Pentax KP - an alternative to mirrorless?

[dirk]

Hi,

Pentax announced today the new model Pentax KP. This is an APS-C sized sensor DSLR, which is astonishing small, has a tilting screen, 24MP, no-AA filter, High ISO of 820.000, electronic shutter of 1/24.000s and an exchangeable grip on the body.

I find this really interesting. Pentax is well known to offer small sized DSLRs and Pentax is therefore almost the only brand, who can compete on size with all its models against mirrorless options like Fuji et alii.

The most important specs from the Pentax KP site:

• 24.3 effective megapixels
• APS-C AA filter-less CMOS sensor
• PRIME IV engine w/ accelerator unit
• Super-high sensitivity ISO 819200
• Pixel Shift Resolution System w/ motion correction function
• AA Filter Simulator: Moiré reduction using “SR” unit
• Convenient compact size
• SRII fi ve-axis Shake Reduction System
• Approx. 100% FOV optical viewfi nder
• (0.95x magnifi cation)
• SAFOX11 27-point Autofocus
• 1/6000 high-speed shutter
• 1/24000 electronic shutter
• Tiltable LCD monitor
• Built-in Wi-Fi for use with Image Sync app
• Full HD movie recording
• Intuitive design
• Exchangeable Grip (3 sizes available)
• Smart Function Dial
• Customizable Info Screen control
• panel, function buttons, user
• modes and presets
• Dustproof, weather-resistant body
• -10°C cold-resistant construction

$1,099.95

http://www.us.ricoh-imaging.com/index.php/cameras/pentax-kp


A Video from Adorama is here to see the size and how it does handle:




Another official video from Pentax itself:

 

[vharalds]

The look appeals. Not a good looking camera but I like it. Ok, the features dont really shake the K3 but the KP is still a surprise. I'm interested.

 

[dirk]

yes, I think the look of the pentaprism is the price you have tp pay if you want to make the body this small and still have 100% viewfinder with it...

I think idea of an individual grip is really nice.

 

[crocus63]

I've been looking at this camera and am waiting for more reviews to done on it. They're so close to a mirrorless; just use the slimmest grip, take out the mirror box and remove that 3rd dial on the top.