9 Best Pentax K Mount Camera You Can Buy in 2024

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Pentax is a well-known name in the photography world. Because of the lens varieties and the vast collection of cameras. Every camera is equipped with the latest features and specifications.

Pentax K mount is its largest collection of every kind of lens. There are a minimum of hundreds of lenses in the market that is K mount. So anyone should be wondering about getting a K-mount camera.

This article will tell you about the best Pentax K-mount cameras. And guide you to choose the best one for you.

9 Best Pentax K Mount Cameras

Now Here I will be discussing the cameras I have mentioned. They are the best Pentax K mount cameras in the market.

They are in different price ranges and some of them are so identical that is very hard to choose. I will guide you and discuss the cameras and their features.

1. Pentax K-1 Mark II

Specs:

• Type: TTL Autofocus, Auto Exposure, SLR Digital Still camera
• Lens Mount: PENTAX KAF2 bayonet mount (AF Coupler, lens information contacts, K mount with power contacts)
• Compatible Lens: K-AF4, K-AF3, K-AF2, K-AF,K-A mount Lens
• Image Sensor: Primary color filter, CMOS. Size 35.9 X 24.0 mm
• Effective Pixels: Approx. 36.40 megapixels
• Total Pixels: Approx. 36.77 megapixels
• ISO: AUTO, 100 to 819200
• Image Stabilizer: Sensor-shift shakes reduction
• File Format: RAW, JPEG, DCF2.0
• Color Space: sRGB, AbodeRGB
• Viewfinder Type: Pentaprism Finder with 100% Coverage
• Magnification: 0.95X (50mm F1.4 at Infinity)
• Magnification: Approx. 0.70X
• LCD Monitor Type: LCD monitor
• LCD Monitor Size: 3.0 inch
• LCD Monitor Dots: Approx. 921K dots
• Weather-Resistant: Yes

The Pentax K-1 Mark II is a classic DSLR camera with a lot of features built in. it has the CMOS Sensor and the pixel count is 36 Megapixels.

Most photographers choose the camera for shooting landscape photos. The main selling point of the camera is the Sensor-Shift shake reduction image stabilization. Which works nice but the camera only shoots 4.4 FPS in burst mode. And the autofocus system doesn’t perform well in burst mode.

When the camera shoots at FHD the autofocus works great. But when it is 4K the camera struggles to keep the subject in focus.

The ISO is updated from its predecessor. It can go up to 819200.

Pentax is known for producing high-quality cameras. This top-of-the-line weatherproof camera is the toughest of them all.

The camera weighs only 1010 grams makes it a bit heavier in the competition.
It has the high-end K-Mount Lens choice. From the K-Mount telephoto to the ultra-wide angle lenses are fully compatible with the Pentax K-1 Mark II.

2. Pentax K-70

Specs:

• Type: TTL Autofocus, Auto Exposure, SLR Digital Still camera
• Lens Mount: PENTAX KAF2 bayonet mount (AF Coupler, lens information contacts, K mount with power contacts)
• Compatible Lens: K-AF4, K-AF3, K-AF2, K-AF,K-A mount Lens
• Image Sensor: Primary color filter, CMOS. Size 35.9 X 24.0 mm
• Effective Pixels: Approx. 24.24 megapixels
• Total Pixels: Approx. 24.78 megapixels
• ISO: AUTO, 100 to 102400
• Image Stabilizer: Sensor-shift shake reduction
• File Format: RAW, JPEG, DCF2.0
• Color Space: sRGB, AbodeRGB
• Viewfinder Type: Pentaprism Finder with 100% Coverage
• Magnification: Approx. 0.95X
• LCD Monitor Size: 3.0 inch
• LCD Monitor Dots: Approx. 921K dots
• Weight: 688g
• Weather-Resistant: Yes

The Pentax K-70 is an entry-level DSLR that has everything a DSLR needs. The camera has a nice range of ISO count is 100 to 102,400 and with the larger 24-megapixel sensor, it takes really good photos.

The camera features a bright pentaprism optical viewfinder with a 100% field of vision, a weather-sealed body, a comfortable grip, and everything a photographer will need. The 6 frames per second burst shooting are surprisingly fast and accurate.

It is a lightweight camera weighing only 688 grams. The Tiny LCD screen will get you covered with all the information about the camera. The only downside is the screen does not have touch functionalities.

You have an all-purpose camera that is just a terrific alternative, to begin with, DSLR photography, not to mention its tough build quality that is well suited to challenging outdoor circumstances. These kinds of functionality are simply unavailable in DSLRs with comparable price tags.

3. Pentax K-3 Mark III

Specs:

• Type: TTL Autofocus, Auto Exposure, SLR Digital Still camera
• Lens Mount: PENTAX KAF2 bayonet mount (AF Coupler, lens information contacts, K mount with power contacts)
• Compatible Lens: K-AF4, K-AF3, K-AF2, K-AF,K-A mount Lens
• Image Sensor: Primary color filter, CMOS. Size 23.3 X 15.5 mm
• Effective Pixels: Approx. 25.73 megapixels
• Total Pixels: Approx. 25.78 megapixels
• ISO: AUTO, 100 to 1600000
• Image Stabilizer: Sensor-shift shake reduction (SR II, 5 axes, Auto, Planning, Off)
• File Format: RAW, JPEG, DCF2.0
• Color Space: sRGB, AbodeRGB
• Viewfinder Type: Pentaprism Finder with 100% Coverage
• Magnification: Approx. 0.70X
• LCD Monitor Type: LCD monitor with Wide viewing angle TFT color
• LCD Monitor Size: 3.2 inch
• LCD Monitor Dots: Approx. 1620K dots
• Night vision LCD Display: ON/OFF
• Weight: 820g
• Weather-Resistant: Yes

Pentax K-3 Mark III is one of the newest cameras in the Pentax K lineup. The predecessors are well known for their build quality and outstanding performance.

The camera has the highest ISO count of most cameras in the market. It has a 1600000 ISO range that can shoot you nice astrophotography.

It proves the DSLR is still on the top board in the camera world. The upgraded sensor with processing power gives a high-resolution image and performance boost in UHD 4K video recording. It has a rocking 12 FPS burst mode that is very accurate in focusing.

A new SAFOX 13 AF system for still images includes 101 phase-detection points for efficient subject tracking and rapid and precise focusing.

It has the SR II mechanism for image stabilization. With Pixel Shift Resolution, the sensor is moved incrementally throughout several pictures to collect full-color information at each pixel location. These successive frames are then composited to create a single image with increased detail and resolution.

The viewfinder is bright and large and provides 1.05X magnification and covers 100% of the image frame. The LCD screen is also good and the night vision function is by default. That adjusts the screen’s brightness based on the shooting conditions.

It has a 3.5mm microphone and headphones to pair up with high-end microphones to have good audio.

The battery gives you around 800 shots on a single charge which is pretty amazing if you compare it with some of the high-end DSLRs.

Also, it has a status bad screen on the top of the camera allows you to control everything without opening the screen.

Overall it is a great DSLR camera with a lot of features in it. And Pentax’s consistent firmware support makes the camera a deal breaker in this age.

4. Pentax K-50

Specs:

• Type: TTL Autofocus, Auto Exposure, SLR Digital Still camera
• Lens Mount: PENTAX KAF2 bayonet mount (AF Coupler, lens information contacts, K mount with power contacts)
• Compatible Lens: K-AF4, K-AF3, K-AF2, K-AF,K-A mount Lens
• Image Sensor: Primary color filter, CMOS. Size 23.7 X 15.7 mm
• Effective Pixels: Approx. 16.28 megapixels
• Total Pixels: Approx. 25.78 megapixels
• ISO: AUTO, 100 to 51200
• Image Stabilizer: Sensor-shift shake reduction
• File Format: RAW, JPEG, DCF2.0
• Color Space: sRGB, AbodeRGB
• Viewfinder Type: Pentaprism Finder with 100% Coverage
• Magnification: Approx. 0.92X
• LCD Monitor Type: LCD monitor with Wide viewing angle TFT color
• LCD Monitor Size: 3.0 inch
• LCD Monitor Dots: Approx. 921K dots
• Night vision LCD Display: ON/OFF
• Weight: 820g
• Weather-Resistant: Yes

Every camera manufacturer has a camera that is kind of off the shelves. A bit rusty and sporty. Mainly vastly used by travel photographers.

The Pentax K-50 is one of the Pentax’s bit rusty cameras. It is extremely mobile and has a sporty look and it is with the SR image stabilization mechanism that stables your footage.

It has a 16.3 megapixel APS-C sized CMOS sensor which assures you high-quality footage from the camera. These two technologies work together to produce still photographs and films with outstanding image quality and clarity at a high sensitivity level of ISO 51200.

The camera shoots at 6 fps burst mode in full resolution. And the Autofocus is good as well. The maximum shutter speed of the camera is  1/6000^th of a second.

The K-50 camera body is made of stainless steel and coated in polycarbonate. The body is fully weather-sealed, and the camera is shielded from moisture, dust, and temperatures that range from 14 to 104 degrees.

It has a K-lens mount that enables the use of a wide variety of K-mount lenses. It is one of the best Pentax K-mount cameras on a budget.

5. Pentax K100D

Specs:

• Type: SLR Still camera
• Compatible Lens: K-AF4, K-AF3, K-AF2, K-AF,K-A mount Lens
• Image Sensor: 6.1-megapixel APS-C sensor
• ISO: AUTO, 200 to 3200
• Image Stabilizer: Sensor-shift shake reduction
• File Format: JPEG
• Viewfinder: Yes
• Magnification: Approx. 0.70X

This is a camera that is discontinued from Pentax long ago. But it is a great deal if you find a used one.

The camera has an LCD screen that allows you to track all the settings and features. Although you won’t find the touch screen functionalities the camera will get your job done.

The APS-C sensor is a very old sensor once vastly used in DSLRs.

The camera can shoot in 2.8 fps drive mode.

One major drawback of the camera is, it cannot shoot videos.

6. Pentax K-1

Specs:

• Type: TTL Autofocus, Auto Exposure, SLR Digital Still camera
• Lens Mount: PENTAX KAF2 bayonet mount (AF Coupler, lens information contacts, K mount with power contacts)
• Compatible Lens: K-AF4, K-AF3, K-AF2, K-AF,K-A mount Lens
• Image Sensor: Primary color filter, CMOS. Size 35.9 X 24.0 mm
• Effective Pixels: Approx. 36.40 megapixels
• Total Pixels: Approx. 36.77 megapixels
• ISO: AUTO, 100 to 204800
• Image Stabilizer: Sensor-shift shake reduction (SR II, 5 Axis)
• File Format: RAW, JPEG, DCF2.0
• Color Space: sRGB, AbodeRGB
• Viewfinder Type: Pentaprism Finder with 100% Coverage
• Magnification: Approx. 0.70X
• LCD Monitor Size: 3.2 inch
• LCD Monitor Dots: Approx. 1037K dots
• Weight: 688g
• Weather-Resistant: Yes

If you are a Pentax user you must know the Pentax K-1 is the first full-frame DSLR camera Pentax released.

The outstanding 36.4  megapixel CMOS  sensor and the IV image processor give the camera the ability to shoot high-definition footage.

The camera can shoot high-resolution images at up to 4.4 fps along with recording Full HD video. It has an outstanding 14-bit image processor which helps to improve clarity, color accuracy, and noise reduction while increasing the sensitivity range up to ISO 204800 for use in low-light situations.

It has a stainless steel magnesium alloy body with extreme weather sealing. The camera is highly suitable for harsh weather.

The camera has a built-in mode for astrophotography to shoot the Milkyway and the cosmos.

The big pentaprism optical viewfinder offers 100% frame coverage and a high 0.7x magnification. The LCD screen has a cross-tilt design you wouldn’t see in this generation.

Additionally, built-in Wi-Fi and built-in GPS enable geotagging of your photos for shot tracking on an interactive map. Built-in Wi-Fi also enables wireless remote control and image sharing.

7. Pentax K-r

Specs:

• Type: Autofocus, Auto Exposure, SLR Digital Still camera
• Lens Mount: PENTAX KAF2 bayonet mount (AF Coupler, lens information contacts, K mount with power contacts)
• Compatible Lens: K-AF2, K-AF, K-A mount Lens
• Image Sensor: APS-C CMOS. Size 23.6 X 15.8 mm
• Effective Pixels: 12 megapixels
• ISO: AUTO, 100 to 25600
• Image Stabilizer: Sensor-shift shake reduction (SR II, 5 Axis)
• File Format: JPEG
• Color Space: sRGB, AbodeRGB
• Viewfinder Type: Pentamirror Finder with 96% Coverage
• Magnification: Approx. 0.57X
• LCD Monitor Size: 3.0 inch
• LCD Monitor Dots: Approx. 921K dots
• Weight: 598g

The Pentax K-1 came in 2010. It is a mid-range DSLR camera with the Pentax K-mount. It recovers AF-point lighting in the viewfinder and supports 6 fps continuous shooting and HD video recording.

Additionally, it has a high-resolution 920k dot (VGA) LCD screen and supports ISO 25600 filming.

It is a very compact and lightweight camera that is ideal for everyday use.

The camera has non touch LCD screen to monitor the settings. The autofocus is decent. Not quite fast as the K-1 but it gets the work done.

The camera is one of the best Pentax K-mount cameras in the market and comes at a very reasonable price.

8. Pentax KP

Specs:

• Type: TTL Autofocus, Auto Exposure, SLR Digital Still camera
• Lens Mount: PENTAX KAF2 bayonet mount (AF Coupler, lens information contacts, K mount with power contacts)
• Compatible Lens: K-AF4, K-AF3, K-AF2, K-AF,K-A mount Lens
• Image Sensor: APS-C CMOS. Size 35.9 X 24.0 mm
• Effective Pixels: Approx. 24.32 megapixels
• Total Pixels: Approx. 24.96 megapixels
• ISO: AUTO, 100 to 819200
• Image Stabilizer: Sensor-shift shake reduction (SR II, 5 Axis)
• File Format: RAW (PEF/ DNG), JPEG, DCF2.0
• Color Space: sRGB, AbodeRGB
• Viewfinder Type: Pentaprism Finder with 100% Coverage
• Magnification: Approx. 0.95X
• LCD Monitor Size: 3.0 inch
• LCD Monitor Dots: Approx. 921K dots
• Weight: 703g
• Weather-Resistant: Yes

Pentax KP is a compact camera with a 24.3-megapixel sensor. The black Pentax KP has a changeable grip that the photographer may switch out as needed.

The sensor is very good in the low light situation thanks to the APS-C sensor. And the built-in anti-aliasing filter and the PRIME IV engine make the footage very sharp and clear.

It has 5-axis image stabilization that gives very smooth footage. And the highest 819200 ISO sensitivity doesn’t ruin the photo as the processor and the sensor are really bound together. The max speed of the mechanical shutter is 1/6000 second and the electronic shutter is 1/24000 second.

The TTL autofocus method offers 27 points in the center for improved accuracy. Even in low light conditions, the camera can shoot sharp images the right way.

The KP is capable of shooting 4K videos at 60 fps. And it can shoot in H.264 compression. Photographers may now add high-resolution motion capture to their tools without having to bring along a second camera.

And on top of that, it is fully weather-sealed.

As it is one of the best Pentax K mount cameras, it has hundreds of lenses to choose from.

9. Pentax K-S2

Specs:

• Type: TTL Autofocus, Auto Exposure, SLR Digital Still camera
• Lens Mount: PENTAX KAF2 bayonet mount (AF Coupler, lens information contacts, K mount with power contacts)
• Compatible Lens: K-AF3, K-AF2, K-AF,K-A mount Lens
• Image Sensor: Primary color CMOS. Size 23.5 X 15.6 mm
• Effective Pixels: Approx. 20.12 megapixels
• Total Pixels: Approx. 20.42 megapixels
• ISO: AUTO, 100 to 51200
• Image Stabilizer: Sensor-shift shake reduction (SR II, 5 Axis)
• File Format: AW, JPEG, DCF2.0
• Color Space: sRGB, AbodeRGB
• Viewfinder Type: Pentaprism Finder with 100% Coverage
• Magnification: Approx. 0.95X
• LCD Monitor Size: 3.0 inch
• LCD Monitor Dots: Approx. 921K dots
• Weight: 678g
• Weather resistant: Yes

The Pentax K-S2 is a compact durable K-mount DSLR camera. It is one of the best Pentax k mount cameras with a 20-megapixel sensor and comes at a very reasonable price.

The camera has the PRIME M II Image processing engine and which is capable of shooting in very low light or high ISO situations without any noise. It has Sensor-Shift image stabilization that limits camera shake with slower shutter speeds.

The camera shutter is very fast takes photos speed of 1/6000 second and the continuous shooting rate is 5.5 fps.

The built-in Wifi and NFC will allow the camera easily connects to any smartphone with the Pentax app.

Overall the camera is very good for any photographer. And the best Pentax K Mount Cameras in budget.

Which One to Choose?

It is very hard to suggest one from the above. In photography, no camera can assure you it will be the best for you. Because photography needs skills and patience.

In the description, I have listed some best Pentax K-mount cameras that come at very different budgets.

If you are on a budget and want the best K-mount Camera I will suggest you go for the Pentax KP. The camera has everything you will need to take amazing footage.  

And if you consider having the best one till now, I will highly encourage you to get the popular Pentax K-1 Mark II. It is a well-suited camera with a 36-megapixel sensor. The build quality is very sturdy and the weather sealing is always here to protect the camera.

I think The Pentax K-1 Mark II is the best Pentax K mount camera in the market right now. The camera supports every K-mount lens Pentax has released. So it is a good deal to have it.

Frequently Askead Questions

Final Words

So here are the final thoughts, I think you already know which are the best Pentax K-Mount cameras. And I will highly suggest you research more before buying it.

I have described every up and down for every camera. There are many K-mount cameras from Pentax. The list I made is based on the research and the user experiences. I hope you learned something from this article.

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