Pentax SMC DA 18 55mm F 3 5 5 6 AL WR Review | 54 Data compared

The Pentax SMC DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL WR stands out as an unusual kit lens because it offers professional-grade weather resistance, consisting of six seals to protect against dust and humidity. Designed primarily to complement weather-sealed DSLRs like the Pentax K-5, it features a build quality that is clearly above average for its class. The lens body is constructed from high-quality plastics resting on a sturdy metal mount, with both the zoom and focus rings operating smoothly under a rubber coating. Additionally, it includes a non-rotating front element for easy polarizer use and a "Super Protection" (SP) coating to repel dust and prevent fogging. However, the lens has several clear drawbacks, particularly regarding its autofocus system and pricing. The AF mechanism relies on an older camera-driven screw system that generates a high level of noise and, during testing, delivered rather mediocre accuracy. The manual focus ring also rotates during automated focusing, which is a dated and inconvenient design quirk. Finally, at around 200 EUR / 250 USD, it is significantly more expensive than standard consumer kit lenses, which may deter...

The Radojuva review highlights the SMC Pentax-DA 1:3.5-5.6 18-55mm AL WR as a structurally superior kit lens featuring robust weather-resistant (WR) construction and strong flare resistance, outclassing competitors in build quality. Tested on a Pentax K-30, the lens demonstrates excellent handling, good contrast, and normal color reproduction, making it a reliable, durable option for outdoor photography. Conversely, the review notes significant drawbacks, including noticeable distortion and chromatic aberrations, particularly at the 18mm end. Sharpness is described as mediocre, suggesting potential quality control issues, while the lack of an internal image stabilizer is noted, though mitigated by Pentax's in-body system.

The PentaxForums review identifies the SMC Pentax-DA 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL WR as the most impressive standard kit lens version, highlighting its excellent build quality, metal mount, and weather-resistant (WR) sealing as key pros. Optically, it offers solid center sharpness, particularly between 23mm and 35mm, while effectively controlling chromatic aberration and flaring. However, cons include noticeable softness at wider apertures, significant barrel distortion at 18mm, and visible vignetting, along with a small focus ring and noisy autofocus. While offering exceptional value, the lens is slightly more expensive than its non-WR predecessor.

The Pentax K-5, as reviewed by ePHOTOzine, is a robust, semi-professional DSLR featuring excellent weather resistance, a durable magnesium alloy body, and high-quality ergonomic handling. It excels in low-light with exceptional ISO performance, wide dynamic range, and effective in-body shake reduction. While praised for its performance, the review notes minor drawbacks, including a fiddly SD card slot and somewhat slow in-camera HDR processing. Ultimately, the K-5 is described as a highly capable and versatile, compact DSLR for enthusiasts.

The ePHOTOzine review highlights the Pentax K-30 as a robust, fully weather-sealed mid-level DSLR featuring a 16.3-megapixel APS-C sensor, in-body Shake Reduction, and 6fps shooting, all while offering excellent value. It is lauded for producing punchy images, maintaining a 100% field-of-view viewfinder, and providing advanced customization options in a compact, ergonomic design. Conversely, the review notes the camera’s unconventional, angular aesthetics and limited video capabilities, including the lack of a dedicated video button, no external microphone input, and no continuous autofocus during recording. Additionally, while supporting AA batteries, the necessary holder is not included, requiring an extra purchase.