I’ve had the 70-200 and I never really got the feeling that it was tack sharp wide open. Plus I did struggle sometimes with missed focus shots. I did all the calibration I could to improve the sharpness all to no avail. What I like is how solid it feels - it’s a tank. But what’s the point when it’s not as sharp as the competition.
You are correct Chima! This is my 4th copy that I have and they all act the same as what you just mentioned. It was never tack sharp wide open. I am making a follow up video on this. People didnt like my first video I did 3 years ago when I mentioned those exact things. I was even micro focusing for Pentax to edge out the Tamron, nope, none worked at all. It is a beautiful lens and feels like a tank I will agree on that.
@@theCameraVille And thats why you also stopping reviewing Pentax? I don't have such issues with my 70-200. I only had to fine tune the AF (strong backfocus).
@@crashminer.1 ua-cam.com/video/lsfe-VmVW3s/v-deo.html . Test it next to a true 70-200 and then you will see. Its a common issue back in 2015. Nikon , Sigma and Tamron had it. So they fixed it in 2-3 years. Pentax is the last brand to fix this.
Thanks for the test, I am the owner of the Pentax P FA 80-200 mm f / 2.8 IF ED, this is an age lens. And I think that after your test it will gain even more. Alleluia!
Yup! I dont blame you. I think people started to imagine all the times they were stuck in a pit, border, wall, and realize, they were shooting something so far yet they were at 135mm instead of 200 lol. sigh.
Finally moved from D FA* 70-200 to the 70-180. Yes, along with the sony body from the K-1. The real deal is that I can actually bring a tele zoom lens with me again. I did only put the 70-200 in the bag for work, not for casual walks.
@@theCameraVille tbh I could tolerate size and weight (which encouraged me doing gym to avoid back pain), I could tolerate all the AF lackings and whatever. BUT, I'm not supposed to pay €1900 for an 85/1.4, while the brand is taking advantage of the fact that there are no AF alternatives that are less than 10 years old designs. I'm so not supposed to do this that it made me overcome that one deterrent any brand would rely on: switching system.
@@DarioToledo Yup, I made a review on that 85 1.4 and people were floored on the live ig show . Over priced piece of glass. It was so bad I didnt bother to make a video for UA-cam. Didnt need the trolls. $1900 asking price and still isnt that great. They are on a pricey route.
@@theCameraVille oh, couldn't check your review yet. Anyway, to make me, a 12 year long Pentaxian and italian ex-ambassador, flee from Pentax when I was fine with their gear and never wondered to leave, something definitely isn't right. I've tried a couple of times to explain this to other pentaxians, but had to give up on the fact that sympathy for a brand can downgrade any talk on price/performance to a mere matter of opinions.
@@DarioToledo I am currently getting the same treatment. 5 years doing review, the brand isnt even here in my local store. It needs to be order online and ship from 2 places only . I try to explain on $2000 apsc dslr but a few isnt listening 😤😤. I hope you enjoy your system. I will be talking about this real soon. Stay tune.
Well, I own that Pentax lens. I'm a hobbyist so I guess that fits ;). I also noticed focus breathing, but I was never really bothered by it (also, Tamron isn't an internal zoom lens, so it's no surprise it doesn't have focus breathing). My copy is decently sharp wide open and absolutely razor sharp stopped down a bit. Was perfectly calibrated for 200mm, for 135mm and 100 focal lengths +1 adjustment got best results, and for 70mm +2 was the best. I settled for +1. The only thing I have complaints about is the weight. Every time I take that thing with K-1 it counts as a workout.
As long as you are happy at this moment then you should be fine. The fact that this isnt a true 70-200 Pentax glass still bothers me. I feel before I go, I want to make sure Ricoh dont skimp on this issue. This issue exists and people should be sold well design products in 2020.
@@theCameraVille Yeah, since Ricoh has new SDM ring focus motors going, they could update the 70-200 with that, and at the same time get the focus breathing issue fixed. I hope they can do that while still having internal zoom. I hate extending zooms.
@@MrBartolomeo22 Yup . I am pushing this last agenda forward before I make my leap. A reviewer not only reviews, they push trends. This is a trend I want Pentax to understand. Not personal, but vital.
You get even closer, you will be shocked even more. So for those who said, all they need to do is get closer ? That is false, the closer you get, the wider the lens end up getting. That is the magic of focus breathing. And feel free to read other outlets on this lens. None of them mentioned this issue. ( I tried) lol.
For the focus breathing, the close it gets the wider it is , it seem like they didn't a another element to compensate the loss of angle of view, it would be a very easy fix if this is not a constant f2.8 lens. Also the exposure on the sony seem a step brighter in the mid than the Pentax, people that invest on the lens there is two fix that I can think of one is use it as a APSC body, or add a 1.4x. Both of which is still be weather resistance than take on in a waterfall.
They could had fix this a while ago with Nikon and Canon. Unfortunately, getting a consensus going seems to be hard. People are so much of a fan for the brand, they dont mind for Pentax to sell them this. Therefore 5 years later, no update.
One thing I find that there is a myth on the perception of photography, the bigger the lens one is getting, the more professional it is. And the lens is getting bigger and bigger, which can sells it more higher price. Mean while no one making compact prime lens anymore. But big huge heavy ZOOM.
Look - I accept all your points about the 70 - 200 but for me the close up focus breathing is not an issue (other than I wished it was better of course because I paid full release price for mine). If you can show me at 20 meters it still sucks then yeah there is a real issue but from what I've seen with mine after about 12 meters the breathing seems to be gone. The sharpness however has always been softer than my old apsc with 55-300 which surprised and disappointed me for a star lens. There is something really nice about the photos from the 70-200 - especially portraits.
I think at this point, if you are happy with the lens then no need me to shatter with a 20 meter example. That will be over doing it. The main reason why I want to bring this up is to let Ricoh know, they need a new version . Pushing that envlope before I go. I cant sit back no more and allow user, my viewers, get the short end of thr stick. And also, whats 20 meters to feet? 65 feet?
I nearly returned it when I bought it but I buy from the US and then pay freight and tax (15%)into NZ - you start to lose a lot - thats why I bought star lens to start with and as you say all the reviews at that point said it was star quality.
Have you done a comparison of a lens that is out of calibration and to when it has been calibrated? Could an out of calibration lens cause any of the sharpness issues you saw? I realize this wouldn't have much of an effect on the effective focal length.
in 2015, Nikon, Sigma, and Tamron have this issue. Its a known issue in the community. The reason why no one brought it up is because no one before me actually did a review on the lens. Nikon, Sigma and Tamron have fix their focus issue except Pentax. This isnt a calibration issue. Its a design flaw issue.
Is the Tamron a Sony e-fit lens only, that you can't fit to the Pentax? I ask because the only true comparison you can make between two lenses is by fitting them to the same body and shooting identical subjects, under identical lighting.
A few issues with your comparison 1) You have 2 variables here by using different camera bodies. If you had used 1 body you could have ensured that it stayed in one place. 2) did you fine tune the focus on each lens? 3) How did you determine your distances? This could impact FoV 4) The ruler on the Pentax lens is skewed. 5) The weight comparison with the body is not really needed except to say you don't like the weight of the Pentax
Tried it on my end. My buddies canon 70-200 blew it away. Wow. Pentax, this is gone. This whole time I am doing too much for the same shot as someone with a normal 70-200 wouldn't.
Thanks Pete, yup I got messages all morning people finding out. They are blown away lol. Basically user now have been sticking too close to their subjects rather than staying afar. gg
There were a few moments where the Pentax appeared to render more microcontrast and detail despite not being as sharp or with CA, but that's just pixel peeping.
There were times yes but overall, F2.8 , F4.0 was bad. With the focus breathing it got worse. Price tag of $1800 vs $1200 even worse. Cant really put a good case for the 70-200 pentax sadly ;\ .
So, is there a zoom lens better than this in Pentax lineup or not? I feel bas ad a Pentax user, not because i'm a fanboy or something but because if i want upgrade from the 50-200 kit lens i have no valid option in this range.. C'mon Pentax! Thank you so much Li for another brilliant review!
I am promoting the future for you guys before I go. They need to. Its 5 years and there should be no focus breathing lens on the market in 2020. You guys need a proper lens!
I had the Pentax 70-200 and was not ever happy with it. I can’t understand how it ever got to be the top rated full frame lens on the Pentax forum. Oddly enough, I got rid of it for the new 70-210. I am more than happy with the Pentax 70-210. The 1 stop loss of light (F4 vs F2.8) on my K1 Mll doesn’t matter one bit. I know you aren’t doing much with Pentax anymore but would love to see you do a comparison between the two.
Thats good to hear! Sadly, this is my last FF lens review. I am fizzled out of the Pentax reviews unless suddenly I get so many views and merch sold. Until then Im leaving to bring some new bacon home to get back the Pentax review started again one day.
I've always kind of thought that besides the 50 1.4 and probably the new 85 that pentax lenses have been kind of soft compared to the competition. Which is honestly probably ok for portraiture but for landscape and more critical things it's really unfortunate.
Yea, I was hoping the Tamron at 180 wouldnt give Pentax too much trouble but it did and it just got worst. Pentax just need to release a new lens to replace this model.
First, as I can see, at least on the first comparison photo focus is just in different places, so we can't compare sharpness. Second: sharpness and microcontrast- it's two different parameters. Pentax lens is sharp but it's microcontrast is not too high. And it's a good thing, because 70-200 is a lens mostly for portraits. I don't think models or retouchers will be happy to see all skin unevennesses. If you need microcontrast, you should buy macro lens.... or this tamron))) Overall in terms of perception, in this video comparison I like pentax pictures and don't like tamron's ones.
You are still looking at the dynamic range and color. That is from the body not the lens. Lens has softeness and breathing issues. If you are still okay paying and shooting a $1800 70-200 with a focal length of 60-160 - 60-135 then that is a choice people will have to make. I am only here to let user know the issue.
Nice to see you're still reviewing Pentax stuff ;) Interesting review too. I have the Pentax lens and it's a mind blowing lens for me personally. The build quality is the best I've seen on any Pentax lens. Probably any lens at all. But it's huuuuuuge. Look at that little Tamron in comparison. Makes you think. But I love the colors and images it makes. I've found it to be a little soft, but the images it delivers made it a favorite among my 20 Pentax lenses. It's a shame it's not a real 200 mm . I test it nex to my 135mm Rokinon f/2 (the Zeiss beater) lens which would be awesome to see you review, but I understand if you won't, and I see it's barely longer in focal length at 200 mm than the 135. So that's a bummer...
Whats up! Long time! Most of the colors are from the Pentax camera and I love their colors.The build is awesome on the Pentax and it looks like a great lens. I just wish they put out a real 70-200. I think people would be even more happy once Pentax release a real true 7-200 focal length.
I made similar experience like Barnie. Adjustment pepped the lens up. I'm really fine with sharpness now (could show you pics) but in the very beginning I was definitely not. So - anyway - Pentax has bad reputation based on this lens and that's pretty disappointing.
Klaus Bartels No worry. I just want to send a message to Ricoh, they need to get their act straight. Need to stop selling this defective lens. I know people are happy because they got used to it . Ricoh needs to make a new version and also have a program for their current owners to upgrade with a small fee. Thecameraville 2020, vote for me!
@@theCameraVille Tried this test Vs my friends Canon 70-200. Amazing . Huge huge difference. Im selling off my Pentax. Forget this. I was basically sticking my camera so close to get the same shot vs a normal 70 -200 which you don't need to. All of those who is saying it looks great? You are sticking it to close, use a Canon.
Thank you for the review Lee. I was dreaming for the D FA Star 70-200....good that I don't buy one... it cost 2000 euro in Germany...and it is no real 70-200...Crazy... for this weight and dimensions... What about the old Tamron 70-200 SP for Pentax? Can you make a review of this Lens?
Graham, negative, it is terrible. You will never get to shoot at a true 200 at any given time, you will have to flex all around to get that shot. essentially current owners are shooting in the dark with this lens.
Busy bokeh of that Tamron is a deal breaker for many Photographers, they'll wait for Sigma FE 70-200 f/2.8 . Actually 17-28 f/2.8 & 28-75 f/2.8 these two Tamron lenses has the same issue, but just like the new 70-180 they're extremely sharp wide open. Thanks for your comparison
@@miguelgonzalezgr Negative, I reviewed this lens 3 years ago, 2 years ago, last year and this year. Different places. Also Negative, Pentax never gave me any lens.
@@ukaszwilczynski1236 I tried it vs my friends canon. I am sooo sad. It is a world of difference. Lee is right about it. gosh. After so many years with this lens.
The 3rd party lens support for Pentax is sadly, especially in the recent years, really lacking. I think their camera bodies are great, easy to operate and really genius features (e.g. the Astrotracer). But if they can't fix the lacking lens availability, they probably won't have the brightest future
Yup they need to get this going. I think people love the Pentax colors from the body. They just don't realize they will love their lens even more with the proper focal length.
Then why click on a video with Pentax on the title... ….. ….. .. It even says what you are going to view... so I don't see your point … Its like going to the bathroom and you went to the mens room and you are glad they don't make a womens room.. lol...
It looks like the tamron somehow gets more light in on the sensor... wich could due to the focusbreathing on the pentax. I would like to see an image of the pentax blow its highlights aswell as the sony. Also if you need to change the shutter. Becouse yeah you can check out focus breathing but who says 2000th of a sec is 2000th of a sec... nobody is going to check out that i supose... could be that the pentax or the sony has a shutterspeed issue. Less time means less quality. I know this would be sick to find more flaws on the pentax or sony. I know this hasn't to do anything with the lens but everything counts on such reviews. Also i totaly agree with you on everything you see but i just can't imagin that pentax has this flaw in a top series lens... it is unseen. Other option is that inframe zoom that flaws this lens.
When this lens came out, same time CAnon, Nikon and Tamron had the problems. Unlike Pentax, they fixed it in 3 years. It was big news during that time.
Oh, what a bummer! :) Luckily I am a primer and I rather bring along a 70mm a 105, a 135mm and a 200mm with me, instead of a single zoom lens. And, yes, being into Portraits, that bokeh problem with the Tamron lens would be a real deal breaker for me.
Prime should be the strong area in Pentax. With that in mind, I am a little worry for that 85mm with the missing elements. Perhaps that developed something so good that it doesn't need much elements. Fingers crossed!
You are very scientific in your comparison Li, I have to admit... But the whole time I was thinking, man the pictures on the left look really good. Being a pentaxian(whatever that means), I can tell you Pentax has never been the sharpest, nor the best at managing the aberrations. Tamron is a hell of a company, and they have been focused in overall performance for a very long time now, while Pentax has a lot on their plate when they have to bring out a lens like this: the weather resistance, the dc motor, the internal focusing... Could it have been better, yes of course, this lens was rolled out in a hurry to couple with the brand new K-1. Looking at your comparisons I admit the Tamron had better sharpness, but IMO the Pentax was not THAT far behind. If I ever get me some 70-200/2.8 money, I think I will go with the Pentax, because the quality of the picture at times is not all about sharpness. That said, thanks again my friend, for the unbiased and hard-worked comparison! Peace!
I see where you are coming from. The overall quality is coming from the sensor mainly if you are referreing to the color and dynamic range that you are seeing. I love the Pentax color. This video is only stating that Pentax need to stop selling this lens, and sell a proper 70-200 for their end user. Great sensor, terrible lens design and its been 5 years. I am pushing that needle so Pentax can release something proper for their user.
I always say Pentax should drop the prices off all but the few latest top HD lenses to bargain price of manufacturing cost. Outsell all the stock existing on the planet to be sold to enthusiasts and beginners and hook them into cheap but still very capable system. Than fund development of the best top of the top gear for professionals and that way brand will show path for upgrade to those users and to attract more users (back). Forcing users to decide of ditch the system completely or pick decade old designs for premium prices, is not fair at least. I in mind a lot of lenses tar are still in production (or stock) at regular prices, despite lacking WR, modern coating and AF. Someone still supporting Pentax system might feel cheated to pay more for less. New lenses are great but those are not "system". They are way overpriced for existing users - they are happy with what they have since they are enthusiasts that either have other system for pro work, or they are not pro's at all. Who are pro switched system in the past, and he might look nostalgic to new 85/1.4 and is paying more on other system for similar performance. But being rude to give this comparison, one does not marry a girl because of her tits. One great 85mm or 50mm, is not what professionals need in this utterly competitive world. I understand many that went to Sony just to be able to publish official photos of wedding before brides had chance to upload their selfies. A bit of lacking DR, sharpness, etc is noting in this "high compressed 2048 pixel digital world". Speed is. As much as I like Pentax, and I will use it until I could, this truth need to be said.
Mihael! That is actually an idea I can agree upon. Sell the lenses of cheap, except for the limited and the good ones, and then rebuild it back. This way new users can adopt the system and then boom , new series of lenses comes out. I like your thinking. Good thinking
@@theCameraVille Yeah, I would try it if being Pentax. Adding to above post, I would put on sale some phased out models like K50, or K5ii for few hundred bucks too, to beat the bare bone entry level parts from other brands, since grand mamas buy gear for their grand sons for b-days based on price, not knowing else. But after having such gear they will realise it is way more. It's all about price at the bottom. Someone will say I will like to devalue the brand. Not at all. Selling 2012 gear new in 2020 for cheap is what others doing as well. Pentax might want to just rename those models and re-sell them under "cheap B brand" like Canon "Rebel". K5ii from 2012 could be called "Pentax K-star-5" and K50 "Pentax K*50" and bear 2020 manufacturing date. Since camera would be RELEASED, all media living out of new releases (you included) will grab it and make a mention. They will certainly spot that it is just relabel of old models, but hey: If they said "MEH" when camera was released as flagship for top of the line price, no one could deny it's relative great value today for quality which is still there and features to other entry level cameras.
A friend of mine, who shoots boudoir professionally, use the 70-200 among other lenses and his photos are stunning. To be fair, why not compare both lenses on the same camera?!?! Also, I like your sky better with the Pentax than the Tamron lens.
Yes, right before the test, I said I love the Pentax rendering but that is all from the sensor which we spoke about before with the A7r vs D810. The glass is the sharpness, focal length, CA and pricing. With that in mind $1800 usd vs $1200 usd is tough to say its worth it. With the new rule in plan, we cannot be shooting models up close anymore, has to be 6 feet away and actually many models now are hoping the shooters also follow suit. Basically, any tight close up shots. they need to get real close. A Canon,Nikon and Sony shooter can station far away and do less of the walking around to fill in the frame for the shot because they can get that reach vs the Pentax which you will have to move around. In my next video you will see that I love the rendering of the Pentax body, not so much the lens in terms of sharpness. I wouldnt mind if it was less than $1200 but at $1800, is alot.
I am a bit confused here because my Pentax 70-200 is on the K1 more than anything else for the beautiful colour rendering and tack sharpness where I want it to be. Could your differences be more to do with the different cameras’ focusing performance than the lenses? Focus breathing is a technical issue which I am not sure is such a big deal, I zoom to frame the shot and don’t care what the actual focal length is or should be, what’s in the viewfinder is what counts. These aren’t excuses it is real world usage that matters.
At the start of the video, I said, I love the Pentax colors, big fan, but we aren't looking at the colors anymore because we saw that before in my previous video. We are looking at the actual lens this time. Lens = sharpnes, compression, and CA. Pentax has a great rendering engine not Lens. This is not a copy issue, this is a known fact in the photography world ( also my 4th copy of the 70-200) . Nikon, Canon, Tamron and Sigma all made these kind of lenses with this issue. They immediately corrected it. Pentax has not corrected anything but instead they are selling the same lens with the same issue. In real world this matters a lot. First off, you bought a 60-160 or 60-135 , for $1800. That is highway robbery. You paid for a 70-200. . Number 2, That means you will never get that separation and sharpness of a normal 70-200. Most people end up getting used to faulty lens and so we have this situation. Last but not least, in real world usage, You are going to juggle with your shooting a lot where as a proper 70-200 will keep you consistently stationed. Basically you are battling with the focus breathing right now and just accepted it. I seen this case a lot. Keep in mind, that Tamron is $1200 in the video vs $1800.
Hahaha and you don't think having a 200mm lens that behaves like a 135 to 150mm lens affects reall world??? I guess this is just a hobby for you since you shoot Pentax so that explains it
Yup, I m not a Tamron fan but my heavens, Pentax need to fix up their lens road map. Tamron is cheaper, lighter, sharper, and faster. No focus breathing either.
"How are they selling this lens now," well truth be told, they are not selling many lenses or cameras for that matter. I mourn the loss of Pentax as a vibrant Photography company.
None of them realized they are shooting at 160mm / 135mm . Also not to mention none of the forums and outlets ever mentioned this which means someone is pushing that agenda to promote them. In the real world, its a huge issue and let it be known, if you have to struggle around to get that 200mm of compression, you aren't doing yourself any favors because it flex between distance.
@@grahamhobbs3501 I tried this vs my buddies Canon. Sad to say. The focus breathing is there and a huge issue. Cant shoot evens with this. We have 6 feet of social distance rules here.
Quangdai Luong None of the blogs , lens website or forums ever mentioned it. Also reading and seeing the feedback, alot of people dont believe and just found out. Show me a ruler test then I will agree with you. Until then I cant agree with you.
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I’ve had the 70-200 and I never really got the feeling that it was tack sharp wide open. Plus I did struggle sometimes with missed focus shots. I did all the calibration I could to improve the sharpness all to no avail. What I like is how solid it feels - it’s a tank. But what’s the point when it’s not as sharp as the competition.
You are correct Chima! This is my 4th copy that I have and they all act the same as what you just mentioned. It was never tack sharp wide open. I am making a follow up video on this. People didnt like my first video I did 3 years ago when I mentioned those exact things. I was even micro focusing for Pentax to edge out the Tamron, nope, none worked at all.
It is a beautiful lens and feels like a tank I will agree on that.
Have you micro adjusted the Pentax lens to that camera?
Yup. Its an issue. A big youtuber also mentioned this on their twitter. He has 1.5 million followers as well. This is why he stopped reviewing Pentax.
@@theCameraVille And thats why you also stopping reviewing Pentax? I don't have such issues with my 70-200. I only had to fine tune the AF (strong backfocus).
@@crashminer.1 ua-cam.com/video/lsfe-VmVW3s/v-deo.html .
Test it next to a true 70-200 and then you will see. Its a common issue back in 2015. Nikon , Sigma and Tamron had it. So they fixed it in 2-3 years. Pentax is the last brand to fix this.
Thanks for the test, I am the owner of the Pentax P FA 80-200 mm f / 2.8 IF ED, this is an age lens. And I think that after your test it will gain even more. Alleluia!
Yup! I dont blame you. I think people started to imagine all the times they were stuck in a pit, border, wall, and realize, they were shooting something so far yet they were at 135mm instead of 200 lol. sigh.
Finally moved from D FA* 70-200 to the 70-180. Yes, along with the sony body from the K-1. The real deal is that I can actually bring a tele zoom lens with me again. I did only put the 70-200 in the bag for work, not for casual walks.
Congrads~! A few long time Pentaxian also followed suit. They couldnt believe the difference.
Cheers!~
@@theCameraVille tbh I could tolerate size and weight (which encouraged me doing gym to avoid back pain), I could tolerate all the AF lackings and whatever. BUT, I'm not supposed to pay €1900 for an 85/1.4, while the brand is taking advantage of the fact that there are no AF alternatives that are less than 10 years old designs. I'm so not supposed to do this that it made me overcome that one deterrent any brand would rely on: switching system.
@@DarioToledo Yup, I made a review on that 85 1.4 and people were floored on the live ig show . Over priced piece of glass. It was so bad I didnt bother to make a video for UA-cam. Didnt need the trolls. $1900 asking price and still isnt that great. They are on a pricey route.
@@theCameraVille oh, couldn't check your review yet. Anyway, to make me, a 12 year long Pentaxian and italian ex-ambassador, flee from Pentax when I was fine with their gear and never wondered to leave, something definitely isn't right. I've tried a couple of times to explain this to other pentaxians, but had to give up on the fact that sympathy for a brand can downgrade any talk on price/performance to a mere matter of opinions.
@@DarioToledo I am currently getting the same treatment. 5 years doing review, the brand isnt even here in my local store. It needs to be order online and ship from 2 places only .
I try to explain on $2000 apsc dslr but a few isnt listening 😤😤.
I hope you enjoy your system. I will be talking about this real soon. Stay tune.
Well, I own that Pentax lens. I'm a hobbyist so I guess that fits ;). I also noticed focus breathing, but I was never really bothered by it (also, Tamron isn't an internal zoom lens, so it's no surprise it doesn't have focus breathing). My copy is decently sharp wide open and absolutely razor sharp stopped down a bit. Was perfectly calibrated for 200mm, for 135mm and 100 focal lengths +1 adjustment got best results, and for 70mm +2 was the best. I settled for +1.
The only thing I have complaints about is the weight. Every time I take that thing with K-1 it counts as a workout.
As long as you are happy at this moment then you should be fine. The fact that this isnt a true 70-200 Pentax glass still bothers me. I feel before I go, I want to make sure Ricoh dont skimp on this issue. This issue exists and people should be sold well design products in 2020.
@@theCameraVille Yeah, since Ricoh has new SDM ring focus motors going, they could update the 70-200 with that, and at the same time get the focus breathing issue fixed. I hope they can do that while still having internal zoom. I hate extending zooms.
@@MrBartolomeo22 Yup . I am pushing this last agenda forward before I make my leap. A reviewer not only reviews, they push trends. This is a trend I want Pentax to understand. Not personal, but vital.
The focus breathing is crazy.
You get even closer, you will be shocked even more.
So for those who said, all they need to do is get closer ? That is false, the closer you get, the wider the lens end up getting. That is the magic of focus breathing. And feel free to read other outlets on this lens. None of them mentioned this issue. ( I tried) lol.
For the focus breathing, the close it gets the wider it is , it seem like they didn't a another element to compensate the loss of angle of view, it would be a very easy fix if this is not a constant f2.8 lens. Also the exposure on the sony seem a step brighter in the mid than the Pentax, people that invest on the lens there is two fix that I can think of one is use it as a APSC body, or add a 1.4x. Both of which is still be weather resistance than take on in a waterfall.
They could had fix this a while ago with Nikon and Canon. Unfortunately, getting a consensus going seems to be hard. People are so much of a fan for the brand, they dont mind for Pentax to sell them this. Therefore 5 years later, no update.
One thing I find that there is a myth on the perception of photography, the bigger the lens one is getting, the more professional it is. And the lens is getting bigger and bigger, which can sells it more higher price. Mean while no one making compact prime lens anymore. But big huge heavy ZOOM.
This is about perception on consumer psychology, the boxer the box, the more values ones is getting.
Look - I accept all your points about the 70 - 200 but for me the close up focus breathing is not an issue (other than I wished it was better of course because I paid full release price for mine). If you can show me at 20 meters it still sucks then yeah there is a real issue but from what I've seen with mine after about 12 meters the breathing seems to be gone. The sharpness however has always been softer than my old apsc with 55-300 which surprised and disappointed me for a star lens. There is something really nice about the photos from the 70-200 - especially portraits.
I think at this point, if you are happy with the lens then no need me to shatter with a 20 meter example. That will be over doing it. The main reason why I want to bring this up is to let Ricoh know, they need a new version . Pushing that envlope before I go. I cant sit back no more and allow user, my viewers, get the short end of thr stick. And also, whats 20 meters to feet? 65 feet?
@@theCameraVille Yeah - but I'm just guessing - to me I couldnt notice it (by eye) after 6 meters - so maybe it does need to be tested.
I nearly returned it when I bought it but I buy from the US and then pay freight and tax (15%)into NZ - you start to lose a lot - thats why I bought star lens to start with and as you say all the reviews at that point said it was star quality.
Just a beginner but learned a few things. Your side by side instruction is great! 👍😃 A Pentax fan.
No a problem Allen! yup. Sometimes you just have to bring out the ruler and start measuring to make sure its the right focal length hehe.
Great review. One of these lenses is good for sports photography? Or do you recommend a different one (70-200mm f2.8)?
Thanks!
I would go with the Tamron. It was snappy and fast.
Love the channel - did you focal calibrate the Pentax Lens to the camera?
Yup, also this is my 4th copy and I did this 3 years ago as well. Its a known issue.
@@theCameraVille I only saw 3 copies on the channel. You took 1 down so now you have 2. How come you say you have 4?
Have you done a comparison of a lens that is out of calibration and to when it has been calibrated? Could an out of calibration lens cause any of the sharpness issues you saw? I realize this wouldn't have much of an effect on the effective focal length.
in 2015, Nikon, Sigma, and Tamron have this issue. Its a known issue in the community. The reason why no one brought it up is because no one before me actually did a review on the lens.
Nikon, Sigma and Tamron have fix their focus issue except Pentax. This isnt a calibration issue. Its a design flaw issue.
Thanks Li for the great review...!!!
You are welcome!
Is the Tamron a Sony e-fit lens only, that you can't fit to the Pentax? I ask because the only true comparison you can make between two lenses is by fitting them to the same body and shooting identical subjects, under identical lighting.
Only for E mount ! And this is generally a Sony vs Pentax review. See what each brand can offer.
A few issues with your comparison
1) You have 2 variables here by using different camera bodies. If you had used 1 body you could have ensured that it stayed in one place.
2) did you fine tune the focus on each lens?
3) How did you determine your distances? This could impact FoV
4) The ruler on the Pentax lens is skewed.
5) The weight comparison with the body is not really needed except to say you don't like the weight of the Pentax
Tried it on my end. My buddies canon 70-200 blew it away. Wow. Pentax, this is gone. This whole time I am doing too much for the same shot as someone with a normal 70-200 wouldn't.
Thanks Pete, yup I got messages all morning people finding out. They are blown away lol. Basically user now have been sticking too close to their subjects rather than staying afar. gg
There were a few moments where the Pentax appeared to render more microcontrast and detail despite not being as sharp or with CA, but that's just pixel peeping.
There were times yes but overall, F2.8 , F4.0 was bad. With the focus breathing it got worse. Price tag of $1800 vs $1200 even worse. Cant really put a good case for the 70-200 pentax sadly ;\ .
So, is there a zoom lens better than this in Pentax lineup or not? I feel bas ad a Pentax user, not because i'm a fanboy or something but because if i want upgrade from the 50-200 kit lens i have no valid option in this range.. C'mon Pentax! Thank you so much Li for another brilliant review!
You have DA 55-300 WR, DA 55-300 PLM, DA 70-210 and DA* 60-250
You are welcome!!
@@CampanelliCMP thank you!
I love your brutally honest tests. Pentax should make a new version of this lens ASAP!
I am promoting the future for you guys before I go. They need to. Its 5 years and there should be no focus breathing lens on the market in 2020. You guys need a proper lens!
I had the Pentax 70-200 and was not ever happy with it. I can’t understand how it ever got to be the top rated full frame lens on the Pentax forum. Oddly enough, I got rid of it for the new 70-210. I am more than happy with the Pentax 70-210. The 1 stop loss of light (F4 vs F2.8) on my K1 Mll doesn’t matter one bit. I know you aren’t doing much with Pentax anymore but would love to see you do a comparison between the two.
Thats good to hear! Sadly, this is my last FF lens review. I am fizzled out of the Pentax reviews unless suddenly I get so many views and merch sold. Until then Im leaving to bring some new bacon home to get back the Pentax review started again one day.
I've always kind of thought that besides the 50 1.4 and probably the new 85 that pentax lenses have been kind of soft compared to the competition. Which is honestly probably ok for portraiture but for landscape and more critical things it's really unfortunate.
Yea, I was hoping the Tamron at 180 wouldnt give Pentax too much trouble but it did and it just got worst. Pentax just need to release a new lens to replace this model.
... is the Pentax 60-250 F4 🌟 like that Pentax 70-200 ? Do You have any clue?
I will have to say 90% good chance. If its before 2015, more than likely.
Excellent job about focus breathing. I hate when people do not test for it
yup, once I grab the ruler out, its bad news for someone hehehe.
Did you use in camera Jpegs or Raw ?
raw
First, as I can see, at least on the first comparison photo focus is just in different places, so we can't compare sharpness. Second: sharpness and microcontrast- it's two different parameters. Pentax lens is sharp but it's microcontrast is not too high. And it's a good thing, because 70-200 is a lens mostly for portraits. I don't think models or retouchers will be happy to see all skin unevennesses. If you need microcontrast, you should buy macro lens.... or this tamron))) Overall in terms of perception, in this video comparison I like pentax pictures and don't like tamron's ones.
You are still looking at the dynamic range and color. That is from the body not the lens. Lens has softeness and breathing issues. If you are still okay paying and shooting a $1800 70-200 with a focal length of 60-160 - 60-135 then that is a choice people will have to make. I am only here to let user know the issue.
@@theCameraVille color is only the camera side? And you are tending to make a lens and camera review? It's nonsense)
@@aniketvitte1428 I guess you cant tell the difference between apples and oranges. That is okay. Enjoy the lens.
Nice to see you're still reviewing Pentax stuff ;) Interesting review too. I have the Pentax lens and it's a mind blowing lens for me personally. The build quality is the best I've seen on any Pentax lens. Probably any lens at all. But it's huuuuuuge. Look at that little Tamron in comparison. Makes you think. But I love the colors and images it makes. I've found it to be a little soft, but the images it delivers made it a favorite among my 20 Pentax lenses. It's a shame it's not a real 200 mm . I test it nex to my 135mm Rokinon f/2 (the Zeiss beater) lens which would be awesome to see you review, but I understand if you won't, and I see it's barely longer in focal length at 200 mm than the 135. So that's a bummer...
Whats up! Long time! Most of the colors are from the Pentax camera and I love their colors.The build is awesome on the Pentax and it looks like a great lens. I just wish they put out a real 70-200. I think people would be even more happy once Pentax release a real true 7-200 focal length.
I made similar experience like Barnie. Adjustment pepped the lens up. I'm really fine with sharpness now (could show you pics) but in the very beginning I was definitely not. So - anyway - Pentax has bad reputation based on this lens and that's pretty disappointing.
Klaus Bartels No worry. I just want to send a message to Ricoh, they need to get their act straight. Need to stop selling this defective lens. I know people are happy because they got used to it . Ricoh needs to make a new version and also have a program for their current owners to upgrade with a small fee. Thecameraville 2020, vote for me!
@@theCameraVille Tried this test Vs my friends Canon 70-200. Amazing . Huge huge difference. Im selling off my Pentax. Forget this. I was basically sticking my camera so close to get the same shot vs a normal 70 -200 which you don't need to. All of those who is saying it looks great? You are sticking it to close, use a Canon.
Thank you for the review Lee. I was dreaming for the D FA Star 70-200....good that I don't buy one... it cost 2000 euro in Germany...and it is no real 70-200...Crazy... for this weight and dimensions... What about the old Tamron 70-200 SP for Pentax? Can you make a review of this Lens?
I'm very glad with K1 +Tamron Sp 70-200 f/2,8, you can consider it, bye
Graham, negative, it is terrible. You will never get to shoot at a true 200 at any given time, you will have to flex all around to get that shot. essentially current owners are shooting in the dark with this lens.
I am still in shock. The focus breathing is BAD!!! I tried my lens out with my buddies Canon, and wow.. world of difference.
Busy bokeh of that Tamron is a deal breaker for many Photographers, they'll wait for Sigma FE 70-200 f/2.8 .
Actually 17-28 f/2.8 & 28-75 f/2.8 these two Tamron lenses has the same issue, but just like the new 70-180 they're extremely sharp wide open.
Thanks for your comparison
You are welcome!
Gosh, such an honest comparison. You've probably just saved me some money. 😀
Don’t write it off, try one out when you get the chance and you will want to keep it, trust me.
Negative, this is my 4th copy, worst lens ever made. Terrible. Not worth $1800 usd. No way.
@@miguelgonzalezgr Negative, I reviewed this lens 3 years ago, 2 years ago, last year and this year. Different places. Also Negative, Pentax never gave me any lens.
@@miguelgonzalezgr but the reviewer has been a genuine Pentax fan, and that has brought Pentax people here. Your argument doesn't make any sense.
@@ashersmarvelmcocexamplesof450 I tried it today, and it is true. The focus breathing is there and I cant believe it. I am still in state of shock.
It looks like Front Focus issue with Pentax lens. 70-200 needs to be at least micro calibrated in my opinion.
Negative. but thank you for your input . Appreciated.
@@theCameraVille just guessing ;-) This lens cost a lot and You buy it to use it wide open too. It's sad too see such poor performance.
@@ukaszwilczynski1236 I tried it vs my friends canon. I am sooo sad. It is a world of difference. Lee is right about it. gosh. After so many years with this lens.
The 3rd party lens support for Pentax is sadly, especially in the recent years, really lacking. I think their camera bodies are great, easy to operate and really genius features (e.g. the Astrotracer). But if they can't fix the lacking lens availability, they probably won't have the brightest future
Yup they need to get this going. I think people love the Pentax colors from the body. They just don't realize they will love their lens even more with the proper focal length.
Could it be a rental thing ? Heavy lenses being treated badly ?
this is my 4th copy in 3 years. So I had 1 copy every year basically. All act and perform the same way.
Hmmm I see no point in comparing two lenses for different camera bodies... It's not like I'm going to buy the Pentax if I had the Sony Camera Body
Then why click on a video with Pentax on the title... ….. ….. .. It even says what you are going to view... so I don't see your point … Its like going to the bathroom and you went to the mens room and you are glad they don't make a womens room.. lol...
It looks like the tamron somehow gets more light in on the sensor... wich could due to the focusbreathing on the pentax. I would like to see an image of the pentax blow its highlights aswell as the sony. Also if you need to change the shutter. Becouse yeah you can check out focus breathing but who says 2000th of a sec is 2000th of a sec... nobody is going to check out that i supose... could be that the pentax or the sony has a shutterspeed issue. Less time means less quality. I know this would be sick to find more flaws on the pentax or sony. I know this hasn't to do anything with the lens but everything counts on such reviews. Also i totaly agree with you on everything you see but i just can't imagin that pentax has this flaw in a top series lens... it is unseen.
Other option is that inframe zoom that flaws this lens.
When this lens came out, same time CAnon, Nikon and Tamron had the problems. Unlike Pentax, they fixed it in 3 years. It was big news during that time.
so much agree with you, thank you for this test that i appear to 200%
Thank you, It hurts me to do this review but yea, Pentax need to discontinue the lens.
Oh, what a bummer! :) Luckily I am a primer and I rather bring along a 70mm a 105, a 135mm and a 200mm with me, instead of a single zoom lens. And, yes, being into Portraits, that bokeh problem with the Tamron lens would be a real deal breaker for me.
Prime should be the strong area in Pentax. With that in mind, I am a little worry for that 85mm with the missing elements. Perhaps that developed something so good that it doesn't need much elements. Fingers crossed!
@@theCameraVille Oh yes! I am crossing everything that I can.
You are very scientific in your comparison Li, I have to admit... But the whole time I was thinking, man the pictures on the left look really good. Being a pentaxian(whatever that means), I can tell you Pentax has never been the sharpest, nor the best at managing the aberrations. Tamron is a hell of a company, and they have been focused in overall performance for a very long time now, while Pentax has a lot on their plate when they have to bring out a lens like this: the weather resistance, the dc motor, the internal focusing... Could it have been better, yes of course, this lens was rolled out in a hurry to couple with the brand new K-1.
Looking at your comparisons I admit the Tamron had better sharpness, but IMO the Pentax was not THAT far behind. If I ever get me some 70-200/2.8 money, I think I will go with the Pentax, because the quality of the picture at times is not all about sharpness.
That said, thanks again my friend, for the unbiased and hard-worked comparison! Peace!
I see where you are coming from.
The overall quality is coming from the sensor mainly if you are referreing to the color and dynamic range that you are seeing. I love the Pentax color. This video is only stating that Pentax need to stop selling this lens, and sell a proper 70-200 for their end user. Great sensor, terrible lens design and its been 5 years. I am pushing that needle so Pentax can release something proper for their user.
@@theCameraVille Absolutely agree! This should be a pro grade lens and its price sure suggests that.
I always say Pentax should drop the prices off all but the few latest top HD lenses to bargain price of manufacturing cost. Outsell all the stock existing on the planet to be sold to enthusiasts and beginners and hook them into cheap but still very capable system. Than fund development of the best top of the top gear for professionals and that way brand will show path for upgrade to those users and to attract more users (back). Forcing users to decide of ditch the system completely or pick decade old designs for premium prices, is not fair at least. I in mind a lot of lenses tar are still in production (or stock) at regular prices, despite lacking WR, modern coating and AF. Someone still supporting Pentax system might feel cheated to pay more for less. New lenses are great but those are not "system". They are way overpriced for existing users - they are happy with what they have since they are enthusiasts that either have other system for pro work, or they are not pro's at all. Who are pro switched system in the past, and he might look nostalgic to new 85/1.4 and is paying more on other system for similar performance. But being rude to give this comparison, one does not marry a girl because of her tits. One great 85mm or 50mm, is not what professionals need in this utterly competitive world. I understand many that went to Sony just to be able to publish official photos of wedding before brides had chance to upload their selfies. A bit of lacking DR, sharpness, etc is noting in this "high compressed 2048 pixel digital world". Speed is. As much as I like Pentax, and I will use it until I could, this truth need to be said.
Mihael! That is actually an idea I can agree upon. Sell the lenses of cheap, except for the limited and the good ones, and then rebuild it back. This way new users can adopt the system and then boom , new series of lenses comes out. I like your thinking. Good thinking
@@theCameraVille Yeah, I would try it if being Pentax. Adding to above post, I would put on sale some phased out models like K50, or K5ii for few hundred bucks too, to beat the bare bone entry level parts from other brands, since grand mamas buy gear for their grand sons for b-days based on price, not knowing else. But after having such gear they will realise it is way more. It's all about price at the bottom. Someone will say I will like to devalue the brand. Not at all. Selling 2012 gear new in 2020 for cheap is what others doing as well. Pentax might want to just rename those models and re-sell them under "cheap B brand" like Canon "Rebel". K5ii from 2012 could be called "Pentax K-star-5" and K50 "Pentax K*50" and bear 2020 manufacturing date. Since camera would be RELEASED, all media living out of new releases (you included) will grab it and make a mention. They will certainly spot that it is just relabel of old models, but hey: If they said "MEH" when camera was released as flagship for top of the line price, no one could deny it's relative great value today for quality which is still there and features to other entry level cameras.
A friend of mine, who shoots boudoir professionally, use the 70-200 among other lenses and his photos are stunning.
To be fair, why not compare both lenses on the same camera?!?! Also, I like your sky better with the Pentax than the Tamron lens.
Yes, right before the test, I said I love the Pentax rendering but that is all from the sensor which we spoke about before with the A7r vs D810.
The glass is the sharpness, focal length, CA and pricing. With that in mind $1800 usd vs $1200 usd is tough to say its worth it.
With the new rule in plan, we cannot be shooting models up close anymore, has to be 6 feet away and actually many models now are hoping the shooters also follow suit. Basically, any tight close up shots. they need to get real close. A Canon,Nikon and Sony shooter can station far away and do less of the walking around to fill in the frame for the shot because they can get that reach vs the Pentax which you will have to move around.
In my next video you will see that I love the rendering of the Pentax body, not so much the lens in terms of sharpness. I wouldnt mind if it was less than $1200 but at $1800, is alot.
Isn't the Pentax lens a rebadged Tammy with some mods?
@@jean-philippeperetti8463 No.
I am a bit confused here because my Pentax 70-200 is on the K1 more than anything else for the beautiful colour rendering and tack sharpness where I want it to be. Could your differences be more to do with the different cameras’ focusing performance than the lenses? Focus breathing is a technical issue which I am not sure is such a big deal, I zoom to frame the shot and don’t care what the actual focal length is or should be, what’s in the viewfinder is what counts. These aren’t excuses it is real world usage that matters.
At the start of the video, I said, I love the Pentax colors, big fan, but we aren't looking at the colors anymore because we saw that before in my previous video. We are looking at the actual lens this time. Lens = sharpnes, compression, and CA. Pentax has a great rendering engine not Lens.
This is not a copy issue, this is a known fact in the photography world ( also my 4th copy of the 70-200) . Nikon, Canon, Tamron and Sigma all made these kind of lenses with this issue. They immediately corrected it. Pentax has not corrected anything but instead they are selling the same lens with the same issue.
In real world this matters a lot. First off, you bought a 60-160 or 60-135 , for $1800. That is highway robbery. You paid for a 70-200. . Number 2, That means you will never get that separation and sharpness of a normal 70-200. Most people end up getting used to faulty lens and so we have this situation. Last but not least, in real world usage, You are going to juggle with your shooting a lot where as a proper 70-200 will keep you consistently stationed. Basically you are battling with the focus breathing right now and just accepted it. I seen this case a lot.
Keep in mind, that Tamron is $1200 in the video vs $1800.
Hahaha and you don't think having a 200mm lens that behaves like a 135 to 150mm lens affects reall world??? I guess this is just a hobby for you since you shoot Pentax so that explains it
I can't believe Pentax costs $600 more and weighs twice as much but still underperforms by quite a noticeable margin.
Yea, it was focusing breathing like crazy. This is my 3rd time reviewing the lens in 3 different years and still have this problem.
Paying 1800 for this, god damn Pentax what the hell you doing .... keep up slapping Pentax maybe now they make you an certified tester !
wow! that is a good idea! I should be a certified tester! LOL!! Kostas... You the man!
Wish someone could get Pentax to pay attention to anything. I love the brand, but I'm not one of the blind apologists.
Yup, I m not a Tamron fan but my heavens, Pentax need to fix up their lens road map. Tamron is cheaper, lighter, sharper, and faster. No focus breathing either.
Wow that Pentax lens is terrible in comparison to the Tamron and that focus breathing...it should be illegal to call it a 200mm lol
shaolin95 yup! that Tamron was fast, sharp, light, no focus breathing and cheaper. sigh.. Pentax Pentax Pentax 😂😂
what you say at begin video :)
Whats going onnn youtube lol
@@theCameraVille thanks, in this video, Tamrons lens is sharpen than Pentax lens :)
Tan Vo yup! no prob!
"How are they selling this lens now," well truth be told, they are not selling many lenses or cameras for that matter. I mourn the loss of Pentax as a vibrant Photography company.
None of them realized they are shooting at 160mm / 135mm . Also not to mention none of the forums and outlets ever mentioned this which means someone is pushing that agenda to promote them.
In the real world, its a huge issue and let it be known, if you have to struggle around to get that 200mm of compression, you aren't doing yourself any favors because it flex between distance.
@@grahamhobbs3501 I tried this vs my buddies Canon. Sad to say. The focus breathing is there and a huge issue. Cant shoot evens with this. We have 6 feet of social distance rules here.
Quangdai Luong None of the blogs , lens website or forums ever mentioned it. Also reading and seeing the feedback, alot of people dont believe and just found out. Show me a ruler test then I will agree with you. Until then I cant agree with you.