Pentax K-30 at a glance:
- 16.3-million-pixel, APS-C-sized
- CMOS sensor
- ISO 100-12,800, expandable to
- ISO 25,600
- Optical viewfinder with 100% field of view
- Weather-sealed plastic body
- 11-point AF with 9 cross-type points
- Street price around £650
Pentax’s range of interchangeable-lens cameras of the past year have all demonstrated bold design ideas. The Pentax Q is the smallest interchangeable-lens camera currently available, while the K-01 is the only compact system camera to use an existing DSLR mount (Pentax K) and is labelled ‘for those interested in design’ (and consequently less for those who simply desire intuitive handling). Although Pentax was acquired by Ricoh during the development of the K-30, it is unlikely that Ricoh had much involvement in the design of the camera.
As a DSLR, the K-30 is more conventional in its design than the Q and K-01, but nevertheless entertains some design quirks, such as its angular edges and a dotted rubber and ridged left-hand side. With the K-r no longer in production (although it is still available in some shops), the Pentax K-30 is now one of two Pentax DSLR models, and sits below the K-5 as the entry-level model.
Compared to other brands, the K-30 is an ‘upper’ entry-level camera, competing against models such as the Nikon D5100, Canon EOS 650D and Sony Alpha 57. Traditionally, Pentax DSLRs have had the sort of controls, shooting modes and handling that serious photographers appreciate, and offer more for their money. We expect the K-30 to be no different.
