Pentax's full-frame dSLR debut, the K-1, hits at an opportune time. Canon hasn't updated its 6D or 5D Mark III in at least a couple of years, nor has Nikon done so with its D750 or D610 . That makes a new model at an aggressive price a welcome option.

The Pentax K-1 delivers excellent photo quality and a ton of features in a sturdy; well-designed body

The autofocus is inconsistent and the image stabilization isn't as good as competitors'

Pentax may be late to the full-frame party, but the K-1 sure made a loud entrance. When it comes to image quality, the new Pentax K-1 boasts an unprecedented level of performance and versatility which without question secures its spot as the most powerful K-mount camera released to date.

demanding photographers seeking excellent still image quality; users looking for an excellent value in a full-frame camera

demanding photographers seeking excellent still image quality; users looking for an excellent value in a full-frame camera

Pixel-peeping Pentax fans are eager for the K-1 (though it already feels outdated).

High-quality stills; 5-axis in-camera stabilization; Unique adjustable LCD

Seems dated even though it's a 2016 model; Only 30p video; not even 60p let alone 4K

The Pentax K-1 is Ricoh's flagship full-frame DSLR. It offers a wide range of features for a modest price of just under $1800. The K-1 provides flashes of Pentax's past with its unique styling, while still offering the functionality and performance of modern day full frame DSLRs.

It's been long, long overdue. But the time has come: Pentax has finally created a full-frame DSLR, the K-1. And at ￡1,600 this 36-megapixel monster is one competitively priced camera, certain to help Pentax make its mark in an already fiercely contested market.

Great full-frame image quality; an abundance of clever modes (5-axis stabilisation sensor; used for Horizon Correction; Pixel Shift Resolution; Astrotracer); flex-tilt monitor leads the way in its field; it's a bargain

Lens selection more limited than Canon/Nikon (or just harder to source); autofocus system not as on point as the competition; 4.8fps isn't as fast as competition either; no touchscreen

For years, it seemed doubtful that a full-frame Pentax DSLR would ever materialise. But now that it's here, the focus has moved to what it represents in an ever-expanding sector.

Excellent image quality; superb resolution and dynamic range, High features-to-price ratio, Excellent handling with many physical controls, One of the most flexible LCD displays around

Occasional auto white balance inconsistencies; Video options not as comprehensive as those on other cameras; Artefacts visible in certain Pixel Shift Resolution images; Continuous focus doesn't track quite as well as other systems

The Pentax K-1 is Pentax's long-awaited full-frame Digital SLR, and it brings all of Pentax's technology including weather-sealed camera bodies, shake-reduction sensor, pixel shift resolution and more to the camera community.

Pixel shift resolution for sharper more detailed images with better colour; Capable of taking excellent images; Very good noise performance; Customisable ISO controls for noise reduction; 5-axis image stabilisation sensor; One of the more compact FF Digital SLRs; LEDs light up camera in the dark,...

Auto white balance could be better; No built in flash-unit; USB 2 / UHS-I (not 3 and II respectively; Slow live view shutter response and focus

Full-frame on a budget, but with plenty of caveats stopping it being a full-framer for the masses.

Full frame fanciness; Superb stills in the studio; Small and tough - won't give up in wet weather

Not fast enough for action snaps; Needs light to look its best

The Pentax K-1 is a new professional full-frame DSLR camera. Key features of the K-1 include a 36 megapixel 35mm sensor with an anti-aliasing simulator rather than an optical anti-aliasing filter, Pixel Shift Resolution technology which delivers super-high-resolution images with more accurate colour...

Pentax is one of the big traditional photographic brands to make the transition from film into digital camera manufacturing, and it always seemed likely that it might one day make a full-frame digital SLR.