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Review Summary
2013-04-29T21:00:00
I bought this camera as my second Pentax body; I had the K-r and was quite happy with it, but wanted something to do full-HD video. I've ended up quite liking the camera. It takes absolutely beautiful stills and video. However, it will not replace a DSLR. A viewfinder is a must for shooting anything that moves quickly. Things I like about it: Using old glass is a treat. The button layout makes sense and the menu system is logical enough. All relevant features are readily available. Image quality is fantastic (it does have the same sensor as the K-5...). The shutter is pretty quiet, so I feel less bad when I take pictures at quieter events. Things I like less about it: I wish the grip was more in line with a traditional DSLR grip. I miss the viewfinder. Even though the LCD is pretty good, you're not going to be able to shoot most sports or fast moving wildlife with the K-01. After burst shooting, the camera needs to buffer and you can't frame your next shot until it finishes. Finally, it feels a little bit ridiculous taking photos with a yellow camera and vintage glass when you're standing next to a bunch of guys with their 5DmkIIs and giant telephoto lenses.
Samuel G.
2013-04-29T21:00:00
I use the K01 as a backup camera to my pro systems (Pentax 645D, Pentax K5, Sony A850) and for creating time lapse sequences in ultra high definition formats. The LCD display is difficult to see outdoors in bright sun. However, a Hoodman type of magnifier solves the problem to some extent. With Pentax DSLR lenses the physical size of the K01 is larger than any other mirrorless camera design but at the closeout price, the image quality completely outclasses point and shoot designs in the same price range. Incidentally, the video spec by Adorama is incorrect. The K01 video format is 1080P 30 not 25.
Charlie
2013-04-29T21:00:00
I like to think of the k-01 as a digital rangefinder. There is no mirror flap. Pair it with some fast glass, take advantage of the built in image stabilization, and top that off with a low noise sensor (with built in noise reduction), and viola! Crystal clear 1/4" hand held shots. I purchased mine to augment a large collection of Pentax equipment and also put to rest my old voigtlander. Build is solid but the rubber flap the covers the SD card is annoying.
Quarkmoment
2013-04-22T21:00:00
This camera is a fantastic value. For the uses I have made of the camera, there are only a few shortcomings: (1) awkward balance when using longer zoom lens, best for prime lenses, (2)flimsy media cover with flimsy metal cover inside does not inspire long-term confidence, (3) too slow, too much hunting on low-light focus ruins lots of shots. This camera represents an excellent value as a means of getting top quality images without paying the price for K-05. It is best reserved for specific uses, but I am constantly finding new uses! Excellent software with many very useful shooting modes. Excellent video quality. At the moment my Pentax 77 mm limited f 1.8 lens is stuck on this camera except when shorter lens is needed for inside photos. Then the Sigma 30mm f 1.4 takes over. Image quality with these two excellent prime lens is really hard to beat. Highly recommended, and I am actually thinking about buying another one as a backup!
ivan r.
2012-08-29T21:00:00
Even with the lack of a viewfinder – I would still buy this camera again. I am proud to wear it, and it takes amazing shots. I am planning on getting some old-school K mount lenses (they will fit no problem)...I LOVE that this is a Pentax and not a Nikon or Canon. It feels good. Very happy with it. AND it is yellow!
mamuscreative.com
PENTAx K-01 DESIGNED BY MARC NEWSON
The contemporary, timeless K-01 houses a full array of advanced functions and user-friendly features in a camera body with remarkable form and function. The elimination of an optical viewfinder and quick-return mirror gave Newson more freedom in designing the camera body, and the K-01 showcases Newson originality in every detail. Available in black, white and Newson's signature yellowcolors, the K-01 features the designer's autograph logo stamp on the bottom of each camera.
The famed designer's touch also is evident in a new smc PENTAx-DA 40mm F2.8 xS interchangeable lens. As the world's thinnest interchangeable lens,* the new 40mm combines with the PENTAx K-01 camera body to deliver a unique ILC system that is perfect for photographers who are as keen on design as they are on performance. Together, the K-01 and 40mm lens system mark the intersection where high technology and high design meet.
Lens Compatibility
PENTAx mirrorless body design is compatible with 25+ million PENTAx K-mount lenses spanning decades, for unmatched flexibility and optical selection.
16 Megapixel CMOS Large 16 megapixel APS-C sized CMOS image sensor delivers outstanding high resolution image quality, color accuracy, and low noise in multiple aspect ratios.
Shake Reduction System
Sensor-shift PENTAx Shake and Dust Reduction system is compatible with every mounted PENTAx lens for beautifully sharp still images and stabilized videography
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