Pentax K-01 16MP APS-C CMOS Compact System Camera Kit with DA 40mm Lens (White)

by Pentax

• 16 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor with low noise image capture at ISO range 100-25600
• Gorgeous contemporary styling by world renowned designer Marc Newson
• Mirrorless body design with Pentax K mount lens compatibility that allows any Pentax K mount lens to work.
• Full HD 1080p video capture @ 30FPS with h.264 compression ( 60FPS at 720p)
• Fast 6 FPS burst mode ideal for fast action photography

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 2.8 x 4.8 x 3.2 inches ; 1.8 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B00740MRAK
• Item model number: K-01 Lens Kit w DA 40mm XS White
• Batteries 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (40 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,119 in Camera & Photo (See Top 100 in Camera & Photo)
  • #40 in Electronics > Camera & Photo > Digital Cameras > Compact System Cameras
• Date first available at Amazon.com: February 2, 2012

Product Description

Color: White

From the Manufacturer

Pentax K-01 Digital Camera

• Pentax mirrorless body design is compatible with 25+ million Pentax K-mount lenses spanning decades.
• Large 16 megapixel APS-C sized CMOS image sensor with low noise image capture and multiple aspect ratios.
• Bright, high resolution 3 inch LCD with 920,000 dots.
• Full HD 1080p video capture at 30 FPS with h.264 compression (60 FPS at 720p) features outstanding video capture flexibility.
• Fast 6 FPS burst mode is ideal for fast-action photography.
• Shutter speeds from 1/4000 to 30 seconds and bulb with a silent shutter action.
• Flexible ISO range of 100-25600 ensures gorgeous noise-free imaging in any lighting condition.
• Focus peaking mode provides fast and accurate manual focusing for critical focus applications.
• In-camera HDR mode combines bracketed user-specified exposures into a single, perfectly blended still image.

The new Pentax K-01 is another bold effort from the manufacturer that is known for pushing camera size, color, durability, and now, design, to the limit. The contemporary, timeless K-01 houses a full array of advanced functions and user-friendly features in a camera body with remarkable form and function.

Marc Newson commissioned design
Pentax commissioned designer Marc Newson to develop the contemporary, timeless design of the Pentax K-01's body. Newson's retro-meets-contemporary design is evident in all elements of the
K-01 including the product logo, camera strap (included) and start-up screen that appears when the K-01 is powered on. Buttons, shutter release and control levers are purposefully placed and accented with colors for instant recognition including a vibrant red button for Video Recording and a brilliant green for the Pentax Green button. The mode dial and power switch are made of high-quality aluminum alloy, while the memory card slot and grip connectors are covered with protective rubber. The design optimizes both form and function on a camera that is as suitable on a photo shoot as it is in a museum display that honors design as art.

Exceptional image quality
The Pentax K-01 is equipped with a newly developed CMOS image sensor measuring 23.7 millimeters by 15.7 millimeters. With approximately 16.28 effective megapixels, this sensor assures high-speed readout of image data signals. The K-01 also features a new ¡§PRIME M¡¨ imaging engine to assure first-rate movie recording performance in a digital interchangeable lens camera. The K-01 offers an extra-wide sensitivity range ¡X from ISO 100 to ISO 12800, or to ISO 25600 when expanded using a custom function ¡X while minimizing digital noise at all sensitivity levels.

Compatibility with every Pentax K-mount lense ever made
The Pentax K-01 accepts a wide array of Pentax interchangeable K-mount lenses^* so users may choose the most suitable lens for a particular subject or scene.
_{*K-, KA- KAF, KAF2, and KAF3- mount lenses can be used with the Pentax K-01, while screw-mount lenses, 645-system lenses and 67-system lenses can be used with an adapter. Some functions may not be available on certain lenses.}

High-quality video recording
The Pentax K-01 features Full HD video-recording function to capture high-quality movie clips in 1080p resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels). H.264 compression format offers a choice of frame rate (30, 25 or 24 frames per second) to accommodate user-specific applications. Two new features facilitate video recording:

• a video recording button for instant pushbutton start
• and a stereo microphone with audio gain control and wind noise suppression for more realistic sound

Video record options are flexible, offering the photographer to select aperture or shutter exposure control, and Pentax Shake Reduction helps stabilize captured video. Users may add personal touches to recorded clips using various Custom Image modes or record subjects in a series of video clips with the Interval Movie Shooting mode. The Pentax K-01 also comes with an HDMI terminal (which allows the user to simultaneously output both Full HD movie clips and stereo sound) as well as an external microphone input terminal.

New-generation High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode
The High Dynamic Range mode (which produces one extra-wide-gamut blended photo from three images taken at different exposure levels) is accessible with a turn of the mode dial and allows users to select one of three exposure increments as well as the level of effect, while an automatic position adjustment function assures precise alignment of three images even when they are taken with a handheld K-01.

Custom Image Modes and Digital Filters for personalized expression
The Pentax K-01's Custom Image modes allow users to select the most appropriate finishing touch for a particular subject or scene to express the photographer's creative intention or taste. Two of the 11 Custom Images functions are Bleach Bypass to create a dramatic visual effect used in motion pictures and Cross Process to produce a fanciful image with unusual colors. The K-01 also features 19 distinctive digital filters including Miniature to convert an actual scene into an image full of miniature models for an unusual visual effect. Users may be more creative by applying multiple digital filters to a single image.

Smooth, quiet, high-speed burst shooting
The Pentax K-01's high-speed burst shooting mode comes in handy when preserving the action of fast-moving subjects in a series of images, since it captures up to five images per second. With its mirrorless construction, the K-01 offers exceptionally silent mechanical operation that allows users to concentrate on photography even when shooting such subjects as stage performances.

Large, wide-angle 3.0 inch LCD monitor with approx. 921,000 dots
The Pentax K-01 features a large, easy-to-view, high-resolution 3.0 inch color LCD monitor with approximately 921,000 dots. The wide-view design assures a clear view of the monitor from approximately 170 degrees horizontally and vertically, which is useful in low- and high-angle shooting.

Pentax-original Shake Reduction (SR) mechanism for sharp, blur-free images
The Pentax K-01 incorporates the Pentax-developed SR mechanism, which effectively reduces annoying camera shake by approximately four shutter steps. Usable with all compatible lenses, including those produced for film-format SLR cameras, this mechanism produces sharp, blur-free images even under demanding conditions that are prone to camera shake, such as when using a telephoto lens, shooting in the dark without flash illumination, or capturing landscapes in the twilight. Equipped with the Pentax O-GPS1 device (an optional GPS unit launched in June 2011), the K-01's SR system helps astrophotographers track and shoot celestial bodies.

Effortless, user-friendly Auto Picture and Scene modes
The Pentax K-01 features the Pentax-original, user-friendly Auto Picture mode, which selects the most appropriate shooting mode for a given subject or scene from Portrait, Landscape, Macro and other distinctive shooting modes, while optimizing all camera settings, such as aperture, shutter speed, white balance, saturation, contrast and sharpness. This allows a new photographer to concentrate on image composition and shutter opportunity. The K-01 also offers 19 different Scene modes to help simplify the photography of challenging subjects or scenes such as Night Scene Portrait mode, Pet mode, and Backlight Silhouette mode. Users simply choose a corresponding icon on the camera's LCD monitor.

Additional features

• TTL image-sensor metering, with a choice of multi-segment, center-weighted and spot modes
• Contrast-detection autofocus system with 81 selectable focus points
• DR (Dust Removal) mechanism to shake off dust adhering to the surface of the CMOS image sensor
• CTE white-balance control mode to emphasize the predominant color of a particular scene, such as the sunset
• A choice of four image size ratios (4:3, 3:2, 16:9 and 1:1) to accommodate different subjects and applications
• Multi-exposure mode (up to nine exposures on a single image), with an auto exposure compensation function
• Interval shooting mode, useful in time lapse recording of landscapes and flowers/plants from an exact same location and angle
• Compatibility with the new-standard SDXC and UHS Speed Class 1 memory cards
• SILKYPIX Developer Studio 3.0 for Pentax RAW image data development (developed by Ichikawa Soft Laboratory) included; in-camera RAW image development also available

Pentax 40mm F/2.8 Interchangeable Lens

• Ultra low profile is only 0.36 inches thin at 1.8 oz.
• Fixed focal length 40mm prime lens is equivalent to 61mm in the 35mm format.
• Short 16 inch minimum focus distance.
• Maximum F2.8 aperture is ideal for existing light photography and creative depth of field applications.
• Nine rounded aperture blades produce extraordinarily smooth, natural bokeh.
• Pentax SP (Super Protect) coating on lens surface helps repel elements and aids in cleaning.
• Pentax K_AF mount is compatible with current and past K-mount compatible cameras.

The new smc Pentax-DA 40mm F2.8 XS interchangeable lens is the world's thinnest interchangeable lens.^* The new 40mm combines with the Pentax K-01 camera body to deliver a unique compact system camera that is perfect for photographers who are as keen on design as they are on performance. Together, the K-01 and this 40mm lens system mark the intersection where high technology and high design meet.

_{* The world's thinnest interchangeable lens for lens-interchangeable digital SLR cameras, as of February 1, 2012 (based on Pentax's research).}

Marc Newson commissioned design
The exterior of this ultra-slim new lens was designed by Marc Newson to complement the clean, contemporary design of the K-01 body.

Easy-to-use, super-thin lens
This unifocal standard lens offers a focal length equivalent to 61mm in the 35mm format and measures a mere 9.2 millimeters thin (only 0.36 inches) making it the world’s thinnest interchangeable lens. The ultra-thin design is highly portable and easy to store and carry. Designed with the acclaimed smc Pentax-DA 40mm F2.8 Limited lens in mind, the maximum aperture of the new lens is F2.8 to produce sharp, bright images in a wide range of applications, including snapshots, scenic photos, portraits, and even incident-light indoor shooting.

Exceptional image-description
Pentax conducted numerous image-quality tests of hundreds of images taken with this lens. Upon assessment, the lens offers outstanding optical clarity and subject reproduction characteristics. Rounded diaphragm blades produce a smooth, natural bokeh (out-of-focus) background effect.

SP coating to block dirt and dust
The front surface of this lens is treated with SP (Super Protect) coating, an exclusive fluorine compound applied to the surface through a vapor deposition process. This SP coating not only repels dust, water and grease, but also makes it easy to wipe off stubborn stains such as fingerprints and cosmetics.

Specifications

LENS MOUNT:	Pentax KAF
FOCAL LENGTH:	40mm (equiv 61mm)
APERTURE:	F2.8
MIN APERTURE:	F22
LENS CONSTRUCTION:	5 elements in 4 groups
ANGLE OF VIEW:	39°
MIN FOCUSING DISTANCE:	1.31' (0.4m)
MAX MAGNIFICATION:	0.13X
FILTER DIAMETER:	27mm
DIAPHRAGM CONTROL:	Fully Automatic
NUMBER OF APERTURE BLADES:	9
MAX DIAMETER x MIN LENGTH:	2.5 x 0.36" (62.9 x 9.2mm)
WEIGHT (W/O HOOD):	1.8 oz
NOTES: External appearance by renowned designer Marc Newson. SP (Super Protect) coating. "World's thinnest interchangeable lens" at time of introduction.

Product Description

Pentax mirrorless camera featuring the contemporary styling by world renowned designer Marc Newson. Large 16 megapixel APS-C sized CMOS sensor with low noise image capture with ISO range of 100-25600. Machined aluminum frame under a stylish black, white or yellow exterior. Supports all Pentax K-mount lens and is compatible with 25+ million Pentax K mount lenses. Full HD 1080p video capture @ 30 FPS with h.264 compression (60FPS at 720p). Sensor shift shake and dust reduction compatible with every Pentax K mount lens. Fast 6 FPS burst mode with shutter speeds from1/4000 to 30 seconds and bulb with a silent shutter action. Shooting modes include P, Av, TV and M as well as powerful automatic modes, creative filters and finishing options. In camera HDR mode combines bracketed user-specified exposures into a single, perfectly blended still image. Built in pop up flash and external hotshoe compatible with modern Pentax flash units. Captures JPG still images as well as open standard DNG RAW.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

27 of 28 people found the following review helpful

4.0 out of 5 stars Great companion to your dSLR, or as a standalone camera April 4, 2012

By R. Fortson

Color Name:White|Amazon Verified Purchase

I've had this camera for a few weeks now and I must say I like it. Owning the K5, I wanted a camera that would give me similar image quality in a smaller package. The K-01 delivers on both counts, though it's not as small as I'd like. However, it handles well, and the live view implementation is better than the implementation of live view on the dSLRs. I use the DA Limited lenses on this camera, and they focus and handle very well. I haven't tried larger lenses since I have the K5 for that.

In social situations, the camera puts people at ease, and being able to shoot from the hip (literally) makes it easier to engage your subjects and still get excellent photos.

I haven't shot much video with it, but having one-button access to the function is very handy.

Using manual lenses on this camera is a breeze, much easier than the dSLRs for me. With focus peaking and live view zoom, it's very easy to nail focus.

If you're looking for a serious snapshot camera, this is a great choice, even if you don't own any Pentax lenses. Teh 40mm kit lesn is outstanding, probably equal to the DA40 Limited prime (I have both and have compared them). My only concern with the 40mm kit lens is the lack of a lens hood, thought it never caused me a problem in the time I owned the lens (I sold it since I have the DA40 Ltd).

For people worried about the lack of an optical or electronic viewfinder, I've shot the K-01 several times in bright Texas sunlight, and the LCD works well enough for me to compose and focus. Honestly, the lack of a OVF or EVF is a non-issue for me.

All in all, I think this camera is a winner and well spec'd as a dSLR complement.

16 of 16 people found the following review helpful

4.0 out of 5 stars I am loving it! May 29, 2012

By Cheezr

Color Name:White|Amazon Verified Purchase

The more I use this camera the more I love it. I know that everyone on the internet is a critic but I am glad I gave in to my urges and got this camera.
The controls are very well laid out and very easy to read and use. The menus also use a large font and are quite decent.
The 40mm lens is razor sharp.
The whole kit is just well made. It is the first camera that i have had in a long time that just gets out of your way and actually assists you in taking pictures. For example, when taking close up pics of flowers or whatever, you can turn on several features that give you excellent assistance in confirming your focus. Speaking of which, the AF is easily better than the Fuji X100 and on par with the Oly E-PL1.
Another thing i really like is that the camera is completely trustworthy in full auto mode, you set it to scene and just concentrate on taking pictures and they come out amazingly well (this is unlike my V1 which can take great pics but really makes you work to get them).
That's my last remark, the image quality is truly exceptional! It is the best image quality i have had (better than X100). Don't believe me just go onto Flickr and do a search on K-01 and see for yourselves. I have quite useable pictures taken at ISO 12800 and ISO 25600 (realistically when viewed on the web and not blown way up).
I just love this camera and i haven't been excited by a new camera in a very long time. the K-01 is well designed, well built, easy to use and has amazing image quality.
If you are in the market for a new camera I encourage you to try it (after all you have 30 days to return it if you are not happy). You have nothing to lose and a great photography experience to gain.

22 of 24 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars The Pentax K-01- A Mirrorless of a different color! April 25, 2012

By Steve Wildermuth

Color Name:Yellow

In spite of the naysayers on the web, I decided to give the Pentax K-01 a try and I was pleasantly surprised. It isn't the big bulky weird looking beast that some of the critics would have us believe. Agreed it's not as svelt as the Sony NEXes or the Olympus & Panasonic M 4/3rds offerings, but that's because one of it's greatest attributes is this: if you're a Pentax SLR or DSLR owner, you don't have to make a huge investment in new lenses. All Pentax SLR/DSLR lenses fit and work with this camera. If you don't have the privilege of owning any of Pentax's great lenses,the Mark Newsom designed 40mm XS lens that came with my K-01 (I got the yellow one- way cool)is a great standard prime to start with. While amazingly, ridiculously thin, this little lens delivers sharp, well rendered pictures. The K-01's autofocus works fine in most situations, but when using a manual lens or when you find the autofocus hunting too much, there's the focus peeking feature that makes focusing a snap in any situation. The controls are well laid out and easily accessible, and I find the rubbery surface and shape of the camera make handling this camera a pleasure- never did I feel that I was on the verge of dropping it nor did I suffer any discomfort from handling it for extended periods of time. Some have complained about the rubbery flap that conceals the SD card slot, but after a few tries I found the "trick" to closing it and I have complete confidence in it's utility and I'm sure it will stay intact throughout the camera's life. The best thing about this camera are the pictures it delivers. Even in the lowest of lighting it's possible to get great virtually noise-free shots.... I would recommend this camera to anyone who's main goal in photography is to come up with the finest quality photos- in this regard (and many others)the K-01 delivers the goods. Read more ›