Pentax K-m Review

Today we have chosen to give Pentax K-m a.k.a. Pentax K-2000 an honest user review. When buying an entry level DSLR, it is better to find out some key points that might help you decide. Here are some of the most typical questions that you may take into consideration. Let us start with the product specifications and features.

Product Features

The Pentax K-m has all the features found in Pentax K20D which is high resolution and dust alert found on Pentax K200D , however, it has a bit smaller housing but not as small as Nikon D60. Being smaller makes it’s screen look bigger The sensor’s resolution is similar to Pentax K200D as well as the size. Dimensions are pretty much the same with Canon EOS 1000D.

Having all the function buttons at one side, Pentax K-m can be manipulated with just one hand. But this is not much friendly to lefties.

The additional “Info” button makes it more user-friendly. With just one press of a button, you will be taken to a tour to it’s features and functionality.

What I really like about Pentax K-m is that it uses 4x “AA” batteries. It does not have the rechargeable battery blocks that most of the modern DSLRs today. Imagine when you are on the road and you ran out of battery, with Pentax K-m, you could just buy 4 AAs on the next 7 eleven store.

Pentax K-m Specs

• Resolution: 10.2Mp
• Sensor size: 23.5×15.7mm
• Sensor type: CCD
• Image size: 3872×2592
• Aspect ratio: 3:2
• Focus system: TTL-phase-matching SAFOX VIII
• Focus points: 5 point wide AF
• Lens mount: Pentax KAF2 bayonet
• File type: JPEG, RAW (PEF/DNG)
• Sensitivity: ISO100-3200
• Storage: SD, SDHC
• Focus types: Auto, single, continuous, manual
• Metering system: TTL open aperture 16 segment
• Metering types: Multi, centre-weighted, spot
• Exposure compensation: /- 2EV in 1/3 or /-3EV in 1/2 step increments
• Shutter speed: 30sec-1/4000sec & bulb
• Frames per second: 3.5fps maxFlash: Built in, hotshoe
• Flash metering: P-TTL
• Flash sync speed: 1/180sec
• Image stabilisation: Pentax Shake Reduction
• Integrated cleaning: Yes
• Live view: No
• Viewfinder: Optical fixed moulded penta-mirror type
• Monitor: 2.7in TFT LCD
• Interface: USB 2.0Power: 4x AA batteries
• Size: 122.5×91.5×67.5mm
• Weight: 625g (inc. 4x alkaline batteries and memory card)
• Pentax K-m: Specification

Now we move on to its appearance and performance. Will Pentax K-m deliver a good quality image? Let us find out.

Appearance

Its light body compared to the other players and tight grip makes it easy wield and to shoot whenever needed. Probably the best dslr camera for people who are always on the chase. This digital SLR is also not too bulky, very handy indeed.

Performance

I must say that Pentax K-m/K-2000 really delivers super crisp images. The only thing that bothers me is it is too noisy on high ISO. Though ISO 400 is still tolerable, beyond that it is almost unacceptable. Being unable to raise your ISO in dark situations will lead you to lower shutter speeds or lower aperture that may cause your image to have shakes or motion blurs. I suggest you get a good flash, with it Pentax K-m is unstoppable.

Here are some of the shots taken by Pentax K-m.
(Click the Image to View Full Resolution)

Package

I bought mine with a package of 2 lenses for $850. One with 18-55mm and 50-200mm telephoto. Overall this entry level DSLR is a good buy. It is very affordable, a real value for your money. Nowadays, I know you can get Pentax Km cheaper than $850 for the 2-lens package.

Conclusion

Though K-m lacks weather-sealing, K-m delivers sharp and crisp images when you learn how to set it right. I personally have problems shooting in dark places because of the noise that it gives. But, just equip yourself with the light and flash that you need, then your good to go. As of the price, it is super affordable for the specs and functionality that it delivers.