Name: Pentax K-5
Brand: Pentax

Technical Specifications of Pentax K-5

Overall score

6.0

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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

7.3

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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

6.0

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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

4.3

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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

Motion JPEG

Display & Design

5.6

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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

dslr

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-5 vs the average camera

Why is Pentax K-5 better than the average camera?

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In-body stabilization
Pentax K-5 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-5 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
Phase-detect AF for photos
Pentax K-5 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
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
Pentax K-5 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
410 shots longer battery life
Pentax K-5 has longer battery life than the average camera (740 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-5 has longer battery life than the average camera (740 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.740 shots vs 330 shots
Has microphone input
Pentax K-5 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-5 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
Sensor cleaning system
Pentax K-5 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-5 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
1.44 µm larger main-camera pixels
Pentax K-5 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-5 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.4.78 µm vs 3.34 µm
More complete chroma subsampling
Pentax K-5 supports better video chroma subsampling than the average camera (4:2:2 vs 4:2:0). The average camera supports 4:2:0 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
Pentax K-5 supports better video chroma subsampling than the average camera (4:2:2 vs 4:2:0). The average camera supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling.4:2:2 vs 4:2:0
740 mAh larger battery capacity
Pentax K-5 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-5 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
Better viewfinder type
Pentax K-5 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).
17.9% higher magnification
Pentax K-5 has a higher viewfinder magnification than the average camera (0.9x vs 0.78x). The average camera has a viewfinder magnification of 0.78x.
2 more customizable buttons
Pentax K-5 has more customizable buttons than the average camera (2 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.
Sensor cleaning system
Pentax K-5 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
1.44 µm larger main-camera pixels
Pentax K-5 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.
Higher DxOMark landscape score
Pentax K-5 has a higher DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (14.1 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.
25,900 higher expanded ISO
Pentax K-5 has a higher expanded ISO than the average camera (51,200 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.
6,400 higher max ISO
Pentax K-5 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (12,800 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
9 points higher DxOMark sensor score
Pentax K-5 has a higher DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (82 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.
320 points higher DxOMark Sports score
Pentax K-5 has a higher DxOMark sports score than the average camera (1,162 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
Higher DxOMark portrait score
Pentax K-5 has a higher DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (23.7 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.
In-body stabilization
Pentax K-5 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
Phase-detect AF for photos
Pentax K-5 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
Built-in AF motor
Pentax K-5 has a built-in focus motor, the average camera does not.
Lossless compressed RAW
Pentax K-5 supports lossless compressed RAW, while the average camera does not.
1.3 fps faster mechanical burst
Pentax K-5 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (7 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
Has microphone input
Pentax K-5 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
More complete chroma subsampling
Pentax K-5 supports better video chroma subsampling than the average camera (4:2:2 vs 4:2:0). The average camera supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling.
Built-in timelapse
Pentax K-5 includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
33.3% higher video bitrate
Pentax K-5 has a higher video bitrate than the average camera (40 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
410 shots longer battery life
Pentax K-5 has longer battery life than the average camera (740 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
740 mAh larger battery capacity
Pentax K-5 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-5 worse than the average camera?

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87.3% heavier
Pentax K-5 is heavier than the average camera (740 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
23.1 mm taller body
Pentax K-5 is taller than the average camera (97 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
11.1 mm wider
Pentax K-5 is wider than the average camera (131 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
27 mm thicker
Pentax K-5 is thicker than the average camera (73 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
3 older
Pentax K-5 is older than the average camera (2010 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
September 2010
Worse low-light autofocus
Pentax K-5 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 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
Pentax K-5 has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (3 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.
12 fewer AF points
Pentax K-5 has fewer focus points than the average camera (11 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
No continuous video AF
Pentax K-5 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
manual focus only
1 fewer microphones
Pentax K-5 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
Older HDMI version
Pentax K-5 uses HDMI 1.3, while the average camera uses HDMI 1.4.
Worse low-light autofocus
Pentax K-5 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-5 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-5 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
manual focus only
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-5 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
87.3% heavier
Pentax K-5 is heavier than the average camera (740 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-5 is heavier than the average camera (740 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.740 g vs 395 g
1 fewer microphones
Pentax K-5 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
What it is: The number of built-in microphones used to capture audio while recording video.
When it matters: More built-in microphones can capture broader, clearer sound when you record without an external microphone.
Importance: LOW
Good value: At least 2 microphones
Pentax K-5 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.1 vs 2
1 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
Pentax K-5 has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (3 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.
What it is: The official stabilization effectiveness rating measured under CIPA standards, usually expressed in stops.
When it matters: When you compare how effective stabilization really is for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: At least 5 stops
Pentax K-5 has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (3 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.3 stops vs 4 stops
3 older
Pentax K-5 is older than the average camera (2010 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
September 2010
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-5 is older than the average camera (2010 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.2,010 vs 2,013
23.1 mm taller body
Pentax K-5 is taller than the average camera (97 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
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
Pentax K-5 is taller than the average camera (97 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.97 mm vs 73.9 mm
12 fewer AF points
Pentax K-5 has fewer focus points than the average camera (11 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-5 has fewer focus points than the average camera (11 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.11 vs 23

Connectivity & Storage

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Pentax K-5?

Excellent low-light performance and impressive high ISO capabilities (clean images up to ISO 1600/3200)
Robust, magnesium alloy body with exceptional weather sealing
Highly effective built-in in-body image stabilization (Shake Reduction)
Compact, ergonomic design that feels solid and well-balanced
Fast and accurate autofocus, particularly with center cross-type points
Large and bright optical viewfinder with near-100% coverage
Great color rendition and dynamic range
High-resolution 1,000k dot rear LCD screen

What customers dislike about Pentax K-5?

Video capabilities and quality are considered mediocre compared to modern competitors (no dedicated microphone input)
Autofocus speed and tracking can struggle with fast-moving action or sports
Smaller native lens selection compared to ecosystem giants like Canon or Nikon
Smaller grip may feel cramped for photographers with larger hands
Live view autofocus speed is quite slow and tends to drain battery

Expert reviews

dpreview.com

18/12/2010

Pentax K-5 In-depth Review - DPReview

The Pentax K-5 is a compact, rugged 16.3-megapixel APS-C DSLR offering exceptional build quality with class-leading weather sealing, an intuitive layout, and a 100% coverage viewfinder. Notable pros include superb low-light image quality, 7.0 fps shooting, and effective in-body shake reduction, though cons include a high initial price and limited video functionality, such as a lack...Read more

stevehuffphoto.com

10/01/2011

The Pentax K5 Digital Camera Review - Steve Huff

The Pentax K5 is a solid, exceptionally well-made, and compact APS-C DSLR that acts as a highly capable companion for photographers who value a smaller form factor without sacrificing pro-grade features. Upgraded from its predecessor, the K7, this "stealth" camera boasts a 16.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, an impressively quiet and smooth shutter, 7 frames-per-second continuous shooting,...Read more

whatdigitalcamera.com

24/01/2011

Pentax K-5 review - What Digital Camera

The What Digital Camera review describes the Pentax K-5 as a robust, weather-sealed DSLR delivering superior 16.3-megapixel image quality and low noise at high ISO levels. Key strengths highlighted include a 7fps burst mode and 100% viewfinder coverage, marking it as a significant performance upgrade over the K-7. Conversely, the review notes the 1080p video lacks continuous...Read more

cameraderie.org

11/08/2011

The Pentax K5: A Review from the Field | Cameraderie

The Pentax K-5 is described as a compact yet robust "petite cannonball" DSLR, praised for its solid build, excellent ergonomics, and exceptional dynamic range in RAW files that allows for significant shadow recovery. It is noted as a lightweight alternative to larger full-frame cameras, offering high-level performance in a smaller footprint. Conversely, the review notes that the...Read more

pentaxforums.com

20/11/2010

Pentax K-5 Full-length Review by PentaxForums.com

The PentaxForums.com review highlights the Pentax K-5 as a refined, compact, and weather-sealed camera featuring an industry-leading 14+ stops of dynamic range, superior high-ISO performance, and a 7 fps burst rate. It boasts a 100% field-of-view finder and a fast SAFOX IX+ autofocus system, making it ideal for outdoor photography. Key drawbacks identified include a restricted,...Read more

techradar.com

01/08/2012

Pentax K-5 review - TechRadar

The Pentax K-5 is a highly capable DSLR that improves upon its predecessor, the K-7, by introducing a new sensor and an updated SAFOX IX+ autofocus system with 11 focus points (9 cross-type) spread over a wider area. Key feature enhancements include an increased continuous shooting burst rate of 7fps—capable of capturing up to 20 raw frames following a firmware update—and...Read more

digitalkamera.de

13/12/2010

Review: Pentax K-5 (Digitalkamera.de)

The Pentax K-5 is described as a high-performance, compact, and weather-sealed 16.3-megapixel DSLR, offering exceptional ergonomics, robust build quality, and superior image quality featuring an unparalleled dynamic range and low-light performance. Key strengths include a fast, reliable autofocus system and a wealth of advanced functional features packed into a versatile,...Read more

photoinfos.com

2010/2011

Pentax K-5 DSLR Test Review Field Report

The Pentax K-5 is highly praised as a top-tier 16.3-megapixel DSLR that significantly outperforms its predecessor, the K-7, particularly in image quality. Its standout pros include a remarkable dynamic range, exceptional noise control that delivers clean images even at high sensitivities like ISO 3200, and excellent out-of-the-box JPEG processing. The weather-sealed, robust body...Read more

computerbild.de

07/02/2011

Review: Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera - Computer Bild

However, the review highlights several drawbacks, noting that the K-5 misses out on key modern innovations like a touchscreen, built-in GPS, or Wi-Fi capabilities. A major physical complaint is the 3-inch control screen, which remains entirely fixed and cannot flip or rotate like its competitors. While it upgrades video capabilities to Full HD (1080i), video creators will find the...Read more

chip.de

14/09/2011

Pentax K-5 (DSLR up to 1,000 Euros) Review - CHIP

The Pentax K-5 review highlights a semi-professional, mid-range DSLR camera that stands out for its exceptionally rich feature set and highly customizable configuration settings. Built around a 16.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, the camera features a robust magnesium chassis wrapped in a dust- and splash-proof polycarbonate body, making it highly durable yet remarkably compact for its...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

21/10/2010

Pentax K-5 Review", "Pentax K-5 Test

The Les Numériques review of the Pentax K-5 awards the advanced DSLR a 5 out of 5-star rating, praising it for correcting the ISO noise issues of its predecessor, the K-7. The camera integrates a new 16-megapixel Sony CMOS sensor, which provides exceptional image quality and top-tier noise management up to ISO 1600 and 3200. Key pros highlighted include its record-breaking compact...Read more

clubic.com

14/01/2011

Pentax K5 Review: A DSLR for the Eagle-Eyed

The Pentax K-5 is a highly durable and compact expert DSLR camera that fixes the brand's historic weakness in high-ISO low-light performance by offering an expansive native range up to 51,200 ISO. Built with an exceptionally robust, weather-sealed magnesium alloy shell and an integrated 3-axis sensor-shift stabilisation system, it provides high-end premium construction at a...Read more

abricocotier.fr

20/11/2011

Unboxing and Review of a Pentax K-5 - Abricocotier

The AbriCoCotier.fr review highlights the Pentax K-5 as a highly capable and affordable expert-tier DSLR, offering exceptional performance compared to its predecessors (the K10D and K-r) and competitors like the Nikon D7000 and Canon 7D. The reviewers praise its advanced feature set, which includes a 100% viewfinder coverage, a base sensitivity of 100 ISO (unvailable on the K-r),...Read more

xatakafoto.com

13/10/2011

Pentax K-5: We have tested it", "Pentax K-5: Our hands-on review

The Pentax K-5 review from Xataka Foto highlights it as an impressive camera that shook up the market with its class-leading dynamic range and low-noise sensor performance. Built with a robust magnesium-alloy body and extensive weather-sealing, the camera offers professional-grade construction in a highly compact, street-friendly layout. Reviewers highly praise its integrated "Shake...Read more

digitalcamaralens.com

23/07/2026

Pentax K-5 - Test - Review - Digital Camera Lens

This review evaluates the Pentax K-5, specifically highlighting its exceptional ability to recover deep shadow details from a single RAW file with minimal noise. The reviewer notes that this dynamic range performance is atypical for modern DSLRs, drawing comparisons to the medium-format Pentax 645D. When tested against the Nikon D300 using identical lenses and settings, the Pentax...Read more

radojuva.com

19/10/2013

Pentax K-5 Review | Satisfied

The Radojuva review characterizes the 16.3-megapixel Pentax K-5 as a robust, compact, and professionally built APS-C camera with superior ergonomics, weather sealing, and excellent low-noise, high-ISO performance. Key strengths include a fast 7 fps burst rate, built-in Shake Reduction, exceptional dynamic range, and broad compatibility with older manual K-mount lenses. Conversely,...Read more

30/12/2010

Pentax K-5 Review

The DigitalCamaraLens review highlights the Pentax K-5 as a highly versatile and well-performing DSLR, specifically emphasizing its excellent backward compatibility. A major pro is its ability to seamlessly use vintage manual lenses (like the M42 or Praktica systems) while maintaining image stabilization and focus confirmation inside the viewfinder—making it an affordable,...Read more

xataka.com

Pentax K-5 review", "Pentax K-5 tested

The Pentax K-5 review on Xataka highlights this device as one of the most prominent DSLR cameras on the market. It is frequently compared to the Nikon D7000 because they share the same image sensor, which is highly praised for its "zero ISO" capability and exceptional dynamic range. The review notes that the camera delivers a strong overall performance, positioning it as a highly...Read more

saggiamente.com

22/09/2011

Pentax K-5 Review: The alternative that surprises first and then conquers

The Saggiamente review highlights the Pentax K-5 for its robust magnesium alloy build, weather sealing, and compact ergonomics, specifically praising its 16.3-megapixel Sony sensor for exceptional dynamic range and high-ISO performance. Key advantages include in-body shake reduction, a fast 7 fps burst rate, and an efficient sensor-dust removal system. Conversely, the review...Read more

ilfotoamatore.it

01/11/2010

PENTAX K-5: The Evolution of the Species

The Pentax K-5 is a highly versatile semiprofessional DSLR featuring a robust, well-sealed magnesium alloy body with 77 weather seals, a high-resolution 16.28-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, and integrated sensor-shift image stabilization. Lab testing highlights an excellent continuous shooting burst rate of 6.53 frames per second—sustaining up to 31 Jpegs or 23 Raws—alongside a fast...Read more

Pentax K-5 Review | Happy", "Reviewing the Pentax K-5 | Happy

The Radojuva review of the Pentax K-5 highlights the 16.3 MP APS-C camera as a robust, weather-sealed DSLR featuring excellent image quality, wide dynamic range, and effective in-body image stabilization. Performance pros include a 7 frames-per-second burst rate, a large buffer, and a bright 100% viewfinder. YouTube · Conversely, cons include a limited, low-resolution video mode...Read more

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