The Pentax K-x has become one of the most popular "entry-level" DSLRs for some very good reasons: it has excellent image quality and colors; it is compact without feeling like a toy; the "kit-lens" is actually quite good; and it is easy to use and understand without being restricted or "dumbed down." The fact that it comes in colors in the US, like the Red one here, only adds to the appeal (as of this review it also comes in White, Blue, Green, Orange, Purple, and basic Black). Life is short, so express yourself wherever you can - not everything needs to be monochrome. Besides, having only black cameras, as if they are like a "pro camera," doesn't change them from being small and plastic. Personally, I've found that the Red K-x puts people at ease and they actually look at the camera and smile!
Aside from the colorful shell, what does it offer? Well, the headlines are that the high-ISO images this camera produces are amazingly detailed and free from noise (and this means you can use faster shutter speeds in lower light, so your images are sharp without being washed out by a flash). Right now, the K-x has been recognized as the low-priced leader for low-light photography. The colors of the images you get are vibrant and bright (even in low light), and the exposure is quite predictable, although the LCD display on the back doesn't always show this when viewing images on it. Actually, the LCD display is mainly good for setting the options, of which this camera has a ton!
So, rather than do a "dpreview" run down of all the features, I'll just hit the highlights in two categories (pro/con):
PRO:
- Compact and solid, with a grip that is comfortable even for larger hands
- Fast. Fast to start up, fast to shoot (5 fps!), fast to focus (with the kit lens).
- Image Stabilization built into the camera, not the lens, so every lens has "shake reduction" (and it works well!)
- Can use any Pentax-mount lens from the 1950's onward, and they are now stabilized and have AF-confirmation (you manually focus and the camera beeps when you hit it!)
- Comes with the usual "scene modes" but doesn't forgo the photographer modes like Av, Tv, Sv (ISO priority) or Program mode
- Excellent metering and pretty good AF mean that what you want to capture typically looks good (and the Scene modes help out as well)
- High ISO (1600-6400) which is actually *useable* and not too noisy, with an Auto-ISO mode set from the factory!
- HD video (720p) is recorded in an easy to view and edit format
- The various "filter modes" are fun to use, and can even be applied to raw files by processing them in the camera
- The supplied lithium AAs last a really long time, and rechargeable NiMHs (like Eneloops) also last a long time and AAs can be bought anywhere
- Nice UI for the LCD screen, with clearly visible controls on the body
- Pentax makes some of the best lenses for landscapes, scenics, and portraits that are still affordable (example: the DA40mm Limited is tiny, sharp, fast, and all metal and glass for about $350 - incredible!)
- It is both fun to look at and fun to use (isn't that why you're reading the review of a red SLR?)
CON:
- Uses AA batteries, which makes it a bit heavier than other models
- Only one dial to change things like shutter speed or aperture quickly (so you can't change both at the same time so quickly)
- HD Movies are large (uncompressed) and like all DSLR HD movies, tend to be a bit jittery in fast motion (but the movies are also stabilized against handshake)
- Sound on Movies is not too good (built-in mic above the lens, so any focus noise is heard loud and clear)
- AF in Live View is sloooow (contrast-detect) and really only good for slow moving objects or bright sunlight
- Things like "face-detect" and "HDR capture" look good in the specs, but aren't so useful without patience or a tripod
Pentax K-x 12.4MP Digital SLR with 2.7 inch LCD and 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL Lens (Red)
3.8 | 42 ratings
Price:
Last update: 01-20-2025
About this item
Box Contents - K-x camera, smc DA L 18-55mm Lens, USB Cable, Strap, Hotshoe Cover, Eyecup, Body Mount Cover, AA Batteries
High resolution 12.4 megapixel CMOS image sensor features sensor-shift Shake Reduction for stabilized image
Large 2.7 inch LCD features Live View with contrast, phase difference, and Face Detection autofocus (up to 16 faces)
Capture widescreen HD video in full 720p resolution (1280x720) at 24 FPS cinematic framerate, using any PENTAX 35mm lens
Powerful automatic modes, including PENTAX Auto Picture and scene modes, ensure the perfect shot in any situation
High resolution 12.4 megapixel CMOS image sensor features sensor-shift Shake Reduction for stabilized image
Large 2.7 inch LCD features Live View with contrast, phase difference, and Face Detection autofocus (up to 16 faces)
Capture widescreen HD video in full 720p resolution (1280x720) at 24 FPS cinematic framerate, using any PENTAX 35mm lens
Powerful automatic modes, including PENTAX Auto Picture and scene modes, ensure the perfect shot in any situation
Product information
Warranty & Support
Amazon.com Return Policy:Amazon.com Voluntary 30-Day Return Guarantee: You can return many items you have purchased within 30 days following delivery of the item to you. Our Voluntary 30-Day Return Guarantee does not affect your legal right of withdrawal in any way. You can find out more about the exceptions and conditions here.
Feedback
Would you like to
tell us about a lower price?
Pentax K-x 12.4MP Digital SLR with 2.7 inch LCD and 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL Lens (Red)
Share: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002PJ40Q4
Found a lower price? Let us know. Although we can't match every price reported, we'll use your feedback to ensure that our prices remain competitive.
Where did you see a lower price?
Top reviews from the United States
M. BanasColorful K-x is a pocket-rocket and not just for beginners!
justnothipgreat camera for the money
L. ColonThe dial looks as not functional
Peanut Mommie