A Review of the Pentax K70

The Pentax K70 is a small and lightweight camera which is excellent for street photography, portraits, sporting events and landscapes.  There are many perks associated with this model such as built-in wireless capabilities, built-in viewfinders, automatic image stabilisation and a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels.  Still, this is considered to be an entry-level camera.  A relatively heavy weight of 688 grams and a moderately short battery life (approximately 400 shots) may be less appealing to the professional.  Let’s take a look at some of the main features of the Pentax K70.

Design and Durability

Pentax has replaced some of the aesthetics of its K-S2 line of DSLR cameras in order to increase the functionality of the K70.  The body of the unit is highly resistant to moisture and even accidental submersions in water.  It can function in temperatures as low as -10ºC and is said to be much easier to use when wearing gloves (one complaint associated with the K-S2.  In particular, a knurled mode dial will help to prevent slippage when focusing during difficult or cold conditions.

The Pentax K70 weighs in at 688 grams (1.52 pounds) and this is seen as being average for cameras of its class.  A thickness of 74 millimetres is likewise what is to be expected.  Dimensions of 126 x 92 x 74 millimetres allow for easy handling and thanks to the enhanced functionality mentioned earlier, most users should not have a problem manipulating its controls.

Better Resolution and Light Sensitivity

The K70 has also been designed with higher amounts of resolution in mind.  The K-S series offered a 20-megapixel camera and this has now been upgraded to a 24.4-pixel system.  In terms of sheer resolution, this allows the K70 to rank with high-end models such as the K-3 and the K-3 II.  A 14-bit readout is likewise higher than the 12-bit capabilities of past models.

Performance Characteristics

The main difference between the K70 and the flagship variants produced by Pentax is the use of the existing PRIME MII image processing unit.  This prevents the rate of frames per second to top out at six as opposed to the 8.3 fps boasted by the K-3 and the K-3 II.  We should note here that (arguably), this is the only slight drawback.  One advantage that the K70 can claim is that it possesses a sensitivity of 102,400 (ISO).  This is in contrast to the 51,200 level seen in the KS-1 and the KS-2 models.

Some other performance-enhancing features include a high-resolution mode that employs what is known as a Sensor Shift Image Stabilisation system and an anti-alias filter.

The Ultimate Verdict

The Pentax K70 is quite an impressive camera considering its size.  Although not offering shots associated with its full-framed variants, users should expect to enjoy all of the functionality that Pentax has become known for.  While lacking in terms of a low battery life and no existing touch screen, the unit can be ideal for entry-level users and semi-professional photographers.  A price of (approximately) £500 pounds is not bad at all when we consider the number of features that the K70 has to offer.