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Sep 16 2009

Pentax K20D 14.6MP Digital SLR Camera with Shake Reduction and DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II Lens

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Pentax K20D 14.6MP Digital SLR Camera with Shake Reduction and DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II Lens
 
Manufacturer: Pentax
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List Price: $779.95
Sale Price: $764.97
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Product Description

Improving on the technology of the award winning K10D, the flagship Pentax K20D is the highest-resolution camera in the advanced photo enthusiast category and allows more experienced photographers, who demand complete control, to fully customize the camera. The most significant features in the K20D include:

  • A newly-developed CMOS image sensor to bring out the optimum performance of Pentax interchangeable lenses. Featuring 14.6 effective megapixels and the latest noise-reduction technology, the sensor assures superb image quality.
  • Custom Image functions that allow users to select between six preset options and further adjust image processing, including saturation, hue, contrast and sharpness. The K20D also offers an Expanded Dynamic Range function that allows users to gain more contrast and detail in bright settings.
  • A Live View that allows users to see the full image area to confirm composition, focus status and lighting on the large, 2.7-inch LCD monitor. A grid display may be engaged to help assure the perfect arrangement of an image and Auto focus may be activated by simply pressing the AF button on the back of the camera. Further fine tuning of the image can be confirmed with the 4x or 8x zoom option.
  • An improved Dust Reduction system that features the new Dust Alert function to pinpoint the exact location of dust particles for the photographer to remove.
  • A weather and dust-resistant body that allow photographers to keep shooting even in harsh conditions.
  • A PC sync socket for more advanced photographers who use studio lighting.

Pentax K20K Digital SLR Highlights

Newly Developed CMOS Image Sensor The Pentax K20D features a newly developed CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) image sensor measuring 23.4 mm x 15.6 mm. In designing the K20D, Pentax made the significant transition to a higher resolution 14.6 megapixel sensor, rivaling the detail previously only found in images captured with 35mm film. This considerable gain offers 50 percent more resolution than 10 megapixel sensors, and 20 percent more resolution than 12 megapixel sensors. Pentax Imaging (a leading innovator in the imaging business) collaborated with Samsung Electronics (a market leader in developing and producing semiconductors) in the development of the 14.6 megapixel CMOS Sensor found in the Pentax K20D Digital SLR. The larger photo diode in the sensor gathers more light in a shorter time and therefore can respond more sensitively. As a result, the K20D is able to achieve higher sensitivity levels (up to 6400 in the expanded ISO mode). Also, there is a more direct light path to the pixels. Coupled with a high-performance imaging engine incorporating Pentax-original image-processing technologies programmed to yield natural, true-to-life images, the new model assures fine-detailed, rich-gradation images.

Pentax Original Shake Reduction mechanism The K20D is equipped with the Pentax-developed Shake Reduction mechanism, which reduces camera shake for sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting conditions, such as shooting with a telephoto lens, shooting in low light conditions or at night without supplementary flash illumination, or using extended exposures for sunset scenes. This innovative mechanism offers outstanding compensation equivalent to approximately 2.5 to 4 shutter-speed steps. In addition, the lighter image sensor unit and refined data-control algorithm offer improved image stabilization over previous models. Pentax Shake Reduction is compatible with existing Pentax interchangeable lenses.*
* Lenses compatible with this mechanism are: Pentax K-, KA-, KAF- and KAF2-mount lenses, screw-mount lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be applicable with certain lenses.

Large, 2.7-inch wide-view LCD monitor The K20D features a large 2.7 inch color LCD monitor. The wide-view design allows the photographer to view the monitor image from approximately 160 degrees both vertically and horizontally. Since it assures effortless image viewing from a diagonal position, it facilitates low- and high-angle shooting using the Live View function.

New Live View function The K20D features a Live View function that allows users to view an image on the LCD monitor during shooting. This feature is beneficial when the photographer moves his or her eye from the viewfinder in specialized applications, such as low and high-angle shooting, or when perfecting composition. The function also allows users to confirm the Shake-Reduction effect on the monitor while shooting.

High-performance, high-speed PRIME Imaging Engine The K20D incorporates the Pentax-original PRIME (Pentax Real IMage Engine). Designed exclusively for Pentax digital SLR cameras, the engine ensures well-balanced, true-to-life images with faithful color reproduction by efficiently controlling digital signals transmitted by the CMOS image sensor. It also allows complete control over other photographic factors including white balance and the new Custom Image functions. This imaging engine also features a Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) memory to assure speedy image processing and high-speed data transfer.

Custom Image function The K20D is equipped with a new Custom Image function that lets the user select one of the six modes and adjust an image’s processing to their preference by automatically adjusting tone, saturation, contrast, and sharpness. These modes include Natural, Bright, Portrait, Landscape, Vibrant, and B&W image modes. The photographer can make further fine-tuned adjustments to each setting. The effect on each of the primary colors is shown in a radar-type display on the LCD panel. The user can easily see the effect of their adjustments by using the digital preview option.

Expanded Dynamic Range Function The K20D adds a dynamic-range expansion function, which allows the user to expand the dynamic range (or range of gradation reproduction) while retaining the proper contrast to avoid white-washed areas. With an approximately 1EV expansion effect, it assures beautiful, rich-gradation images.

Dust-proof, water-resistant construction The K20D boasts an extremely reliable weather-resistant and dust-proof construction with special seals applied to 72 different parts of the camera body, including the shutter release button and all the switches, levers, dials. This dependable body makes it possible to use the K20D in the rain or dusty locations without worries.

Comprehensive Dust Removal System With Prevention, Removal and Alerting Devices The K20D features the user-friendly Dust Removal system to prevent dust from sticking to the surface of the CMOS image sensor (or low-pass filter). The Pentax-original Super Protect (SP) coating, applied to the image sensor surface through vapor deposition of a fluorine compound, effectively prevents dust from sticking to the surface. In the next step, dust that may remain on the surface will be shaken off when the system shifts the image sensor at high speed. Finally, the dust that is shaken off the image sensor falls onto an adhesive strip positioned at the bottom of the unit, eliminating any possibility of the dust returning to the image sensor surface. This upgraded Dust Reduction system also offers a new Dust Alert function, which shows the user exactly where dust may be sticking to the sensor surface.

The K20D also features a versatile exposure system for faithful reproduction of creative intentions:

Hyper Program Function The K20D’s Hyper Program function allows users to instantly switch to the Shutter-Priority or Aperture-Priority AE mode from the Programmed AE mode with a simple turn of the electronic dials on the grip. To return to the Programmed AE mode, simply press the green button positioned next to the shutter release button.

Hyper Manual Function When shooting in Manual mode, one push of the green button allows the user to instantly set the proper exposure for the subject.

Sensitivity-Priority mode The K20D features a unique Sensitivity-Priority (Sv) mode designed to automatically select the optimum combination of aperture and shutter speed for a user-selected sensitivity. The sensitivity can be shifted instantly in 1/2 or 1/3 steps by turning the electronic dial on the back panel.

Shutter/Aperture-Priority mode Taking full advantage of the unique capability of digital cameras, which permit automatic shift of sensitivity at any time, the Shutter/Aperture-Priority (TAv) mode automatically selects the most appropriate sensitivity for a user-selected shutter-speed/aperture combination. This mode allows users to experiment with a greater range of photographic expressions with greater ease.

Bright, clear viewfinder Featuring a glass pentaprism, the K20D’s viewfinder offers an approximately 95 percent field of view and an approximately 0.95x magnification for easy viewing of the subject and effortless confirmation of focus and composition. Coupled with the acclaimed Natural-Bright-Matte II focusing screen, it delivers a large, bright subject image.

Continuous shooting at approximately three images per second To trace the movement of an active subject or capture a sequence of the subject’s expressions, the K20D offers a continuous shooting mode that allows the photographer to capture as many as 38 images in succession (in JPEG recording format) at a maximum speed of approximately three images (frames) per second. When switched to the new high-speed advance mode, the user may capture up to approximately 115 images at the speed of approximately 21 images per second.*
* The image size is fixed at 1.6 megapixels in the Burst Shooting mode.

High-precision 11-point wide-frame AF The K20D’s sophisticated SAFOX VIII autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors) to automatically focus on the subject with utmost precision, even when it is positioned off center. When the subject is captured in focus, the in-focus sensor point is automatically superimposed in red in the viewfinder for at-a-glance confirmation.

Powerful rechargeable batteries The K20D features large capacity Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, which can capture approximately 740 images when fully charged. The dramatically improved battery capacity (over the previous K10D) is the result of a new energy saving design.

Additional Features
  • A PC Sync socket for shooting with studio lights. The camera remains weather and dust sealed even when the PC socket cap is removed.
  • Choice of 16-segment multi-pattern metering, center-weighted metering and spot metering to accommodate various photographic applications
  • Reliable, durable shutter unit assuring more than 100,000 shutter releases
  • High-rigidity stainless-steel chassis
  • 36 custom functions to personalize camera operations
  • Universal-type X-sync socket
  • RAW button for single-action image-file switching
  • Digital Preview for verifying camera settings
  • Optional Battery Grip (D-BG2) for extended shooting sessions
  • Nine digital filters to add creative and artistic touches
  • In-body RAW data development for image filing in JPEG and TIFF formats
  • Compatibility with SDM equipped lenses for quiet, extra-smooth autofocus operation
  • Pentax PHOTO Laboratory 3, RAW data processing software, Pentax PHOTO Browser 3, browser software and Pentax REMOTE Assistant 3, camera control software, included on the accompanying CD-ROM

Product Details
  • 14.6-megapixel resolution captures enough detail for poster-sized prints
  • 2.7-inch LCD display; Kit includes 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II Lens
  • Dust-proof, water-resistant construction; comprehensive Dust Removal system
  • New Live View function
  • Capture images to SD/SDHC cards (not included)

Video Reviews
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Customer Reviews
A hands on review of Pentax's new flagship digital SLR
 
Review Date: May 9, 2008
Reviewer: James E. Maynard, Seattle WA USA
I have been a Pentax owner since the 1950's when the first Heiland Pentax SLR was introduced to the market. This is my 3rd Pentax digital SLR, the first two being the 6 megapixel 1stDS and the 10 megapixel K10D. This new model is a significant upgrade from the K10D, and at 14.6 megapixels, provides significantly more resolution in the crops I make from the original images. What this allows is for me to go to smaller crops (increased area enlargement) and still maintain excellent resolution. Another significant feature is the new imaging device from Samsung, producing, for me, low noise excellent quality photos at sensitivities as high as 1600 ISO.
To me, one of the most significant features of this camera, also found on my earlier K10D, is the RAW button on the left side of the camera body. This enables me to shoot most of my photos in JPEG, but allows me to go to RAW for a single image that I really want to get the most out of. This feature really conserves memory card space, but allows shooting of intermittent RAW images when they are really needed. This is a feature that I believe is unique to Pentax. At the highest quality (least compression) JPEG setting, the camera produces 10 megabyte images, which provide plenty of detail and excellent color.
The quality of the shake reduction capability seems, to me, to be improved over the K10D. I have been able to shoot sharp photos at F3.5 at a 30th of a second at a focal length of 250 mm.
The camera is extremely well built and, for this reason, is slightly heavier than other brands of comparable size. But the small extra weight and the fact that the camera feels well in the hand makes for really steady shots.
A new feature is live image production on the 2.7 inch rear screen, which is somewhat larger than that on the K10D. Being a long time SLR user, I don't use this feature very much. But it seems to be the up and coming thing on new digital SLR's.
The internal software of the camera has really been upgraded and includes an in camera capability to convert RAW images to TIFF or JPEG, a really neat feature if one is on the road and doesn't have access to the computer software necessary to process RAW images but yet wants to view them on other portable imaging devices.
I bought my camera without a lens and separately purchased the new 18-250 F 3.5-6.3 Pentax zoom lens and the 50 mm F 1.4 Pentax lens, which serves as a very short telephoto, wonderful for taking pictures of people. This is the combination I would recommend. The 18-250 appears to be manufactured for Pentax by TAMRON and is an excellent lens in my opinion. It is also quite versatile, giving a 28 mm field of view at wide angle and 375 mm at full telephoto. The 50mm F 1.4 is really inexpensive, at about $199 from reputable internet dealers, and is one of the sharpest lenses ever produced by Pentax. This lens is a real "sleeper" and should be owned by any Pentax DSLR owner for low light and portrait photography.
At about $1250-1299 street price for the body alone, the camera is not cheap. But it is a prosumer model and priced somewhat below comparable Canon and Nikon models. It is providing me with wonderful performance and I highly recommend it.

Dr. James E. Maynard
Great camera, but not for the beginner...
 
Review Date: September 8, 2008
Reviewer: Austin M. Kramer, Beijing, PRC
As an on-and-off pro photographer, I needed a professional camera that I could use in places like the Kashmir or Khazakstan, taking professional quality pictures without risking a five to ten thousand dollar piece of equipment. The Pentax K20D works for me, expecially thanks to certain key elements:

1. Size
Since I'm not a studio photographer, and the fieldwork I'm into these days is in some pretty rough places, I wanted a camera that was sturdy and compact and easy to carry. The K20d is significantly smaller than any other pro or semi-pro camera on the market, and it makes a big difference because I can carry it in a shoulder bag along with a sweater and notebook, rather than having to carry a separate camera bag.

2. Control (Features)
The camera has all the shooting control of a Pro Camera. Especially cool is that almost every adjustment has a convenient on-body toggle, meaning I can set up my shots without having to navigate menus.

3. Control (Image quality)
I'm a nuts-and-bolts kind of guy, so I don't like it when a camera thinks its smarter than me. Although a lot of people complain about its lack of noise reduction, that's one of the big reasons I bought it. You see, every digital picture has noise. Cameras designed for shooting pictures of your kids on vacation smear the details away to try to hide it. They don't have less noise, they just make the picture fuzzy until you can't notice the pixels. Once this is done, there is a permanent loss of detail.

The K20D preserves the original image and lets you manually adjust noise reduction, which can be done in most image editing programs like Adobe Photoshop. I understand that not everyone knows how to do this, but don't blame Pentax. If you don't know how to manually edit your photos, then why on earth are you spending a thousand dollars on a camera body? This is not a point and shoot camera. Good point and shoot cameras with SLR-like features are widely available for less than half the price, so think twice if you really need this camera before investing in it.

4. Manual Features and Battery Life
Virtually everything in this camera can be set to manual mode. Manual focus is a toggle switch, so it won't constantly reset itself. Devoted dials on the body adjust the aperture and exposure time. Rather than automatically popping up at random times, the flash will not pop up unless you manually activate it. In full manual mode, it allows you to set up each shot just like with an old SLR. Since that's the only way I shoot, and use the lcd screen sparingly if at all, there is virtually no drain on the battery. Set like this, I have used the camera for up to four weeks, shooting more than a thousand photos without having to charge the battery. I doubled that time by buying the back-up battery extension. The Lithium Ion batteries are awesome.

5. Mirror-up LCD viewfinder
You can lock the mirror up and use the LCD screen on the back as a viewfinder, which is really helpful in framing shots where you can't check the viewfinder. It also reduces body-shake in multi-second exposures, which is handy if you shoot at night.

Now I have heard one, and only one complaint (other than noise reduction) which is that its burst mode is kind of slow at 21fps. I'm not a burst mode photographer, so I wouldn't know. In my opinion, if you want a camera that shoots more than 21fps, then buy a video camera. Apparently this makes a difference for sports photographers - another thing I don't do.

The main reason, though that I bought this camera is to be able to use the Pentax lenses, which I love. But it should be important to remember, as a digital camera, it's sensor is big, but not 35mm big, and this changes the proportions and angles from what a film camera shoots. Thus a 50mm lens from your film Pentax takes photos like a 75m lens - a factor of 1.5, so if you want a normal shot, shoot at around 35mm, and wide angle around 19, etc. A 100mm lense will actually shoot like a 150. This can be handy for using wider lenses with less distortion. I have a fish eye lense that is a little too wide on film but perfect on the Pentax. Also, it only takes auto-exposure compatible lenses, ie, modern ones, so you can't use your golden oldies, like an f1 from the 1960s.

On the whole, if the camera fits your needs, it's worth way more than the price. Hands down my favorite camera in the field of DSLRs.
Unquestionably best camera I ever touched. Unbelievable photographic tool!
 
Review Date: March 17, 2008
Reviewer: Alex Vox, Winnetka, IL
I had a pleasure to use this Pentax's baby for three days. This camera takes photography as far as it never was before under $8.000 price tag. The image quality is stunning. I especially like this rich tremendous color rendition that looks like mid format color slide of 6x9. The tone gradations are simply endless. If you take picture of sunset it will be the best sunset you ever seen.
I will not describe endless technical data details but I must stress how smart, convenient and relevant all the menus! You have a photography tools in your hands, not the computerized toy for browsing menus. The controls placement is the best I ever seen in any brand. Everything is under your fingers, everything is assignable. The camera reacts in the way you expect, it feels solid, complete.
It is pleasure to hold it, the balance is very good. This camera's software allows remote shooting (just like k10d) and if used in studio may be entirely controlled by computer. The ability to use the internal flash as a controller is very nice! The ability to store preview is very nice! The shift preview on shutter is super cool! The viewfinder is nice, clear and bright!If you had experience with K10D, you will find these awesome Pentax invented modes related to auto ISO settings.
The image quality is second to none. While there are many good cameras are around, this one of the league on itself. The tonality, sharpness, expressiveness of this cam is outstanding. What is even more outstanding is the combination of shooting experiences that end up in the final image. You feel that you control it to any degree you wish. The final image may be whatever you tune it to be. Make a profile and get it over sharpened as Canon, oversaturated as Sony or over contrasted as Nikon. Mix is in any way you pleased. You have any number of cameras inside. I personally enjoyed portraits and nature shots I made with it. With awesome tonal variations, countless gradations in shadows, natural and lifelike skin tones. This camera does equally good job on dark skins as well. And it looks real, photographically rich and not exaggerated.
In short, my three days of hands on experience with this camera I walked off very impressed. Hugely impressed.
First impression: I love it!
 
Review Date: May 17, 2008
Reviewer: nsv, The Everglades
I've only shot about 1700 images so far, so I haven't fully explored all the new features on this camera. This is my first impression and I'll update this review as I become more familiar with it.

I've used the K10D since it came out, and the K20D is a strong addition to the line. The new sensor is amazing. Live View is very handy when you're reaching to get the camera into an awkward position. I haven't needed the Dust Alert feature yet, but since I shoot in less than clean conditions, I'm guessing it will come in handy.

One of the features of the K10D that they've kept, and the primary reason I switched to Pentax in the first place, is the construction of the body with 72 seals to keep water and dust out. I've used the K10D in the pouring rain, in sea spray, and in smoky or dusty, windy conditions, and never had a problem. I've started to expose the K20D to the same conditions, and I expect the same performance.

The Shake Reduction is also fantastic, especially for my shaky hands. It doesn't replace a tripod, but it does allow me to shoot handheld in lower lighting than I ordinarily could. Since I have several lenses, it's also a money saving feature for me.

5/26/08 update: Three additional comments:

I've used this camera in both pouring rain and windy dusty conditions (not at the same time, obviously.) Since the body construction didn't seem dramatically different from the K10D, I expected it to survive my abuse, and so far it has.

Live View with a tripod and a wireless remote is heaven in awkward positions! No more contorting my body to squeeze into difficult spaces! (Well, ok, I do that for long enough to focus, then stand comfortably and switch to Live View. You can use the AF button to focus while using Live View, but I guess I'm a little old fashioned, and I like seeing my subject in focus in the viewfinder.)

It can be frustrating waiting for the images to write to the card, especially when you shoot in Continuous Shooting mode and shoot six or eight images at a time. But since part of that is due to the speed of the card and part of it is due to the size of the images, I can't complain about the camera here. If you are shooting multiple large raw files quickly, BUY FAST CARDS.

I've just scanned the manual and didn't notice the maximum capacity, but I'm using 8GB SDHC cards.

Now that I've spent a little time using it, I love this camera even more.

Glad I Switched
 
Review Date: July 27, 2008
Reviewer: Matt Antonio, San Antonio, TX United States
I have been really happy with this Pentax K20d, and I am impressed with the 16-45 f.4 lens that I bought to go with it. I initially upgraded from a Canon Rebel 300D to a Canon 40D, it was a nice upgrade but the new Canon wasn't bringing me enough enjoyment to be worth the near thousand dollars I paid for it, and I knew it would lead me to buying lenses that would be too heavy and expensive. I sent it back and a moth later decided to buy the K20d. I was impressed with the low price and low weight of Pentax's mid-range lenses. I honestly thought that the camera itself wouldn't be as good as the 40D but I decided to follow the mantra that lenses are what matter and thought I could sell my Canon lenses and get some great Pentax prime lenses, and a wide zoom lens.

I have had the K20d for a over a month, and it is a great camera. It takes the pictures that I want it to take. This is the first digital camera I've been really excited about using and I think it is because it allows me to get the exact exposure I want. The metering won't produce as many decent pictures on full auto as a Canon, because it will always preserve bright highlights. The reviews say that it underexposes, because if you take a picture of a person with the sky behind them, it will consistently keep the sky from blowing out - making the person too dark. At first this means more missed and underexposed shots, but it exposes the same way all the time, and after a week with the camera I found that I always knew how the camera was metering and I now get the exact exposure I want on the first shot far more often than I used to.

The camera also makes manual mode far more useable. I like finding a good exposure for the light and then sticking to that as long as I know I am in similar light. If my photos are looking a little bright or a little dark on the histogram, I change the shutter speed or aperture a click. With the green button, I can be in manual mode but have an automatic resetting any time the light changes, from full sun to shade. Anytime I know that there is a big change in light I hit the green button and get the automatic exposure setting, instead of having to spin the dials.

I like the ability to change what the dials and buttons do in many of the modes. I can customize what the control wheels do in each picture mode. Also note that many reviews say the K20d does not show ISO in the viewfinder (which was a big detractor for me since it was one feature I really liked about the 40D upgrade) but actually you can customize this and show ISO in the viewfinder instead of the number of remaining shots. You can also change ISO in any mode by holding OK while turning the finger wheel.

Negatives: The K20d does produce more noise over ISO 800 than the Canon, but I like that it keeps more detail and I like the grain of the noise far better. However sometimes in very high ISO shots there can be too much chroma noise (colored noise) to do anything but convert to BW, and in two or three pictures I have seen banding in high ISO pictures when I try to push them a stop in my raw converter. Also the auto-focus sometimes hunts in single shot mode in light that the 40D would handle, although I have found that if I put it on AF-Continuous (AI Servo in Canon) it usually finds focus. My understanding is that the Pentax AF system attempts to be more exact, and I think I have noticed that when I am in good light I have less missed pictures due to focus than with the Canon.
Pentax K20D 14.6MP Review
 
Review Date: May 6, 2008
Reviewer: Frank, Clinton, MO USA
Pentax K20D 14.6MP Digital SLR Camera with Shake Reduction (Body Only)

We are amateur photo shooters and have a 5 year old digital Kodak - which was okay for snap shooting -

Now for the PENTAX K20D 14.6MP Digital Camera we offer this review.

It is the TRUE amateur's friend. It is in a completely different class to the old technology, including 35mm film format. It is way ahead in the performance field for its class of digital camera. We are glad to be back in the SLR type of camera too.

Right after arrival of our new K20D camera we did a PROM photo session on our patio with 5 couples - what a pleasure to shoot when you have the time right - what is the right time? - a series of shots 2, 3, 4 or 5 with each setting and this camera is so fast you can outshoot the point and shoots by a mile - and great results too - Our daughter was assisting with her PENTAX K10D and both of these DIGITAL CAMERA'S are recommended highly by us. We experienced a number of comments from others sharing in this event, what kind of camera is that? It must be nice to be able to take so many shots and capture all of these special moments! They are right - we have over 300 perfect shots to brag about from this session, and two cameras captured those images.

The camera settings are easy to study and learn. You can adjust so many different ways in just seconds and get the perfect results you desire, snap a test shot, view - then capture images of one of a kind, ones that you can truly enjoy viewing plus brag on after a shooting session.

We use the SanDisk 4 GB Extreme III SDHC Card and the write speed is awesome for this camera. We bought a Metz 58 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Pentax & Samsung SLR Cameras for our camera and makes a great match with the Pentax DA 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 ED AL IF Lens.

This K20D is the camera for the money as we see it, study the features, it's loaded with them and you will see this is a fine camera that will deliver what you want in the photographic world - We highly recommended this product from PENTAX.
Surpassed All Expectations! Bought instead of Nikon 300 or Canon
 
Review Date: November 11, 2008
Reviewer: javajunki,
First, a quick disclaimer - I'm not a pro but probably fall into the serious amateur category after falling in love with my old Minolta Maxxum 7000 over 20 years ago. I'm the person behind the camera at all the parties and occassionally get the exceptional shot worthy of a few "oooh and ahhhs". I've also been holding out on buying anything more than a simple toss around digital until the cost and quality of dslr's were to my liking. As the price and quality of 10+ mp dslr's are now in the comfort range I decided to chuck the point and shoot junk I've been making do with and began shopping in earnest. After testing the Canon the speed seemed nice but I wasn't impressed so I narrowed it down to the Nikon 300 - it seemed to have everything I was searching for in a versatile camera. After adding decent quality lenses, storage, a few extras etc the price was going to come in at roughly $3,500 on sale...not bad but enough to make me take one last look around. On spur of the moment my better half said take a look at Pentax - they have been around forever and are known for making above average lens.

So, the K20D pops up with a 14+ mp on sale for $800 or 1/2 the Nikon...so far so good but I was a bit nervous about ordering it despite the good reviews. I spent the better part of the day researching the camera and decided to give it a shot [sorry - bad pun].

Ordered the K20D ($800), 8 gb card ($35), battery grip ($120), extra battery pack ($20), remote ($20) tripod ($18 on special), camera strap (free promo) and the Pentax 18-250 mm lense ($350). For $1350 I now have a very versatile camera for almost a 1/3 of the price of the Nikon....suffice to say based on price alone I'm one happy shopper. UPDATE: also added the Tamron 90mm Macro with 1:1 for another $365 after rebate. Good additional lens with a few issues (see my review on it separately). Between the two - have a nice 1:1 macro and portrait lens with a terrific "all around" lens...also added several filters [uv, polarizing, close up] an inexpensive tripod and another inexpensive monopod plus some excellent books...all for less than the cost of the Nikon with one lens!

Now, for the performance, look feel etc. The 14+ mp really make a difference - resolution is excellent and compares favorable to film. For the first time I don't feel like I'm missing anything major. This camera takes some beautiful shots even with my own limited testing.

The weight and feel are very nice - everything is ergonomically correct at least for my hands, intuitive access on all controls, solid and best of all - sealed! Screen size is adequte and I really appreciate the ability to set colors, font size and other adaptations to fit my needs. Diopter is also adjustable. The lens is reviewed apart but was a great all around choice - responsive and adequate although I intend to purchase additional dedicated/primary lens options soon. One thing I REALLY like about this Pentax is the backward compatibility - Pentax DSLR's allow the use of older Pentax lens so eBay and other options become a great way to find a quality lens at an affordable price. Since my old pricey Minolta lens' are no longer of any use that is a big bonus at least until Sony puts something decent on the market. In the meantime, this was a good starter lense [18-250 mm] that works well with the camera.

The menu and pre-sets are easy to use and versatile although I quickly found myself preferring manual - that is just a personal bias however. Preview was easy to use. There are a lot of negative mention regarding the Live screen option...having been playing with slr's for 20+ years I've never used the screen to take photos with but tested it for a few minutes and found it easy enough to use - just not sensitive to take a quality photo. It is possible to zoom in the live preview mode (contrary to what a few have mentioned) but all in all - it's not a feature I use enough to make a valid statement about.

The only other "flaw" that makes the camera less than perfect is the 3fps - it is substantially slower than other DSLR's on the market. Since I rarely shoot sports or have need for speed - it isn't a major consideration for me however, I would have gone with the Nikon if it were. This camera is able to shoot rapid series of shots in low quality settings of up to 21 fps - a fun little addition for playing around with but with a quality so low it isn't going to give more than email quality.

A few things I REALLY liked about the camera - other than price, resolutoin and intuitive design were several of the upgraded features. In addition to sealing both the camera and battery pack, the ability to take shots in raw and jpeg format at the same time is a great option. Likewise, this is fully compatible with adobe format so saves need for changing formats or fooling around with various options - just set on dual use and go. The battery pack with an extended memory card expand this to a considerable level. I was able to get about 750 pictures off just one battery using a flash part of the time and high resolution settings. The battery pack is very ergonomic, adds a battery back-up that is easy to switch and also allows storage for an additional card and remote control. When fully charged I expect to put at least 1500 photos on the card and battery before changing out - easily.

The camera comes with battery and charger, inexpensive camera strap - neigther were mentioned when I was buying so I ordered a battery charger that had to return.

One additional note - in addition to 10% off the price of a decent/versatile lens - be sure to register before the end of the year. Pentax is offeringa FREE upgrade to 3 year warranty on this purhcase!!! That beats all others hands-down. In addition to the pentax 18-250 mm lens, I also purchased the Tamron 90 mm macro which has a $90 rebate AND 6 year warranty right now. Good stuff! Good deals - even if Amazon has lowered the price $35 since I bought this a week ago [argh] and offers a free camera case that I missed [double argh]. Still very pleased.


Will try to review again after having owned/used but so far REALLY pleased with price, performance and resolution of the camera.

UPDATE: I've now owned this for several week and had a couple opportunities to use it in different settings - outdoor shots, inside with a little "mini studio" for portraits, some macro work etc... although the "user" [myself] is rusty and still learning all this camera is capable of doing - the results are consistently great....even when I thought they would be inferior. The range of this camera is pretty amazing especially in low light settings or shadows where other camera's begin to show extreme noise. Side by side comparison to a more expensive Canon model - this took more clear shots hands down...in fact, this can actually allow ISO settings up to 6400 {although not great quality at that level] whereas the Canon can't even attempt it. At more modest levels, this handles photos with ease while the Canon has already started showing serious noise distortion.

In fact, the one issue I've run into while taking portraits was "too true to life". This camera shows every detail - much to the dismay of at least one or two aging family members. Of course, that is easy to correct in a good program but if resolution is what you are searching for this one has it!

Another great feature is the bracketing. I'm interested in pursuing a bit of High Dynamic Range photography - something new that is made possible by the digital format. I've not had an opportunity to delve into this much yet but the resolution of this camera combined with the bracketing feature make it a LOT easier to get started in this creative endeavor. After purchasing several books on the topic I was a little worried about the complexity - no need. This camera makes it relatively simple to try out this fun and creative new method. While it isn't something I plan to use all the time, it IS a fun and exciting area that expands the entire photography field beyond what was ever possible with film.

Finally, for those that appreciate black and white photos - I can report this provides a very nice redition. This was originally another area of concern for me since so many digital pictures seem to have either a yellow or reddish cast rather than true black and white/greyscale. While much will depend upon who you use for printing the pictures, at least you will find a responsive greyscale with this camera. VERY little to No need for modification in Photoshop - nearly all were excellent straight from the camera setting.

Cannot say enough good things - combined with the extended 3 year warranty currently offer [and the big price reduction offered by Amazon...argh] this is a no-brainer. Buy it - you will like it!
Jeff Walters
 
Review Date: June 7, 2008
Reviewer: J. A. Walters, Modesto, CA
I've just had the K20D for about 2 weeks and have really enjoyed it. Having to decide between Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Olympus, and Sony was difficult after reading so many reviews. I took a chance on the Pentax based on forums & reviews. I couldn't find the camera in any stores around my home other than the other brands mentioned. The Pentax does feel the best in my hands and when I first held it, it is definitely better built than the others. I bought the 18-55mm AL II kit lens and it does excellent and will purchase the 18-250mm in the future. I have taken the same type shots with my Minolta film camera from the early 80's and this camera surpasses it in quality. I was stubborn for a long time to switch to digital after having the money invested in the Minolta lenses and other equipment.
I personally think all the major cameras are good and I picked Pentax on a leap of faith. It was the best camera for the money and future lenses and accessories won't break the bank. I have not much use yet for the live view feature but many of the features are usable and intuitive. I really like the idea and flexibility of the front and rear e-dials. I can adjust the aperture with the rear dial and the shutter speed with the front dial. If I could change anything I would make the ISO a dedicated button and maybe the white balance. At least they are at the beginning of the Fn(function) menu button and only requires one extra button to push.
I would highly recommend this camera unless you shoot alot of sports which the 3 frames per second burst rate doesn't cut it for you. The picture quality is A-1 and the cropping in on some shots I've taken are just great since I don't have a strong zoom lense yet. They don't pixelate on the computer and that has to be the 14.1 megapixels at work with the CMOS sensor. It is a big difference and I'm glad I have purchased the K20D over the K10D if just for the sensor only.
A real gem! Just buy it!
 
Review Date: September 3, 2008
Reviewer: Bruno Passigatti, Chicago, Illinois United States
You will not find a better camera in terms of image quality unless you're willing to spend $7000+ for a Canon Mark III or a medium format outfit. Just don't tell the guy who just wasted thousands on a ripoff like the D3 ;-).

This is THE perfect camera for portraiture, studio still and landscapes on a budget. Make sure you get top (prime) lenses (forget the 18-250). Don't even think about it if you're into sports and high speed action (get the D300). And don't get me started if you're one of those "experts" who needs a "noise free" shot at ISO 3000-25000 (who needs that, really!)
Pro camera for enthusiast and pro photographers
 
Review Date: August 20, 2008
Reviewer: Jerry Jackson Jr., Cincinnati, OH United States
Since my day-to-day camera is a Pentax K10D, I was curious how the K20D would compare. I expected the camera to perform better than the K10D and prove to be a worthwhile upgrade. What I discovered was that the K20D is an amazing camera in much the same way as the older K10D. In short, while it's a very good camera, it might not be a worthwhile upgrade for current K10D owners.

Focus speed of the K20D is about the same as the K10D, just a little quieter. The 3 fps continuous shooting performance is nice, but the similarly speced Canon 40D and Nikon D300 have much faster continuous shooting performance. Also, the fact that you can no longer shoot JPEGs at 3fps until the card fills up was a disappointment.

Image quality is among the best I've seen in the sub $2,000 price range but the ISO noise was only marginally improved over the older K10D. The full compatibility with every Pentax lens means almost limitless options for expansion and growth of your photographic skills. Colors are rich even at the "natural" image tone setting. In-camera shake reduction and dust removal means that this mid-level camera is remarkably full-featured. Thanks to the intuitive control layout, any serious photographer will feel right at home.

Bottom line: if you don't already own a K10D, at the $1,299 (and lower) price point the K20D may be the best value on the market.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, September 16th, 2009 at 11:43 am and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

One Response to “Pentax K20D 14.6MP Digital SLR Camera with Shake Reduction and DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II Lens”
  1. Konstantin says:
    June 19, 2010 at 5:38 pm

    Добрый вечер!