Pentax KP
Pentax · DSLR · 24 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
Score Breakdown
Scores combine our editorial testing with published lab data.
General | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Pentax |
| Model | KP |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2017 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 25, 2017 |
| Camera type |  DSLR |
| Camera size | 132 x 101 x 76 mm |
| Camera weight | 703 g |
Optics79/100 | |
About the OpticsConsidering its release year and competitive market, the Pentax KP still holds its ground with its specifications. Its score reflects the camera’s overall quality and performance, offering a reliable choice for photography enthusiasts. Pentax KP Overview and OpticsThe Pentax KP’s optics receive a score of 79/100. This camera features a 24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which is a popular choice among modern DSLRs. The Prime IV processor ensures efficient image processing, while the shooting speed of 7 frames per second allows for capturing fast-moving subjects. The DXOMARK score for the sensor is an impressive 96, confirming its high-quality performance. The Pentax KAF2 lens mount provides compatibility with a wide range of lenses, offering flexibility for various photography styles. Additionally, the camera includes image stabilization, which helps reduce camera shake and improve image sharpness. Its 3:2 aspect ratio is standard and suitable for most photography needs. The Pentax KP holds its own in the competitive camera market with a strong combination of optics and features. While other cameras may boast higher specifications in certain areas, the KP remains a reliable choice for photographers seeking quality and versatility. | |
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 6016 x 4000 |
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. | 23.5 x 15.6 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-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. | 7 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 KAF2 |
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. | 600080032000 |
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. | 270300 |
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 |
Video57/100 | |
About the VideoThe Pentax KP’s video capabilities score stands at 57 out of 100. This camera offers Full HD video recording with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The highest video frame rate available is 30fps, which is adequate for casual videographers but may fall short for those seeking a more professional experience. Additionally, the camera includes a built-in time-lapse functionality that allows users to create captivating time-lapse videos with ease. When compared to other cameras in today’s market, the Pentax KP’s video specifications are modest. Many contemporary models now offer 4K video resolution and higher frame rates, which provide smoother motion and greater detail. Thus, the Pentax KP may not be the top choice for users who prioritize video performance. However, for those who primarily focus on photography with occasional video recording, the KP’s capabilities can be sufficient. | |
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. | 30 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, MOV |
Features68/100 | |
About the FeaturesThe Pentax KP features a score of 68/100 in this section. This camera offers a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 921,000 dots. Although it does not have a touchscreen, it compensates with a flip screen for versatile shooting angles. The camera also includes GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities, making it well-connected for various needs. Comparing these features to other cameras in today’s market, the Pentax KP holds its ground. The screen size and resolution are standard, but the lack of a touchscreen may be a drawback for some users. The flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth are valuable additions that enhance the camera’s usability and connectivity. The Pentax KP, with its blend of features, proves to be a reliable option for photographers seeking a well-rounded camera. The combination of a flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth make this camera 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. |  Yes |
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 | 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" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 9210001150001500000 |
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 & Battery21/100 | |
About the Storage & BatteryThe Pentax KP received a storage and battery score of 21/100. It has one memory card slot, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards with UHS-I compatibility. The camera’s battery life allows for 390 shots, using a D-LI109 battery type. However, it does not support USB charging. In the current market, the Pentax KP’s storage and battery performance is below average. With only one memory card slot and no USB charging, it lacks convenience and flexibility compared to other cameras. The battery life, providing 390 shots, also falls short when compared to competitors. This suggests that the Pentax KP may not be the best choice for those prioritizing storage and battery capabilities. | |
| Memory card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) |
| Dual memory card slots | No |
| 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. | 390 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | No |