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Pentax 645Z Medium Format DSLR Camera

BH #PE645Z • MFR #16599
 44 reviews
Pentax 645Z Medium Format DSLR Camera
Key Features
  • 51.4MP CMOS Sensor - 43.8 x 32.8 mm
  • Prime III Image Processor
  • Anti-Alias Filter-Less Design
  • 3.2" 1037K Dot Tiltable Air-Gapless LCD
The Pentax 645Z features a 43.8 x 32.8 mm CMOS sensor with 51.4 effective megapixels. The sensor is designed without an anti-aliasing filter to maximize sharpness and details. RAW files can be recorded at 14-bit and saved using either the proprietary PEF format or Adobe's DNG format. 
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Pentax 645Z Overview

  • 1Description
  • 251.4 MP CMOS Sensor
  • 3Anti-Aliasing Filter-Less Design
  • 4RAW Capture
  • 5Prime III Image Processor
  • 6ISO 100 to 204800
  • 7Full HD 1080 Video Capture
  • 8Interval Shooting with 4K Output
  • 93.2" 1,037k-dot Tilting Air-Gapless LCD
  • 10Pentaprism Viewfinder
  • 11SAFOX II Autofocus Module
  • 12Real Time Scene Analysis with 86,000 Pixel Sensor
  • 13Multi-Pattern Auto WB system
  • 14Durable, Weather-Sealed Form Factor
  • 15Dual Memory Card Slot and FLU Card Compatibility
  • 16Lens Compatibility
  • 17Additional Features

The Pentax 645Z features a 43.8 x 32.8 mm CMOS sensor with 51.4 effective megapixels. The sensor is designed without an anti-aliasing filter to maximize sharpness and details. RAW files can be recorded at 14-bit and saved using either the proprietary PEF format or Adobe's DNG format. 

An ISO range from 100-204,800 and high S/N ratio provides low noise, low light capability, and the Prime III image processor lends itself to fast image capture with a maximum of 3 fps continuous shooting. The SAFOX II autofocus module utilizes 27 autofocus points including 25 cross-type sensors and 3 AF sensors dedicated for low light focusing. The new Real Time Scene Analysis System features an 86,000 pixel RGB light-metering sensor for enhanced accuracy of exposure, white balance, and auto-focusing.

Full HD 1080 60i/30p/24p video capture is supported in the H.264 format with a dedicated button for instant switchover from stills to video. An external microphone jack enables high quality audio recording with manual sound level control and monitoring. An HDMI port outputs HD images to HDTVs and a USB 3.0 jack enables fast image transfer to your computer. Interval recording for time-lapse videos is supported with an output of UHD 4K resolution.

A 3.2", 1037k-dot, tilting, air-gapless, LCD monitor enables live view composition and playback viewing from a various angles and a trapezoid-shaped glass prism viewfinder with Kepler telescope-type eyepiece unit provides traditional eye-level composition. The design of the viewfinder also helps to achieve the relatively compact size of this medium format camera. The 645Z is extremely durable with an aluminum alloy chassis, magnesium alloy shell, and 76 specific weather seals to keep out moisture and dust. It is a camera designed for field as well as studio and can operate in temperatures from 14-104°F. 

The camera body also features a deep set ergonomic grip, ideal for hand-held shooting, easy-to-access buttons, and a top-plate, sub-LCD screen that is angled up for easier visibility of camera information. A hot shoe mount is supported, and in addition to the tripod socket on the camera's base, a second tripod socket is located on the side of the camera for convenient and stable tripod shooting in the vertical position. Two SD slots are provided for versatile image storage and both Flucards and Eye-Fi cards are compatible for wireless image transfer. A free plug-in is available for seamless tethered shooting support in conjunction with Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, along with the USB 3.0 output for fast performance.

The 645Z is compatible with the new FA autofocus lenses as well as older 645 lenses and with Pentax 67 medium format lenses when used with an adapter.

51.4 MP CMOS Sensor
The 645Z offers a 43.8 x 32.8 mm 51.4MP CMOS sensor, which is ideal for ultra-high resolution imaging, large printing applications, and cropping flexibility. Compared to a CCD sensor, a CMOS sensor provides higher ISO sensitivity, expanded uses for live view, faster continuous shooting, and improved movie recording capabilities.
Anti-Aliasing Filter-Less Design
The optical, low-pass, anti-aliasing filter found in most CMOS sensors has been removed from the 645Z design to maximize image sharpness and fine details.
RAW Capture
RAW files can be recorded at 14-bit and saved using either the proprietary PEF format or Adobe's DNG format for greater post-production control and flexibility.
Prime III Image Processor
The 645Z offers a fast frame rate of 3.0 fps, quick image processing to rapidly review images, and swift image transfer with USB 3.0 computer connection.
ISO 100 to 204800
A sensitivity range from ISO 100 to 204800 along with enhanced noise reduction capabilities enables effective low-light capture.
Full HD 1080 Video Capture
The 645Z supports full HD movie capture in the H.264 format at 60i, 30p and 24p, including the ability to switch from still image to video recording with the flip of a dedicated switch. Equipped with a built-in stereo microphone and a terminal for external microphone connection, the user can also adjust the audio recording level manually and visually monitor sound levels during recording.
Interval Shooting with 4K Output
In-camera time lapse sequences can also be recorded using the built-in intervalometer, allowing up to 2000 shots to be recorded with 2 second to 24 hour delays, and output as 4K (3840 x 2160) files.
3.2" 1,037k-dot Tilting Air-Gapless LCD
A 3.2", 1,037k-dot, air-gapless, LCD monitor is available and features a tilting design (-35° down and +125° upward) to benefit use from high or low viewing positions. An electronic level gauge can be utilized with either the viewfinder or LCD monitor during shooting, and when working in live view, a variety of grid overlays and manual focus peaking can be used for greater focusing accuracy.
Pentaprism Viewfinder
A large, trapezoidal-shaped, glass pentaprism with Kepler telescope-type eyepiece enables bright and clear eye-level finding with 98% frame coverage.
SAFOX II Autofocus Module
The SAFOX II autofocus module maximizes 27 AF sensors and a vast light sensitivity range of -3EV to +18EV. The new focus module includes 25 cross sensors and three AF sensors dedicated to low light focusing.
Real Time Scene Analysis with 86,000 Pixel Sensor
The new Real Time Scene Analysis System features an 86,000 pixel RGB light-metering sensor and improved algorithms that further enhance accuracy of exposure, white balance, and auto-focusing.
Multi-Pattern Auto WB system
A Multi-Pattern Auto WB system can be used to intelligently adjust white balance settings when mixed lighting is prevalent. For example, if both flash and ambient lighting are utilized, different white balance settings are used within the different regions of an image to more accurately portray overall color balance.
Durable, Weather-Sealed Form Factor
Offering a compact build for a medium format camera, the 645Z provides an ergonomic grip, large buttons, and 76 specific weather-seals to protect the camera from moisture, sand, and dust. It is capable of shooting in temperatures ranging from 14-104°F, and its aluminum alloy chassis and magnesium alloy body are durable for years of service in studio or on location.
Dual Memory Card Slot and FLU Card Compatibility
Dual slot SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card support ensures fast and reliable storage for high resolution image files, simultaneously saving in multiple formats, assigning images to different cards based on their original format, or easily holding one memory card in reserve. In addition to standard SD cards, the 645Z is compatible with Eye-Fi and Flucards for wireless image transfer and with the Pentax Flucard remote camera control from a compatible smart devise.
Lens Compatibility
The 645Z is compatible with new D FA autofocus lenses as well as older 645 lenses as well as Pentax 67 lenses via an optional adapter.
Additional Features
  • Customizable RAW/Fx button for direct access to a common shooting settings.
  • An HDMI port outputs high definition images, video and sound to HDTVs.
  • USB 3.0 output for high speed data transmission.
  • Mirror dampening hardware minimizes the effect of camera shake and noise levels during the image capture process.
  • A second tripod socket on the camera's side enables convenient and stable vertical tripod-mounted shooting.
  • The sub LCD on the camera's top plate is angled for better visibility of camera setting information.
  • HDR (High Dynamic Range) shooting mode with RAW-format data filing.
  • A free Pentax Tethered Capture Plug-In is available for tethered in shooting conjunction with Adobe Photoshop Lightroom and its associated mobile apps. The camera must be updated to firmware version 1.21 or later in order to support tethered shooting with this plug-in.
UPC: 027075275867

Pentax 645Z Specs

Key Specs
Lens Mount
Pentax 645
Sensor Resolution
Actual: 52.99 Megapixel
Effective: 51.4 Megapixel (8256 x 6192)
Image Sensor
44 x 33 mm (Medium Format) CMOS
Image Stabilization
None
ISO Sensitivity
100 to 204,800 in Auto Mode
Continuous Shooting
Up to 3 fps for up to 30 Frames (JPEG) / 12 Frames (TIFF) / 10 Frames (Raw)
Internal Recording Modes
AVI/H.264/MOV/MPEG-4
1920 x 1080p at 23.98/25/29.97 fps
1920 x 1080i at 50 fps
1280 x 720 at 24.00/25/29.97/50 fps
External Recording Modes
HDMI
1920 x 1080p
1280 x 720
1280 x 576
720 x 480
Media/Memory Card Slot
Dual Slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I)
Video I/O
1 x Micro-HDMI (Unspecified Signal) Output
Audio I/O
1 x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Stereo Microphone Input
Other I/O
1 x Micro-USB (USB 3.2 / 3.1 Gen 1) Input/Output (Shared with Power Input)
1 x 2.5 mm Sub-Mini Control Input
1 x PC Sync Socket Output
Wireless
Wi-Fi Control *Adapter Required
Display Type
Tilting LCD
Battery Type
1 x D-LI90 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion
Imaging
Lens Mount
Pentax 645
Sensor Resolution
Actual: 52.99 Megapixel
Effective: 51.4 Megapixel (8256 x 6192)
Image Sensor
44 x 33 mm (Medium Format) CMOS
Image Stabilization
None
Mirror Lock-Up
Yes
Capture Type
Stills & Video
Exposure Control
Shutter Type
Mechanical Focal Plane Shutter
Shutter Speed
1/4000 to 30 Seconds
Bulb/Time Mode
Bulb Mode
ISO Sensitivity
100 to 204,800 in Auto Mode
Metering Method
Center-Weighted Average, Multi-Zone, Spot
Exposure Modes
Aperture Priority, Manual, Program, Sensitivity Priority, Shutter Priority
Exposure Compensation
-5 to +5 EV (1/3, 1/2 EV Steps)
Metering Range
-1 to 21 EV
White Balance
Presets: Auto, CTE, Cloudy, Color Temperature, Daylight, Flash, Fluorescent (Cool White), Fluorescent (Day White), Fluorescent (Daylight), Fluorescent (Warm White), Manual, Multi Auto WB, Shade, Tungsten
Continuous Shooting
Up to 3 fps for up to 30 Frames (JPEG) / 12 Frames (TIFF) / 10 Frames (Raw)
Interval Recording
Yes
Self-Timer
2/12-Second Delay
Still Image Capture
Image Sizes
4:3 Raw
8256 x 6192
4:3 TIFF
8256 x 6192
4:3 JPEG
8256 x 6192
6912 x 5184
5376 x 4032
1920 x 1440
Image File Format
DNG, JPEG, Raw
Bit Depth
14-Bit
Video Capture
Internal Recording Modes
AVI/H.264/MOV/MPEG-4
1920 x 1080p at 23.98/25/29.97 fps
1920 x 1080i at 50 fps
1280 x 720 at 24.00/25/29.97/50 fps
External Recording Modes
HDMI
1920 x 1080p
1280 x 720
1280 x 576
720 x 480
Fast-/Slow-Motion Support
No
Recording Limit
Up to 25 Minutes
Broadcast Output
NTSC/PAL
IP Streaming
None
Built-In Microphone Type
Stereo
Interface
Media/Memory Card Slot
Dual Slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I)
Video I/O
1 x Micro-HDMI (Unspecified Signal) Output
Audio I/O
1 x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Stereo Microphone Input
Power I/O
None
Other I/O
1 x Micro-USB (USB 3.2 / 3.1 Gen 1) Input/Output (Shared with Power Input)
1 x 2.5 mm Sub-Mini Control Input
1 x PC Sync Socket Output
Wireless
Wi-Fi Control *Adapter Required
Mobile App Compatible
No
*As of August, 2023: Check with manufacturer for the most up-to-date compatibility
Global Positioning (GPS, GLONASS, etc.)
None
Monitor
Display Size
3.2"
Resolution
1,037,000 Dot
Display Type
Tilting LCD
Secondary Display
Top: Status Display
Viewfinder
Type
Optical
Coverage
98%
Magnification
Approx. 0.85x
Diopter Adjustment
-3.5 to +2
Focus
Focus Type
Auto and Manual Focus
Focus Mode
Continuous-Servo AF, Manual Focus, Single-Servo AF
Autofocus Points
27
Autofocus Sensitivity
-3 to +18 EV
Flash
Built-In Flash/Light
No
Flash Modes
Forced On, Forced On/Red-Eye Reduction, Hi-Speed Sync, Slow Sync, Slow Sync/Red-Eye Reduction, Wireless
Maximum Sync Speed
1/125 Second
Flash Compensation
-2 to +1 EV (1/2 EV Steps)
Dedicated Flash System
P-TTL
External Flash Connection
PC Terminal
Environmental
Operating Temperature
14 to 104°F / -10 to 40°C
General
Battery Type
1 x D-LI90 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion
Shoe Mount
1 x Hot Shoe
Tripod Mounting Thread
1 x 1/4"-20 Female (Bottom)
1 x 1/4"-20 Female (Side)
Accessory Mounting Thread
1 x 1/4"-20
Material of Construction
Aluminum, Magnesium Alloy
Dimensions (W x H x D)
6.1 x 4.6 x 4.8" / 15.5 x 11.7 x 12.2 cm (Without Protrusions)
Weight
54.7 oz / 1.55 kg (With Battery, Recording Media)
Packaging Info
Package Weight
6.7 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
10 x 9.291 x 8.583"

Pentax 645Z Reviews

Good MF Camera

By Seth
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-09-06

Overall, a good camera. My only negatives, which are minor, are that it's a bit clunky to change ISO speeds quickly.

Great camera to work with

By Theuns
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-01-17

Re Review by Adrianne, back button only focus is possible, see the settings in button customization. Back to the camera: I bought the 645z in Jan 2015 and have been using it as my primary camera ever since. After numerous photo trips to Africa, Iceland and Norway, where it worked fine in 40 degrees C as well as minus 34 degrees C in the arctic winter weather. Built robust and waterproof it just doesn't stop. In the arctic the camera stayed in sub zero temperatures all the time to avoid condensation. I only removed the SD card to copy files up my laptop inside the warm cabin, then returned it to the camera, in sub zero temperatures. Didn't have battery problems either. I'm considering a second 645z.

Image quality and handling is great....everything I remember

By Robert
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2021-06-30

...love the image quality....the ergonomics are great for a big camera like this ....the interface and features feel a bit old and dated...for instance, no wi-fi...but, it is a 7 year old camera at this point.. ..will Pentax come out with a new model? unknown but I might buy it.

Great Equipment but Needs A Left Grip

By Lehman
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2020-06-09

Most of my work is done with a tripod, but I do hand-hold some shots. I’m used to heavy cameras but this one needs a secondary grip to shoot for extended periods in hand. I found my grip from SmallRig. I do not shoot video so no hate mail. I chose this grip because of the smooth machining and well thought contouring. It feels very comfortable in my hand. The problem is that the attachment hardware is metric and the tripod mount holes in the 645z are imperial. I got it work by discarding the rosette wheel from the bracket and replaced it with an automobile grade bolt and lock washers.  The alternate mounting holes on the bracket are Imperial (go figure). The images show the results. It works great, it is stable, and feels good.

Portrait Shooters beware!

By Adrienne
Rated 3 out of 5
Date: 2019-05-03

I am utterly disappointed to report that this camera does not allow only back button focus. If you are like me and shoot lots of portraits (handheld and tripod) then it is critical to be able to disable the shutter release focus. It is so frustrating that Pentax didnt allow for this, so I will be returning the camera. I did a whole portrait session trying to focus on the models eyes and recomposing only to have the camera re-find its own focus point when I hit the shutter. UGGGHHHH! Loved this camera otherwise.

The affordable camera that could, but didn’t.

By Dan
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2019-04-03

Having switched (in 2014) from the slow, Mamiya Leaf Credo 60 with ordinary AF and poor high ISO capability i have found the 645z a very worthy replacement. (Relative to the Phase and not a 35mm camera) AF is significantly better, bust rate is faster, high iso ability is as good as a d850, build quality is outstanding and with the availability of legacy lenses it is extremely economical. I love this camera but after 4 years of tethered struggle, I’m going to change systems. If Pentax gave this camera a fighting chance and simply fixed the tethering issues I believe it would legitimately rule the MF roost. Please Pentax, sort it out. It’s just software!!!!

Still a Great value!

By Robert
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-08-18

Although this camera has been out for several years now it still boasts great build quality, image quality and many professional features.It is larger and heavier than some newer competition as several reviewers have commented.I (on the other hand) ,did not purchase this to take cellphone images and actually enjoy the size and weight.Might be old school but still enjoy the mechanic's of photography. The larger size and weight are a small trade-off for a pro-grade camera that is essentially the feline's posterior.

Five stars.

By Walter
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-02-13

Great camera! Does not fail on image quality, build quality, of ease of use, I just bought a second one! I'm writing this review to let photographers know that Capture One is now supporting RAW files from this camera. BTW: use a tripod.

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YOUR RECENTLY VIEWED ITEMS

In what country is this camera made?

In what country is this camera made?
Asked by: john
This camera is made in China.
Answered by: Rob
Date published: 2020-03-19

Does Pentax make an adaptor to use Pentax 67 ...

Does Pentax make an adaptor to use Pentax 67 lenses on this camera? The only one I can find is the FotodioX adaptor
Asked by: Mark
Pentax doesn't make an adapter to use Pentax 67 lenses on this camera.
Answered by: samikg
Date published: 2022-09-28

What is the average file size in Mb?

What is the average file size in Mb?
Asked by: Paul
File size will vary depending on the conditions and subject matter of the shot. On average they can range from 50~ 80MB plus.
Answered by: Reuben
Date published: 2021-12-28

question

what is the crop factor? in other words, what is the 50mm lens equivalent in 35mm full frame (what is the normal lens)?
Asked by: Anonymous
For all Pentax 645AF2, 645AF and 645A lens you mount to this camera youll multiply the given focal length by 0.79 to calculate the 35mm-equivalent focal length. As such, a 50mm lens on the Pentax 645Z Medium Format DSLR Camera would be the equivalent of a 39.5mm lens on a 35mm film camera.
Answered by: Manzell L.
Date published: 2022-07-31

question

Can you use the HDMI output to see the live view image when shooting still photos with the 645Z?
Asked by: Sandor
You would be better off using the usb 3.0 port and tethering.
Answered by: James B.
Date published: 2021-08-19

question

Can this camera work with the old Pentax 6X7 leaf shutter lenses? The 1/125 flash sync of this camera is a bit worrisome for me
Asked by: Anonymous
In order to mount Pentax 67 series leaf shutter lenses onto the 645Z, you will need an adapter such as the FotodioX Pro Lens Mount Adapter for Pentax 67 Lens to Pentax 645 Mount Camera B&H # FOPP645AP67. Please see the image below for reference.
Answered by: Kirk R.
Date published: 2018-08-25

question

If I want to use this camera to shoot video and record on a separate outboard recorder, can a get a clean feed off the sensor via the HDMI cable ?
Asked by: Marina M.
No, unfortunately the Pentax 645Z does not have a clean HDMI output.
Answered by: James B.
Date published: 2018-08-25

question

What's in the box?
Asked by: joel d.
In the BoxPentax 645Z Medium Format DSLR Camera (Body Only)D-LI90(E) Lithium-Ion Battery (7.2V, 1860mAh)K-BC90 Battery Charger Kit for K7 Digital SLR CameraHotshoe Cover FKBody Mount Cap 645O-ST150 StrapStandard Eyecup 645O-EC107 Large Eye CupSync Socket 2p Cap2 x Triangular RingProtective CoverSoftware CD-ROM S-SW150Limited 1-Year Warranty
Answered by: Dana G.
Date published: 2018-08-25
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