DA L 50-200mm lenses. Both these lenses feature plastic mounts and traditional screwdrive (rather than silent) autofocus. While front and rear caps are included, neither lens comes with a case or a hood. Click on either thumbnail below to learn more about the lens and to read user reviews:
If you would like a lens with a bit more versatility, with faster autofocus, or with silent autofocus, we recommend adding the 18-135mm WR lens to your kit.
The
Pentax DA 18-135mm WR, which must be purchased separetely, differs from the other two in many ways. First of all the 18-135mm features a metal mount, includes a lens hood, and allows for full-time manual focus override. While the 18-55mm and 50-200mm lenses use the traditional screwdrive autofocus mechanism, the 18-135mm has a built-in autofocus motor that's not only silent and fast, but also reliable.
You can expect the 18-135mm to deliver better image quality than the 18-55mm; it is also sharper than the 50-200mm at shorter focal lengths. These enhancements come at a premium, however; while both the 18-55mm and 50-200mm are priced under $100, the 18-135mm retails for approximately $450.
![SMC Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR](https://www.pentaxforums.com/lensreviews/data/43/Pentax_18-135mm.jpg "SMC Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR")
The DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 WR lens
If you're a beginner and you don't mind having audible autofocus, then we can certainly recommend opting for the 18-55mm lens, as it's a great value. The standard 18-55mm lens delivers good overall image quality and can be used for a variety of different purposes. The 18-135mm is certainly also worth considering if you want a more versatile all-in-one lens and quieter and faster autofocus.
The US launch retail prices for the various K-500 kits are indicated below:
- 18-55mm lens kit: $599
- 18-55mm & 50-200mm dual lens kit: $699
