An undoubtedly well-made Pentax prime, but does the image quality live up to the price-tag? Read the WDC Pentax SMC DA* 55mm f/1.4 SDM review to find out.

Product Overview

Overall rating:

91%

Pentax SMC DA* 55mm f/1.4 SDM

Image Quality:90%
Performance:85%
Value:90%
Overall score:91%
Design:100%
Features:90%

Pros:

  • Excellent ergonomics

Cons:

  • Fringing in MTF images

Product:

Pentax SMC DA* 55mm f/1.4 SDM Review

Manufacturer:

Price as reviewed:

£450.00

Sample images

Verdict

It seems like a shame that Pentax's 55mm fast prime does not have full-frame coverage, but given that there is currently no full-frame Pentax body (other than older film cameras) this may not be such an important gripe. In isolation this would be a good lens once it has been stopped-down slightly, but amid a field of fast primes its slight weaknesses limit its overall score.

Details

Minimum Aperture:f/22
Lens Mount:Pentax
Optional Accessories:Lens hood supplied
Filter Thread:58mm
Image Stabilisation:No
Focus Method:AF and MF (IF)
Other:SDM
AF Motor Type:SDM
Minimum Focus:0.45m
Lens Construction:9/8
Maximum Aperture:f/1.4
Weight:375g
35mm Equivalent Focal Length:75mm
Dimensions:70 x 66mm
Focal Length:50mm
Maximum Format Size:APS-C
  1. 1. Introduction
  2. 2. Sample images
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