Pentax K-1 Mark II
Pentax · DSLR · 36 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
Score Breakdown
Scores combine our editorial testing with published lab data.
General | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Pentax |
| Model | K-1 Mark II |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2018 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 21, 2018 |
| Camera type |  DSLR |
| Camera size | 137 x 110 x 86 mm |
| Camera weight | 1010 g |
Optics85/100 | |
About the OpticsPentax K-1 Mark II Overview and OpticsThe Pentax K-1 Mark II’s optics receive a score of 85/100, which is a strong result. With 36 megapixels, a shooting speed of 4.4, and a CMOS sensor, this camera is well-equipped for capturing high-quality images. The Prime IV processor ensures efficient performance, while the DXOMARK score of 96 for the sensor highlights its effectiveness. A significant feature of this camera is its full-frame sensor size, which allows for better image quality and improved low-light performance. The Pentax KAF4 lens mount offers compatibility with a wide range of lenses, and the built-in image stabilization reduces the risk of blurry photos. With a 3:2 aspect ratio, the K-1 Mark II is ideal for traditional photography formats. The Pentax K-1 Mark II’s optics perform well in today’s competitive market, offering a solid combination of features and performance that cater to both amateur and professional photographers. The camera’s high-quality sensor, processor, and lens compatibility make it a reliable choice for capturing stunning images in various conditions. | |
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 36 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 7360 x 4912 |
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. | 35.9 x 24 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 4.4 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 KAF4 |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Prime 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. |  3:2 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 10030200 |
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. | 8192003003280000 |
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 |
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. | 8192003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 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. | 800080032000 |
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. | 330300 |
In-body stabilisation ⓘIn-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |  Yes |
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) |
| Viewfinder dots | N/A |
Video70/100 | |
About the VideoThe Pentax K-1 Mark II receives a video score of 70 out of 100. This camera offers Full HD video resolution with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080, ensuring clear and detailed footage. The camera supports a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, providing smooth motion in videos. Additionally, the K-1 Mark II features built-in time-lapse functionality, allowing users to create captivating time-lapse videos with ease. When compared to other cameras in today’s market, the Pentax K-1 Mark II’s video capabilities are decent but may not be the top choice for dedicated videographers. While the Full HD resolution is sufficient for most casual users, professionals may seek cameras with 4K video resolution for higher quality footage. Nevertheless, the K-1 Mark II’s video features, including the 60fps frame rate and time-lapse functionality, are valuable assets for those looking to capture dynamic and creative videos. | |
Video ⓘIndicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  Yes |
Max video resolution ⓘThe best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  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 |
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 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. |  Yes |
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, H.264 |
Features72/100 | |
About the FeaturesThe Pentax K-1 Mark II received a feature score of 72/100. It boasts a 3.2-inch screen with a resolution of 1,037,000 dots. Although the camera lacks a touchscreen, it compensates with a flip screen, providing versatility in capturing different angles. In today’s market, the K-1 Mark II stands out for its built-in GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities. These features enable easy geotagging and seamless sharing of photos with other devices. However, the absence of a touchscreen might be a drawback for some users accustomed to modern camera interfaces. The Pentax K-1 Mark II offers a solid feature set for photography enthusiasts. It provides a balance of advanced features and user-friendly options, making it a strong contender in the competitive camera market. | |
Builtin flash ⓘA built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. | No |
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. |  Yes |
GPS ⓘGPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |  Yes |
Weather sealing ⓘWeather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |  Yes |
| Screen type | TFT LCD |
Touch screen ⓘTouchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. | No |
| Screen size | 3.2" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 10370001150001500000 |
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. |  Yes |
Live view ⓘLive View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  Yes |
Wi-Fi ⓘBuilt-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly. |  Yes |
Bluetooth ⓘBluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  Yes |
Storage & Battery65/100 | |
About the Storage & BatteryThe Pentax K-1 Mark II storage and battery receives a score of 65/100. The camera has two memory card slots, which accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards with UHS-I compatibility. This capacity is adequate for most photographers, but may not meet the needs of professionals who require faster, high-capacity storage options. The K-1 Mark II uses a D-LI90 battery, providing 670 shots per charge. This battery life is decent, but not outstanding when compared to other cameras in the market. Additionally, the camera lacks USB charging, which could be inconvenient for users who prefer on-the-go charging solutions. Taking into account the storage and battery specifications, the Pentax K-1 Mark II is a solid choice for casual or hobbyist photographers, but may not satisfy the demands of professionals in today’s competitive market. | |
| Memory card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I Compatible) |
| Dual memory card slots |  Yes |
| 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. | 670 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | No |