Pentax Q Digital Camera with 8.5mm Lens (Black)
- Price: $499.00
- Free Shipping (USA)
- In Stock
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.
The Pentax Q Digital Camera with 8.5mm Lens is a small, lightweight interchangeable lens cam with the look and feel of a rangefinder, but many of the capabilities of a DSLR. Whether you're looking to shoot in stealth mode, or you simply want an easy to carry camera that provides more versatility than a point-and-shoot, the Q was designed with you in mind. Some might consider it a party camera. Pentax simply calls it "evolved".
Whatever you call it, the facts are this ladies and gentlemen, the Q captures in 12.4Mp RAW or JPEG files using it's 1/2.3" CMOS sensor. It comes with an 8.5mm (47mm equivalent) lens and a number of accessories for getting started from day one. And in addition to taking detailed still images, the Q also captures 1080p video, as has been the norm for this genre of compact digital cams.
Pentax also boasts the durability of the Q, citing its magnesium alloy covers which are also scratch resistant. A 3.0" LCD screen allows for composition of images and in-camera review of your files. The camera also has a built-in pop-up flash, SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card slot, and useful ports, such as an HDMI micro. A nice option for the Q is an external viewfinder, which will give you even more of that old school feel.
In regards to DSLR capabilities, the Q features a customizable quick dial, like most DSLRs, which allows for quick access to custom settings that you choose or to creative modes, Smart Effect options, and other camera settings. Another way in which the camera mimics the famed DSLR is with a number of flexible settings like Program, Aperture/Shutter Priority, and the like. Another useful feature, HDR Capture, blends 3 images together for images that bring out details in the shadows and extreme highlights for contrasty, yet balanced shots.
Additional hightlight of the Q include a bokeh control filter. The bokeh filter does what a traditional DSLR controls through the lens aperture, by focusing out the background and bringing the most important part of the image into sharp focus. This not only makes for dynamic photos, it takes the guesswork out of the photographer's hands, guaranteeing beautiful bokeh. Another handy feature is the Smart Effects mode for adding finishes such as Vintage Color, Bold Monochrome, and Warm Fade to selected images.
- Small and Light Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera
- The Q represents an evolution in interchangeable lens digital camera design, featuring a small and light body. Experience the Pentax Q. The camera. Evolved.
- Q-Mount Lens System
- The Q features the newly designed Pentax Q-mount lens system for convenient interchangeability with a variety of specialty Q lenses. Choose from a selection of prime, zoom, fisheye lenses, and more to suit just about any photographic need. This Q System standard kit includes the 8.5mm lens (equivalent to 47mm)
- 12.4Mp
- Enjoy exceptional image quality in 12.4Mp courtesy of the Q's 1/2.3" backlit CMOS image sensor. Capable of producing 12 bit DNG RAW and JPEG image, the backlit CMOS sensor is a highly efficient light-gathering instrument designed specifically to produce very low noise at high levels of sensitivity
- Durable
- Though extremely compact, the Q is also surprisingly durable, sporting lightweight, scratch resistant magnesium alloy covers
- Traditional DSLR Shooting Modes
- Experienced photographers will enjoy the power and flexibility of traditional DSLR shooting modes such as Program, Aperture/Shutter Priority, and Metered Manual exposure control. Yet casual shooters will appreciate the highly convenient automatic modes such as the set-it-and-forget-it Pentax Auto Picture and 21 scene modes
- Customizable Quick Dial
- Conveniently choose from a variety of creative modes, Smart Effect options, or camera settings to assign to the Q's Quick Dial located on the front of the camera. Easily customize the setting or effect using the Quick Dial's 4 positions, allowing you to concentrate on photography without having to explore the camera's menu system
- HDR Capture
- In-camera HDR capture mode shoots 3 images of varying exposures, blending them to bring out the details in even the darkest shadows and brightest highlights of extreme contrast shots
- 1080p HD Video
- Shoot high quality motion video with stunning full 1080p HD clarity at 30 frames per second. The Q efficiently processes the full HD video using high quality H.264 compression for superior color and detail. Explore creative video effects through the use of custom image modes, digital video filters, and interval shooting; or select from a variety of Q lenses to realize your perfect artistic vision
- Sensor-Shift Shake Reduction
- Capture stabilized, blur and dust free images even in low lighting courtesy of the Q's sensor-shift Shake Reduction system with integrated DRII Dust Reduction. Body-based Shake Reduction operates independently of the Q's lenses, allowing the same level of stabilization regardless of lens selection
- 3.0" LCD Monitor
- Easily capture or review images and video using the Q's large 3.0 inch LCD monitor. The high quality LCD features HVGA resolution with 460,000 dots, as well as viewing angles up to 170 degrees horizontally and vertically
- 5 Frames Per Second
- Capture even the fastest action with a 5 frames per second continuous shooting mode, ideal for sporting events, children at play, or any fast action situation
- Bokeh Control Filter
- Enjoy effortless bokeh control with the Q's bokeh control filter. Traditionally controlled through a DSLR lens's aperture, bokeh is the out of focus part of the background that helps to emphasize the subject, drawing the viewer's eyes to the most important part of the photo. The Q assists the experienced and casual photographer alike by offering a fine degree of extra control over image bokeh via an in-camera filter operation
- Smart Effects Mode
- New Smart Effects modes enhance digital photography by applying a series of effects to images to achieve high quality finishing. Brilliant Color, Vintage Color, Warm Fade, Bold Monochrome, and Water Color are just some of the Smart Effects available, which can also be assigned to the Q's Quick Dial
- USER Modes for Creativity
- Powerful USER modes allow the creative photographer to save a series of favorite camera settings, filters, and custom image modes for instant reuse
- 1/2000 to 30 Second Shutter Speeds
- Shutter speeds range from 1/2000 to 30 seconds, perfect for freezing fast action or capturing long nighttime exposures. Bulb mode adds flexibility for low light photography and motion effects
- Built-In Pop-Up Flash
- The Q's built-in popup flash adds the perfect amount of extra light to an image, while its high extension naturally reduces the redeye effect common to compact cameras. The Q's flash is effective to 23 feet at 200 ISO, and covers a wide angle 28 degree field of view
- HDMI Port
- A built-in micro HDMI port is perfect for outputting high resolution images and video, with sound, to modern HDTVs
- SD, SDHC, and SDXC Memory Cards
- The Q is compatible with the latest generation SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards for ultra-high capacity storage as well as outstanding image file portability
- RAW File Processing
- The Q includes SILKYPIX Developer Studio 3 software for powerful and flexible RAW file processing. In-camera RAW image development is also supported
- External Viewfinder Available Separately
- Compose images and video either with the Q's LCD monitor or using a shoe-mounted viewfinder attachment available as an optional accessory. The External Viewfinder O-VF1 makes an excellent accessory to the Q, offering outstanding compositional framing, even in the brightest sunlight where viewing an LCD screen is traditionally a challenge
Go To
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Pentax Q Mount |
| Camera Format | Pentax Q (5.62x Crop Factor) |
| Resolution |
Effective Pixels: 12.4 Megapixels Max Resolution: 12 MP: 4000 x 3000 |
| Sensor Type / Size | CMOS, 5.76 x 4.29 mm |
| File Formats |
Still Images: JPEG, RAW Movies: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 |
| Bit Depth | 12-bit |
| Memory Card Type |
SD SDHC SDXC |
| Image Stabilization | Mechanical |
| AV Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes |
| Aspect Ratio | 4:3, 16:9 |
| Audio Recording | With Video |
| Focus Control | |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | Auto & Manual |
| Focus Mode | Single-servo AF (S), Continuous-servo AF (C), Manual Focus (M) |
| Autofocus Points | 25 |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Display Screen | 3" Rear Screen LCD (460000) |
| Screen Coverage | 100% |
| Live View | Yes |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | 125-6400 |
| Shutter | 30 - 1/8000 sec |
| Metering Method | Spot metering, Center-weighted average metering, Multi-zone metering |
| Exposure Modes |
Modes: Aperture Priority, Auto, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority Compensation: -3 EV to +3 EV (in 0.33 EV steps) |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Flash, Fluorescent, Fluorescent (Day White), Fluorescent (Natural White), Fluorescent (White), Manual, Shade, Tungsten |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Flash | Yes: Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Flash On, Flash On w/ Red-eye Reduction, Off, Second-curtain Sync, Slow Sync, Slow Sync./Red-eye Reduction |
| Max Sync Speed | 1 / 2000 sec |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 5 fps |
| External Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Self Timer | 2 sec, 12 sec |
| Interval Recording | Yes |
| Connectivity | AV Output, HDMI D (Micro), USB 2.0 |
| Software Requirements |
Windows: XP (SP3), Vista, 7 Mac: OS X 10.3.9 or later |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | 1x D-LI68 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 3.9 x 2.3 x 1.2" / 9.91 x 5.84 x 3.05 cm |
| Weight | 6.3 oz / 179 g Camera body only |
| Kit Lens | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length |
8.5 mm Comparable Pentax Q Format Focal Length: 47 mm |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Image Stabilization | No |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 3 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Reviewed by 3 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-3
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Quiet
Cons
- Noisy At High ISO
Best Uses
- Street photography
Comments about Pentax Q Digital Camera with 8.5mm Lens (Black):
This was given to me as a gift from my wife, who was trying to come up with something unique for Christmas. I must admit I was surprised, and quite intrigued by this little guy. Little it is, but the images it has producing have been top notch. Not great in low light, too grainy, but hey that can work in monochrome most of the time. The 8.5 lens is very sharp, and I tend to use it wide open. You'll get flare if you shoot too close to the sun, but it can be addressed in pp. Build quality is excellent. Tough little guy. Easily pocketable in a jacket, and easy to conceal. Fun to shoot on the street. I bought the tely that Pentax has for this camera, and am equally impressed by the quality of the images that both of these lenses produce. Taking this camera out and about is a no brainer. Focusing is fairly fast, and doesn't hunt. There are plenty of manual controls for those of us who use them. I give this little sleeper of a gem two thumbs up.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by JV
Jackson Hole Diner, Astoria, NY
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Pentax Q Digital Camera with 8.5mm Lens (Black):
I agree with the previous reviewer that this camera has been knocked a bit in reviews, and I don't think it deserves it either. A little pricey, yes, and it's not meant to replace a DSLR. However, as great as it is, I'm not going to lug my DSLR and big lenses around with me every day. To be honest, I don't like my DSLR much. Oh, it's a fantastic camera but I haven't found a digital camera I like in the way I did my older film cameras. This Pentax Q is the first digital camera, that's well, fun. I enjoy using it. It takes amazingly great photos for the small sensor size, especially in low light. It's tiny and lightweight and I can easily carry it and a couple lenses with me and barely notice it in my bag. The wide angle toy lens is great for street shots, and no one sees it as a "real" camera so it is largely ignored by others. I have all four of the lenses and I have found them to be quite impressive for the low cost. The camera body has all the manual controls you need and the display on the back is quite nice. You can save your top setting combinations and dial them up quickly. The battery lasted longer than I expected. I won't lug that big, heavy DSLR around with me every day, and as much as I love it I don't always want to fuss with film, but I'll be missing far fewer of those "I wish I had my camera" shots because I will always have this camera with me! At first I thought I was a little crazy to pay the steep price, but for how much I use and enjoy this camera, I now think it was a good value.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
Cons
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Street photography
- Travel
Comments about Pentax Q Digital Camera with 8.5mm Lens (Black):
I have to say I have had this little guy for three days and it is a pure joy to use. It adds pure fun to photography. You can take it anywhere. It gives all the DSLR control in a small, durable and well designed package. It is a great companion to my K-5.
The Q has, unfairly, beat up in reviews. This camera is not meant to replace a DSLR, but complement it. For its size, it feels like a real camera in your hand and controls are well thought out. IQ is very good for the small sensor size and I feel adds pure artistry to your work.
I am going out today to do some street photography and I bet no one will notice me! This will never replace my K-5, but if you want a camera with good IQ, take anywhere and major fun factor, consider the Q!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-3
Memory Cards
Required item: Memory is not included so be sure to have enough storage capacity.
- Price: $13.95
Lenses
Get a wide-angle, zoom, or other effect for various photography applications.
- Price: $79.00
Batteries & Power
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $29.95
-
- Original: $16.95
- Save: $1.69
- Price: $15.26
Filters
Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect.
- Price: $31.08
- Price: $7.90
Flash & Accessories
Get a flash to add light to your picture.
-
- Original: $14.95
- Save: $1.49
- Price: $13.46
Bags & Cases
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.
- Price: $17.95
Viewfinder Accessories
Adapt your camera for viewing through different angles.
- Price: $219.99
What's in the Box
- 8.5mm Lens (Equivalent to 47mm)
- I-USB7 USB Interface Cable
- D-LI68 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery
- K-BC78U Battery Charger Kit
- O-ST115 Strap
- Hotshoe Cover FK
- Body Mount Cover Q
- S-SW115 Software CD-ROM
- Instruction Manual
Why Shop at B&H
Make your online shopping trip personal with our online Live Chat representatives. You can easily reach an in-house expert while browsing our site for your shopping needs. We have the most highly-trained staff in the industry who are pros in their fields, and their professional expertise will help you get the most from your purchase.
Place your domestic order with us for shipment via any UPS, FedEx Economy, or FedEx Priority shipping methods by 4 PM ET Monday through Thursday or 11 AM ET Friday and your order will be shipped that day. Visit our Shipping Delivery Times page for further details. Delivery times are subject to payment verification.
We appreciate your purchase from us, and we understand that sometimes the products you buy don’t turn out to be the right choice for you. We guarantee your peace of mind with our 30-day return policy. With no standard restocking fee and few restrictions, you’ll enjoy a return process as easy as shopping with us. Please visit our Return Policy page for further details.
We’ve made iPhone and Android mobile apps available for your service and shopping convenience. Use filtered search to find and purchase almost any item we sell and ship worldwide. Download product manuals and guides for many popular items. See high-resolution product images in close-up detail. Manage wishlists and view order history. Visit our Mobile Apps page to download.
See sample Newsletter
Help
Company Information
B&H Resources
