Pentax KP

Pentax KP Review

The Pentax KP features a svelte design, protection from weather, and excellent imaging, but is held back by Wi-Fi issues and so-so video. When the Pentax KP ($1,099.95, body only) was announced earlier this year, I looked at its price and specifications and pegged it as a dramatically redesigned upgrade to the K-3 II. After shooting with the camera over the past couple of months, I realize I was incorrect. The KP includes some compelling features, including high-resolution pixel shift capture, and is sized perfectly for use with the compact Limited lens series. But it's not a strong as an option for capturing fast action as the K-3 II, and its video functionality is way behind the times. Dedicated Pentax users who love the compact prime lenses available for the system should think about the KP, but there are better options out there if you fall outside that niche. Design The KP ($1,049.95 at Amazon) is slimmer than previous Pentax SLRs, measuring 4.0 by 5.2 by 3.0 inches (HWD) and tipping the scales at 1.5 pounds without a lens. The dimensions don't do the compact size of the body justice, as the maximum depth is de...

Pentax KP review

While Canon and Nikon clearly have a stronghold over the premium DSLR space, the KP is a strong good alternative that can produce some excellent shots in the right conditions. Image quality is good, and while the headline top ISO speed isn’t something you’ll actually want to use, the more ordinary settings perform very well. It’s great to have a high level of customisation, including the fact that you can change the camera’s grip to meet your particular preference. It all depends what you’re most likely to shoot. If you're a fan of action photography, shooting mostly wildlife and sport, something like the Nikon D500 is a better bet. But if you’re mainly into shooting static or slow-moving subjects (think landscapes, portraits, macro), then it’s a good alternative to the Canon 80D and Nikon D7200 - especially if you already have some old Pentax optics kicking about somewhere.

Pentax KP review review