CameraReviews.com
menu
Hi Camera Lovers 👋 If you buy a camera through our referral links, you support our site at no cost to you 😉 Full info here.

Pentax K-S1 Specs and Scores

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery
Pentax K-S1
57%
General
57%
Price
Brand
Pentax
Model
K-S1
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.
August 27, 2014
Camera Type
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Pentax K-S1, scoring 57/100, has a few noteworthy specifications. Launched in 2014, this DSLR camera costs $749 and measures 121 x 93 x 70mm. Weighing 1.23lbs, it’s a relatively lightweight option. However, considering the advancements in camera technology since its release, the K-S1 faces stiff competition in today’s market. Despite its decent score and user-friendly design, the camera’s age may deter potential buyers who are looking for more up-to-date features.

Pentax K-S1 Overview and Optics

The Pentax K-S1 optics score is 68/100. With 20.12 megapixels, a shooting speed of 5.4, and a CMOS sensor, the camera provides decent image quality. The Prime MII processor and DXOMARK sensor score of 78 further contribute to the camera’s performance.

The camera’s sensor size is APS-C, which is common among DSLR cameras. It has a Pentax KAF lens mount, offering compatibility with a wide range of lenses. Additionally, the K-S1 features image stabilization, ensuring sharp images even in challenging situations. The aspect ratio of 3:2 is also standard, providing a familiar format for photographers.

Considering today’s market, the Pentax K-S1 optics are satisfactory for general photography purposes but may not stand out among its competitors. However, the camera’s compatibility with numerous lenses and the inclusion of image stabilization make it a solid choice for those seeking a versatile DSLR.

Optics
Optics
68%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
20.12 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5472 x 3648 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.
15.6 x 23.5 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-C
Frame Rate
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
5.4 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 KAF
Image Processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
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
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.
51,200
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.
51200
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/ 6000 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.
11
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 K-S1 Video Performance

The Pentax K-S1 has a video score of 43 out of 100. The camera offers Full HD video resolution with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Its maximum video frame rate is 30fps, which is standard for most cameras in the market. However, the Pentax K-S1 does not have built-in time-lapse functionality.

Comparing the Pentax K-S1’s video capabilities to other cameras in the market, it falls short in terms of advanced features. Many contemporary cameras offer 4K video resolution, higher frame rates, and built-in time-lapse functionality. The K-S1’s video features are basic and may not satisfy the needs of users who require advanced video capabilities.

The Pentax K-S1 is not the ideal choice for users seeking top-notch video performance. Its video capabilities are limited compared to other cameras available today. The K-S1 is better suited for photographers who prioritize still images over video features.

Video
Video
43%
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.
30 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 K-S1 Features and Benefits

The Pentax K-S1 features a score of 41/100, which is a modest rating for camera features. The camera comes with a 3-inch screen, offering a resolution of 921,000 dots. However, it lacks some modern functionalities, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity.

In the current market, these specifications place the Pentax K-S1 at a disadvantage compared to competitors that offer more advanced features. The absence of a touchscreen and flip screen limits the camera’s flexibility and ease of use, while the lack of GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity restricts the user’s ability to transfer and share images efficiently.

Considering all factors, the Pentax K-S1 falls short in providing the latest features found in many contemporary cameras. Its limited specifications may not satisfy the needs of users seeking a more advanced and connected photography experience.

Features
Features
41%
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"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
921,000 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 K-S1 Storage and Battery

The Pentax K-S1 scores 24/100 in the storage and battery category. The camera has one memory card slot, compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. With a battery life of 410 shots, the K-S1 uses a D-LI109 battery type. However, the camera lacks USB charging capability.

In today’s market, the K-S1’s storage and battery specifications may not be the most competitive. Many cameras offer multiple memory card slots and longer battery life. Additionally, USB charging has become a common feature in modern cameras. Despite these shortcomings, the Pentax K-S1 remains a solid camera option for those prioritizing other features.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
24%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
D-LI109
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
410 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
78%
Portrait (Color Depth)
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.'
23.5 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.'
13 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'
1061
Scores
User Scores
B&H photo video
Spotted a mistake with these camera specs? Please let us know so we can update it!