Pentax K-1 (2016)

Name: Pentax K-1
Brand: Pentax

A full-frame digital single-lens reflex camera introduced in 2016 with a weather-resistant body and flexible tilt-type LCD.

Overview

The Pentax K-1 is a digital single-lens reflex camera made by Pentax, released in April 2016 as the company's first full-frame DSLR. The body is weather-sealed magnesium alloy with 87 seals, and it is cold-resistant down to -10 °C. The flexible tilt-type LCD monitor lets you shoot from awkward angles. The K-1 was the flagship of the Pentax K-mount system and leans on durability and manual control. It has knurled dials, and reviewers called the build exceptionally solid.

Specifications

Sensor	Full frame
Manual WB	up to 3 settings
Color Temperature Configuration	up to 3 settings
Max resolution	7360 x 4912
Image ratio w:h	3:2
Continuous shooting	4.4 fps in full-frame mode 6.5 fps in APS-C mode
Viewfinder	Eye-level pentaprism, 100% coverage, 0.70× magnification with 50 mm lens
Exposure compensation	+/- 5 EV (1/2 or 1/3 stops)
Autofocus system	SAFOX 12, 33 focus points, 25 cross-type, rated down to -3 EV
Metering modes	Center weight, Spot
Battery Life (CIPA)	760 shots
Dimensions	Approx. 136.5mm (W) x110mm (H) x 85.5mm (D)
Weight	1,010 g (36 oz) with battery and memory card

Design

The K-1 brought the first weather-resistant and backside-illuminated flexible tilt-type LCD monitor to a Pentax DSLR. The body pairs a magnesium-alloy shell with a stainless-steel chassis, sealed at 87 points against dust and weather. There is no in-camera flash, because a pop-up unit would compromise the sealing. Hyper Manual mode sets shutter speed and ISO automatically with a single button press.

Context

The K-1 was the flagship of the Pentax K-mount system and Pentax's long-awaited entry into the full-frame DSLR market. It scored 96 points on DxOMark for its sensor, which is outstanding, yet it launched at a relatively low list price compared to competitors. People noticed the rugged, no-nonsense design and the value.

Market

The Pentax K-1 had an original MSRP of $1,799.95. Forum users note its very solid build quality, and it has been described as the "Toyota Landcruiser of DSLRs" for its durability. Within months of release it was available at retail for $1,599.00.