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Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black)

  • Price: $1,246.95
  • B&H # PEK51855B
  • Mfr# 14762

Product Highlights

  • High Resolution 16.3MP CMOS Sensor
  • Speedy 7 FPS Captures Fast Action Shots
  • 27-82mm (Equivalent) F/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens
  • High Sensitivity 80-51200 ISO Range
  • Responsive, Accurate 11-Pt Autofocus
  • 1080p HD Video at 25 FPS
  • 3" LCD With 921,000 Dots of Resolution
  • Fully Weather-Sealed and Coldproof
  • Magnesium Alloy & St Steel Chassis
  • Highly Accurate 77-Segment Metering

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Remember the Essentials

A memory card is required but not included with this item. Please be sure to purchase a memory card that suits your needs.

Pentax steps up and delivers a rugged top-of-the-line APS-C camera--the K-5 Digital SLR Camera Body (Black), featuring a terrific 27-82mm (equivalent) 3x zoom lens,  low-noise 16.3MP CMOS high resolution sensor, sensitivity up to a best-in-class ISO 51200, 7 frames-per-second shooting capability and a responsive, high-precision 11-point auto-focus system. A high performing PRIME II imaging engine produces rich-gradation, very high resolution digital images. Plus, full HD video at 1920 x 1080 pixels.

The K-5 makes advances in plenty of other areas as well, such as faster autofocusing speed, and an upgraded High Dynamic Range (HDR) function--for automatically combining 3 photos taken rapidly in challenging situations, for improved contrast and tonal range--that can even be used without a tripod. A bright, clear 3" LCD display with 921,000 dots resolution makes it easy to compose and review your images, or use the bright viewfinder for composition, secure in the knowledge that the highly accurate 77-segment metering system will deliver the goods every time. Shake Reduction image stabilization makes it possible to shoot at 2.5 to 4 shutter speeds slower without seeing camera shake in your photos. 

And all of this photo goodness is packed into a body of sturdy, lightweight magnesium alloy on a chassis of stainless steel that's built to last. The 77 special seals in the body give you a dustproof, weather-resistant and cold-resistant camera, for reliable operation in harsh conditions, at temperatures as low as 14°F (-10°C). An extremely reliable shutter unit provides a top shutter speed of 1/8000 second and is tested to 100,000 shutter releases. A stellar performer.

High resolution 16.3 megapixel CMOS sensor w integrated AD conversion circuitry
smc PENTAX DA 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL WR 18-55mm lens is weather-resistant
High sensitivity 80-51200 ISO range with improved noise performance
Speedy 7 FPS captures fast action shots
Highly responsive and accurate 11 point SAFOX IX+ autofocus system with dedicated AF assist lamp and light wavelength sensor
Widescreen 1080p HD video at 25 FPS, with sound via built-in or external 3.5mm stereo microphone jack
Large 3" LCD with 921,000 dots of resolution
Fully weather sealed and coldproof design
Durable magnesium alloy covers surround a rugged stainless steel chassis
Highly accurate 77 segment metering system
Pentaprism viewfinder with 100% field of view and 0.92X magnification
Pentax body-based Shake Reduction (SR) stabilization system
A maximum 1/8000 second shutter speed
HDMI port outputs high definition images and video (and sound)
Native support for both PENTAX PEF and Adobe DNG 14 bit RAW files
Improved in-camera HDR image capture
A wide range of in-camera image processing and special effects filters
Customizable RAW/Fx button
Built-in electronic level with tilt scale display
SDXC memory card compatibility (via firmware update)
Imaging
Camera Type Digital SLR with Interchangeable lenses
Lens Mount Pentax K
Camera Format APS-C / (1.5x Crop Factor)
Resolution Effective Pixels: 16.3 Megapixels
Sensor Type / Size CMOS, 23.7 x 15.7 mm
File Formats Still Images: DNG, JPEG, RAW
Movies: AVI, MJPEG
Bit Depth 8-bit
Memory Card Type SD
SDHC
SDXC
Image Stabilization Mechanical
AV Recording
Video Recording Yes, NTSC/PAL
Aspect Ratio 4:3, 16:9
Focus Control
Focus Type Auto
Autofocus Points 11
Viewfinder/Display
Viewfinder Type Pentamirror
Viewfinder Coverage 100%
Display Screen 3" Rear Screen   LCD (921000)
Screen Coverage 100%
Exposure Control
ISO Sensitivity 80-51200
Shutter 30 - 1/8000 sec
Metering Method Spot metering, Center-weighted average metering, Multi-zone metering
White Balance Modes Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Flash, Fluorescent, Fluorescent (Day White), Fluorescent (Natural White), Fluorescent (White), Kelvin, Manual, Shade, Tungsten
Flash
Built-in Flash Yes: Flash On
Max Sync Speed 1 / 180 sec
Continuous Shooting Up to 7 fps
External Flash Connection Hot Shoe, Wireless
Performance
Self Timer 2 sec, 12 sec
Connectivity AV Output, USB 2.0, 1/8" Microphone
Wi-Fi Capable (With Optional Transmitter) Yes
Power
Battery 1x D-LI90  Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
Operating/Storage Temperature 14 to 104 °F (-10 to 40 °C)
Physical
Dimensions (WxHxD) 5.2 x 3.8 x 2.9" / 13.21 x 9.65 x 7.37 cm
Weight 23.3 oz / 661  g Without battery or memory card
Kit Lens
Focal Length 18 - 55 mm
Comparable APS-C Focal Length: 27 - 82.5 mm
Aperture Maximum: f/3.5 - 5.6
Minimum: f/22 - 22
Minimum Focus Distance 9.84" (24.99 cm)
Autofocus Yes
Filter Thread Front: 52 mm

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
PentaxK-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black)
 
4.8

(based on 33 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (28)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (4)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (1)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

97%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • High ISO performance (24)
  • Good image quality (23)
  • Image stabilization (22)
  • Fast shutter speed (20)
  • Large clear LCD (19)

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Landscape/scenery (26)
    • Travel (22)
    • Wildlife (22)
    • Low light (21)
    • Family photos (20)
      • Reviewer Profile:
      • Photo enthusiast (15), Semi-pro photographer (6), Casual photographer (3), Pro photographer (3)
      • Was this a gift?:
      • No (27)

    Most Liked Positive Review

     

    Professional Camera, Nothing Less...

    I owned the K7 before this. The K5 is even better. Pentax seems to pay attention to their customers and has added a couple of great new features and has updated the sensor, as...Read complete review

    I owned the K7 before this. The K5 is even better. Pentax seems to pay attention to their customers and has added a couple of great new features and has updated the sensor, as well. I use this for video and I have done several tests. There is significantly less noise on this camera than on the K7, when shooting video. The video quality is superb. I highly recommend taking advantage of the mic-input that Pentax has built into the camera. The sensor makes a bit of noise(as do many very good Pro-level video cameras, and the on-board mic tends to pick up the sound. If you are serious about video, you can purchase a mic, and you're set. Very professional. The Full-HD setting is excellent and has a cinematic quality that videographers envy.
    The still image quality is as good as other cameras that cost 3 times as much. Living in New York, I get to rent the top of the line cameras, both for video and stills. The K5 is among the best. My professional photographer friends are amazed when they see my video and find out it is as nice as their much more expensive video cameras. Not to mention the weather seals! While everyone is running in form the rain and covering their gear, I am out there getting amazing shots with my K5 with no worries. I shoot Studio Portrait Photography, Nature, and Video. It handles everything very well. Extremely low noise(even better than K7), great size and intuitive handling, solid build, and extremely fast. Able to take many many shots in a row for action sequences and sports, etc.This a camera worth buying. It will not disappoint.

    VS

    Most Liked Negative Review

     

    Not as I expected..

    I bought this camera with lot of expectation.hi ASA and low price of the lenses attracted me to buy this Camera.It is Filled with features ! but disappointed in perfomance. focus hunting is an issue...Read complete review

    I bought this camera with lot of expectation.hi ASA and low price of the lenses attracted me to buy this Camera.It is Filled with features ! but disappointed in perfomance. focus hunting is an issue in many situations.lense quality is not satisfying below F/4.5(with 16-50 F/2.8). picture quality is much behind when it compared with Nikon or Canon Cameras. Honesty thinking to sell it soon.

    Reviewed by 33 customers

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    5.0

    Excellant Handy DSLR

    By V.Krishna Kumar

    from Villuppuram, TN, INDIA

    About Me Semi-pro Photographer

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Easy To Use
    • Good Image Quality
    • Large Clear LCD
    • Pretty Wonderful DSLR

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Family Photos
      • Indoors/Low Light
      • Landscape/Scenery
      • Sports/Action
      • Travel
      • Video
      • Weddings/Events
      • Wildlife photos

      Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

      I tried for the Special Edition of this model and as I could not get the same I have to opt for the regular Model. I am bit unlucky in getting the Spl. edition of Pentax K-5. Any way this is a solid weather sealed product than my previous K-x model. I will be waiting for Pentax's spl edition.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

       
      5.0

      Worth considering it!

      By Paul Ouddane

      from Guatemala

      About Me Photo Enthusiast

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Easy To Use
      • Fast Shutter Speed
      • Good Image Quality
      • Good Image Stabilization
      • High ISO Performance
      • Quiet

      Cons

      • Inaccurate auto-focus

      Best Uses

      • Family Photos
      • Landscape/Scenery
      • Sports/Action
      • Travel
      • Video
      • Wildlife photos

      Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

      Hi, I´m a med student from Guatemala. This is my first DSLR. In fact it is my first camera at all. Prior purchasing it I received a photographic course of one month. That time I used a Canon 5D which a dear friend borrowed me.

      First of I would like to say that BH has a great customer service. Not at all comparable to any shopping experience I had before, 10 points on that.

      Second, I was spoiled as my first experience in the DSLR world was with such a nice camera. So I wanted to buy a good camera. After a really long research and after an exhaustive reading I chose the Pentax K5. To the opinion I forged it was the best value for its quality. I did a jump of faith and a decision based on the pile of information found on the internet. Here in Guatemala there is no Pentax retailer and maybe no Pentax K5 owner at all, so it was impossible for me to try it before purchasing it.

      Third thing to say is telling my experience with the K5 after 1 month. I red the entire manual and complemented it occasionally with readings at pentaxforums. The manual is a well built guide to the operability of the camera. It allows you to discover all the functions. Then it is up to you to explore and understand the full amplitude of each function. In that regard the manual is straightforward. As it comes to the camera itself, well what can I say besides that I really love it? It´s very intuitive and produces great photos, I´m really happy of my choice. I won´t expand on the camera itself because much has been said on other reviews and in the internet, by people much more capable than me.

      I would like to conclude saying that I extended more on the experience of buying my first DSLR than in the camera itself. Because of all these new photo lovers who are getting in the world of DSLR and struggle on which brand they should buy.

      Well even if Pentax isn´t a well heard brand it is an excellent camera with great lenses worth of considering it in your list!

      Share this review

       
      5.0

      Best APS-C for the $

      By D

      from Hawaii

      About Me Photography Student

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Easy To Use
      • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
      • Fast Shutter Speed
      • Good Image Quality
      • Good Image Stabilization
      • High ISO Performance
      • Large Clear LCD
      • Quiet

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Family Photos
        • Indoors/Low Light
        • Landscape/Scenery
        • Travel
        • Video
        • Weddings/Events
        • Wildlife photos

        Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

        I agree with most reviews here, even since its release in late 2010, it's the best APS-C camera for the $ to date. I shoot landscape, wildlife, portrait, night scenes and I rarely shoot sports or any distances requiring -f3, +300mm with optical stabilization, for that I'd say nikon or canon. But any other camera in the price range for the specs, I'd say get the K-5. Fully weather resistant w/wr lens, small solid metal body, excellent high iso quality, 7fps, excellent ergonomics and button/interface access, etc. I have yet to note any cons, my K-5 works butter smooth even after going through down-pours on hikes and being hit with salt water at the beach. To have this kind of camera for around $1K, that's a bargain! I couldn't be happier.

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Share this review

        (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

         
        5.0

        Great camera

        By Gene

        from Cincinnati, OH

        About Me Photo Enthusiast

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
        • Fast Shutter Speed
        • Good Image Quality
        • Good Image Stabilization
        • High ISO Performance
        • Large Clear LCD
        • Quiet
        • Quiet Shutter

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Family Photos
          • Landscape/Scenery
          • Travel
          • Wildlife photos

          Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

          I bought the Pentax K-5 as an upgrade from my K-100D. It offers better resolution and image quality than my old camera. I look forward to taking advantage of the weather sealing during travel in inclement weather. It will also give me the abiilty to shoot short video segements during my travels. It is a more complicated camera to operate,but it does offer a lot more features than my old K-100D.

          • Ease of Operation:
          • 7
          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Share this review

           
          5.0

          Like an old friend

          By Jerryleejr

          from Tn

          About Me Photo Enthusiast

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Build Quality
          • Easy To Use
          • High ISO Performance
          • Weather resistance

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Family Photos
            • Indoors/Low Light
            • Landscape/Scenery
            • Travel
            • Weddings/Events
            • Wildlife photos

            Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

            Upgraded from a K7 so not much of a learning curve. This camera took all the things I love on the K7 and gave me better image and iso capability. This is a solid felling camera, the weather resistant features allows me brave the elements when trying to capture our families outdoor activities, the low light performance is amazing

            • Ease of Operation:
            • 10
            • Was this a gift?:
            • No
            • Similar:
            • Pentax K7

            Share this review

            (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

             
            5.0

            exactly what I was looking for

            By NorthWatch

            from minneapolis, mn

            About Me Semi-pro Photographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
            • Fast Shutter Speed
            • Good Image Quality
            • Good Image Stabilization
            • High ISO Performance
            • Large Clear LCD
            • Quiet

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Family Photos
              • Indoors/Low Light
              • Landscape/Scenery
              • Travel
              • Weddings/Events
              • Wildlife photos

              Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

              I'm primarily an outdoor photographer and this camera fits the bill completely. Very easy to use with many functions to learn to enhance your craft.
              The possibilities are endless with this camera. Also it is very comfortable to hold and compact without compromising its ruggedness.

              • Ease of Operation:
              • 10
              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

               
              5.0

              I love this camara

              By mr2fixit

              from Far Rockaway, NY

              About Me Semi-pro Photographer

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
              • Fast Shutter Speed
              • Good Image Quality
              • Good Image Stabilization
              • High ISO Performance
              • Large Clear LCD

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Family Photos
                • Indoors/Low Light
                • Landscape/Scenery
                • Sports/Action
                • Travel
                • Weddings/Events
                • Wildlife photos

                Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                Overall it a great camara, and with a little time you will learn to use all the feature.

                • Ease of Operation:
                • 7
                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Share this review

                 
                5.0

                One Nice Camera

                By videopilot

                from Union Beach, NJ

                About Me Photo Enthusiast

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Easy To Use
                • Fast Shutter Speed
                • Good Image Stabilization
                • Great Image Quality
                • High ISO Performance
                • Quiet

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Family Photos
                  • Indoors/Low Light
                  • Landscape/Scenery
                  • Sports/Action
                  • Travel
                  • Weddings/Events
                  • Wildlife photos

                  Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                  This is one nice camera. It is built extremely well and the ergonomics are perfect. I love the fact that you can use any lense Pentax ever made. I've tried an screww mount ( with an adapter)50 mm F1.4 and I was very happy with the results. The kit lense performs well and is weather resistant. can't wait to get more lenses and shoot more.

                  • Ease of Operation:
                  • 9
                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                   
                  5.0

                  Fantastic Camera

                  By Roger H

                  from Rosemount, Mn

                  About Me Photo Enthusiast

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Battery Pack
                  • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                  • Fast Shutter Speed
                  • Flash
                  • Good Image Quality
                  • Good Image Stabilization
                  • High ISO Performance
                  • Interchangeability

                  Cons

                  • HD Video

                  Best Uses

                  • Family Photos
                  • Indoors/Low Light
                  • Landscape/Scenery
                  • Sports/Action
                  • Travel
                  • Weddings/Events
                  • Wildlife photos

                  Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                  Great camera - the right size and very high quality. I struggled whether to go for a similar Cannon or Nikon, but decided the Pentax. This camera is quick and takes fantastic pictures, and anything (lenses, flashes, etc.)from Pentax from the past is interchangeable and still usable as well - great!. Highly recommended, no faults found yet (although video in low light appears to not be the best - but its a camera first). I only hope Ricoh the new parent company lets Pentax continue with its tradition of excellent design and build quality. Dont forget to buy the bolt on battery back that allows for simple and cheap) AA battery use - great addition.

                  • Ease of Operation:
                  • 9
                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                  (10 of 10 customers found this review helpful)

                   
                  5.0

                  Professional Camera. Nothing less.

                  By JB The Photographer

                  from Fort Wayne, Indiana

                  About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                  Verified Reviewer

                  Pros

                  • Easy To Use
                  • Fast Shutter Speed
                  • Good Image Quality
                  • Good Image Stabilization
                  • High ISO Performance
                  • Large Clear LCD
                  • Quiet

                  Cons

                  • Focus hunting low light

                  Best Uses

                  • Family Photos
                  • Landscape/Scenery
                  • Sports/Action
                  • Travel
                  • Weddings/Events
                  • Wildlife photos

                  Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                  Having learned photography back when film was the standard, I've come to appreciate ergonomics in a camera. This one has it, the definition of ergonomics. Everything is exactly where it should be--with one exception, which shouldn't apply to most. All the dials, back panel, top panel readouts, shooting modes, menu toggles, are all great EXCEPT the live view button IF you are a left eyed shooter like me. (My nose hits the live view button and activates it at the most inopportune times, but I'm getting used to avoiding it...NOT a deal breaker by any means.) To put it in terms of Nikon users: This camera performs at a level between a D700 and a D3S. Yes, it's that good. An APS-C, you say? Yes. If you get good glass and good lighting, it performs just as well as a D700, and nearly as well as a 3X more expensive D3S. Read the DXOmark review, it'll confirm what I'm saying. Besides the nose problem, there is one thing I'd like to see improve. Image quality isn't it. Stunning images up to 6400 ISO. In extremely low light situations, it hunts for focus a little. Even with either of my DA*16-50, or my DA*50-135...it hunts a little. With a flick of the switch, use your eyeballs and save $2,500.00. In adequate to bright light, spot-on in an instant. I've used it for landscape, nature, event photography, runway, portfolio work...it does it all happily. If you are considering Pentax, do a little more homework on what their premium "workhorse" lenses (DA*, to be more specific) run versus Canon and Nikon counterparts. Exceptional glass at about half the price, and weather/dust sealed to boot! And I love the camera snob factor. Canikons turn up their nose at this camera when they see me shooting with it. Then, when everyone posts finished work...my work is finished first (minimal need for photoshop), and it BLOWS THEIR WORK OUT OF THE WATER. I've even had: "Is that the same camera you shot with the last time?" many times...they can't believe it. Buy this camera with some good DA* lenses to snap on, get some good lighting to go with it...and you're set. My pro set has the following in it: 1-K5 body, 1-K-7 Body, 16-50 DA*, 50-135 DA*, a k-mount SMC 50mm f2.0, a k-mount SMC 28mm 2.8, and a vivitar 85mm 1.4. Lighting: 1 360FGZ speedlight, 1 metz 50af-1 speedlight. The only purchases made new were the k-5 and the metz 50af-1, the rest used. Out the door less than $5,000.00 total. Soooo....in Canon or Nikon that gets you a body and one lens for about the same performance...right? Hmmmm. Pretty sure I made the right decision. Check it out yourself.

                  • Ease of Operation:
                  • 9
                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                  (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                   
                  4.0

                  Another Great Pentax

                  By Portlandia Pedaler

                  from Portland, OR

                  About Me Photo Enthusiast

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Easy To Use
                  • Good Image Quality
                  • Good Image Stabilization
                  • High ISO Performance
                  • Large Clear LCD
                  • Quiet

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Family Photos
                    • Indoors/Low Light
                    • Landscape/Scenery
                    • Sports/Action
                    • Travel
                    • Weddings/Events
                    • Wildlife photos

                    Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                    I upgraded to have a DSLR that also could do some video from my *ist D. I have had Pentax cameras since way back starting with the MX. With several compatible lens already, I chose to stay with the Pentax brand and I am very happy, so far (2 weeks) with the K-5.

                    Having been a Pentax owner, the transition only involves all the new options, overall it has been pretty easy switch from my *ist D.

                    The Kit lens included is reasonably good, though the wobbliness of the front section is a bit annoying. No deal killer.

                    • Ease of Operation:
                    • 8
                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                    (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                     
                    4.0

                    K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Le

                    By prof

                    from illinois

                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Easy To Use
                    • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                    • Fast Shutter Speed
                    • Good Image Quality
                    • Good Image Stabilization
                    • High ISO Performance
                    • Large Clear LCD
                    • Quiet

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Family Photos
                      • Indoors/Low Light
                      • Landscape/Scenery
                      • Sports/Action
                      • Travel
                      • Video
                      • Weddings/Events
                      • Wildlife photos

                      Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                      I use the camera for photos and video of my grandkids and their activities, nature photography and parties.
                      I like the video that I don't have on my k200. The pictures are sharp and clear and once I learn more about the choices I have I expect to get even better photos.
                      I did discover that when using the video I will need to use a tripod, the anti shake did not do well for me hand held. I suspect a person with steadier hands would not have this problem.

                      • Ease of Operation:
                      • 6
                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

                      Share this review

                      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                       
                      5.0

                      Great camera

                      By Walter

                      from Roy, WA

                      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                      • Fast Shutter Speed
                      • Good Image Quality
                      • Good Image Stabilization
                      • High ISO Performance
                      • Large Clear LCD
                      • Long battery life

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • Indoors/Low Light
                        • Landscape/Scenery
                        • Sports/Action
                        • Travel
                        • Video
                        • Weddings/Events
                        • Wildlife photos

                        Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                        Shot at the Washington state international kite festival, and this performed better than expected. I'd suggest this to anyone who needs more than a digital point-and-shoot. Got the battery grip and a second battery as well, and after about 2000 pictures, the battery indicator still hasn't moved off full, with the flash on about 1/4 of the time, shooting in raw.

                        • Ease of Operation:
                        • 9
                        • Was this a gift?:
                        • No

                        Share this review

                         
                        5.0

                        WONDERFUL CAMERA!

                        By Daisy the Peaceful Flower

                        from Saskatchewan, Canada

                        About Me Casual Photographer

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Easy To Use
                        • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                        • Fast Shutter Speed
                        • Good Image Quality
                        • Good Image Stabilization
                        • High ISO Performance
                        • Large Clear LCD
                        • Quiet
                        • Tilt /Swivel LCD

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                            Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                            We love using this camera. It is very easy to use and takes EXTREMELY good photographs, even on mind-blowing ISOs.

                            Adjusting the settings is all really handy ... and the big screen is a plus.

                            We haven't even read the manual yet, and keep discovering new features that impress us. When we read the manual, I am sure our minds will really be blown. :)

                            Seriously I HIGHLY recommend this camera. It is awesome!

                            • Ease of Operation:
                            • 9
                            • Was this a gift?:
                            • No

                            Share this review

                             
                            5.0

                            Upgraded from the kx

                            By neil from new milford

                            from New Milford, CT

                            About Me Photo Enthusiast

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Easy To Use
                            • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                            • Fast Shutter Speed
                            • Good Image Quality
                            • Good Image Stabilization
                            • High ISO Performance
                            • Large Clear LCD
                            • Quiet

                            Cons

                              Best Uses

                              • Family Photos
                              • Indoors/Low Light
                              • Landscape/Scenery
                              • Sports/Action
                              • Travel
                              • Wildlife photos

                              Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                              Was thinking of upgrading from my kx to the k7 but after reading several reviews on the Pentax k5 decided to spend the extra money and get the k5. I only had the camera for a few weeks and used it on vacation to Acadia national park in Main and was very pleased with the picture quality. I liked the fact that it was fully weather-sealed because we had some rain one afternoon but was still able to get out and take some great pictures. I had the Pentax DA 50-200mm f/4-5.6 WR lens for my kx and was able to use that on the day it rain also.
                              I believe that the Pentax k5 ranks right up there with Cannon and Nikon.

                              • Was this a gift?:
                              • No

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                              (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                               
                              5.0

                              I would buy this product again

                              By jmp

                              from Hearst Ontario, Canada

                              About Me Pro Photographer

                              Verified Buyer

                              Pros

                              • Easy To Use
                              • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                              • Fast Shutter Speed
                              • Good Image Quality
                              • Good Image Stabilization
                              • High ISO Performance
                              • Large Clear LCD
                              • Quiet
                              • Tilt /Swivel LCD

                              Cons

                                Best Uses

                                • Family Photos
                                • Indoors/Low Light
                                • Landscape/Scenery
                                • Sports/Action
                                • Weddings/Events

                                Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                                I think that the K-5 is very user friendly. I a matter of time, I was able to use my caméra. I like the high quality video mode. It takes multiple shots with no problems. It focuses very fast, which make it easy to shoot action shots. The images are crisp and clear. I like the way it records the light that enters the frame. Over all, I love my new K-5 Phentax.

                                • Ease of Operation:
                                • 10
                                • Was this a gift?:
                                • No

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                                (15 of 17 customers found this review helpful)

                                 
                                5.0

                                Canikon Killer!

                                By KC Focus

                                from Leawood, KS

                                About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                Verified Buyer

                                Pros

                                • All metal body
                                • Best APS-C Sensor Avail
                                • Easy To Use
                                • Fast Shutter Speed
                                • Good Image Quality
                                • Good Image Stabilization
                                • High ISO Performance
                                • Large Clear LCD
                                • Quiet
                                • Weather sealed body
                                • Weather Sealed Lenses

                                Cons

                                  Best Uses

                                  • Indoors/Low Light
                                  • Landscape/Scenery
                                  • Macro
                                  • Portraits
                                  • Street photography
                                  • Travel
                                  • Wildlife photos

                                  Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                                  Drove myself crazy deciding between the K-5, Nikon D7000 and Canon 7D. Finally, I just had to make the decision - so I simplified, boiled it down to a few of the most important features for me. All three cameras would do essentially the same job, same quality, same results [or so I felt after an exhaustive research project]. The price drop at B&H also helped me with the decision.

                                  I don't think it's too much to ask a piece of equipment in this price range to handle some environmental conditions. I take pictures when it is cold, rain, hot -- in all kinds of weather. Really, you never know when the weather will change, so the weather sealing and operating temps were important. Maybe the 7D is somewhat comparable in this respect, but the K-5 won me over on this factor.

                                  I also think at this price point an all metal body and a great sensor aren't too much to ask. Again, maybe the 7D would have worked, but the price and DXOMark information again made the K-5 a winner.

                                  Comfort and control layout was another important factor. I'm a pretty big fellow with good sized hands. While this was a big concern considering the dimensions of the K-5, I've found the K-5 very comfortable to hold on to. The layout of the controls and menu system just make sense. I've used the D7000 and the 7D and knew the D7000 control layout was lousy. The 7D was okay, but the K-5 just lays out everything in the right place.

                                  Add in the incredible Pentax glass and forget about the whole "investing in a system" business the Canikon folks try to sell. Even if you do plan to go FF down the road, much of the APS-C gear simply isn't going to perform well on a FF camera.

                                  I also enjoy not having something the every Tom, Dick and Harry is carrying around. At the end of the day (and after all the madness), the choice really was simple. The K-5 killed the competition.

                                  • Ease of Operation:
                                  • 9
                                  • Was this a gift?:
                                  • No

                                  Share this review

                                  (3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)

                                   
                                  5.0

                                  Shockingly good

                                  By Just Joe

                                  from New York, N,Y,

                                  About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                  Verified Buyer

                                  Pros

                                  • Good Image Quality
                                  • Good Image Stabilization
                                  • High ISO Performance
                                  • Quiet

                                  Cons

                                    Best Uses

                                    • Indoors/Low Light
                                    • Landscape/Scenery

                                    Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                                    I bought this camera to be able to shoot in the winter time when it is below 32 degrees. I already had a Canon MkII & 7D. I thought for winter photos this would be fine, I took it out for several weekends and was blown away by the image quality and the ability of the 18-50 and th 50-200 lenses. The results at high ISO are really remarkable. I highly recommend this camera. As usual shopping at B&H was a pleasure.

                                    • Ease of Operation:
                                    • 9
                                    • Was this a gift?:
                                    • No

                                    Share this review

                                     
                                    4.0

                                    Sturdy camera, excellent performance

                                    By lammie200

                                    from San Francisco, CA

                                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                    Verified Buyer

                                    Pros

                                    • Easy To Use
                                    • Fast Shutter Speed
                                    • Good Image Quality
                                    • Good Image Stabilization
                                    • High ISO Performance
                                    • Large Clear LCD
                                    • Quiet

                                    Cons

                                      Best Uses

                                      • Family Photos
                                      • Indoors/Low Light
                                      • Landscape/Scenery
                                      • Sports/Action
                                      • Travel
                                      • Wildlife photos

                                      Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                                      Great camera value compared to competition. Legacy glass. Goog semi-pro performance.

                                      • Ease of Operation:
                                      • 8
                                      • Was this a gift?:
                                      • No

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                                      (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

                                       
                                      5.0

                                      K-5 is the fifth Pentax for me

                                      By Kee Thawkins

                                      from Stockton, CA

                                      About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                      Verified Buyer

                                      Pros

                                      • Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
                                      • Good Image Quality
                                      • High ISO Performance

                                      Cons

                                      • A bit big for a Pentax

                                      Best Uses

                                      • Family Photos
                                      • Indoors/Low Light
                                      • Landscape/Scenery
                                      • Sports/Action
                                      • Travel
                                      • Weddings/Events
                                      • Wildlife photos

                                      Comments about Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black):

                                      Weather resistant, HD movie, huge ISO range, user function assignable buttons, RAW + JPEG simultaneous capture, smaller and lighter than the other two players in this range (Nikon & Canon) though it is a bit big for a Pentax - the ME was the perfect size camera.

                                      • Ease of Operation:
                                      • 10
                                      • Was this a gift?:
                                      • No

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                                      Memory Cards

                                      Required item: Memory is not included so be sure to have enough storage capacity.

                                      SanDisk -  8GB SDHC Memory Card Extreme Class 10
                                      • Price: $13.95
                                       

                                      Batteries & Power

                                      Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.

                                      Pentax -  D-LI90 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (7.2V, 1860mAh)
                                      • Price: $39.95
                                       
                                      Pearstone -  D-LI90 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (7.4V, 1700mAh)
                                        • Original: $19.95
                                        • Save: $1.99
                                      • Price: $17.96
                                       

                                      Lenses

                                      Get a wide-angle, zoom, or other effect for various photography applications.

                                      Pentax -  SMC Pentax DA 50-200mm f/4-5.6 ED WR Zoom Lens
                                      • Price: $249.95
                                       

                                      Filters

                                      Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect.

                                      Tiffen -  52mm UV Protector Filter
                                      • Price: $6.00
                                       
                                      Tiffen -  52mm Circular Polarizing Filter
                                      • Price: $22.85
                                       

                                      Flash & Accessories

                                      Get a flash to add light to your picture.

                                      Pentax -  AF-360 FGZ P-TTL Shoe Mount Flash
                                      • Price: $339.95
                                      • Click to see current price
                                       
                                      Pentax -  AF-200FG P-TTL Shoe Mount Flash
                                      • Price: $149.95
                                      • Click to see current price
                                       

                                      Bags & Cases

                                      Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.

                                      Lowepro -  Rezo TLZ 20 Compact Holster-Style Bag (Black)
                                      • Price: $39.95
                                       
                                      View all Accessories
                                      HDSLR Audio & Video Related Accessories

                                      What's in the Box

                                      Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera W/18-55mm Zoom Lens (Black)
                                      • smc DA 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL WR Lens W/Front and Rear Lens Caps
                                      • USB Cable I-USB7
                                      • AV Cable I-AVC7
                                      • Strap O-ST53
                                      • ME Viewfinder Cap
                                      • Lens Hood
                                      • Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery D-LI90
                                      • Battery Charger D-BC90
                                      • AC Plug Cord
                                      • Software (CD-ROM)
                                      • 1-Year Limited Warranty
                                       
                                       
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