Nikon D610 vs Pentax K-50 Comparison
Nikon D610
Pentax K-50
Price | |||
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Brand | Nikon | Pentax | |
Model | D610 | K-50 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2013 | 2013 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | October 08, 2013 | June 12, 2013 | |
Camera Type | |||
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon D610 emerges as the winner with a score of 66/100, outperforming the Pentax K-50, which scored 57/100. Both cameras are DSLRs released in 2013, with the D610 announced on October 8th and the K-50 on June 12th. They share similarities in their camera type and release year.
The Nikon D610 excels with a higher score, larger size (141 x 113 x 82mm), and heavier weight (850g). Its launch price of $1,999 reflects its superior quality. On the other hand, the Pentax K-50 is more affordable with a launch price of $599, making it a budget-friendly option. Its smaller size (130 x 97 x 71mm) and lighter weight (650g) offer increased portability.
Weighing the advantages of each camera, the Nikon D610 provides better performance, while the Pentax K-50 is a more budget-conscious and portable choice.
Nikon D610 vs Pentax K-50 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D610 outperforms the Pentax K-50 in optics with a score of 70/100 compared to the K-50’s 62/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, a shooting speed of 6 frames per second, and a compatible lens mount for their respective brands.
The Nikon D610’s superiority in optics is due to its higher megapixel count of 24, a full-frame sensor size, and a DXOMARK sensor score of 94. These features enable the D610 to capture higher resolution images with better dynamic range and low light performance. The camera’s Expeed 3 processor also contributes to its faster image processing capabilities.
On the other hand, the Pentax K-50 has a lower megapixel count of 16.28 and an APS-C sensor size, which results in a DXOMARK sensor score of 79. However, the K-50 does offer image stabilization, a feature missing in the D610. This advantage allows the K-50 to capture sharper images in certain situations, such as handheld shooting or when using longer focal lengths.
In terms of optics, the Nikon D610 is the clear winner due to its higher resolution, better sensor performance, and larger sensor size. These factors contribute to its higher score of 70/100. The Pentax K-50, while scoring lower at 62/100, still has its merits with the inclusion of image stabilization. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on an individual’s specific needs and preferences.
Optics
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Nikon D610
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Pentax K-50
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24 MP | 16.28 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 6016 x 4016 px | 4928 x 3264 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 24 x 35.9 mm | 15.7 x 23.7 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |||
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 6 fps | 6 fps | |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Nikon F FX | Pentax KAF | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Expeed 3 | Prime M | |
Aspect Ratio The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. | |||
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 6,400 | 51,200 | |
Minimum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 50 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 25600 | 51200 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum Shutter Speed The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 1/ 4000 s | 1/ 6000 s | |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 39 | 11 | |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | |||
Viewfinder Type The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Optical (pentaprism) | Optical (pentaprism) |
Nikon D610 vs Pentax K-50 Video Performance
The Nikon D610 and the Pentax K-50 both have a video score of 57/100, making them equal in this aspect. Both cameras share common specifications, including Full HD video resolution, maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080, a maximum video frame rate of 30fps, and built-in time-lapse functionality.
The Nikon D610 does not outperform the Pentax K-50 in video capabilities, as their specifications and scores are the same. Similarly, the Pentax K-50 does not surpass the Nikon D610 in this area. Both cameras offer satisfactory video performance with their shared features.
Since neither camera has a clear advantage in video capabilities, potential buyers should consider other factors when choosing between the Nikon D610 and the Pentax K-50. While both cameras are capable of producing quality videos, there may be other aspects that are more important to individual users, such as price, size, weight, or additional features.
Given that the video capabilities of the Nikon D610 and the Pentax K-50 are equal, potential buyers should base their decision on other factors. Both cameras are reliable options for producing Full HD videos with a 30fps frame rate and time-lapse functionality.
Video
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Nikon D610
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Pentax K-50
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |||
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. | |||
Max Video Dimensions Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 1920 x 1080 px | 1920 x 1080 px | |
Max Video Frame Rate How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 30 p | 30 p | |
Time-Lapse Built In A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. | |||
Video File Format Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | MPEG-4 | MPEG-4 |
Nikon D610 vs Pentax K-50 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D610 triumphs over the Pentax K-50 with a feature score of 57/100 as opposed to the K-50’s 54/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a screen resolution of 921,000 dots, no touchscreen, no flip screen, and no GPS. However, there are key differences that set these two cameras apart.
The Nikon D610 excels with its larger 3.2-inch screen size, providing a better display and user experience compared to the Pentax K-50’s 3-inch screen. Additionally, the D610 is equipped with WIFI capabilities, allowing for seamless photo transfer and remote camera control. This feature is absent in the Pentax K-50, which limits its connectivity options.
The Pentax K-50, despite its lower score, does hold an advantage in terms of simplicity. With no WIFI or Bluetooth, the K-50 is a straightforward camera for users who prefer a more basic experience without the need for additional connectivity features. This can be appealing to some photographers who value simplicity over advanced features.
Taking these points into consideration, the Nikon D610 stands out as the better choice for photographers seeking a larger screen and WIFI connectivity. The Pentax K-50, on the other hand, may be suitable for those who appreciate a more basic camera without the added complexity of wireless features. Each camera caters to different preferences, and the choice ultimately depends on the individual’s specific needs and desired features.
Features
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Nikon D610
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Pentax K-50
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. | |||
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External Flash External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. | |||
GPS GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. | |||
Weather Sealing Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. | |||
Screen Type | LCD | LCD | |
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. | |||
Screen Size | |||
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,000 dots | 921,000 dots | |
Flip Screen A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. | |||
Live View Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. | |||
Wi-Fi | |||
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. | |||
Nikon D610 vs Pentax K-50 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D610 surpasses the Pentax K-50 in storage and battery capabilities with a score of 71/100, a noticeable 47-point difference from the K-50’s score of 24/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, and lacking USB charging capability.
The Nikon D610 excels with its two memory card slots, doubling storage capacity compared to the Pentax K-50’s single slot. Furthermore, the D610’s battery life of 900 shots significantly outlasts the K-50’s 410 shots, making it more suitable for extended photography sessions.
In contrast, the Pentax K-50 does not offer any advantages in storage and battery aspects over the Nikon D610.
Considering these points, the Nikon D610 is the clear winner in terms of storage and battery performance, providing photographers with increased storage capacity and longer battery life.
Storage and Battery
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Nikon D610
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Pentax K-50
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots | |||
Battery Type | EN-EL15 | D-LI109 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 900 shots | 410 shots | |
USB Charging |
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D610
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Pentax K-50
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 25.1 bits | 23.7 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 14.4 EVs | 13 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 2925 | 1120 |
Scores
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Nikon D610
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Pentax K-50
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Nikon D610 vs Pentax K-50 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D610 or the Pentax K-50:
User Scores
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Nikon D610
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Pentax K-50
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B&H photo video |
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