Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
 57
SCORE
|
 57
SCORE
|
|
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Pentax | Pentax |
| Model | K-50 | K-S1 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2013 | 2014 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
12/06/2013 | 27/08/2014 |
| Camera type | DSLR | DSLR |
| Camera size | 130 x 97 x 71 mm | 121 x 93 x 70 mm |
| Camera weight | 650 g | 558 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
16.28 MP050 | 20.12 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
4928 x 3264 | 5472 x 3648 |
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. |
15.7 x 23.7 | 15.6 x 23.5 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
APS-C | APS-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 fps045 | 5.4 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 KAF | Pentax KAF |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. |
Prime M | Prime MII |
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. |
3:2 | 3:2 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
512003003280000 | 512003003280000 |
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. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
512003003280000 | 512003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
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. |
600080032000 | 600080032000 |
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. |
110300 | 110300 |
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/A | N/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 HD | Full 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 1080 | 1920 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 fps | 30 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-4 | MOV, AVI |
| 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 | 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 | 3" | 3" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
9210001150001500000 | 9210001150001500000 |
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 / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC |
| Dual memory card slots | ✗ | ✗ |
| Battery type | D-LI109 | D-LI109 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
410 shots1505000 | 410 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Pentax K-50 and Pentax K-S1 both score 57/100, making them evenly matched in our evaluation. As DSLR cameras, they share some common specifications, such as launch price, with the K-50 at $599 and the K-S1 at $749. Both cameras have similar dimensions, with the K-50 at 130 x 97 x 71mm and the K-S1 at 121 x 93 x 70mm.
The K-50 stands out with its slightly larger size and heavier weight, measuring 650g (1.43lbs), while the K-S1 is lighter at 558g (1.23lbs). Although the K-S1 is more expensive and compact, its lighter weight makes it more comfortable to carry and handle.
Despite their similar scores, the K-50’s lower price makes it a more attractive option for budget-conscious photographers. The K-S1, on the other hand, offers a lighter and more compact design for those who prioritize portability. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras comes down to individual preferences and priorities.
The Pentax K-S1 outperforms the Pentax K-50 in optics with a score of 68/100 compared to the K-50’s 62/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including the CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, Pentax KAF lens mount, and image stabilization. These shared features provide a solid foundation for both cameras’ optical performance.
The K-S1 has a higher megapixel count of 20.12, compared to the K-50’s 16.28. This difference allows the K-S1 to capture more detailed images, giving it an advantage in terms of image quality. Furthermore, the K-S1’s Prime MII processor is an upgrade from the K-50’s Prime M processor, which contributes to the K-S1’s superior image processing capabilities.
On the other hand, the K-50 has a faster shooting speed of 6 frames per second (fps) compared to the K-S1’s 5.4 fps. This advantage in shooting speed may benefit users who need to capture fast-moving subjects or action scenes. However, it’s worth noting that the K-S1 has a slightly better DXOMARK sensor score of 79, compared to the K-S1’s 78, indicating that the K-50’s sensor performs well despite its lower megapixel count.
In terms of optics, the Pentax K-S1 stands out due to its higher megapixel count and upgraded processor, leading to better image quality and processing capabilities. The K-50, while not as strong in these areas, offers a faster shooting speed that may appeal to some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras will depend on individual preferences and priorities, with the K-S1 being the better option for those prioritizing image quality and the K-50 catering to those in need of faster shooting capabilities.
The Pentax K-50 emerges as the winner in the video capabilities comparison, scoring 57/100, while the Pentax K-S1 scores 43/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as Full HD max video resolution and 1920 x 1080 max video dimensions. Additionally, they both offer a max video frame rate of 30fps.
The K-50 outperforms the K-S1 primarily due to its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to capture a series of images at set intervals and combine them to create a time-lapse video, showcasing the passage of time in a visually appealing manner. The K-S1 lacks this feature, which contributes to the 14-point difference in their video scores.
On the other hand, the K-S1 does not have any specific advantages over the K-50 in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras share the same basic video specifications, and the lack of time-lapse functionality in the K-S1 places it at a disadvantage compared to the K-50.
Considering the video capabilities of both cameras, the Pentax K-50 holds a clear advantage over the K-S1, thanks to its time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to explore creative possibilities and capture dynamic scenes, making the K-50 a more versatile option for videography. The Pentax K-S1, while offering similar basic video specifications, falls short due to its lack of time-lapse functionality, limiting its appeal for those looking for advanced video features.
The Pentax K-50 emerges as the winner in this comparison, scoring 54 out of 100 in features, while the Pentax K-S1 scores 41 out of 100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, a screen resolution of 921,000 dots, and the absence of a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth.
The Pentax K-50’s higher score reflects its better features. While both cameras lack a touchscreen and flip screen, the K-50 offers more in other areas. However, it is essential to examine the specific features that contribute to the higher score to understand the camera’s advantages better.
On the other hand, the Pentax K-S1’s lower score may indicate fewer features or less advanced capabilities. Despite this, there might be aspects where the K-S1 outperforms the K-50. A thorough comparison of the two cameras is necessary to determine any advantages the K-S1 may have over the K-50.
After examining the shared specifications and the advantages of the winning camera, it is clear that the Pentax K-50 is the superior option. Its higher score confirms its better features and capabilities compared to the Pentax K-S1. However, potential buyers should also consider any unique advantages the K-S1 may have over the K-50 before making a decision.
In the end, the Pentax K-50 stands out as the better camera due to its higher feature score. While both cameras share several specifications, the K-50’s superior performance makes it a more attractive choice for photographers seeking a reliable and versatile camera.
In the storage and battery category, both the Pentax K-50 and the Pentax K-S1 have identical scores of 24/100. These cameras share common specifications, including one memory card slot and compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. Their battery life is the same, providing 410 shots per charge, and both use the D-LI109 battery type. Neither camera offers USB charging.
Since both cameras have the same storage and battery specifications, neither the Pentax K-50 nor the Pentax K-S1 outperforms the other in this category. As a result, potential buyers should consider other factors, such as general specifications, optics, video, and features, to determine which camera best suits their needs. In terms of storage and battery, both cameras offer equal performance and capabilities.
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Pentax K-50 or the Pentax K-S1:
