Pentax have announced this new, compact prime lens for use on their digital SLR cameras. Slim and lightweight, we take a look at this aluminium-housed optic.

Compact in the extreme; Good resolution across the frame; Good build quality gives confidence in longevity

Some barrel distortion; Some CA when stopped well down; Price

The Pentax SMC-DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited is a very good lens but it is not as special as its longer cousins (specifically the Pentax FA 31mm f/1.8 Limited) nor is this really possible because of the increasing design problems when pushing things towards wide and ultra-wide angles.

The limited series is a must have if you own a pentax dslr. This DA21mm shoots exceptionally sharp pictures and is great for landscape photography.

Pancake size Very sharp Outstanding quality

price

The Pentax "Limited" lens line is known for its image quality, solid construction, and small size and weight. The first three lenses in this line were the FA 31/1.8, FA 43/1.9, and FA 77/1.8.

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Consistent Output; Durable; Lightweight; Rugged; Sharp Focus; Strong Construction

One of Pentax's exclusive Limited series lenses, the lightweight and compact 21mm f/3.2 ($470, street) features all the traits that have made a name for the Limited series: solid all-metal materials, extremely high manufacturing standards, engraved barrel markings, and uncompromising optics.

Since I favor the 35 and 28mm focal lengths for many of my travel shots on film, this lens covers both, making up the difference with a little shoe-leather zoom. Barrel distortion mentioned in some reviews is unnoticeable.

Pentax smc DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited is one of a series of Pentax pancake lenses the company introduced for its digital SLR cameras to fill in the gap that was left after the previous generation of K and M series lenses was discontinued.

Pentax have announced this new, compact prime lens for use on their digital SLR cameras. Slim and lightweight, we take a look at this aluminium-housed optic.

Compact in the extreme; Good resolution across the frame; Good build quality gives confidence in longevity

Some barrel distortion; Some CA when stopped well down; Price

In a recent review of the Pentax DA70 Limited lens, I discussed the time in history when lenses were

Excellent quality metal construction; Great optics; Compact and lightweight.

Too bad it's not f/2.8 or faster; but at this size who can complain