OVERALL
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
ALTERNATIVES

Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR Review | 54 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price in UK: ~£970
  • Avg. price in US: ~$1,100
  • Lens mount: Pentax K
  • Maximum focal length: 210 mm
  • Maximum aperture (telephoto end): 4
  • Optical image stabilization: no
  • Maximum angle of view: 34.5 °

Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR review. Compare 54 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among camera lenses and if it is worth buying.

8.1

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera lens's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best camera lenses on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

7.7

Technical Score

20.0%

9.4

User score

Excellent
7.7

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera lens's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sharpness, aperture flexibility, autofocus, stabilization, build quality, mount compatibility, close-focus performance, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare camera lenses based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

35.0%

8.2

Optics & Aperture

24.0%

9.1

Build & Handling

20.0%

6.1

Focus & Controls

10.0%

9.0

Lab Scores

8.0%

4.2

Stabilization

3.0%

8.2

Mount & Format

Very good
9.4

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera lens.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

9.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.8
(33)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(564)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Exceptional
  • 7.1
    Low-light photography

    Score components:

    70.0%

    9.7

    Maximum aperture (telephoto end)

    30.0%

    1.0

    Optical image stabilization

  • 6.7
    Travel

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.2

    Lens length

    25.0%

    7.6

    Lens diameter

    25.0%

    10

    Weather sealing (splashproof)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Optical image stabilization

  • pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
  • pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
  • pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
  • pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
  • pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
  • pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
  • pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
  • pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
  • pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
  • pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
  • pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
  • pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr
pentax-d-hd-fa-70-210mm-f-4-ed-sdm-wr

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Pentax HD D FA 70-210mm f/4 ED SDM WR is a compact, full-frame telephoto zoom lens featuring a constant f/4 maximum aperture, a 9-blade circular diaphragm, and a weather-resistant (WR) construction. Its optical design consists of 20 elements in 14 groups, including three Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements and two anomalous dispersion elements to reduce chromatic aberration and enhance edge-to-edge sharpness. Key advantages include its lightweight 819g build, a fast and quiet Supersonic Direct-drive Motor (SDM), and a class-leading minimum focus distance of 0.95m with a 0.32x maximum magnification. However, some users note potential cons such as slightly softer performance at the 210mm long end, the absence of an included tripod collar or lens pouch, and a build that utilizes more plastic than higher-tier professional alternatives.

Technical Specifications of Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera lens's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sharpness, aperture flexibility, autofocus, stabilization, build quality, mount compatibility, close-focus performance, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare camera lenses based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

35.0%

8.2

Optics & Aperture

24.0%

9.1

Build & Handling

20.0%

6.1

Focus & Controls

10.0%

9.0

Lab Scores

8.0%

4.2

Stabilization

3.0%

8.2

Mount & Format

7.7
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a technical score of 7.75 points, which is higher than 77.4% of camera lenses.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera lens.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

9.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.8
(33)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(564)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

9.4
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a user score of 9.44 points, which is higher than 87.7% of camera lenses.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera lens.
When it matters: When you want to see which camera lenses attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
10
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 69.2% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera lens's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

8.1

Overall score

40.0%

5.4

Price

7.3
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.3 points, which is higher than 44.1% of products in this category.
Lens type
What it is: The optical category that indicates whether the lens is a prime, zoom, macro, fisheye, or another design.
When it matters: When you are choosing between a prime, zoom, macro, or specialty lens for the kind of subjects you shoot.

Importance: LOW

telephoto zoom
Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which cameras the lens can be attached to.
When it matters: When camera compatibility and access to the right lens ecosystem are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Pentax K
Sensor format coverage
What it is: The largest sensor size the lens is designed to cover without severe vignetting.
When it matters: When you need the lens to fully cover your camera sensor without heavy corner darkening.

Importance: LOW

Full-frame
Filter thread size
What it is: The diameter of the front filter thread used for screw-in filters and compatible accessories.
When it matters: When you plan to use screw-in filters such as polarizers, ND filters, or protective glass.

Importance: LOW

67 mm
Teleconverter compatibility
What it is: Whether the lens can be used with compatible teleconverters to extend focal length.
When it matters: When you want to extend reach for wildlife or sports without changing to a different long lens.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR supports teleconverters. 15.2% of camera lenses support teleconverters.
Show more
Minimum focal length
What it is: The shortest focal length the lens can provide, which determines its widest framing.
When it matters: When wide framing matters for landscapes, interiors, architecture, or travel shots.

Importance: LOW

70 mm
Maximum focal length
What it is: The longest focal length the lens can reach, which determines its telephoto reach.
When it matters: When you need more reach for wildlife, sports, stage events, or distant details.

Importance: LOW

210 mm
Optical zoom
What it is: The ratio between the longest and shortest focal lengths available in the lens zoom range.
When it matters: When you want one lens to cover a broader range of compositions without swapping glass.

Importance: LOW

3x
Maximum angle of view
What it is: The widest scene the lens can capture at its shortest focal length.
When it matters: When you need to fit more of a room, skyline, or landscape into the frame.

Importance: LOW

34.5 °
Minimum angle of view
What it is: The narrowest scene the lens captures at its longest focal length.
When it matters: When you want tighter framing on faraway subjects without moving closer.

Importance: LOW

11.8 °
Show more
Focus motor
What it is: The autofocus drive system responsible for moving lens elements into focus.
When it matters: When fast, quiet autofocus matters for video, wildlife, street shots, or moving subjects.

Importance: LOW

SDM
Minimum focus distance
What it is: The shortest distance at which the lens can focus on a subject.
When it matters: When you like shooting details, food, flowers, or products from a very short distance.

Importance: MEDIUM

0.95 m
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR focuses as close as 0.95 m, which is farther than 85.3% of camera lenses and equal to 0.9% of camera lenses.
Maximum reproduction ratio
What it is: The highest magnification the lens can achieve when focusing at its closest distance.
When it matters: When close-up magnification matters for macro work, textures, or small product details.

Importance: MEDIUM

0.32x
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR reaches a reproduction ratio of 0.32x, which is higher than 84.3% of camera lenses and equal to 1% of camera lenses.
Full-time manual focus
What it is: The ability to adjust focus manually without leaving autofocus mode.
When it matters: When you want to fine-tune focus instantly without switching out of autofocus.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR supports full-time manual focus. 68.3% of camera lenses support full-time manual focus.
Internal focusing
What it is: A focusing design in which internal elements move while the outer barrel length stays unchanged.
When it matters: When you use polarizers, gimbals, or close-up setups that benefit from a lens that does not extend while focusing.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR supports internal focusing. 83.6% of camera lenses support internal focusing.
Show more
Optical image stabilization
What it is: A hardware system that shifts optical elements to counteract camera shake and reduce blur.
When it matters: When you want steadier handheld shots and less blur, especially in low light or at longer focal lengths.

Importance: HIGH

no
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR does not support optical image stabilization. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
Stabilization effectiveness (CIPA stops)
What it is: The rated stabilizer benefit, measured in stops, under CIPA testing standards.
When it matters: When you are comparing stabilized lenses and want to know how much handheld shutter-speed advantage they offer.

Importance: HIGH

?
Weight
What it is: The total mass of the lens, affecting portability and handling balance on the camera body.
When it matters: When you carry a lens all day for travel, hiking, or event coverage and want to keep your kit manageable.

Importance: HIGH

859 g
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR weighs 859 g, which is heavier than 76.6% of camera lenses.
Lens length
What it is: The physical length of the lens body from mount to front edge.
When it matters: When bag space, balance, or front clearance matters in a compact travel or video setup.

Importance: HIGH

175 mm
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR is 175 mm long, which is longer than 88.4% of camera lenses and equal to the length of 0.1% of camera lenses.
Lens diameter
What it is: The widest outer diameter of the lens barrel.
When it matters: When grip comfort, filter size, or fit inside a tight camera bag matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

78.5 mm
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a diameter of 78.5 mm, which is wider than 54.9% of camera lenses and equal to that of 0.6% of camera lenses.
Weather sealing (splashproof)
What it is: Protective sealing intended to resist splashes, dust, and light environmental exposure.
When it matters: When you often shoot outdoors in light rain, dust, or changing conditions.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR supports weather sealing. 50.2% of camera lenses support weather sealing.
Metal mount
What it is: A lens mount made of metal rather than plastic for greater durability at the camera connection point.
When it matters: When durability matters because you change lenses often or use heavier gear for work.

Importance: HIGH

?
Show more
DxOMark overall score
What it is: The combined DxOMark lens rating based on lab-tested optical performance.
When it matters: When you want a quick lab-based summary of overall optical performance before comparing lenses in detail.

Importance: HIGH

?
DxOMark sharpness score
What it is: The DxOMark subscore that reflects how much detail the lens can resolve across the frame.
When it matters: When fine detail matters for landscapes, product work, or high-resolution cameras.

Importance: HIGH

?
DxOMark transmission
What it is: The measured light transmission of the lens, expressed as T-stop rather than nominal f-number.
When it matters: When real light loss matters for exposure consistency in studio, cinema, or mixed-lens shoots.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
DxOMark distortion
What it is: The DxOMark metric that measures how much the lens bends straight lines away from their true shape.
When it matters: When straight lines matter in architecture, interiors, copy work, or product photography.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
DxOMark vignetting
What it is: The DxOMark measurement of corner darkening relative to the center of the image.
When it matters: When even corner brightness matters for skies, studio backdrops, or clean product shots.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Show more

Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR vs the average camera lens

  • Teleconverter compatible
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR supports teleconverters, while the average camera lens does not.
    What it is: Whether the lens can be used with compatible teleconverters to extend focal length.
    When it matters: When you want to extend reach for wildlife or sports without changing to a different long lens.

    Importance: HIGH

    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR supports teleconverters, while the average camera lens does not.
  • Has fluorine coating
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a fluorine coating, the average camera lens does not. 25.5% of camera lenses use a fluorine coating.
    What it is: A protective coating on exposed elements that repels water, oil, and dirt for easier cleaning.
    When it matters: When you shoot in rain, sea spray, or dusty places and want easier front-element cleaning.

    Importance: HIGH

    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a fluorine coating, the average camera lens does not. 25.5% of camera lenses use a fluorine coating.
  • Has internal zoom
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has internal zoom, the average camera lens does not. 10% of camera lenses support internal zoom.
    Maintains length during zooming.
    What it is: A zoom design that changes focal length without extending the outer barrel.
    When it matters: When balance on a gimbal or tripod matters and you do not want the lens length to change while zooming.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has internal zoom, the average camera lens does not. 10% of camera lenses support internal zoom.
  • Has focus limiter switch
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a focus limiter switch, the average camera lens does not. 16.4% of camera lenses include a focus limiter switch.
    What it is: A control that restricts the focus range to improve autofocus speed and reduce hunting.
    When it matters: When autofocus speed matters and you want to stop the lens from hunting through its full focus range.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a focus limiter switch, the average camera lens does not. 16.4% of camera lenses include a focus limiter switch.
  • Newer release date
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR was released more recently than the average camera lens.
    February 2020
    What it is: The date when the lens model was first officially introduced.
    When it matters: When you prefer a newer optical design with more modern autofocus, coatings, or stabilization features.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR was released more recently than the average camera lens.2020 vs 2016
  • 1 more low-dispersion elements
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has more low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (3 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.
    What it is: Optical elements designed to reduce color fringing by controlling how different wavelengths focus.
    When it matters: When you want cleaner edges and less color fringing in high-contrast scenes.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has more low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (3 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.3 vs 2
  • 0.13 x higher maximum reproduction ratio
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a higher maximum reproduction ratio than the average camera lens (0.3x vs 0.192x). The average lens has a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.192x.
    What it is: The highest magnification the lens can achieve when focusing at its closest distance.
    When it matters: When close-up magnification matters for macro work, textures, or small product details.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a higher maximum reproduction ratio than the average camera lens (0.3x vs 0.192x). The average lens has a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.192x.0.32 x vs 0.192 x
  • 16.7% higher user score
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a higher user score than the average camera lens (9.44 vs 8.091).
    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera lens.
    When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a higher user score than the average camera lens (9.44 vs 8.091).9.44 vs 8.09
  • Teleconverter compatible
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR supports teleconverters, while the average camera lens does not.
  • 1 more low-dispersion elements
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has more low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (3 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.
  • Has internal zoom
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has internal zoom, the average camera lens does not. 10% of camera lenses support internal zoom.
  • Has focus limiter switch
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a focus limiter switch, the average camera lens does not. 16.4% of camera lenses include a focus limiter switch.
  • 0.13 x higher maximum reproduction ratio
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a higher maximum reproduction ratio than the average camera lens (0.3x vs 0.192x). The average lens has a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.192x.
  • Has fluorine coating
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a fluorine coating, the average camera lens does not. 25.5% of camera lenses use a fluorine coating.
  • Newer release date
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR was released more recently than the average camera lens.

Total
Overall
Mount & Format
Optics & Aperture
Focus & Controls
Build & Handling
  • 1.2 higher f-number at telephoto end
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a dimmer maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/4 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.
  • 2 fewer aspherical elements
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.
  • 0.65 m longer minimum focus distance
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a higher minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (1 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
  • 83 mm longer lens
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR is longer than the average camera lens (175 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
  • 333.6 g heavier
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR is heavier than the average camera lens (859 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.
  • 1.5 mm wider lens barrel
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR is wider than the average camera lens (78.5 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.
  • 1.2 higher f-number at telephoto end
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a dimmer maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/4 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.
    What it is: The widest aperture available at the long end of the zoom range, affecting light intake and background blur.
    When it matters: When you shoot at the long end in low light or want stronger background blur for portraits and sports.

    Importance: HIGH

    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a dimmer maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/4 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.4 vs 2.8
  • 83 mm longer lens
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR is longer than the average camera lens (175 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
    What it is: The physical length of the lens body from mount to front edge.
    When it matters: When bag space, balance, or front clearance matters in a compact travel or video setup.

    Importance: HIGH

    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR is longer than the average camera lens (175 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.175 mm vs 92 mm
  • 333.6 g heavier
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR is heavier than the average camera lens (859 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.
    What it is: The total mass of the lens, affecting portability and handling balance on the camera body.
    When it matters: When you carry a lens all day for travel, hiking, or event coverage and want to keep your kit manageable.

    Importance: HIGH

    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR is heavier than the average camera lens (859 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.859 g vs 525.4 g
  • 0.65 m longer minimum focus distance
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a higher minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (1 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
    What it is: The shortest distance at which the lens can focus on a subject.
    When it matters: When you like shooting details, food, flowers, or products from a very short distance.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has a higher minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (1 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.0.95 m vs 0.3 m
  • 2 fewer aspherical elements
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.
    What it is: Specially shaped lens elements used to reduce distortion and improve sharpness with fewer optical compromises.
    When it matters: When edge sharpness and lower distortion matter in wide-angle, travel, or everyday shooting.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.0 vs 2
  • 83% more expensive
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR is more expensive than the average camera lens (£970 vs £530).
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR is more expensive than the average camera lens (£970 vs £530).£970 vs £530
  • 1.5 mm wider lens barrel
    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR is wider than the average camera lens (78.5 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.
    What it is: The widest outer diameter of the lens barrel.
    When it matters: When grip comfort, filter size, or fit inside a tight camera bag matters to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR is wider than the average camera lens (78.5 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.78.5 mm vs 77 mm
Total
Overall
Optics & Aperture
Focus & Controls
Build & Handling

Graphic comparison of Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR and

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.8
33 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
564 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR?

  • Excellent center sharpness across the zoom range
  • Lightweight and compact design compared to f/2.8 alternatives
  • Effective weather-resistant construction
  • Internal zoom mechanism prevents lens extension and dust intake
  • High magnification ratio (0.32x) for close-up shots
  • Smooth and pleasing bokeh quality
  • Strong flare and ghosting control due to HD coating

What customers dislike about Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR?

  • Edges can be soft, particularly at the 210mm long end
  • Autofocus can hunt or experience jitters during continuous tracking
  • SDM motor is quiet but not as fast as Pentax PLM lenses
  • Higher price point compared to the similar Tamron model it is based on
  • Reports of front/back focusing requiring initial calibration
  • Extensive use of plastic in the external construction

Expert reviews

E
ephotozine.com
25/03/2020
Summary of the review
Pentax HD D FA 70-210mm f/4 ED SDM WR Review(pentaxforums.com) | February 20, 2020 | HD Pentax-D FA 70-210mm F4 ED SDM WR Review
P
pentaxuser.com
25/03/2020
Summary of the review
HD Pentax-D FA 70-210mm f/4 ED SDM WR Lens Review
P
pentaxforums.com
07/04/2020
Summary of the review
HD Pentax-D FA 70-210mm F4 ED SDM WR Review
E
ephotozine.com
03/04/2020
Summary of the review
Pentax HD D FA 70-210mm f/4 ED SDM WR Review - Performance
R
reichenbaecher-fotografie.de
13/02/2020
Summary of the review
Short Review: HD PENTAX-D FA 70-210mm F4 ED SDM WR
(Translated)Show original
L
lenaick.wordpress.com
24/02/2020
Summary of the review
Review of the HD PENTAX-D FA 70-210 mm f/4 ED SDM WR - Photo Passion
(Translated)Show original
S
shoot.be
25/03/2020
Summary of the review
Pentax-D FA 70-210mm F4: New telephoto zoom lens tested
(Translated)Show original

Video reviews

Best alternatives

sony-fe-70-200mm-f4-g-oss
Sony FE 70 200mm F4 G OSS

Camera lenses

8.5
canon-ef-70-200mm-f-2-8l-is-ii-usm
Canon EF 70 200mm F 2 8L IS II USM

Camera lenses

8.3
olympus-m-zuiko-ed-40-150mm-f-2-8-pro
Olympus M.Zuiko ED 40 150mm F 2 8 Pro

Camera lenses

8.2
canon-ef-70-200mm-f-4l-is-usm
Canon EF 70 200mm F 4L IS USM

Camera lenses

8.1
tamron-70-180mm-f-2-8-di-iii-vxd
Tamron 70 180mm F 2 8 Di III VXD

Camera lenses

8.0
sony-fe-70-300mm-f4-5-5-6-g-oss
Sony FE 70 300mm F4 5 5 6 G OSS

Camera lenses

8.3
tamron-sp-70-200mm-f-2-8-di-vc-usd
Tamron SP 70 200mm F 2 8 Di VC USD

Camera lenses

8.0
sigma-70-200-f-2-8-dg-os-hsm-s
Sigma 70 200 F 2 8 DG OS HSM S

Camera lenses

8.6
canon-ef-70-200mm-f-2-8l-usm
Canon EF 70 200mm F 2 8L USM

Camera lenses

7.4
nikon-nikkor-z-mc-105mm-f-2-8-vr-s
Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm F 2 8 VR S

Camera lenses

8.4
tamron-sp-70-200mm-f-2-8-di-vc-usd-g2
Tamron SP 70 200mm F 2 8 Di VC USD G2

Camera lenses

8.7
fujifilm-xf-50-140mm-f-2-8-r-lm-ois-wr
Fujifilm XF 50 140mm F 2 8 R LM OIS WR

Camera lenses

8.4

Compare Pentax D HD FA 70 210mm F 4 ED SDM WR with

VS
VS

Compare