Pentax K-50 Hands on Review and Feature Tour
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- Опубліковано 12 вер 2024
- Pentax K-50 hands on review and feature tour! The K-50 is one of the most underrated DSLRs in my opinion, especially for the price you pay!
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Got the K-50, with 18-55 and 50-200 kit lenses, a Pentax sling bag, spare battery, UV filters, SD card, and an additional flash, for right at $600 from B&H about a month ago. Just passed 2000 images with it and I LOVE it so far. Thanks again for the videos, hope to be able to watch more soon. Keep shining bro....
Isaiah Furrow Wow! What a bargain that was! You're gonna love it.
Loving it lots, can't wait to get some faster lenses... f/2.8 zooms and a "fast fifty"...
***** email coming shortly, totally interested.... we're in the Pacific Northwest... ID
The K50 give you the most bang for the buck. I love it! The ability to use my older Pentax glass and AA batteries, so cool. I shoot in M or TAV mode with the custom image set to Reversal Film. Fantastic results. The pro feature like the 2 user modes are a great time saver as when I want to shoot with flash in my home studio. This camera is a joy to use and gives me results that I can't get from my Nikon cameras. This may sound crazy but since I only buy used gear, I have 5 of them.
Just bought this camera Spyros, and I love it. I have quite a lot of older k mount lenses from my film days so this was not a huge investment ($579 with 18-55 wr). I am glad to be shooting Pentax again. The controls and menu are very intuitive and the ergonomics are beautiful. This camera fits and feels wonderful (better than an equivalent Canon or Nikon). As far as the video, I actually have no problem with it; the quality is amazing and there are many workarounds to some of the limitations that it does have like using external recorders, and manual lenses with aperture rings will allow you to change the video settings during recording (like Nikon). I am amazed and very happy with this camera and I am sure that anyone else would be also. After all, a camera is just a tool, but what a wonderful and FUN tool this is. Thanks Pentax!
"Megapixels are only important when yiu're printing very large prints" THANK YOU! I tell people this at best buy and they look bewildered at what i tell them
Kyle Howard LOL I work at a best buy and my coworkers do that same thing! megapixels are sooooo over rated!
Haha
+Kyle Howard Even then not all the time. Depends on the sensor size, the lens and how the camera handles noise. It is theoretically possible to make better interpolated enlargements from a lower resolution sensor if it has a sharp lens, accurate colors and good noise control. High res sensor with crummy lens, poor color and poor noise control will give you a great big load of mush.
I'm about to buy this tomorrow. I was going to buy the K-30, I've planned for it for a year already, good thing I found out there was a newer model haha.
I replaced my Pentax K-r with this camera with the 18-135 WR lens. Excellent upgrade. I probably would have upgraded eventually anyway but this video review helped push me along. Anyone considering this or any other brand, consider the water resistance, dual controls, legacy glass and the use of AA batteries that Pentax gives you with their cameras.
Great channel. Thanks
My comment is now 7yrs old but, I have just purchased a used K-50 for $214 and am exctatic in awaiting this camera body. Having limited funds but many, many takumar M-42 lenses I can't wait to receive my new camera. The image peaking and 100% view in the viewfinder will be such an upgrade from my very old and only camera, the Canon Rebel XTI. I prefer manual focus and to have a check on my nailing the shot with my old eyes, I'm going to appreciate some digital help. Other than having to buy an expensive adapter for my canon 70-200mm lens all is well with the world. I'm going to love using this kit. Thanks for your consistent enthusiasm and education. I am a big fan my friend. Be well and take care, Neil
For just under $600 on Amazon, there is a K-50 version that comes with the 18-55mm and the 50-200mm DAL lenses by Pentax. I have been stunned (in a good way) by the quality as an amateur/hobbyist nature photographer. Zoo pics were amazing and on auto with the 50-200mm lens, the camera focused quickly and easily even when there was netting between us and the animals. Still could see each hair and glimmer in the eyes of the animals. It performed so well, I posted a review with the zoo photos. I've had it since Oct. and have only used it a few times so I have a ton to learn. I keep watching this video to help me get to know the camera better and all the other uses I might be able to make of it. Thank you so much!
Thanks, I will! :)
Just got my K-50 2 wks ago. This was my first DSLR. I previously had a Minolta Film SLR and digital point and shoot cameras. I am beyond excited using this camera! I will be taking classes to help me get to know all of the features. I really liked your video review, it helped me better understand all of the dials. Thanks!!
You are right to be impressed.
There is still no other DSLR (in that price range) that can compete with the k-30 / k-50.
The points you mentioned are all valid - great video.
just purchased the k50 a few weeks ago due mainly to it's weather resistance, cold weather usage and ruggedness, also it's many features that it's comp in this price range don't have... all at a very good price... I've gone without an SLR camera for over 25 years, so I've got a lot of catching up to do... I think this is the camera to help me do that... I purchased the 18 to 135 wr lens. I went to the grandkids dance recital the other night, put the camera on a tripod half way back in the auditorium (about 40 yds from the stage)... I am amazed at the shots I was able to capture at full zoom using ISO of only 3200 and shutter speeds of 1/100 in a pretty dim room... very impressed. No regrets on this purchase
I've had both the Canon and Pentax DSLRs all my previous film experience was with the film version Canon AE1, never failed to get a great shot. So naturally, when it came to a dslr, Canon was my first, did quite a good job, then I tried a Pentax, and it out performed the Canon easily, I was shocked. So I purchased the Pentax, and haven't looked back, I genuinely enjoyed your review, thanks so much for confirming what I've tried to tell, and show both Canon, and Nikon owners.
John Martino Wait until you discover the wealth of old, good lenses that are out there for you to use. Try finding a Canon DSLR that will take legacy glass - I'm told it's not possible. But all the old Pentax lenses will mount and work with little or no trouble, and you can even buy M42 adapters to let you take the old Takumars.
So I currently have a Rebel XS, which has been my first DSLR, but I've been reading up on and seeing a bunch of stuff for the K-50 lately. This is the most in depth review of it I've seen on youtube, and I think I'm pretty convinced now, that it is the next camera I need to get.
You've got some great videos. I bought the K-50 after months of contemplation. Watching your review validated my choice. I've had the camera for two weeks now and taking photos has never been so fun. Keep up the good work Spyros and thanks for the passion.
I just got this camera today as a birthday present and I'm very happy with it my bf is a cannon guy and just keeps saying wow to all the features on it. We also got a sick deal on it at Target on clearance display mode paid under 200 for body and lens. I love it
I'm jealous of you, girl. I wish I could get a deal like that.
Such a great video! I really enjoy the way you get into it! You don't just jump into a bunch of random facts, you start a subject, then finish it before moving on to a new subject! You really did this review right! Thanks so much!
Well you do a great job at that :]
Hey @Spyros Heniadis
First of all Great Video, well detailed and Proper review on the K-50. I have been a Pentax fan since their film days and I had bought the K-50 based on its reputation of its high quality past. Everything you said was spot on. The image quality of this camera is unbelievable and for what I am using the photo's for 16mp is MORE than enough. Ive had so many great compliments on the vibrancy of colours in the photos and this camera has been my secret weapon for specific environments that i'm shooting in. I own a Sony AS7 II in which I adore, but the Pentax seems to deal with colour so much nicer, the vibrant aspects seem to be a tad brighter without any compromise in detail , overexposure or over saturation. A great camera overall and quite frankly its a great Camera for its price point. I've needed to choose this camera over some other highly expensive cams I own based on its way it deals with colour. I love it
Yes! It's such a fantastic camera, and I still love it to this day!
Your tour was fabulous ! I still have a Pentax K1000, with three K mount lenses, and was looking to move into digital photo. With the K1000, I had access to a complete darkroom and developer studio, which has long past gone. I saw the K-50 on a search, and then was worried about the investment. Your video has resolved that worry. I am quite sure that my purchase, the K-50 body, the 18-55mm, and the 55-300mm lens pack. It comes with everything I need, except the SD card (no biggie). Add into this, the three lenses I already have, and I think I am going to be happy for a long, long, time. Thank you for your indepth video review :)
$295 at B&H ....$470 for a WR Body AND two WR Lenses! You cannot beat this price on planet earth. I'm retired, on a budget, and I had a Pentax ME way back when the Dinosaurs roamed.... :-) Love your Reviews! TY!
Thank you so much for this interesting and detailed review. I'm considering my first DLSR and its down to the K-50 or Nikon D3300, and I think the Pentax wins. Partly because I have an old maual telephoto in K-mount, and partly because it just feels good.
Your review is great because it tells me the things you cannot find out from paper specs or even in a shop - how it behaves in real life, what features are really useful. For someone scanning the market for their first DSLR its very confusing. Many of the DSLRs aimed at the starter end of the market seem to want to "protect" a beginner from the basics of photography by offering too many guides/auto modes. Surely its so much easier just to learn a little about light and learn the rest by taking photos! Especially now the cost penalty of developing duff photos has disappeared.
One criticism of this camera that your review did not tackle is battery life. On paper this camera says it take 400ish shots per recharge, which is about half as many as the Nikon claims. I know that claims on paper and experience in the field can be two different things, so can you comment on your experience of the battery life?
I do think Pentax are very underrated. Good products, rubbish marketing. And yes, I will be getting a colour that's not black! Sorry, it may be a girlie thing, but I already have enough lumps of black plastic technology in my life. Personally I like the metallic dark green body with brown grips, camaflague-colours...good for wildlife shoots...
awesome video! I really appreciate how thorough you were for a beginner like me! :P
Kudos for an incredible review. Most camera views are not much more than a reading of the marketing info. Thanks! Oh, and i just bought the K-50! $469 with two lenses!!!!
Nice to see a review of the Pentax K50. I'm a K5 shooter and I thank you for posting this. Now if Pentax would fix the video features to match Canikon we would have the ultimate tool.
Just ordered. So excited. Thanks for the review !!!
Im buying one its my first dslr. One of the main resons in this camera is the weather seal due to working on water. I hope I enjoy. Liked your review looks like I've got alot to learn.
Cheers.
I bought K50 my first dslr. and I love it the pics iv'e taken are wonderful. a friend of mine who has a Cannon who,s been into photography for a long time is very impressed. Love the camera and the weather sealing is a must for me as I work by and on the water so I don't need to worry about splashes or rain. the simplicity of the buttons and functions is simple and understanding the programming is very easy I picked it up real quick. ok as I say its my first and everyone remember's there first love. bought Jan 2014. Cumbria uk England
I have 2 older Pentax DSLRs which I love. I am upgrading next year and this is on my short list.
one of the best review... thanks a lot.. just started thinking to replace my d5100 with this beauty..
Thanks bro ... just bought a K-50 ... can't wait till it gets here.
Spyros, maybe you can do a video showing how some of the older K mount manual lenses can be close to auto.
Tip for using a MANUAL lens with Pentax K-50 (others models also)
1) Set camera to (Manual) mode.
2) Turn camera on and select the focal length of lens.
3) Custom menu #4 item #22 (Using Aperture Ring) set to Enable (2).
4) Custom menu #3 item #20 (Catch-in Focus) set to On (2).
5) Camera Menu #4 (E-Dial Programming) menu #2 select (M), change the green button funciton to (TvShift).
6) On the side of the camera set the focusing to (AF.S) - it is green.
7) From the “Status Screen” using the 4-way selector (top button), set the ISO to a manual ISO of your choice.
8) Select the aperture that you want to use from the ring on the lens.
When ready to take a picture just point the camera and press the “green button” it will now act like “aperture priority” and auto set the shutter speed. (pretty cool eh).
Now press the shutter all the way down and rotate the focus ring - when your subject is in focus the camera will fire. (Almost as good as auto-focus) or you can use the “live view” mode and use focus peaking... (el neat-o)...
A good easy way to use some of the older really good lenses that can be picked up for little bucks and get them to behave in a more functional way without a lot of guess work....
*****
Cool I will look forward to seeing the video. Sometimes on ebay a manual 28mm can be picked up for $5-10.. Cheap for a prime and with the above tip can make using it a whole lot more enjoyable and get some very satisfying experiences with manual lenses... Keep up the good work - I enjoy your videos and you are doing a great service for people interested in photography,..
I'm really interested in using manual lenses too! I used to have an ME-Super and then a Super-A many years ago in the eighties, and I still have a telephoto lenses in K-mount. I'm considering Penatx K-50 or Nikon D3300 for my first DLSR, having been frustrated by the limitations of my dinky point-and-shoot matchbox-sized camera. Having handled both I'm thinking that the Pentax just feels better in the hand, although it is heavy.
Jim Richard I was given an older K mount lens - an 80-320. It seems all I have to do with this one is flip the aperture ring to "A" and the camera does everything else. I do have a couple of old screw-mount primes from the sixties and seventies I'd like to press into service once I get an adapter for them, and I'm pretty certain that will require some more arm-twisting.
I was a Nikon guy. Now I just ordered a K50. Why? I tried it and fell in love. It is a joy to use, especially for nature photography where control is everything. I didn't purchase the Pentax to save money, although in the end I probably will. My only quibble with Pentax is that their lens mount has gone through so many variations, that not all k-mount lenses will work completely with the camera, they will all work in some kind of mode however and on the up side there are 25 million to choose from.
So now let me ask you the same question. Would you ever give up your Canon or Nikon for a Pentax? Just curious.
PS-Thanks for your review. I subscribed.
BTW Thanks for the review as I found it very difficult for regular media outlets in YT that were covering anything Pentax when I was looking for the K-30
VERY informative! I LOVED my old Pentax Spotmatic and think the world of the Pentax brand.
I like shooting photos in low-light concert situations and my older Canon Rebel camera just isn't getting it done while friends with good smart phones are getting pix superior to mine. Would you recommend this camera for concert-light conditions? Or are results kind of low-quality and noisy?
Great review and yes the K50 is phenomenal.. Was a K30 user..
Another great review! Really enjoy how you breakdown and present the features! Thanks for all the work you do making such a professional presentation. -Ranger
Strongly considering picking up this camera as a second unit. The feature set just blows me away. Currently using a T3i that I bought a couple years ago, but I've been in need of a weather sealed Camera as not having one has restricted my usage of my t3i. Great video as well, thanks so much!
Thanks so much for the video it helped very much in my decision to go with the pentax k50
If you can manage, get a K-5-2 or 2S. They have the new focus system. That's by far the best focus system I've used. Though it has only 11 points, feels snappier than my own D7000 and definitely way better than friend's 60D. The low light focus performance is almost spooky. If you can see your subject through the finder, the camera can focus that. In some case it even locks focus when all you see is pretty much darkness.
The new screen is much better and less reflective outdoors. You'll love it
Great review...I just pulled the trigger on this camera and am stoked to get out and start shooting! My main interest is in having a camera able to withstand the rigors of wintertime sessions (skiing and snowboarding), and the K-50 seemed like the way to go (for the price). Anyway, thanks again for the video!
just purchased the k50 from Amazon with the 2 kit lenses. Have an old Pentax 35mm camera and can use those lenses as well. You can buy vintage pentax lenses on Ebay I have seen a 50mm f1.4 for €25 very good value
Thanks a lot for info!! And specs breakdown
Love my K-30 and only have the 18-55mm kit lens and a couple of old manual Takumar lenses including a 50mm 1.4 and 55 1.8. But I was looking for the best photo mode DSLR out there for my price range at the beginning of the year, and that was Pentax.
Good review Spyros.! Realistic way of looking at it and practical.
It would be nice if you look at the Pentax K 30.!
I had a K50 for about a year,....still not sure why I sold it?? Anyway, I just bought another one at B&H for $300 and a 55-300mmWR for $250. That's less than I sold mine for on eBay! I'm looking forward to using the camera again and doubt if I'll let it go. I thought your video was excellent, straight forward and to the point. Thanks!
Using a Pentax ist D L really considering buying a K-50 I think I will for some reason Pentax seems my kind of DSLR
it is great to see Pentax getting reviews their products deserve, but at 5:40 you say that the TAv mode is redundant, as the same could be done at Manual Mode with Auto ISO. There is though a slight difference. Only with TAv Mode you get Exposure Compensation, which could be useful sometimes.
Great review, keep up the good work...You can get this camera at Costco with the two lenses ..The 18-55mm and the 50-200mm, and a Camera bag, and 16GB card for 650.00 through 5-4-14 online at their web site... GREAT DEAL !
Timothy Miller That's an amazing deal for a great camera kit.
I recently retired and my co-workers, knowing I'm a camera nut, bought me a K-50 with the kit lens. I'm really impressed with it. I also have a little Fuji X20. Each has it's plusses and minuses, and I use them both happily.
If you are still around, I just purchased this camera and it is my first DSLR. Even though I'm not a photographer I found myself continuously trying to focus manually on my last camera. My question is this, is there a book or other learning materials you recommend for newbies? I would love to know what to do with all the bells and whistles and what the lingo actually means, thanks!
Dang, thanks for the review! Was thinking for a while of getting this camera, and your review just helped me make my decision. I will DEFINITELY get this camera, and I think that I'll go with Pentax products in the future as they seem to be very good & reliable. Currently rocking a very cheap GE x5 14.1 MP point-and-shoot camera lol. Again, thanks for the awesome review!
Very useful review. Thanks to your review I have almost decided this is the one for me. Come to think of it, if I had the money in my hand right now I would buy it.
I very much enjoyed your review! Spent much time years ago researching for my first 35mm and was very glad I purchased the Pentax ME Super. Allot of camera and quality shots, for an amazing price. Was out of the pic arena for awhile and digital has absorbed everything. Being sold on my Pentax I still compared them all and the Pentax 50 won again. I do feel it was fatuitous that the 'sealed' 50 was available [kinda like the 'Super' was] when I began comparing. Even the same company I bought the ME from, B&H, is still here. The BEST part.. I picked up my K-50/ 18-55 lens, PLUS the 50-200mm Zoom, all for UNDER $700 [free shipping].
A simple Q, please. Film brands produced different quality, eg: Fuji was my choice. Is the quality of these digital 'cards' equal?
I just bought used K50 with only 1100 shutter actuations, for $270 Canadian Dollars, which is about $200 USD. I really enjoy using the camera. It is so easy to use and the menu is very simple. I wish the mirror was quieter and the eyepiece extended out further, but those arent big concerns, overall.
Wait till you get some black pics, repair will cost you ca 200$...
@@pablo5496 I had an Olympus that stopped working, but my 2 previous Pentax Cameras didn't break at anytime. All products are prone to repair issues - ask a BMW car owner and they can attest to that fact. I think the aperature repair reports are over-hyped.
If you or your family/friends/neighbors don't already have a big collection of nikon/canon lenses, then you should really consider K-50. Its a fantastic camera and it outperforms both the D3200 and 600D/700D. D5200 however does a few stuff better than K-50. And K-50 has a few features that are better than D5200.
The interface is not confusing and very logical. Although I use a K-5 (I am guessing the interface is similar)
For the price, this really gives you a lot so you can go for it.
Now definitely going for Pentax although its presence India is almost negligible...!!!
Nice review btw.....sorted my doubt over Pentax K-50, Nikon D5200 and Canon 650D....!!!!
Thanks after a lot of research I'm going for this one. Mainly for the weatherproof , price and this may sound silly but the nice grip.
I recently switched from a Canon 7D to Nikon D7100. Since I live in the Pacific Northwest and rain is almost a daily event, I've been horrified to take it out in the wet even though that the Nikon and the Nikkor lenses I own are weather resistant. After watching your video I ordered the Pentax K-50 (Costco 2 lens kit). Let's see it works out. Cheers.
To be 100% honest, had I known about this camera before getting my canon t5i, I would have bought it. Don't take me wrong, I love my t5i and it is my first DSLR, but just in terms of the investment, it would have been great!
From the test and reviews of the k-50 vs k-30 I've noticed that focusing on the k-50 is slightly more accurate and the image stabilization is 3 stops vs 2,5 stops.
so the k-50 is clear winner if you could get a good deal on it.Usually with the new WR kit lens would be the best buy for the money.
Good stuff!
Thank you for this video Spyros, it has helped me make the decision to buy the K-50.
I wish I knew about this before I bought my t3
I've been into photography for 2 years, and I have been looking into the 700D for my first own DSLR. However, I'm quite interested in this camera. I'm really into it's features, and it seems really nice for those who are experienced in photography, but want a really nice camera at a more affordable price.
I just got mine for only 457 USD. The prices are even better by the December 2015. I´m very pleased with my new Pentax :-)
+heyitshaileyy Video is a weakness of this camera. The image quality is all right but will be stucked with only mono sound which not very good since you starting a youtube chanel. I heard that some Sony mirorless cameras have a great video modes maybe check those out. I would definitely recommed something sony Alpha A5100.
+heyitshaileyy no no no, don't buy it if you want to shoot videos with this camera - there is no auto focus and you will need to focus manualy every time. If you want to record videos with camera then chose something from Canon - Pentax K-50 is good only for still pictures :)
Awesome review Spyros!!! I was Pentax shooter @ age12. I'm currently shooting with a Olympus Pen it focuses quick but struggles with tracking a moving subject, I make due with touch to focus. But I'm concentrated on touching instead of capturing a moment. I was considering the K-30, is there an advantage to spending the extra cash for the K-50. Or aside from weather sealing should I do the K-500 instead. Or an old K-5 all around the same money.
Great camera - it has a 100% viewfinder as well - virtually the same size as the nikon D7000 and bigger than any camera in it's peer group!!! Also, the weather sealed kit 18-55 is better than most kit lenses!!!
***** Another feature I haven't seen mentioned here is that is has a true pentaprism instead of a mirror box. Unheard of on a camera under $1000.
One great feature not mentioned is the near-100% accuracy, pentaprism viewfinder. I think the competition uses pentamirror viewfinders which are inferior. Another is the ability to use AA cells. If you're on vacation, load it with Energizer lithium AA's and forget about packing the charger.
Great Review, the Pentax k-3 is tested?
What I need is a good camera to reproduce the art originals for prints. Between this K-50, T5i, and D3300 at the moment. I do not care about video, doubt I would use it at all. I do care about the highest quality print I can make at an entry level price point.
My previous experience was all film cameras in SLR space. I loved my AE1 programs. Go.
Tank you for you review, it was a great one.
I'm in the middle of the same issue. I'm deciding what camera should I take, the K-30 or the new K-50. According to information I have are only differences between those two the ISO - 100 - 25600 for the K-30 and 100 - 51200 for the K-50 than AE bracketing ±2 for the 30 and ±3 for the 50. Imho major change are the looks.
And because the price of those two on our market are exactly the same I will let the looks and grip dicede.
I bought this camera 7 years go...I'm just now using it.
Hello Mr. Heniadis, I am currently having a problem with my k-50. I noticed some smears on my photographs and just figured some extra dust had accumulated on the sensor. I did discover that both Pentax and Nikon had applied an excessive amount of oil in and around their shutters. So now I have to not only clean the sensor before and after each use, but I have no way of knowing what a fix would involve. I contact Gabe at Advanced Camera in Portland, Oregon and he seemed very familiar with this issue. He explained that it will involve a complete tear down and that would run me approximately $200.00 if that was the only problem. #2 problem is when I attempted to shoot, the auto-focus motor was creating a grinding sound as though it wanted to operate, but could not. I then switched to Manual Focus, which functioned flawlessly. Went back to Auto-Focus and it is now functioning perfectly. #3. When I continued to shoot, I noticed that the first four images were completely black, even though I had a speedlight in use at the time. So when I continued to shoot, the images eventually appeared and it seems as though the camera is working well with the exception of excess oil being spattered onto the sensor. Any helpful hints and suggestions will be greatly appreciated. The camera has just over 5,000 activations.
Many thanks, Tony
Hi Tony, I apologize, but I'm probably not going to be a great deal of help. When did you purchase the camera? With so few actuations, I'd recommend getting in contact with Ricoh/Pentax directly to see if you can get some help.
I caught a great deal on this camera that I couldn't turn down normal I shoot Nikon but I am very happy with this camera 16Mp is enough I never print bigger than 8x10 and I don't shoot video with my camera sensor get hot. have gotten some nice prints with no flash.
thank you for this great advice. i will include this on my list. cheers!
Hi there Spyros, first of all: your reviews are really great! Kudos!
I´m about to buy a K-50, but two things are making me think about the Nikon D5200:
1 - Although I did not find a really good review about it, it seems that the RAW files from Nikon produces better images than the K-50, wich it seems to be quite the contrary on JPG... is that wright? (I´ll shoot raw)
Great review and insight into the workings of the k50. Im new to dslr's and am looking hard at the k50 but place equal importance on video and need the weather resistance. Is there something better for video thats still rugged that cost less than 1k or is the k50 my best bet?
Your opinion please.
had the pentax kx or really still do I was looking at the power options and at the time and pentax seemed to offer the nicest camera that could be battery powered / camp for days / no recharging// camera worked great till the view finder fogged over and theres a ring that falls out of the 55/ 300 lens
the new camera looks great excited paid 560 for a red combo pack and i can still use batteries
I'm wondering about whether or not i should get this camera. It would be my first dslr. Is it a good beginner camera? Also are the pictures very noisy? I'm considering it over others in it's price point (480$) because of the reviews and Weather Sealing. I take lots of landscape shots and close ups. Lastly, how are the videos compared to it's competitors?
Thanks for your review. I'm about to go on a cruise to Antarctica and want to get a DSLR to take (as well as the old faithful P&S). I was looking at the Canon 700D but I stumbled oin the Pentax K-50 which was in my price range with weather proofing. Looks like this is going to be the camera for me.
+John Grayson i looked also for 700/750D but many people on the forum suggest me to buy K-50, its cheaper, weather resistant and much cheaper :) I hope i will get my K-50 soon.
Wojtas Łybka
Back from Antarctica. I had an incident where I had to, in an emergency, fling my K-50 lens first into snow and ice. Dried it off and it was running fine the next day.
Worked like a charm.
sorry i don't want to bore you since you have already said K-50 is better than Nikon but i are you saying this because one get same functionality for lower price in k-50 or its truly better than D-5200 ...so i am getting both cams for around same price....should I still go for k-50 or D-5200....I just want it for casual photography.
Nice review!! nikon d5200 or pentax k 5 ii? pentax k 5 ii is obviously superior in many aspects but i am in a dilemma due to d5200s new sensor people are raving about. Is that sensor that big a deal??
I would love to see your review of Pentax K 5-II vs Pentax K-50 to compare things like live view mode speed(focus peaking) ,focusing in low light,speed and acuracy ,image stabilisation ,gapless lcd ,etc I'm also considering Samsung nx300 which is in the same price range and would be interesting "smaller different beast" alternative to the k-50 Anyway if you get the chance to review the new Samsung nx-300 against k-50 that would be great too ;)
I may have to pull the trigger on this camera because I see the Black Friday deal has the body plus the 18-55 and the 50-200 for $496.
Hi Spyros. I have a Nikon D90 and was wondering if the Pentax K50 would be a better camera replacement or if I should just stick with my Nikon?
i am a first time user of a camera thats not a point in shoot i got this k-50 on sale for 500 with 32g mem card but i have no idea what anything dose or is any where or videos to show me what everything is and dose thanks great review
I'm still debating what camera to get. I thought I wanted a Canon 700D, but the store assistent told me about the Pentax K50 and that it would be better for me. What do you think? I need it for this mostly:
- great at still life or product photography (studio photography)
- able to print pictures at large scale (up to A0)
- great color
- good video (studio recording)
- easy to use
Thank you so much!
***** Thanks so much for your answer, this helps a lot! Keep up with the great videos!
Could you please do a review: K5 II vs Nikon D7000 or D7100. And by the way, thanks for the great reviews.
Thanks a lot for your answer!
Hi! Great review it somehow helps me in choosing my first DSLR but could I ask for your opinion. I have been thinking for buying Pentax K-50 and Canon EOS 100D this days I love taking pictures and videos. What do you think suits for me? Thank you :)
***** That was the quandary for me, Spyros. The Pentax won out on overall features, although that little Canon almost had me with it's touch screen and video capabilities. But I don't really do much video anyway.
The other thing I had in mind was the dearth of lenses available for Canon. I do have a couple old 49mm screw mount primes that I could put back into service with the Pentax. Just waiting for a good used adapter to show up.
Hi Spyros. Excellent review and info. I am looking at my first DSLR and having a tough time choosing between the K-50 and the Sony SLT-A65. Any opinion on the Sony? Thank you
Sony A65: November 15, 2011
Pentax K-50: November 27, 2013
Sony A65: 24MP - APS-C CMOS Sensor
Pentax K-50: 16MP - APS-C CMOS Sensor
Sony A65: ISO 100 - 12800 (expands to 25600)
Pentax K-50: ISO 100 - 51200
Both: Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
Sony A65: 3" Fully Articulated Screen
Pentax K-50: 3" Fixed Type Screen
Sony A65: 2359k dot Electronic viewfinder
Pentax K-50: Optical (pentaprism) viewfinder
Sony A65: 10 fps continuous shooting
Pentax K-50: 6 fps continuous shooting
Both: 1920 x 1080 video resolution
Sony A65: Built-in GPS
Sony A65: 622g. 132 x 97 x 81 mm
Pentax K-50: 650g. 130 x 97 x 71 mm
Pentax K-50: Weather Sealed Body
Remarks:
Sony SLT-A65 was replaced by Sony SLT-A68.
Pentax K-50 replaced Pentax K-30.
Reasons to choose Sony SLT-A65 over Pentax K-50 (9 advantages)
Articulating Screen
Builtin GPS
Max Sensor Resolution 24 MPvs16 MP
Number of Focus Points 15vs11
Continuous Shooting 10.0fps vs 6.0fps
Battery Life 560 shots vs 410 shots
Weight 622 g vs 650 g
Microphone Port
Selfie Friendly LCD
Reasons to choose Pentax K-50 over Sony SLT-A65 (11 advantages)
Max ISO 51.600 vs 12.800
Number of Cross Type Focus Points 9vs3
Max Mechanical Shutter 1/6000svs1/4000s
Environmental Sealing
Timelapse Recording
Flash Coverage 12.0mvs10.0m
Color Depth 23.7vs23.4
Dynamic Range 13.0 vs 12.6
Low Light ISO 1120 vs 717
Sensor Pixel Area 23.14µm2 vs 15.28µm2
AF Micro Adjustment (Fine Tune)
Sony A-65 for Portrait: Good, 70%
Pentax K-50 for Portrait: Good, 69%
Sony A-65 for Street Photography: Excellent, 89%
Pentax K-50 for Street Photography: Excellent, 85%
Sony A-65 for Sport Photography: Excellent, 88%
Pentax K-50 for Sport Photography: Excellent, 87%
Sony A-65 for Daily Photography: Good, 69%
Pentax K-50 for Daily Photography: Good, 71%
Sony A-65 for Landscape Photography: Good, 47%
Pentax K-50 for Landscape Photography: Good, 42%
Here is a summary of how Sony A65 and Pentax K-50 scores compare:
Sony A65
IMAGING 58
FEATURES 80
VALUE 87
PORTABILITY 76
OVERALL 74
Ranked #7 out of 77 in Compact SLR cameras
Ranked #99 out of 1190 in all Cameras
Pentax K-50
IMAGING 58
FEATURES 68
VALUE 82
PORTABILITY 77
OVERALL 67
Ranked #26 out of 77 in Compact SLR cameras
Ranked #180 out of 1190 in all Cameras
★ I have both of these cameras.
thanks for the review, i shoot a K-5 and my wife is constantly stealing it. She is an entry level shooter and i've a large suite of lenses so it'll be a great and affordable, body-only buy for christmas.
Ty I bought one because of this video.....
Hello Spyros, I have a question. I am an amateur photographer who wants to shoot indoor sports shots clearly. Should I go with the Pentax K-50 or the Canon T3i? Thanks!
Hey bro create review. I was looking at the Nikons and the Canon's. I love photography but still a novice so I am looking to start with the K50 and you're right about the price point and the capabilities of this Pentax Cam. Hope to get it soon.
I recently bought this camera after watching this review and what made my final decision was the body , weatherproofing since I am at the beach daily. My last camera did not make it..lol
***** Hello. I've been searching for what camera to buy for about 6 months. Every time I think I've made a decision, I always back out, not wanting to make the wrong one. I think the main two it's boiled down to are the Nikon D3300 or the Pentax k-50. The d3300 is recommended all across the web as a great beginner DSLR (which I am), but once I stumbled across the k-50 I've read good reviews too. The think I am really concerned about the k-50 is the noise. I've heard it is quite noisy, and I'm not sure if that's the best for me. Also, the weight. I've actually looked into mirrorless cameras quite a bit, because I carry my camera around. With all this in mind, which would you suggest? Also, I've considered the Olympus OM-D E-M10. What about that one? I just can't make a decision.
Sarah Hall Seems like you're having a hard time with this decision, Sarah. Jump in. The water's fine.
Is K50 perfect for under water shooting? Or just in rain or pools???
There is large group of people who buy crop-sensor camera as starting point then they collect lenses and upgrade to full-frame one day. The problem with Pentax is the fact that it doesn't have any full-frame DSLR at the moment so none who wants to more serious about photography will rather choose Canon or Nikon.
Second part:
2- The movie mode on pentax is beeing hammered all the time on all reviews... is it that bad? I saw complains about the low light performance and artifacts mostly... I´d like to make some amateur documentary movies about architecture.. is it out of the question for a bit more serious movie capture? I know about the issue with the focus, I dont mind using manual focusing. Would be nice to see some video comparison.
Thanks , and sorry about the english - not my native language.
Canon 700D, Nikon D5200 or Pentax K50? I quite new to DSLR cameras and I dont care much about video features.
Does the pentax k-50 have a histogram? Also how does (or will) it perform when using my old Pentax K-1000 lenses? any info you can give about this would help me decide between this & the Canon T5i
Hey,
I`m considering buying either the Canon Eos 700D or the Pentax K-50.
I`m not sure which one I should get. I want to use it mostly for high quality vacation pictures and filming.
Could you help me to choose a camera? :)