Pentax 645Z

The Pentax 645Z is a medium format DSLR from 2014 built around a 51.4 megapixel CMOS sensor. It uses the Pentax 645AF2 lens mount, and its 3 fps maximum shooting pace suits deliberate work rather than fast action, with framing through an optical pentaprism viewfinder.

Owning one is a commitment. The body measures 156 x 117 x 123 mm and weighs 1550 g, so it rewards a proper bag and support rather than casual carrying. Weather sealing adds protection for outdoor shooting when conditions are poor.

The Optics score of 79 is good, and the 645Z sits in the top 10% of cameras in our database for Optics. That standing rests on the 51.4 megapixel medium format CMOS sensor, which produces files with real room for large prints and generous cropping.

Sensitivity runs from ISO 100 to 204800, a wide span that keeps exposure options open across changing conditions. The low base setting gives a starting point for bright scenes and tripod work.

Speed is where the pace shows. The maximum burst rate of 3 fps favours deliberate composition over fast action, autofocus offers 27 points, and the 1/4000 s maximum shutter speed may limit wide apertures in bright light.

There is no in-body stabilisation, so long handheld exposures rest on your technique, a support, or a shutter speed fast enough to keep things steady. Framing is through an optical pentaprism viewfinder, the traditional choice for composing stills.

Video earns a score of 70, assessed as good. Recording tops out at Full HD resolution, and the fastest frame rate on offer is 60 fps, though the two are separate limits rather than one guaranteed combined mode.

There is no 4K recording option, a ceiling that matters most for video-led projects. Shooters who only need occasional clips alongside their photography have less reason to mind it.

Files record as MOV or AVI, and the built-in timelapse mode automates interval shooting, so you can set a sequence running without triggering each frame yourself.

For framing, the tilting screen and live view help when the camera sits low or overhead, which is often where video setups end up.

The Features score of 59 is modest, and the feature set explains it. You get a 3.2-inch LCD with about 1.04 million dots that tilts for framing from high or low angles, plus live view. There is no touch input and no Bluetooth, which is where the section gives up ground.

The body is weather sealed for outdoor shooting in poor conditions, though that sealing is not the same as full waterproofing.

Wi-Fi is built in, while Bluetooth is absent and GPS is missing, so there is no in-camera location tagging. There is no built-in flash, but external flash units are supported, so you can add one when the light demands it.

Two card slots accept SD, SDHC and SDXC memory, so high-capacity cards work and a second card can sit in the body alongside the first. That doubles the cards you can carry without swapping.

The D-LI90 battery is rated at 650 shots, though real-world figures depend on your settings and how you shoot. A spare battery is sensible insurance for long sessions.

There is no USB charging, which together with the rated battery life accounts for the ground lost in the Storage & Battery score of 65, an assessment of good. Plan charging ahead of a shoot and carry a spare battery on long days.