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Brand
Pentax
Model
645Z
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2014
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
April 15, 2014
Camera Type
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight
The Pentax 645Z scores a solid 73/100 in our evaluation. Announced on April 15, 2014, and released the same year, this DSLR camera comes with a hefty price tag of $8499. The camera’s dimensions are 156 x 117 x 123mm, and it weighs 1550g (3.42lbs). Considering its specifications, the Pentax 645Z remains a competitive option in today’s market. Despite being a few years old, this camera still offers great performance, making it a reliable choice for photography enthusiasts.
Pentax 645Z Overview and Optics
The Pentax 645Z receives a score of 79/100 for optics. This camera features a 51.4-megapixel CMOS sensor with a medium format size and a Pentax 645AF2 lens mount. The Prime III processor enables a shooting speed of 3 frames per second. Despite lacking image stabilization, the 645Z has a notable DXOMARK sensor score of 101 and an aspect ratio of 4:3.
In today’s market, the Pentax 645Z holds its own due to its high-resolution medium format sensor. This feature allows it to capture more detail and dynamic range than smaller sensors found in other cameras. The 645AF2 lens mount provides compatibility with a variety of high-quality Pentax lenses, ensuring flexibility and adaptability for different shooting scenarios.
The Pentax 645Z’s impressive specifications make it a strong contender in the medium format camera market. Its combination of high-resolution sensor and versatile lens mount contributes to its competitive edge and overall performance.
Optics
Pentax 645Z
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
51.4 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
8256 x 6192 px
Sensor Type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
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.
32.8 x 43.8 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Medium Format
Frame Rate
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
3 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.
Pentax 645AF2
Image Processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Prime III
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.
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
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.
204,800
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.
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.
204800
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
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
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.
27
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)
Pentax 645Z Video Performance
The Pentax 645Z holds a video score of 70 out of 100. Its maximum video resolution reaches Full HD with dimensions of 1920 x 1080, and it supports a maximum video frame rate of 60fps. The camera also includes built-in time-lapse functionality, adding to its capabilities.
In the current market, the Pentax 645Z’s video specifications are not the most advanced. Many cameras now offer 4K video resolution or even higher, which surpasses the 645Z’s Full HD capabilities. However, the 60fps frame rate and time-lapse functionality still provide versatility and creative potential for users.
Despite not being the most cutting-edge option for video, the Pentax 645Z remains a reliable choice for those seeking a medium format camera with decent video capabilities. Its video specifications may not be top-tier, but they still offer ample opportunities for capturing quality footage.
Video
Pentax 645Z
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
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
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 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.
MOV, AVI
Pentax 645Z Features and Benefits
The Pentax 645Z receives a feature score of 59/100. The camera’s screen measures 3.2 inches with a resolution of 1,037,000 dots. While it does not possess a touchscreen, it does have a flip screen for versatile viewing angles. The 645Z lacks GPS functionality but includes WIFI for easy sharing and remote control capabilities. However, it does not offer Bluetooth connectivity.
Comparing these specifications to other cameras in today’s market, the Pentax 645Z falls short in some aspects. Many modern cameras now include touchscreens, GPS, and Bluetooth, which the 645Z lacks. Despite these shortcomings, the camera still holds its ground with its flip screen and WIFI capabilities.
The Pentax 645Z’s features may not be the most advanced on the market, but its flip screen and WIFI functionality still make it a relevant choice for some photographers.
Features
Pentax 645Z
Built-in 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
Touch Screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen Size
3.2"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1,037,000 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.
Pentax 645Z Storage and Battery
The Pentax 645Z receives a storage and battery score of 65 out of 100. This camera comes with two memory card slots that accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, providing versatility in storage options. However, the battery life is only 650 shots, which may not be sufficient for extended shooting sessions. The camera uses a D-LI90 battery type, and unfortunately, there is no USB charging option available.
Comparing these specifications to other cameras in today’s market, the Pentax 645Z falls a bit short in battery life and charging options. Many modern cameras now offer USB charging, making it easier for users to charge on-the-go. The storage options are on par with the current market, but improvements in battery life and charging capabilities would make the Pentax 645Z more competitive.
Storage and Battery
Pentax 645Z
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
D-LI90
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
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.'
26 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.'
14.7 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'
DSLR
Medium Format
4:3
Full HD
3.2"
