Pentax K200D
Review Date : Mon, 2 Jun 2008
Author : Jamie Harrison
- Product Shots: http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/equipment/galleries/productshots/pentax/8793/1/0/pentax-k200d-product-shots.html
- Sample Photos: http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/equipment/galleries/sample-images/pentax/9182/1/0/pentax-k200d-sample-images_pg_Inspire.html
- Video: http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/videos/reviews/266924/pentax-k200d-video-review.html
An entry-level DSLR featuring facets of its more advanced sibling – too good to be true?...
| Pros: | Build, image quality, features, low noise |
|---|---|
| Cons: | Speed, kit lens AF, easily scratched shell, tight SD slot |
It’s been two years since Pentax revamped its DSLR line and dropped the *ist range for the K range, reflecting its film heritage. The company has now launched the fourth entry-level model in the range, the K200D, following on from the K100D, the K110D, and the K100D Super.
Pentax appears to have dropped its previous idea of releasing a pair of models, one with image stabilisation and one without (the K100D and K110D) and instead is incorporating the feature as standard. This follows the trends of other manufacturers, not only in the DSLR market but also for their compacts.
Verdict
I really enjoyed using the K200D. It is logical to handle and its build quality means I’d be happy to use it in harsher conditions. The images I got from the camera also were very pleasing, especially considering previous exposure problems with other Pentax cameras, and the ‘Bright’ mode is certainly my favourite for JPEGs.<br><br> Despite its positioning as a beginners’ DSLR, though, there are enough higher-end features to satisfy the more advanced photographer, making this a great camera for the film to digital convert, or anyone wishing to go beyond the Auto-club. The only let down really is the drive speed and the AF with the kit lens. Look for deals that feature a better lens, or buy the body on its own and invest in a superior optic and you’ll find yourself with a lovely little kit.
Have your say!
Latest comments
December 10 23:11
will
This is one tough nut of a camera! Lovely images. Easy to use old Pentax lenses on it (thanks to the green button which you can use to set the correct shutter speed when using the aperture ring. I didn't want a large 'pro' type camera, nor a little dinky thing, so the K200D was just right.
December 16 08:15
Lucas
Got this toy as my first DSLR and objective reviews from WDC or Dprvw made me take the step. lovely handling and tough&sealed construction, good image quality, top lcd and AA batteries are perfect for the travel & outdoor use I made of it. Now priced at 450 euros it's a really good deal if U can find one left!!! If you don't need a machinegun (for sport action pics..: get a EOS 1Mk II!!) or hyper-high ISO (do you take many pics of the inside of church or mounument all the time? Get a tripod!!!) just get it.