Name: Pentax K-01
Brand: Pentax

Technical Specifications of Pentax K-01

Overall score

5.7

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.

Sensor & Image

6.6

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Sensor size

What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

Main camera megapixels

What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.

When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

Main camera pixel size

What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.

When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

Base ISO

What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.

When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

Max ISO

What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

Photo Features

5.8

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Lens mount

What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.

When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Pentax KAF2

Built-in focus motor

What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.

When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

N. of focus points

What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.

When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.

When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

AF tracking

What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.

When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

Video & Audio

4.4

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Max video resolution

What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.

When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

Video bitrate

What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.

When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

Video bit depth

What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.

When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

Video chroma subsampling

What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.

When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

Video codecs

What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.

When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264

Display & Design

5.4

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Type

What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.

When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

mirrorless

Weight

What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.

When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

Width

What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.

When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

Height

What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.

When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

Thickness

What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.

When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

Battery & Power

8.9

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Battery life (CIPA)

What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.

When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

Battery capacity

What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).

When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

Removable battery

What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.

When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

USB Power Delivery (PD)

What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.

When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

Connectivity & Storage

2.6

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Wi-Fi connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.

When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

Wi-Fi version

What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.

When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Bluetooth connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.

When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

Bluetooth version

What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.

When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A

USB Type-C

What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.

When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

Pentax K-01 vs the average camera

Why is Pentax K-01 better than the average camera?

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In-body stabilization
Pentax K-01 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
What it is: A stabilization system that physically moves the image sensor to reduce shake during handheld shooting.
When it matters: When you often shoot handheld and want sharper results at slower shutter speeds without relying only on lens stabilization.
Importance: MEDIUM
Pentax K-01 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
Has microphone input
Pentax K-01 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has a microphone input for connecting an external mic.
When it matters: When you record video and want better audio than the built-in microphones can provide.
Importance: LOW
Pentax K-01 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
210 shots longer battery life
Pentax K-01 has longer battery life than the average camera (540 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 400 shots
Pentax K-01 has longer battery life than the average camera (540 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.540 shots vs 330 shots
1.47 µm larger main-camera pixels
Pentax K-01 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (4.8 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: At least 3.5 µm
Pentax K-01 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (4.8 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.4.81 µm vs 3.34 µm
Sensor cleaning system
Pentax K-01 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
Ultrasonic vibration cleaning.
What it is: A built-in mechanism designed to remove or reduce dust particles from the image sensor surface.
When it matters: When you change lenses often and want to reduce the chance of dust spots appearing on your images.
Importance: LOW
Pentax K-01 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
740 mAh larger battery capacity
Pentax K-01 has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,860 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.
Importance: LOW
Good value: At least 1,500 mAh
Pentax K-01 has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,860 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.1860 mAh vs 1120 mAh
58 more AF points
Pentax K-01 has more focus points than the average camera (81 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: At least 200 points
Pentax K-01 has more focus points than the average camera (81 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.81 vs 23
Built-in AF motor
Pentax K-01 has a built-in focus motor, the average camera does not.
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.
Importance: LOW
Pentax K-01 has a built-in focus motor, the average camera does not.
1.47 µm larger main-camera pixels
Pentax K-01 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (4.8 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
Sensor cleaning system
Pentax K-01 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
6,400 higher max ISO
Pentax K-01 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (12,800 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
293 points higher DxOMark Sports score
Pentax K-01 has a higher DxOMark sports score than the average camera (1,135 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
Higher DxOMark landscape score
Pentax K-01 has a higher DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (12.9 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.
Higher DxOMark portrait score
Pentax K-01 has a higher DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (23.7 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.
6 points higher DxOMark sensor score
Pentax K-01 has a higher DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (79 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.
In-body stabilization
Pentax K-01 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
58 more AF points
Pentax K-01 has more focus points than the average camera (81 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
Built-in AF motor
Pentax K-01 has a built-in focus motor, the average camera does not.
Lossless compressed RAW
Pentax K-01 supports lossless compressed RAW, while the average camera does not.
Has microphone input
Pentax K-01 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
Built-in timelapse
Pentax K-01 includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
Supports 24p cinema mode
Pentax K-01 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
210 shots longer battery life
Pentax K-01 has longer battery life than the average camera (540 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
740 mAh larger battery capacity
Pentax K-01 has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,860 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.

Why is Pentax K-01 worse than the average camera?

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42% heavier
Pentax K-01 is heavier than the average camera (561 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
Lower RAW bit depth
Pentax K-01 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
1 older
Pentax K-01 is older than the average camera (2012 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
March 2012
Worse low-light autofocus
Pentax K-01 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (1 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
50,000 fewer shutter cycles
Pentax K-01 has a lower shutter durability than the average camera (50,000 vs 100,000). The average camera is rated for 100,000 shutter cycles.
unofficial estimate
No continuous video AF
Pentax K-01 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
16.7% lower video bitrate
Pentax K-01 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (25 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
Older HDMI version
Pentax K-01 uses HDMI 1.3, while the average camera uses HDMI 1.4.
Worse low-light autofocus
Pentax K-01 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (1 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
What it is: The lowest light level at which the autofocus system is rated to work reliably.
When it matters: When you shoot in dim environments and need autofocus that still locks confidently after dark.
Importance: MEDIUM
Pentax K-01 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (1 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.1 vs -4
No continuous video AF
Pentax K-01 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
What it is: The ability of the camera to keep adjusting focus automatically while video recording is in progress.
When it matters: When you film while subjects or camera distance keep changing and manual refocusing is impractical.
Importance: LOW
Pentax K-01 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
Lower RAW bit depth
Pentax K-01 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
What it is: The number of bits used to encode color and tonal information in RAW files captured by the camera.
When it matters: When you heavily edit RAW photos and want more tonal information for aggressive adjustments.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 14-bit
Pentax K-01 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.12-bit vs 14-bit
42% heavier
Pentax K-01 is heavier than the average camera (561 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: 500 g or less
Pentax K-01 is heavier than the average camera (561 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.561 g vs 395 g
Older HDMI version
Pentax K-01 uses HDMI 1.3, while the average camera uses HDMI 1.4.
What it is: The HDMI standard version supported by the camera's HDMI output.
When it matters: When you care about compatibility with external monitors, recorders, or higher-bandwidth video output.
Importance: LOW
Pentax K-01 uses HDMI 1.3, while the average camera uses HDMI 1.4.1.3 vs 1.4
16.7% lower video bitrate
Pentax K-01 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (25 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 200 Mbps
Pentax K-01 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (25 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.25 Mbps vs 30 Mbps
1 older
Pentax K-01 is older than the average camera (2012 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
March 2012
What it is: The month and year when the camera was officially announced or released.
When it matters: When you want a newer camera with more current features, support, or connectivity.
Importance: LOW
Pentax K-01 is older than the average camera (2012 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.2,012 vs 2,013
50,000 fewer shutter cycles
Pentax K-01 has a lower shutter durability than the average camera (50,000 vs 100,000). The average camera is rated for 100,000 shutter cycles.
unofficial estimate
What it is: The rated number of shutter actuations the mechanical shutter is designed to withstand.
When it matters: When you expect very heavy long-term use and want more confidence in the mechanical shutter lifespan.
Importance: LOW
Good value: At least 200,000 actuations
Pentax K-01 has a lower shutter durability than the average camera (50,000 vs 100,000). The average camera is rated for 100,000 shutter cycles.50,000 vs 100,000

Connectivity & Storage

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Pentax K-01?

Excellent image quality and 16MP APS-C sensor with low noise
Native Pentax K-mount support (no adapter required)
Integrated image stabilization (Shake Reduction) compatible with all lenses
Focus Peaking functionality useful for manual focusing
Solid construction and good battery life
Full HD 1080p video with manual controls

What customers dislike about Pentax K-01?

Slow autofocus compared to mirrorless competitors
Polarizing ergonomic design (large and heavy for mirrorless)
LCD screen may be difficult to see in direct sunlight
Lack of integrated electronic viewfinder (EVF)
It does not have environmental sealing, unlike other Pentax cameras

Expert reviews

digitalkamera.de

05/07/2012

Review: Pentax K-01 Mirrorless System Camera

The digitalkamera.de review of the Pentax K-01 highlights the mirrorless camera as a bold, non-mainstream concept with a 16.3-megapixel APS-C sensor that delivers excellent image quality, crisp photos, and a dynamic range exceeding 10 stops up to ISO 6,400. Pros include high-quality imaging, a 6 fps burst mode, and direct compatibility with K-mount lenses, while the lack of a...Read more

heise.de

23/04/2014

Review: Pentax's new K-01", "On Test: The new Pentax K-01

The Heise review describes the Pentax K-01 as a unique mirrorless camera that offers native compatibility with all K-mount lenses and produces DSLR-quality images using a 16-megapixel APS-C sensor. Its primary pros include this extensive lens support without adapters, while the primary cons are its bulky, non-compact design, lack of a built-in viewfinder, and slow contrast-detection...Read more

neunzehn72.de

24/04/2012

Pentax K-01 Brief Test", "A review of the first year with a Pentax K-01", "Pentax K-01 Review

Here is a summary of the Pentax K-01 review based on the provided text: Review Summary The Pentax K-01 is an APS-C mirrorless camera featuring a polarizing, blocky design reminiscent of Lego or Fischertechnik bricks. On the positive side, the camera offers grand haptics and a premium build quality with high-value tactile buttons that deliver an excellent user feel. Its operation is...Read more

chip.de

23/05/2012

Pentax K-01 (Mirrorless under 1,000 Euros) Review

summary of the camera's performance, strengths, and weaknesses. Review Summary The Pentax K-01 stands out for its bold, unconventional, and blocky geometric design, which results in a bulkier body compared to its mirrorless competitors like the Sony NEX-5N or Olympus PEN E-PL3. However, this extra volume is a deliberate engineering choice to maintain the specific flange focal...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

08/07/2015

Pentax K-01 Review

The Les Numériques review awards the Pentax K-01 camera a low score of 2 out of 5 stars, finding it to be a bold but flawed hybrid camera experiment. The camera's main performance strength lies entirely in its excellent image quality across all ISO sensitivities, utilizing the same 16-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor as the acclaimed Pentax K-5. Additional positive features include a...Read more

27/03/2012

Pentax K-01: The mirrorless camera that steals DSLR lenses

The Pentax K-01 is a highly unconventional mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera designed to stand out in a crowded market through its bold aesthetic choices. Its primary selling point is its native compatibility with legacy K-mount DSLR lenses, skipping the need for a dedicated adapter and giving users immediate access to decades of established optics. Borrowing the acclaimed...Read more

01net.com

20/06/2012

Pentax K-01 Review: A bulky and truly disappointing mirrorless camera

The 01net.com review of the Pentax K-01 mirrorless camera highlights a highly divisive device that pairs exceptional image quality with severe performance and design flaws. On the positive side, the camera inherits the 16.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor from the acclaimed Pentax K-5, resulting in excellent JPEGs and highly workable RAW files that perform reliably up to ISO 3,200. Its...Read more

Pentax K-01 Review | 108 Data compared

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Verdict

Technical Specifications of Pentax K-01

Pentax K-01 vs the average camera

Why is Pentax K-01 better than the average camera?

Why is Pentax K-01 worse than the average camera?

Graphic comparison of Pentax K-01 and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Pentax K-01?

What customers dislike about Pentax K-01?

Expert reviews

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