Pentax K-1 review: The Pentax K-1 delivers a fine full-frame value for the photo-focused

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 K-1 offers a ton of features with excellent photo quality and a great shooting design, but it also has one of the least-sophisticated autofocus systems and occasionally sluggish performance.

For photographers who want great photo quality for less than $2,000, the Pentax K-1 hits the bullseye.

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 K-1 Review

Pentax intended its first digital SLR to be a full-fame model. A prototype based around a 6-megapixel Phillips CCD sensor was shown as early as 2001, but it never came to market—some have speculated it was due to the poor performance. So when the company released its first DSLR in 2003, the *ist D, it was an APS-C camera. But now, after a couple of sales of the company itself—first to Hoya and later to current parent Ricoh—Pentaxians finally have a full-frame body. The K-1 ($1,799.95, body only) sports a 36MP image sensor, in-body stabilization, GPS and Wi-Fi, and some innovative ergonomics that make it a joy to shoot with. And its price point is atractive, given its capabilities. But it's not a perfect camera. Action shooters will be disappointed by an autofocus system that struggles to keep up with moving targets, a Wi-Fi companion app in serious need of a redesign, and so-so video capabilities. These missteps keep the K-1 from earning a higher rating, though it's still a very ...

The long-awaited full-frame Pentax K-1 camera delivers superb image quality, but its frame rate and autofocus system will disappoint action photographers.

36-megapixel full-frame image sensor; Innovative controls and features; Bright optical viewfinder; Articulated rear display; 5-axis in-body image stabilization; GPS with Astrotracer; Pixel Shift high-resolution mode; Wi-Fi; Weather-sealed design; Vertical shooting grip available; Aggressive pricing

Autofocus struggles with fast-moving subjects; Limited Raw shooting buffer; Modest 4.4fps shooting rate; So-so video quality; Omits in-camera flash

Pentax K-1 review review

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;