Designed for Pentax DSLRs but also compatible with Samsung models, this lens boasts 16 elements in 13 groups and includes a pair of ED optics as well as two aspherical elements. The lens is from Pentax’s DA range, rather than from the premium DA* line, and lacks image stabilisation as Pentax DSLRs use an in-camera system for this. It doesn’t feature Pentax’s new SDM motor for quieter, faster focusing, although admittedly, nor do most of the other lenses in this category.

The AF motor is neither the fastest nor the quietest, though in conjunction with the Pentax AF in-camera system it doesn’t hunt too much. The zoom action is slack, so the zoom lock needs to be used when carrying the lens and camera, or else gravity takes effect and extends the barrels.

Image Quality

Performance in general is average, with a reasonable resolution at 18mm and good chromatic aberration control in the centre of the frame, at both ends of the zoom. Image quality falls off in the corner, though resolution at 200mm is fairly consistent.