New Pentax K-70

[wolf_weber]

<p>Either no one is aware of it yet or nobody cares..? No, it's not April and what I learned today needs to be discussed. Or so I think... <br />Ricoh just unveiled the <strong>Pentax K-70</strong>, an advanced entry-level DSLR with an AA-filterless 24MP APS-C sensor and a body that's designed to stand up to the elements. They claim it to be <em>dust proof, freeze proof</em> and <em>weather resistant</em> with Hybrid AF in live view. In-body shake reduction image stabilization, of course. Also Pixel Shift Resolution and AA filter simulation. An 11-point AF system offering nine centrally located cross-type sensors, and burst shooting at 6 fps.<br />The PRIME MII image processor allows for 14-bit readout and a maximum ISO from 100 to 102,400. (..?) On the back panel, the <strong>K-70</strong> provides a 3" vari-angle LCD, certainly better than the fixed monitor of the K-50. Looks like for the announced list price of $ 650,- we'll get quite a tool. <br />I'll be in. If only Sigma & Tamron could join.</p>

[hinman]

<p>I love everything on K-70 with just a few concerns. It it has the number of AF points (27? right) that K-3 has, that will really take my K-3 crush away. First it is much lighter when compared to K-3/K-3 II. It is WR and with a flip out screen and the icing on the cakes is the WiFi and AF enhancements on video. It has everything that I want in an upgrade to K-3 but in smaller size and cheaper price. The only gripe I have is on the AF points staying unchanged at 11 points. My Sony aps-c with Sony A600 has 179 phase detect AF points and when my Sony goes into AF-C mode, any of the 179 PDAF points lights up with subject and with lock-on focus, my sony out-pace my Pentax K-5 in shooting action oriented scene when tracking and quickness in AF takes the chores heads on and make it a bit easier. Tech does help especially in AF. Maybe Pentax don't consider it as important but the AF staying put is what bothers me. The build, ergonomics, WR, smaller size, advances in video with hybrid AF, the inheritance of SR and this one with 4.5 stops are what attract me so far.</p>

[Wouter Willemse]

<p>As a non-Pentax user, I find it a pity their cameras get so little time in the spotlights. Nearly all models in the recent years sure deserved more exposure than they got - and by the sound of it, that's true for this one as well. Where I live, their presence in shops is very low, marketing is mostly missing and the internet seems to ignore them as well. Such a pity, as they're genuinely interesting choices, and the market always can use more competition.</p>

[Tim_Lookingbill]

<p>Agreed, Wouter. Even the rather inexpensive price of $650 for a 24MP DSLR doesn't seem to draw much attention, either. But why do I get so many search results Googling "Pentax K70 reviews" for a brand that gets so little time in the spotlight especially for a camera so new there's no image samples to examine IQ.</p>

<p>All things being the same in this industry except for added features and slight gain in image quality, I have to say price was the only deciding factor on my one and only DSLR purchase of a Pentax K100D I paid back in 2006 for around $600, kit lens included.</p>

<p>Checking specs and image quality improvements through the years since 2006 hasn't motivated me enough to buy any newer, more expensive camera no matter the brand name. The results achieved from cramming 16 to 24 million pixels and up into an APS-C sized sensor is showing its rough edges.</p>

[michael_kuhne]

<p>I agree with the rough edges to some extent, but the challenge is keeping up with Nikon's 24mp lineup. It does present more difficulty controlling noise at high ISO without losing detail. I was anticipating the new replacement for the KS2 would be one of 24mp.</p>

<p>It certainly looks like Pentax has done a great job with the K-70 that offers far more sophistication in advanced features and design, with a more pro-like build than the competition. An outstanding value, despite not keeping up in AF sensors for action shooters.</p>

<p>That said, if one does not need the articulated screen and other specific advancements, the K-50 remains by far the best bargain around for great quality still picture shooting, and also has a near-pro build quality with WR, at about 1/2 the price of the (very reasonable) new model!! Its 16mp sensor, as in the K-5 series, has been proven, offering exceptional high quality and exceptional high-ISO performance while losing minimal detail.</p>

[MattB.Net]

<p>Looks like a great camera for active shooting. I'd consider one once the K-S2 has died but I'm hoping that is not happening soon!</p>

[hinman]

<p>Unfortunately K-70 don't get the media coverage that it deserves. I have special interest on the new DA 55-300 lens.</p>

<p>The most informative one comes from imaging-resource<br /> <a href="http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/pentax-k70/pentax-k70A.HTM">http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/pentax-k70/pentax-k70A.HTM</a></p>

<p>Pentax K-70 LV AF <br /> <a href="

The LV AF seems quite quick in the youtube video.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/explora/photography/news/unveiled-pentax-turns-over-new-leaf-k-70-aps-c-dslr">On B&H</a></p>

<p>From Adorama<br /> <a href="https://youtu.be/l4BxFHUnJTk">https://youtu.be/l4BxFHUnJTk</a></p>

<p> </p>

[hinman]

<p>@Matt, when you shoot sporting events, will you use your KS-2? It seems more logical to pick K-3 but I just wonder if you find the increased AF number of points on my K-3 helps you shoot action as compared to your KS-2. </p>

<p>Pentax is doing everything right about the lower end cameras on KS-2. It has carried all the good stuff and plus more as the new lens and AF may become essential. Quiet AF is always a welcome feature and I think the new zoom lens will be fast and quiet -- my guess at this point.<br /><br /><br>

I don't understand why Pentax chooses to stay put on the number of AF points. I may react too soon but the number is staying put as 11 since K10D times? And it only gets more on K-3 and K-3 II. Does the smaller number make it harder to track objects across points in action? I use the center point most of the time but in action type of shooting, reframing shot with center point takes guessing work.</p>

[wolf_weber]

<p>True, the Pentax brand doesn't seem too popular these days. That probably results from too narrow a choice of lenses rather than cameras. As I said, if only Sigma & Tamron could/would come on board (please). Meanwhile, because of the wide array of available quality lenses, I still do about 80% of my work with Canon equipment. Yet, from the many DSLR's that have gone through my hands in the last dozen or so years I still prefer the K-20D. Simply a great working tool, at least for me and my needs. Sometimes, except for the mega pixel count, I even regret to have given it up for the K-5... To me, the K-70 looks more than good enough to replace either.</p>

[g_richards]

<p>Yes, the K70 does look good for the money. One of the things missing that I enjoyed on my now defunct K50 was the option of being able to use AA batteries in a pinch. Now, it seems the only way one can use AA batteries is with a power pack for certain Pentax cameras such as the K3, K5 and now K1. Hopefully, there is not a shutter problem such as the one the K50 experienced. I loved my K50 but it became unreliable and had to be put to sleep. </p>

[michael_kuhne]

<p>I also like the AA battery idea. A set of long-lasting lithiums can be found anywhere. I have that feature with my little K-r as a comfort-zone backup, since I tend to be forgetful about charging ahead of time. I use the lithiums only until I get a proprietary one charged up because it is lighter, so those lithiums are lasting a very long time. </p>

<p>The K100D was a nice little camera. Plenty good enough for general use and small prints. How "slight" the subsequent image quality advancements depends on this use and one's perception. I still have mine, but have not used it in quite a while. I should get off my behind and sell it. Someone will get a low-use camera for little money. I found the K-200D represented noticeable improvement in IQ in my own case, and a better build with WR. The K-5 series has been even better, with a better VF, again improved IQ with yet greater sharpness and better dynamic range, and lower noise while preserving excellent detail at higher ISO use. I consider my K-5IIs still to be a great performer even among those models now available. </p>

<p>The K-70 is too new to expect responses from the usual quarters, and they are a bit slow anyway. I expect the IQ from the K-70 to be on par with that of the K-3, which is very fine indeed. I also expect the build quality to be exceptional for its class, but definitely not up to the K-3, K-5 level. With the features and build it offers, the K-70 should prove to be a great value.</p>

<p> But even with the K-70, and the new FF K-1, I feel Pentax should retain the pro-level APS-c K-3, or an upgraded similar model. Let us not just have the K-1 and the K-70. Many of us would prefer to have a pro-level body in both formats. While still having pro-style control features and build, the K-5 series or the K-3, even if owning a K-1, offer a more compact carrying kit with top DA lenses when extensive carrying is needed, and especially when the emphasis will be more in the normal to tele range. The heavier K-1 will be for times when there will be less toting, and where the emphasis will be for wide angle to short tele and for the lowest noise for highest ISO.<br>

</p>

[MattB.Net]

<p>Hin, the past few events I used the K-3 and K-S2 with the DA* 60-250 on the K-S2 and 16-50 + flash on the K-3. It may seem like an odd match with a big lens and small body but I added a monopod to the lens and it's very manageable.<br>

AF was fine for subjects like this but I would prefocus on something about the same distance so AF didn't have to work too hard. <br>

<br /> This was with that combo:<br /> <a title="IMGP3326" href=" data-flickr-embed="true"><img src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7560/27044287110_5aa70c137f_z.jpg" alt="IMGP3326" width="427" height="640" /></a></p>

[hinman]

<p>Thank you Matt, that is a hell of a shot. You have proven a simpler camera in KS2 can do big things. Very impressive. </p>

[mountainvisions]

<p>I'm excited about this camera. Unfortunately, it doesn't use the same DLi-90 battery that almost all other Pentax cameras have used for a few years (yes, I realize that those were higher end cameras, but...)<br>

<br /> Anyway, if I were to take two bodies, this and say the K-5IIs or the K-3II or the K-1 (I only own the K-5 and K-7, btw), I'd have to carry two sets of batteries. Since the Dli90 seems to be as good enough for almost every Pentax flagship, why not just integrate it into the lower models. <br>

</br>Beyond that, this camera really looks like a winner and Perhaps this will entice me to upgrade to the K-3II (larger body) and the K-70 (smaller body) that I can interchange as needed. The downside, it's not nearly as ruggedly built as the K-7/5/3 series, which gives me some reservations.<br></br>

Still, this is a fantastic camera as spec'd, and I'm sure the IQ will be equally good.</p>

[mountainvisions]

<p>Hin,</p>

<p>If you know where the action is going to be, setup for it, pre-focus and wait for it. Yeah, you'll lose some shots that happen outside the action, but you'll always come home with something worth keeping. <br /><br /><br>

I think people tend to rely on AF to help them out of not knowing the sport they are shooting. And while that definitely probably helps staff photographers that get random assignments, I think if you are shooting your sports, the ones you care about and possibly participate in, than figuring out where the action will be and pre-setting everything is by far the most logical way to capture the action. </p>

<p>Doing it this way isn't sexy, it doesn't utilize all the sophisticated tech in your camera, but it brings home usuable images, and often they are much better than what you'd get if you were chasing the action (as I call it). </p>

[mountainvisions]

<p>Wolf Weber wrote:</p>

<blockquote>

<p>True, the Pentax brand doesn't seem too popular these days. That probably results from too narrow a choice of lenses rather than cameras. As I said, if only Sigma & Tamron could/would come on board (please). Meanwhile, because of the wide array of available quality lenses, I still do about 80% of my work with Canon equipment.</p>

 

</blockquote>

<p>I agree third party options are slim for Pentax, but the reality is, Pentax lens lineup (SMC/HD lenses) are as full as almost any system. True, we are missing some fast primes, I mean with the K-1, a 24mm f/2 or 35mm f/2 is needed (24 moreso, because there is the FA 31mm already), I agree. But the quality of what is avail, the value and the fact that much of it is sealed (something third parties haven't yet done for the most part) is definitely a reason to buy Pentax glass over 3rd party. </p>

<p>10 years ago, things were bleak. If it wasn't for Sigma and Tokina and Tamron, it would have been hard to build a decent Pentax system. Right now Pentax has 2.8 lenses from 14mm to 200mm and f/4 lenses to 300mm. Plus an ok selection of fast primes in the middle range (31-77 + the 100mm macro).</p>

<p>I really don't think the lack of 3rd party lenses is that big a deal anymore. And personally, while the cameras are awesome, I think you are cheating yourself if you are using Pentax cameras exclusively with 3rd party glass. But, I also understand that everyone has a different income and spending threshold and for some folks, a Sigma or Tokina lens might be the best option when building a system. </p>

[mountainvisions]

<p ><a name="00e03E"></a><a href="/photodb/user?user_id=2333979">Michael Kuhne</a> wrote:</p>

 

<blockquote>

<p>I also like the AA battery idea. A set of long-lasting lithiums can be found anywhere. I have that feature with my little K-r as a comfort-zone backup, since I tend to be forgetful about charging ahead of time. I use the lithiums only until I get a proprietary one charged up because it is lighter, so those lithiums are lasting a very long time.</p>

</blockquote>

<p>I agree. I do wish the K-70 could use AA batteries. I do a lot of multiday trips and my lithiums are fine for a week locally, but I'm planning a trip to Peru, where I expect to shoot a lot more than at home, and I'd much rather bring maybe 2 DLi90s (that I can recharge if possible) and a bunch of AA lithiums (which can usually be used for other things) than have to play games with hoping I can get a charge or trying the solar charging game.</p>

<p>Alternatively, the grip on my K-5IIs does take AA lithiums and perhaps taking a few DLI90s and the grip makes sense, but once I add the grip, my compact SLR becomes sort of big and bulky. </p>

 

[MattB.Net]

<p>You are right Justin, I may have been able to get that shot with manual focus. They go slow here and have to follow the same line. I also know the sport, this trail, and have even raced this race so all that helps a ton. I might have a lot more trouble with basketball! </p>

 

[michael_kuhne]

<p>The K-70 retains the use of the same battery as the K-r and the KS2, which is the D-LI 109. It is very small and light. It also does not last long. Without AA battery capability, it is wise to take along at least one or more charged-up spares in a pocket or camera pack. Not a big deal, since they are so small. But this is one more reason why Pentax really should also continue to offer a pro-style APS-c DSLR in addition to the K-70. Nikon has both amateur-oriented and more advanced APS-c models in the 24mp range. A good idea. With Pentax, one could get a Pro-style model that, while not quite as small as the K-70, is still very compact compared to others in this class.</p>

<p>The D-LI 90 battery of my K-5IIs lasts far, far longer than the junior counterpart, and is unlikely to run down while sitting unused, as the smaller D-LI 109 is prone to do.</p>

<p>With the advent of these newer, more advanced Pentax bodies, it is more possible that third party lens makers will decide to offer K-mount versions of lenses not currently available for Pentax. Even so, I am with Justin- Pentax has been smart to design WR as a very practical attraction, even in its less expensive bodies and lens lineup. That you do not get in other brands.</p>

 

[MattB.Net]

<p>Yeah the pro bodies are definitely better for events. I used the K-S2 for some mountain biking this spring but now that I got the K-1 the K-S2 will just be the adventure camera and I'll do events with the K-3 and K-1. The smaller battery cams also don't have grips available which further ensures not having to swap batteries. </p>

[wolf_weber]

<p>Justin, when I mentioned Sigma & Tamron (not to forget Tokina + Kenko) I had in mind mainly longer focal macro lenses (from <strong>135</strong> to <strong>180mm</strong>), plus the badly missing <strong>dg macro extension tubes</strong>. For Canon we not only have the choice of various macro lenses longer than 100mm, but most of their zooms from 70 to 400mm. Many of them allow you to get closer in the field from a discreet distance, especially with the, say <strong>EF25</strong>. It's compact and light, easily fits into a photo vest. Works great too when coupled to the Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8... <br />By the way, I do not subscribe to the argument that one can't achieve very good macro shots, hand held with longer than 100mm lenses. Frequently I employ a 300mm L IS f/4 with the EF25 for excellent results. How else would I photograph small creatures doing what they're doing, or pin head size butterfly eggs in difficult environments without disturbing the groove..? Pentax has some catching up to do here.</p>