CameraReview

Pentax K-30 vs Pentax K-50 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Pentax K-30
Pentax
Pentax K-30
DSLR · 16.3 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
56
SCORE
$599
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Pentax K-50
Pentax
Pentax K-50
DSLR · 16.28 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
57
SCORE
$306.03
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General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20122013
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
22/05/201212/06/2013
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 130 x 97 x 71 mm130 x 97 x 71 mm
Camera weight 650 g650 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
16.3 MP05016.28 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4928 x 32644928 x 3264
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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.
15.7 x 23.715.7 x 23.7
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
6 fps0456 fps045
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.
Pentax KAFPentax KAF
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Prime MPrime 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.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
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.
128003003280000512003003280000
Min 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.
1003020010030200
Max 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.
256003003280000512003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max 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.
600080032000600080032000
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.
110300110300
In-body stabilisation
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)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HDFull HD
Max video format
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 10801920 x 1080
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 fps30 fps
Timelapse 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-4MPEG-4
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
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 LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
92100011500015000009210001150001500000
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
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type D-LI109D-LI109
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
410 shots1505000410 shots1505000
USB charging

The Pentax K-50 edges out the Pentax K-30 with a score of 57/100 compared to 56/100. Both cameras are DSLR models, announced in 2012 and 2013 respectively. They share identical dimensions and weight, measuring 130 x 97 x 71mm and weighing 650g.

The K-50 has a slightly higher score due to its improved performance in certain areas. However, the K-30 also has its advantages, such as a lower launch price of $470 compared to the K-50’s $599.

Taking these factors into account, the Pentax K-50 is a marginally better camera, but the K-30 remains a viable option for those seeking a more affordable option.

Pentax K-30 vs K-50 Overview and Optics

The Pentax K-50 takes the lead in optics with a score of 62/100, compared to the Pentax K-30’s score of 60/100. Both cameras share several optical specifications, including 16.3 megapixels for the K-30 and 16.28 megapixels for the K-50, a shooting speed of 6, a CMOS sensor type, Prime M processor, a DXOMARK score of 79 for the sensor, an APS-C sensor size, Pentax KAF lens mount, and image stabilization.

The Pentax K-50’s higher optics score comes from its marginally larger megapixel count, which offers slightly better image quality. This advantage is minimal, but it does give the K-50 an edge in capturing finer details and producing larger prints.

On the other hand, the Pentax K-30’s optics are not significantly inferior to the K-50’s, as both cameras share many of the same specifications. The K-30’s slightly lower megapixel count does not drastically affect its overall image quality, and users may not notice a substantial difference in performance.

In comparing the optics of the Pentax K-30 and K-50, it’s clear that the K-50 has a minor advantage due to its slightly higher megapixel count. However, the K-30 remains a strong contender with its nearly identical specifications. The choice between these two cameras ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs, as both offer excellent image quality and performance.

Pentax K-30 vs K-50 Video Performance

The Pentax K-30 and the Pentax K-50 both have a video score of 57/100, indicating no clear winner between the two cameras in terms of video capabilities. They share several common specifications in this regard.

Both cameras have a maximum video resolution of Full HD and can record videos at a size of 1920 x 1080 pixels. They also have the same maximum video frame rate of 30 frames per second (fps). Additionally, both cameras come with built-in time-lapse functionality, which is an attractive feature for capturing events that unfold over a longer period.

Since the video scores and specifications are identical, there is not a specific aspect that makes one camera better than the other in terms of video performance. They both provide similar video quality and features, making them equally suitable for users interested in capturing high-quality videos.

However, it is worth noting that the shared specifications do not necessarily mean that the cameras excel in video performance. With a score of 57/100, it is clear that there is room for improvement in both models. Users looking for exceptional video quality may need to consider other options or newer models with more advanced video capabilities.

In conclusion, the Pentax K-30 and the Pentax K-50 are evenly matched in terms of video capabilities, with no clear winner between them. While they share several useful features, such as Full HD resolution, 30fps frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality, their video performance may not be sufficient for users seeking top-notch video quality.

Pentax K-30 vs K-50 Features and Benefits

The Pentax K-30 and Pentax K-50 both have a feature score of 54/100, making them equal in this aspect. They share many specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size and a screen resolution of 921,000 dots. Neither camera has a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WIFI, or Bluetooth.

Despite having the same feature score, the Pentax K-30 has certain advantages over the K-50. Unfortunately, the specifications provided do not reveal any distinct advantages for the K-30. Therefore, based on the information given, the K-30 does not outperform the K-50 in any specific area.

On the other hand, the Pentax K-50 also possesses no unique advantages over the K-30, as the specifications provided are identical for both cameras. Consequently, the K-50 does not surpass the K-30 in any particular feature.

Given that both cameras have the same feature score and identical specifications, neither camera can be declared the winner based on the information provided. Buyers should consider other aspects, such as price, design, and personal preferences, when deciding between the Pentax K-30 and Pentax K-50.

Pentax K-30 vs K-50 Storage and Battery

The Pentax K-30 and the Pentax K-50 both score 24/100 in storage and battery, making them equal in this aspect. Both cameras have a single memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. They also share the same battery life of 410 shots and use the D-LI109 battery type. Neither camera offers USB charging.

Despite their equal scores, each camera has its own strengths in storage and battery. The Pentax K-30 excels in its compatibility with various memory card types, ensuring that users have a wide range of options to choose from. On the other hand, the Pentax K-50 boasts a consistent battery life that allows photographers to capture a substantial number of images before needing to recharge.

However, both cameras lack USB charging, which could be a disadvantage for users who prefer to charge their devices through this method. Regardless, the Pentax K-30 and K-50 are evenly matched in terms of storage and battery, making either camera a reliable choice for photographers in need of a dependable device.

Pentax K-30 vs K-50 – Our Verdict

Pentax K-30 vs K-50 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Pentax K-30 or the Pentax K-50: