Pentax reveals entry-level K-50 and K-500 DSLRs

Pentax reveals entry-level K-50 and K-500 DSLRs
The K-50 comes prepared for all weather, which is just as well given our luck

Pentax Ricoh has announced two new entry-level DSLRs. The cameras both feature the same 16 million-pixel APS-C format sensor that made its debut on the Pentax K-30.

In fact, the Pentax K-50 shares most of the same features as the Pentax K-30, but with an improved Prime M image processor and the ability to shoot at sensitivities up to ISO 51,200. Although the two cameras are very similar, Pentax says that both the K-30 and K-50 will continue in the company's lineup, bringing the total number of DSLR cameras up to five.

The Pentax K-500, also announced today, has very similar specifications but doesn't feature weatherproofing. Both cameras will come bundled with an 18-55mm kit lens, with the Pentax K-50's being weatherproofed.

Pentax reveals entry-level K-50 and K-500 DSLRs

Other features of the cameras include a 100% field of view optical viewfinder, 1/6000 sec shutter speeds, customisable buttons and the capability to shoot in DNG raw format.

Colour ways

Up to 120 different colour combinations will be available for the Pentax K-50, which can be ordered especially by customers. However, retailers will stock it in red, white and black, the lower priced Pentax K-500 is only available in black.

Pentax is pitching the K-50 as a mid-range camera, despite its low price. The company hopes it will be tough competition for the likes of the Nikon D5200 and the Canon 60D.

Price and availability

Pentax reveals entry-level K-50 and K-500 DSLRs

Available to buy from the end of the month, the Pentax K-50 price will be £529.99 (around US$830 / AU$870) body only, or £599.99 (around US$940 / AU$985) with the weatherproofed 18-55mm kit lens.

Alternatively, the Pentax K-500 price will be £449.99 (around US$705 / AU$740) with the standard 18-55mm kit lens.

Amy Davies

Amy has been writing about cameras, photography and associated tech since 2009. Amy was once part of the photography testing team for Future Publishing working across TechRadar, Digital Camera, PhotoPlus, N Photo and Photography Week. For her photography, she has won awards and has been exhibited. She often partakes in unusual projects - including one intense year where she used a different camera every single day. Amy is currently the Features Editor at Amateur Photographer magazine, and in her increasingly little spare time works across a number of high-profile publications including Wired, Stuff, Digital Camera World, Expert Reviews, and just a little off-tangent, PetsRadar.