Name: Pentax K-500
Brand: Pentax

Technical Specifications of Pentax K-500

Overall score

5.6

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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

7.2

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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

3.5

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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

5.7

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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

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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

7.1

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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

2.0

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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-500 vs the average camera

Why is Pentax K-500 better than the average camera?

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In-body stabilization
Pentax K-500 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-500 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
Phase-detect AF for photos
Pentax K-500 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-500 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
44,800 higher max ISO
Pentax K-500 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (51,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
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
Pentax K-500 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (51,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.51,200 vs 6,400
380 shots longer battery life
Pentax K-500 has longer battery life than the average camera (710 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-500 has longer battery life than the average camera (710 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.710 shots vs 330 shots
Sensor cleaning system
Pentax K-500 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-500 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
1.44 µm larger main-camera pixels
Pentax K-500 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-500 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
Better viewfinder type
Pentax K-500 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).
Pentaprism optical viewfinder.
What it is: The type of viewfinder the camera uses to frame the shot, such as optical, electronic, hybrid, or none.
When it matters: When you strongly prefer the clarity of an optical finder, the preview benefits of an electronic one, or no viewfinder at all.
Importance: MEDIUM
Pentax K-500 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).optical vs none
Built-in AF motor
Pentax K-500 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-500 has a built-in focus motor, the average camera does not.
Better viewfinder type
Pentax K-500 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).
17.9% higher magnification
Pentax K-500 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-500 has more customizable buttons than the average camera (2 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.
44,800 higher max ISO
Pentax K-500 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (51,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
Sensor cleaning system
Pentax K-500 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
1.44 µm larger main-camera pixels
Pentax K-500 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-500 has a higher DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (13.1 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.
Higher DxOMark portrait score
Pentax K-500 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-500 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.
245 points higher DxOMark Sports score
Pentax K-500 has a higher DxOMark sports score than the average camera (1,087 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
In-body stabilization
Pentax K-500 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
Phase-detect AF for photos
Pentax K-500 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
Built-in AF motor
Pentax K-500 has a built-in focus motor, the average camera does not.
Built-in timelapse
Pentax K-500 includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
Supports 24p cinema mode
Pentax K-500 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
380 shots longer battery life
Pentax K-500 has longer battery life than the average camera (710 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.

Why is Pentax K-500 worse than the average camera?

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63.5% heavier
Pentax K-500 is heavier than the average camera (646 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
23.1 mm taller body
Pentax K-500 is taller than the average camera (97 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
9.1 mm wider
Pentax K-500 is wider than the average camera (129 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
25 mm thicker
Pentax K-500 is thicker than the average camera (71 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
Lower RAW bit depth
Pentax K-500 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
Worse low-light autofocus
Pentax K-500 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-500 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-500 has fewer focus points than the average camera (11 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
No continuous video AF
Pentax K-500 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
button-press refocus only
1 fewer microphones
Pentax K-500 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
70 mAh smaller battery capacity
Pentax K-500 has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (1,050 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
No HDMI output
Pentax K-500 does not support HDMI output, the average camera does. 78.7% of cameras support HDMI output.
Worse low-light autofocus
Pentax K-500 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-500 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-500 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
button-press refocus 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-500 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
Lower RAW bit depth
Pentax K-500 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-500 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
1 fewer microphones
Pentax K-500 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-500 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.1 vs 2
63.5% heavier
Pentax K-500 is heavier than the average camera (646 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-500 is heavier than the average camera (646 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.646 g vs 395 g
1 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
Pentax K-500 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-500 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
No HDMI output
Pentax K-500 does not support HDMI output, the average camera does. 78.7% of cameras support HDMI output.
What it is: Indicates whether the camera can output video over HDMI to an external monitor or recorder.
When it matters: When you use an external monitor, recorder, or live-production setup.
Importance: LOW
Pentax K-500 does not support HDMI output, the average camera does. 78.7% of cameras support HDMI output.
23.1 mm taller body
Pentax K-500 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-500 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

Connectivity & Storage

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Pentax K-500?

Excellent image quality with impressive high ISO performance and low noise in low-light settings.
Large, bright 100% optical glass pentaprism viewfinder, which is rare for an entry-level camera.
Great ergonomics with a comfortable, large grip and highly customizable controls (dual e-dials).
Excellent built-in sensor-shift image stabilization and 6 fps burst shooting mode.
Versatile power options, capable of operating on standard AA batteries (via an adapter) as well as a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

What customers dislike about Pentax K-500?

Autofocus (AF) points are not illuminated or superimposed in the viewfinder, requiring reliance on the LCD screen to confirm focus areas.
Noisy autofocus mechanism when using the bundled kit lens.
Fixed rear LCD screen (it does not tilt or flip) and lacks a dedicated microphone input.
Slightly heavier and bulkier design compared to some direct Canon or Nikon competitors.
The camera interface and menu system look outdated, and autofocus is slow during video recording.

Expert reviews

ephotozine.com

25/07/2013

Pentax K-500 Digital SLR Review - ePHOTOzine

The Pentax K-500, reviewed by ePHOTOzine, is a high-performing, entry-level DSLR featuring a 16.28-megapixel APS-C sensor that delivers excellent image quality, accurate metering, and exceptional noise control. Based on the K-30, the camera boasts a solid, comfortable build and superior ergonomics compared to competitors in its price range. Key compromises for the budget price point...Read more

whatdigitalcamera.com

31/07/2013

Pentax K-500 Review - What Digital Camera

The What Digital Camera review identifies the Pentax K-500 as a highly capable entry-level DSLR, highlighting its impressive image quality, clean high-ISO performance up to ISO 3200, and robust feature set. Key advantages include its comfortable rubberised handgrip, dual control dials, 6fps burst shooting, and a 100% field-of-view pentaprism viewfinder. Conversely, the review notes...Read more

expertreviews.co.uk

05/11/2013

Pentax K-500 review

The Pentax K-500 is an entry-level digital SLR camera that delivers premium features at a remarkably low price of approximately £350 with an 18-55mm kit lens. In his review for Expert Reviews, Ben Pitt highlights that the K-500 shares the exact same advanced image-processing pipeline, sensor, and rapid shot-to-shot performance as its higher-end sibling, the K-50. Notable pros...Read more

techradar.com

16/01/2014

Hands on: Pentax K-500 review

The Pentax K-500 is an entry-level DSLR equipped with a 16.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and the PRIME M processing engine, both inherited from the older K-30 model. A major benefit of this camera is its body-based Shake Reduction system, which stabilises images across almost any attached K-mount lens and allows for shutter speeds up to three stops slower. Additionally, it offers a...Read more

uk.pcmag.com

26/03/2014

Pentax K-500 - Review 2014

The PCMag UK review highlights the Pentax K-500 as an exceptional entry-level DSLR that brings high-end features to a budget-friendly price point. It is highly praised for its top-notch image quality from a 16-megapixel APS-C sensor, superb high ISO performance, and a fast 5fps burst shooting capability. A major standout feature is its large glass pentaprism viewfinder providing...Read more

pentaxforums.com

23/07/2026

Pentax K-500 Review - Features and Highlights

The Pentax K-500 is an entry-level DSLR that delivers premium, mid-range features at a budget-friendly price point, including a 16.3-megapixel sensor, dual control dials, 6 fps shooting, and a 100% field-of-view glass pentaprism viewfinder. Key advantages highlighted include in-camera Shake Reduction (SR) for all lenses, excellent high-ISO performance, and shared core image quality...Read more

digitalkamera.de

06/09/2013

Pentax K-500 Review - Digitalkamera.de

The Pentax K-500 offers high-end features for its entry-level price, including a 16.3-megapixel APS-C sensor, 6 fps shooting, and in-body image stabilization. Its 100% field-of-view pentaprism viewfinder and dual control dials, which are rare in this class, provide excellent handling and image quality up to ISO 6,400. Key drawbacks include the lack of active AF point illumination in...Read more

chip.de

11/09/2013

Pentax K-500 review - CHIP (DSLRs under 1,000 Euros)

Based on the review, the Pentax K-500 is a compact APS-C digital SLR that breaks the conventions of traditional entry-level cameras by offering advanced, mid-range features at an affordable price point. It delivers impressive image quality from its 16-megapixel sensor, showcasing excellent detail preservation and minimal noise even at high ISO settings up to 51,200. A major standout...Read more

connect-living.de

20/11/2013

Pentax K-500 review - connect-living

The connect-living review highlights the Pentax K-500 as an ideal, value-packed entry-level DSLR that outperforms major competitors like the Canon EOS 100D, Nikon D3200, and Sony Alpha 58 in several key hardware categories. Evaluated at a launch price of €450, its standout pros include a solid 16-megapixel sensor that delivers excellent low-light performance up to ISO 51,200,...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

21/01/2014

Pentax K-500 Review: A basic but slightly outdated DSLR", "Pentax K-500: The true expert DSLR at an entry-level price", "Pentax K-50 and K-500: The re...

summary of the Pentax K-500 review: The Pentax K-500 is a budget-friendly entry-level DSLR that shares many specifications with the K-50 but strips away its all-weather weather-sealing. Built on a reliable and robust chassis, the camera stands out in its class by offering advanced features typically reserved for higher-end models, such as a 100% coverage viewfinder, a highly...Read more

chassimages.com

14/04/2014

Canon EOS 1200D, Nikon D3300, Pentax K-500: Pierre-Marie tests three entry-level DSLRs

This overview details the contents of the May 2014 issue (n° 363) of the French photography magazine Chasseur d'Images. A major highlight of this issue is an entry-level DSLR shootout testing the Canon EOS 1200D, Nikon D3300, and Pentax K-500, alongside an in-depth evaluation of 2014-era "big-zoom" compact cameras. Additionally, the magazine includes a feature on their proprietary...Read more

fotocamerapro.it

04/04/2026

Pentax K-500 Review and Price Entry Level DSLR - FotocameraPro

The Pentax K-500 review highlights this entry-level DSLR as a highly capable and budget-friendly option for photographers transitioning from compact digital cameras into professional shooting. Achieving an overall score of 86%, the camera is praised for its exceptional 95% performance rating and 92% image quality, driven by a 16.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and a broad ISO range...Read more

Pentax K-500 Review | 108 Data compared

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Technical Specifications of Pentax K-500

Pentax K-500 vs the average camera

Why is Pentax K-500 better than the average camera?

Why is Pentax K-500 worse than the average camera?

Graphic comparison of Pentax K-500 and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Pentax K-500?

What customers dislike about Pentax K-500?

Expert reviews

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