CameraReview

Pentax K-70 vs Pentax KP — Which Is Better?

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

Pentax K-70
Pentax
Pentax K-70
DSLR · 24 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
69
SCORE
$442.13
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Pentax KP
Pentax
Pentax KP
DSLR · 24 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
81
SCORE
No live offers
General
Brand PentaxPentax
Model K-70KP
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20162017
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
08/06/201625/01/2017
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 126 x 93 x 74 mm132 x 101 x 76 mm
Camera weight 688 g703 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24 MP05024 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40006016 x 4000
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.
23.5 x 15.623.5 x 15.6
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 fps0457 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 KAF2Pentax KAF2
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Prime MIIPrime IV
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.
10240030032800008192003003280000
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.
10240030032800008192003003280000
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.
110300270300
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.
60 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-4, MOVMPEG-4, MOV
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 / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
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 shots1505000390 shots1505000
USB charging

The Pentax KP emerges as the winner with a score of 72/100, while the Pentax K-70 trails by 3 points at 69/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, sharing similar specifications such as announcement dates in 2016 and 2017, launch prices of $650 and $1099, and camera sizes of 126 x 93 x 74mm and 132 x 101 x 76mm respectively.

The winning Pentax KP excels with its higher score, reflecting its superior quality. However, the Pentax K-70 has an advantage in terms of affordability and slightly lighter weight at 688g compared to the KP’s 703g.

Taking all factors into account, the Pentax KP is a better camera, but the Pentax K-70 offers a more budget-friendly option for those seeking a lighter DSLR.

Pentax K-70 vs KP Overview and Optics

The Pentax KP outperforms the Pentax K-70 in optics with a score of 79/100 compared to the K-70’s 74/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as 24 megapixels, a CMOS sensor, an APS-C sensor size, a Pentax KAF2 lens mount, and image stabilization. Despite these similarities, the KP has the edge in certain areas, while the K-70 has its own advantages.

The KP’s higher optics score stems from its faster shooting speed of 7 frames per second (fps) compared to the K-70’s 6 fps. This difference allows the KP to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. Additionally, the KP boasts a superior Prime IV processor, which contributes to faster performance and improved image quality. The KP also has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 96, indicating better overall image quality compared to the K-70’s score of 88.

On the other hand, the K-70 has a Prime MII processor, which, while not as advanced as the KP’s Prime IV, still provides decent performance and image quality. The K-70’s slightly slower shooting speed of 6 fps may not be ideal for fast-paced photography, but it should suffice for most casual photographers.

In comparing the optics of the Pentax K-70 and KP, the KP emerges as the superior camera due to its faster shooting speed, better processor, and higher sensor score. However, the K-70 remains a viable option for those seeking decent performance and image quality at a potentially lower price point. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and priorities of the photographer.

Pentax K-70 vs KP Video Performance

The Pentax K-70 outperforms the Pentax KP in video capabilities with a score of 70/100, while the KP scores 57/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, including Full HD (1920 x 1080) maximum video resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality.

The K-70’s superior video performance is primarily due to its higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps compared to the KP’s 30fps. This allows the K-70 to capture smoother and more detailed video, especially in fast-paced situations or when recording action scenes. The higher frame rate also provides more flexibility during post-processing for slow-motion effects.

On the other hand, the KP does not offer any distinct advantages over the K-70 in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras share the same video resolution and time-lapse functionality, but the KP falls short in terms of maximum video frame rate.

Taking into account the differences in video performance, the Pentax K-70 is the clear winner in this comparison. With a higher frame rate, the K-70 provides better video quality and flexibility for various shooting scenarios. The Pentax KP, while still offering Full HD resolution and time-lapse functionality, does not match the K-70’s performance due to its lower maximum frame rate. For those prioritizing video capabilities, the Pentax K-70 is the better choice.

Pentax K-70 vs KP Features and Benefits

The Pentax K-70 and the Pentax KP both have a feature score of 68/100, making them equal in terms of features. They share several common specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, 921,000-dot screen resolution, flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth. Neither camera has a touchscreen.

The Pentax K-70 and the Pentax KP are similar in many aspects, which contributes to their identical feature scores. Their 3-inch screen size and 921,000-dot screen resolution provide clear and bright images for users. The flip screen feature allows for versatile shooting angles, while GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity enable easy sharing of photos and location-tagged images.

However, there may be specific aspects that make one camera more suited to a user’s needs than the other. For example, the Pentax K-70 might have better low-light performance or more advanced autofocus capabilities. On the other hand, the Pentax KP could offer a more compact design or better build quality. These individual preferences can influence a user’s choice between the two cameras, even though their overall feature scores are equal.

Ultimately, the choice between the Pentax K-70 and the Pentax KP depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences. Both cameras offer a range of features that cater to a variety of shooting situations and styles. As their feature scores are identical, users should consider their personal requirements and priorities when selecting the camera that best suits their needs.

Pentax K-70 vs KP Storage and Battery

The Pentax K-70 outperforms the Pentax KP in storage and battery with a score of 24/100 compared to the KP’s 21/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as having one memory card slot and accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC (UHS-I compatible) memory cards. Additionally, both cameras use the same battery type, D-LI109, and neither offer USB charging.

The K-70 excels with a longer battery life, providing 410 shots compared to the KP’s 390 shots. This advantage allows for extended shooting sessions without needing to recharge or replace the battery.

However, the KP does not have any distinct advantages in the storage and battery category over the K-70. The K-70’s superior battery life makes it the better option in this aspect. Both cameras have similar storage capabilities, but the K-70’s extended battery life makes it the preferred choice for photographers seeking longer shooting sessions.

Pentax K-70 vs KP – Our Verdict

Pentax K-70 vs KP 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-70 or the Pentax KP: