Pentax K-1 II Review

With the release of the Pentax K-1, the most popular question among DSLR photographers – “Canon or Nikon?“ – does not make as much sense as before.

The Pentax K-1 was released almost three years ago, and many photographers fell in love with this camera as soon as it was in their hands.

The Pentax K-1 II is the successor to the K-1. The camera keeps some of the most appealing features of its predecessor and adds a few new things that will enrich your photography experience.

So let's find out what is new about this camera in this Pentax K-1 II review.

Editor's Tip: Want to upgrade your camera but can't afford a brand-new one? Save money and buy a pre-owned rig.

Pentax K-1 II Features

The Pentax K-1 II features a full-frame 36.4-megapixel CMOS sensor without an optical low-pass filter. This is the same sensor that was used for its predecessor and which has shown to produce great results.

In addition, the Pentax K-1 II uses a 14-bit Prime IV image processor and an accelerator unit which boosts sensitivity up to ISO 819,200. With this being said, you will definitely not have to worry about working in low-light conditions because the camera will produce good results even in the darkest environments.

One of the most important upgrades is that the camera incorporates Pixel Shift Resolution System II which will allow you to make perfectly sharp photos even when shooting hand-held. The AF system also features a new algorithm which provides better precision when focusing on moving subjects.

Other key features of the Pentax K-1 II include 33-point phase detect AF (inc. 25 cross-type), 4.4 fps continuous shooting, and 1080/60i video.

Get more information about the features of this camera in the hands-on review by the CameraVille in the video above.

Buy New Buy Used

Pentax K-1 II Design

The K-1 Mark II was built of magnesium-alloy with weather sealing at 87 points which means it was made to endure harsh weather conditions. The camera can work even in freezing temperatures as low as 14°F.

Also, dust or moisture won’t do much harm to this camera, but still it is not waterproof.

As you will notice, this not the smallest and lightweight camera on the market. The dimensions of the K-1 Mark II are 5.4 x 4.3 x 3.4 in, while it weighs in at 2.4 pounds (including batteries).

The camera incorporates an optical viewfinder that provides 100% coverage with a 0.7x magnification and the tiltable 3.2-inch LCD display.

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Connectivity Options

The K-1 Mark II has built-in Wi-Fi which that allows remote control of the camera using a smartphone. There is also a built-in GPS module and electronic compass, but unfortunately, it doesn't have Bluetooth technology.

In addition, the camera is equipped with headphone and microphone jacks in case you want to use it for videography purposes.

Pentax K-1 II Price

You can buy the Pentax K-1 Mark II for $1,896.95 on Amazon (body only). If you want to add D-FA 28-102mm WR lens you will need to spend $2,296.95.

This seems like a good price for the features this camera offers, but if you want to save money you can also buy a used Pentax K-1 which provides similar features for much less money.

When buying used, I highly recommend using photography-specific sites like Gear Offer, which specialize in helping photographers buy and sell used gear.

By using a site like this, you are more likely to find what you need and find gear that's in good shape (and honestly described, too).