Pentax upgrades its K10D with the new 14.6-megapixel K20D DSLR. A new entry-level DSLR as well as upgraded ultra compact cameras are also on the horizon.
| Pentax K20D |
Specs » Gallery » |
 The Pentax K20D brings 14-megapixel photography to the prosumer market, and it does so with quality. It's a solidly built, borderline mammoth camera with sensor-shift image-stabilization and excellent RAW support, and it has a snappy action that makes it a joy to use. Image quality isn't quite as eyeball-popping as a full-frame DSLR, but for a more modestly priced prosumer, it's nevertheless impressive. For budget photographers shooting stock, in which size is indeed everything, the Pentax K20D is an absolute no-brainer. For everyone else, it's still a DSLR that demands serious consideration. Release: March 2008. Price: $1300.
Pros: Best-in-class megapixel count. Great, sturdy design. Good interface. Sensor-shift stabilization. Above average noise-management.
Cons: Not the best image quality from an APS-C sensor. Shutter and ISO ranges are on the low-end.
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Pentax K20D Digital SLR
Coming as an upgrade to the K10D, the flagship Pentax K20D features a newly developed CMOS image sensor offering 14.6 effective megapixels and noise-reduction technology. Custom image functions allow users to select between six preset options and further adjust image processing, including saturation, hue, contrast and sharpness. The K20D also offers an Expanded Dynamic Range function, claimed to allow users to gain more contrast and detail in bright settings. The Pentax K20D also sports an Autofocus button, 4x or 8x zoom option, as well as a weather and dust resistant body.
The Pentax K20D will ship in April for about $1300.
| Pentax K200D |
Specs » Gallery » |
 Pentax's newest entry-level DSLR, the K200D stuffs the insides of the old flagship K10D into a compact body. Much like it's big brother, the K20D, its 2.7-inch LCD is housed in a dust and weather resistant body; unlike the K20D it features a 10.2-megapixel CCD rather than the new CMOS (Complementary Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor) sensor. We understand adding scene modes for the novice purchasing an entry-level DSLR, but we would rather see better aperture-priority and shutter-priority auto modes. Release: March 2008. Price: $800.
Pros: Compact dust and weather-resistant body, entry-level price
Cons: Old CCD sensor
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Pentax K200D entry-level Digital SLR
Housed in a compact body, the new Pentax K200D contains all the technology of the K10D, and is designed for entry-level DSLR users. The K200D features a 10.2-megapixels sensor and a 2.7-inch widescreen LCD. A proprietary shake reduction system has also been incorporated, along with auto picture and various scene modes. Like the K20D, the K200D comes with a dust and weather resistant body.
The Pentax K200D will ship in March for about $800.
Pentax Optio M50 ultra compact camera
The ultra compact Optio M50 offers a 5x optical zoom, smile capture function and an 8-megapixel sensor. Available in three color choices including silver, light blue and pink, the Optio M50 will ship in March 2008 for $230.
Pentax Optio M50 (image gallery)
Pentax Optio S12 stylish camera
The 12-megapixel Optio S12 comes in a stylish housing, and boasts a 3x optical zoom lens, 2.5-inch screen as well as a face recognition function. The Optio S12 also captures VGA video at 30fps, which can be recorded directly in the DivX format. The Pentax Optio S12 will ship in February for $300.
Pentax Optio S12 (image gallery)
Pentax Optio E50 budget camera
The Optio E50 is aimed at budget-minded users, featuring an 8.1-megapixel sensor, 3x optical zoom and face recognition functionality. Scheduled for release in March, the Optio E50 will be selling for $150.
Pentax Optio E50 (image gallery)
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