The best Pentax cameras are not so popular among photographers, but that does not mean they produce substandard cameras. In fact, they have a wide array of cameras suitable for budget-conscious users and still deliver quality all the time.

Therefore, if you are searching for a less expensive but comparable alternative to the mainstream camera models? Pentax digital cameras are the perfect choice for you.

Pentax is a camera manufacturer from Japan. They were the pioneers of the 35mm compact camera, and they haven’t changed much in their design philosophy since then.

Pentax is known for its amazing high-quality glass, compact bodies, and high value for money.

Digital cameras from Pentax are an excellent alternative to the mainstream brands, and for a low price, you can get a compact, high-quality camera with exceptional zoom capability.

In this article, we will present to you the five best Pentax cameras. We will also help you to decide which camera is suitable for your needs and budget.

Pentax focuses on DSLR cameras only. Therefore, check out my review of the best mirrorless cameras for mirrorless options.

At a Glance

Best Pentax Camera

Pentax K-1 Mark II DSLR Camera

4.8 out of 5 stars

FROM

$1,796

on Amazon

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Budget-Friendly

Pentax K-70 DSLR Camera

4.5 out of 5 stars

FROM

$546

on Amazon

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Best Video Camera

Pentax 645z Medium Format DSLR Camera

4.8 out of 5 stars

FROM

$3,149

on Amazon

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Who Manufactures Pentax Cameras?

Pentax is a camera manufacturer from Japan. The company was founded in 1917. Since then, the company has produced photographic equipment for enthusiasts and professionals.

Their cameras are commonly found in offices, for easy use by businesses, and in the amateur photography market because of their affordability.

Pentax digital cameras are available with interchangeable lenses, giving you complete control over your photography experience. The Pentax K-series have the best image quality in the industry, especially when shooting JPEG images.

You’ll be happy with the ever-increasing technology in these models, offered at great prices, with excellent quality and speed.

The tricky part is narrowing down your choice to just five bodies. There are so many excellent models out there, but we will try to do this for you, so read on.

1. Overall Best Pentax Cameras – Pentax K-1 Mark II DSLR Camera

What is the Pentax K-1 Mark II DSLR Camera?

The Pentax K-1 Mark II Digital SLR camera is a product designed with the advanced user in mind. The camera comes with a 36MP full-frame sensor, ISO range of 100 to 819,200, and 33 AF points.

For the first time ever on DSLR cameras from Pentax, the K-1 Mark II has an Antialiasing (AA) filter simulator instead of an optical anti-aliasing filter in the camera. Creating a natural-looking AA effect.

It is a weather-sealed, 36MP electronic viewfinder with 100% frame coverage.

The camera uses interchangeable lenses and is compatible with the SDXC UHS-1 cards. This DSLR camera has all the advanced features of a high-end camera, such as advanced video capabilities, Wi-Fi connectivity, AF system, etc.

It offers improved high sensitivity performance, high-speed Auto Focus, and image resolution through the new handheld Pixel Shift Resolution mode.

Features of the Pentax K-1 Mark II DSLR Camera

• The camera comes with a powerful 36MP full-frame sensor, which is one of the highest in the industry.
• The ISO range of the K-1 Mark II is 100 to 819,200.
• For an interactive preview of the image’s depth of field, it has a digital depth-of-field preview that can be easily switched on or off while you are composing your shots.
• It can be used for portrait, landscape, beach, snow, and night photography.
• It has an improved tracking accuracy for fast moving subjects when using the AF Continuous mode.
• The camera also features a weather-sealed construction with dust and moisture sealing to ensure that your camera can take great pictures while being protected from the elements.
• The image stabilization system is one of the best in any camera.
• Using the expanded ISO range, noise is considerably reduced in the Pentax K-1 Mark II.
• The camera has a built-in Wi-Fi option. Wireless connectivity can transfer photos onto your smartphone, tablet, or computer wirelessly via Wi-Fi.

Why Do I Recommend the Pentax K-1 Mark II DSLR Camera?

The Pentax K-1 Mark II Digital SLR camera is one of the best cameras to buy, especially if you want the best bang for your buck.

It has a remarkable 36MP full-frame sensor, ISO range of 100 to 819,200, and 33 autofocus points.

The K-1 Mark II has an advanced AA filter simulator that works with pixel shift technology for this slow-motion feature that gives you DSLR video-like quality. This is the only camera on the market that allows you to capture photos and record video in slow motion.

The weather sealing allows the camera to be used in any conditions without fear of damaging the camera.

The Pentax K-1 Mark II has an upgraded Pixel Shift Resolution System II with a newly developed Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution mode for handheld shooting.

2. Budget-Friendly Pentax Cameras – Pentax K-70 DSLR Camera

What is the Pentax K-70 DSLR Camera?

If you are looking for a camera that offers a reduced price without losing too many features, the Pentax K-70 is a great choice to consider.

It has a 24MP APS-C sensor and features an 11-point autofocus system.

In terms of battery life, it uses the rechargeable D-LI109 which can shoot around 480 photos before depletion.

The Pentax K-70 has a built-in flash that offers three flash modes for lighting your subjects in different lighting conditions.

It has an ISO range of 100-102400 and a shutter speed of 1/6000th second.

Features of the Pentax K-70 DSLR Camera

• The Pentax K-70 DSLR camera has a 24MP APS-C sensor and can shoot at any ISO of 100 to 102400.
• It has an 11-point autofocus system that is fast and accurate, especially compared to other cameras with 18 or fewer focus points.
• It shoots at 30fps, 25fps or 24fps in the MOV format.
• The camera has a built-in Shake Reduction system, assisting in reducing camera shake. Since the system is built-in into the camera, it will work with any lens attached on the camera.
• The camera has a 3-inch LCD, is crisp at 921k dots. However, it is not a touch screen, which is not a huge deal considering the K-70 is not a strong performer in Live View.
• The Pentax K-70 is dustproof, weather-resistant and cold-resistant down to -10 degrees Celsius.

Why Do I Recommend the Pentax K-70 DSLR Camera?

The Pentax K-70 is an excellent option for those with a very tight budget and who want to learn more about still photography or video recording. Just be sure to stick with the camera’s low ISO settings as it tends to be very noisy at higher ISO settings.

It has a 24MP APS-C sensor, allowing you to capture beautiful photographs at high resolutions with an extensive dynamic range.

It also has a built-in USB charger that will recharge the camera’s battery faster than a separate charger.

A camera with a sound autofocus system is essential, especially if you want to take moving photographs of your family or friends.

This camera has an extensive 11-point autofocus system that will capture your images in sharp detail.

The 3-inch LCD is very clear and bright. It also features automatic brightness adjustment so you can take pictures in low and bright lighting conditions without manually changing the LCD screen’s settings.

3. Worthy Mention Pentax Cameras – Pentax KP DSLR Cameras

What is the Pentax KP DSLR Camera?

The Pentax KP features an APS-C-sized sensor with 24MP.

It uses the K-mount system, which is a very common and reliable lens mount. You can use lenses even from the ’70s with the camera.

You can use it with both manual and electronically controlled lenses, which means you can have a wide range of options for your photos.

It has in-body stabilization, which reduces camera shake when you do not have a tripod in hand.

This camera’s ISO range goes up to 819,200 because it has an in-body noise reduction feature that can also be used when taking low-light photos.

It has a fast and accurate autofocus system with 27 autofocus points.

It comes with a built-in flash for more control when taking photos in low or bright lighting conditions.

Fetures of the Pentax KP DSLR Camera

• The Pentax KP has a 24MP APS-C sensor and can be used for both photo and video recording.
• You can choose from 60 different shooting modes so you can take your photos in the best way possible.
• It has a built-in flash, which is an excellent feature if you want to take pictures of subjects that are far away because it allows for greater control of light.
• This camera also features an all-new Penta System, a new system that helps reduce high ISO noise.
• Camera offers a maximum shutter speed of 1/6000 seconds. It can also use a fully electronic shutter speed of 1/24,000 seconds using the optical viewfinder, allowing you to gain two extra stops for situations when shooting in bright daylight using wide apertures.
• It has in-body stabilization that reduces camera shake, essential when taking photos in low or bright lighting conditions.

Why Do I Recommend the Pentax KP DSLR Camera?

The Pentax KP is the perfect option for users who want to take high-quality photographs in low-light environments, either indoors or outdoors.

It also features the Penta System that will help reduce high ISO noise so you can get clear, crisp shots in any lighting conditions.

This is one of the newest entries into the world of DSLR cameras, but it is very effective for taking photos and videos.

The camera has a 24MP APS-C sensor, which gives you an extended range of ISO.

It features an LCD monitor that is 3.2 inches across and can tilt up to 179 degrees.

The camera has a built-in pop-up flash that will improve your photographs if you want to take photos of subjects far away from the camera’s lens.

4. Best Pentax Cameras for Video – Pentax 645z Medium Format DSLR Camera

What is the Pentax 645z Medium Format DSLR Camera?

The Pentax 645z is a full-frame medium format DSLR camera. It has a 51MP CMOS sensor and has in-body stabilization.

It offers 27 autofocus points, which is impressive considering the size of this camera and the number of megapixels it provides.

This camera can capture Full HD video, which will keep you from missing any action shots when you are filming your favorite sports team or playing music in your school’s band or orchestra.

It comes with automatic brightness adjustment so you can take photos indoors or outdoors.

It is dust and splash-resistant.

Features of the Pentax 645z Medium Format DSLR Camera

• This camera features one of the best autofocus systems on the market, perfect for photographers who need to capture high-quality images quickly.
• It can capture an image in less than half a second, which is faster than most DSLRs on the market.
• The Pentax 645z is made of durable aluminum and has a body design to protect it from wear and tear when taking your photographs.
• The camera has a fast top shutter speed of 1/4000th second and an impressive 100,000 shutter release lifespan.
• It does not have an optical anti-aliasing filter in the camera assisting in increasing image quality and resolution.

• This camera has an incredible ISO range, which is from 100 to 204,800. The ISO helps process the light your camera is receiving so you can get a clear photograph.
• You can use this DSLR to record video at 1080p, which will give you the freedom to record all of your favorite moments, whether you are on vacation or at an event.

Why Do I Recommend the Pentax 645z Medium Format DSLR Camera?

The Pentax 645z is the perfect camera for photographers who need to capture high-quality images quickly.

It also features an excellent autofocus system, which is crucial if you want to take photos of your baby, kids, or pets.

This camera has a very durable body, which means it will last a long time and will not malfunction or break.

It can take extremely clear photographs, which is essential if you want to document your favorite moments before they pass you by.

The camera has a fast top shutter speed of 1/4000th second and an impressive 100,000 shutter release lifespan.

It does not have an optical anti-aliasing filter in the camera assisting in increasing image quality and resolution.

It also is one of the most affordable medium format DSLRs on the market, so if you are looking for a great deal, it is best to check out this camera and compare it to other options on this list.

5. Best Pentax Cameras for Low Light – Pentax K-S2 DSLR Camera

What is the Pentax K-S2 DSLR Camera?

The Pentax K-S2 is perfect for people who want to take excellent photographs in low-light settings.

It has a 20MP CMOS sensor, which will help improve the quality of your photographs. This comes at the cost of only $500, making it one of the most affordable cameras on this list.

It is one of the smallest DSLRs on the market, and it is billed as the smallest weatherproof DSLR available.

This camera features a 20MP sensor and has a maximum ISO setting of 51200.

It can capture Full HD video with stabilization, which is perfect for those who enjoy recording their favorite moments on vacation so they can share them with their friends and family.

Comes with Wi-Fi and NFC Communication allowing you to connect with an app on your smartphone or tablet for remote control and transferring images across your devices.

Features of the Pentax K-S2 DSLR Camera

• The camera has a 3-inch LCD screen that will allow you to view your photographs as soon as you take them so you can evaluate them right away.
• This camera can record video in Full HD 1080 quality, which will help you capture all of your favorite moments.
• The camera also features an 11-point autofocus system, suitable for photographers who are still mastering their photography skills.
• It also includes an ISO range of 100 to 51,200, which means this DSLR will capture the best images possible.
• This camera also has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technology, allowing you to connect it with your smartphone in order to wirelessly transfer photos and videos.

Why Do I Recommend the Pentax K-S2 DSLR Camera?

This camera is perfect for people who want to take clear photographs at night.

The 20MP sensor will help reduce blurring and noise in your photographs, especially if you like to take pictures at night.

The camera has an excellent ISO range, with 100 to 51,200 settings, which means it will work well no matter where you are taking your photographs.

It comes with many great features for photographers who are just starting on their path to becoming professional photographers.

This camera has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technology, allowing you to connect it with your smartphone in order to wirelessly transfer photos and videos.

Final Thoughts About The 5 Best Pentax Cameras For the Money

Now that you know which cameras are the best for your needs, you will be ready to take excellent photographs at all times. You do not have to spend a lot of money on a camera, and there are plenty of good cameras that cost less than $500.

However, it is essential to choose a quality camera that has all of the features you need.

You will be able to take excellent photographs at all times while saving money in the process. As long as you know what your needs are before purchasing a camera, you will be able to find the best Pentax camera for your needs.

Before purchasing a new DSLR or mirrorless camera, make sure you do your research first. The best thing to do is search for reviews on each camera to see if other people are satisfied with their purchase.

This is the best way to ensure that you buy the right Pentax camera for your needs rather than wasting money on an inferior product.

If you are still searching for the best digital camera, then look at some of my other reviews. I have reviewed some of the best Fujifilm cameras on the market today, so you can compare various cameras and find one perfect for your needs.

Before you move on, please let me know if you have any questions about these cameras or if you would like some more information on any of them.