Pentax K-r dSLR Review

Review posted 3/4/2011

Quick Take

Pros

Stylish and comfortable body Three matching body/lens color combinations; White, Black, and Red Robust shooting performance in normal shooting modes Fast and accurate 11-point AF system, even in lower lighting Improved performance in Live View mode over past models Captures nice 12-megapixel photos Great ISO performance up to ISO 3200; 6400 isn't half bad either Bright 3.0-inch LCD screen Cool in-camera HDR options Unmatched power supply options Competitively priced

Cons

OVF is a bit dim, and shows minimal info ISO 12,800 and 25,600 look horrible Lacks more robust HD video options, like a full 1080p option HDR mode doesn't give you the dramatic effects you see from heavily processed HDR images that are created manually

Bottom Line

Pentax has created a worthy competitor in the entry to mid-level dSLR categories, with pleasing image quality, speedy shooting performance, and improved Live View performance compared to past models. This camera will appeal to a wide variety of photogs, whether you're a seasoned vet or just entering the dSLR world. Read more in our Full Conclusion.

Pentax's K-r is their latest entry to mid-level dSLR model (as of 03/2011), which boasts some impressive features, such as a stainless-steel chassis, and a variety of color choice options. The K-r records images at 12-megapixels with a fast CMOS image sensor, along with 720p HD video and burst rates up to six frames per second at full resolution. The camera comes with a 3.0-inch, 921,000 pixel LCD on the back as well as Shake Reduction & Dust Removal mechanisms. The CMOS sensor offers sensitivity settings of 100 - 25,600 as well as several in-camera processing functions for adjusting photos. Pentax K-r dSLR Major Features:

• 12.4 megapixel CMOS sensor
• Shake Reduction compatible with any PENTAX lens ever produced
• 3.0-inch high resolution (921k pixel) LCD monitor
• PRIME II image processing engine
• Dust Reduction 
• Upgraded 11-point "SAFOX IX" autofocus system
• Lens mount: PENTAX KAF2
• Compatible with PENTAX K, KA, KAF, and KAF2 mount lenses; screw mount lenses, 645, and 67 series lenses (adapter required)
• Pentamirror viewfinder with 96% field of view
• Broad sensitivity range from ISO 100 up to 25,600 
• Custom Settings to personalize camera operations
• Auto pop-up flash
• Shutter speeds from 1/6000 to 30 seconds plus Bulb
• Various exposure mode options, including intelligent Auto Picture mode for novice users
• Several in-camera HDR options
  
• Record video at 1280x720 or 640x480 at 25fps with sound
  
• Continuous shooting at 6fps in Hi mode
  
• Uses SD, SDHC, or SDXC type flash memory cards
• USB 2.0 hi-speed connectivity, PictBridge and Print Image Matching III compatible
• Powered by either the included Li-ion battery pack D-LI109 (7.4 V, 1050 mAh) or 4xA batteries 

The Pentax K-r dSLR is available now with three color options (Red, Black, and White), with the following MSRPs:

• $799.95 US for just the body
• $849.95 US for the K-r Lens Kit with the smc 18-55mm DAL lens
• $899.95 US for the K-r Double Lens Kit w 18-55mm and 50-200mm lenses
• $999.95 US for the K-r Double Lens Kit w 18-55mm and 55-300mm lenses.

Check our online vendors below for actual "street" prices.

Additional Product Views

Visitors of Steves can visit the stores below for real-time pricing and availability. You can also find hot, soon to expire online offers on a variety of cameras and accessories at our very own Camera Deals page.