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The Pentax K20D is Pentax's latest offering in the mid-range DSLR
market, replacing the previous K10D. As is inevitable these days, the
pixel count has been increased, not to the 10MP or 12MP of its
competitors from Canon, Nikon, and Sony, but to a class leading
14.6MP. Currently only the Canon EOS 1Ds MkII (16MP) and 1Ds MKIII
(22MP) outgun the Pentax K20D in terms of number of pixels. The Pentax
K20D is expected to sell at around $1300, while the
Canon 1Ds MkII sells for around $6000 and the MkIII is even more
expensive!
Of course, the number of pixels isn't the factor that makes a camera
"better", though it is a measure often used by consumers on which to
base a decision to purchase. In my opinion, other factors such as
noise and dynamic range are equally, if not more important. At this
time there's no data available on either of these parameters for the
K20D, though it does have a dynamic range expansion function, which
Pentax claims can give up to
1EV of extra dynamic range.
Also unusual for a camera in this price range is the fact that the
K20D is weather sealed. Pentax states that it has special seals
applied to 72 parts, including the shutter release button and all the
other switches, dials, and levers.
Also, the K20D has image stabilization built into the camera body and
a dust reduction system to minimize dust on the sensor.
On paper at its low price, the Pentax K20D looks like it offers more
"bang for the buck" than any other DSLR in its price class. The only
part of the specification that is perhaps a little behind the
competion is the fact that the continuous drive rate is a litle slow
at 3 frames per second (fps). It partly makes up for that by offering
an amazing 21 fps in a reduced resolution (1.6MP) mode. That's close
to video speed, though it can only maintain that speed for 115 frames.
I look forward to field tests of the K20D. If the image noise has been
kept low, it looks to me like a real winner.
Improving on the technology of the award winning K10D, the flagship
Pentax K20D is the
highest resolution camera in the advanced photo enthusiast category
and allows more
experienced photographers, who demand complete control, to fully
customize the
camera. The most significant features in the K20D include:
A newly developed CMOS image sensor to bring out the optimum
performance of PENTAX
interchangeable lenses. Featuring 14.6 effective megapixels
and the latest
noise-reduction technology, the sensor assures superb image
quality
Custom Image functions that allow users to select between six
preset options and further
adjust image processing, including saturation, hue, contrast and
sharpness. The K20D
also offers an Expanded Dynamic Range function that allows users
to gain more contrast and
detail in bright settings
A Live View that allows users to see the full image area to
confirm composition, focus
status and lighting on the large 2.7 inch LCD monitor. A
grid display may be engaged
to help assure the perfect arrangement of an image and Auto Focus
may be activated by
simply pressing the AF button on the back of the camera.
Further fine tuning of the
image can be confirmed with the 4X or 8X zoom option.
An improved Dust Reduction system that features the new Dust
Alert function to pinpoint
the exact location of dust particles for the photographer to
remove.
A weather and dust resistant body that allows photographers to
keep shooting even in
harsh conditions.
A PC sync socket for more advanced photographers who use studio
lighting.
Pentax K20D Digital SLR Fact Sheet
Newly Developed CMOS Image Sensor
The Pentax K20D features a newly developed CMOS (complementary
metal oxide
semiconductor) image sensor measuring 23.4 mm x 15.6 mm. In designing
the K20D, PENTAX
made the significant transition to a higher resolution 14.6 megapixel
sensor, rivaling the
detail previously only found in images captured with 35mm film.
This considerable
gain offers 50 percent more resolution than 10 megapixel sensors, and
20 percent more
resolution than 12 megapixel sensors. PENTAX Imaging (a leading
innovator in the
imaging business) collaborated with Samsung Electronics (a market
leader in developing and
producing semiconductors) in the development of the 14.6 megapixel
CMOS Sensor found in
the PENTAX K20D Digital SLR. The larger photo diode in the
sensor gathers more light
in a shorter time and therefore can respond more sensitively. As
a result, the K20D
is able to achieve higher sensitivity levels (up to 6400 in the
expanded ISO mode). Also,
there is a more direct light path to the pixels. Coupled with a
high-performance
imaging engine incorporating PENTAX-original image-processing
technologies programmed to
yield natural, true-to-life images, the new model assures
fine-detailed, rich-gradation
images.
Pentax Original Shake Reduction Mechanism
The K20D is equipped with the PENTAX-developed Shake Reduction
mechanism, which reduces
camera shake for sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting
conditions, such as
shooting with a telephoto lens, shooting in low light conditions or at
night without
supplementary flash illumination, or using extended exposures for
sunset scenes. This
innovative mechanism offers outstanding compensation equivalent to
approximately 2.5 to 4
shutter-speed steps. In addition, the lighter image sensor unit
and refined
data-control algorithm offer improved image stabilization over
previous models.
PENTAX Shake Reduction is compatible with existing Pentax
interchangeable lenses.*
* Lenses compatible with this mechanism are: Pentax K-, KA-, KAF-
and KAF2-mount
lenses, screw-mount lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system
lenses (with an
adapter). Some functions may not be applicable with certain
lenses.
Large 2.7 Inch Wide-view LCD Monitor
The K20D features a large 2.7 inch color LCD monitor with
approximately 230,000* dots
resolution. The wide-view design allows the photographer to view
the monitor image
from approximately 160 degrees both vertically and horizontally.
Since it assures
effortless image viewing from a diagonal position, it facilitates low-
and high-angle
shooting using the Live View function.
* One dot equals 3 pixels.
New Live View Function
The K20D features a Live View function that allows users to view an
image on the LCD
monitor during shooting. This feature is beneficial when the
photographer moves his
or her eye from the viewfinder in specialized applications, such as
low and high-angle
shooting, or when perfecting composition. The function also allows
users to confirm the
Shake-Reduction effect on the monitor while shooting.
High-performance, High-speed PRIME Imaging Engine
The K20D incorporates the Pentax-original PRIME (Pentax Real IMage
Engine).
Designed exclusively for Pentax digital SLR cameras, the engine
ensures
well-balanced, true-to-life images with faithful color reproduction by
efficiently
controlling digital signals transmitted by the CMOS image
sensor. It also allows
complete control over other photographic factors including white
balance and the new
Custom Image functions. This imaging engine also features a Double
Data Rate 2 (DDR2)
memory to assure speedy image processing and high-speed data
transfer.
Custom Image Function
The K20D is equipped with a new Custom Image function that lets the
user select one of
the six modes and adjust an image's processing to their preference by
automatically
adjusting tone, saturation, contrast, and sharpness. These
modes include Natural,
Bright, Portrait, Landscape, Vibrant, and B&W image modes.
The photographer can
make further fine-tuned adjustments to each setting. The effect
on each of the
primary colors is shown in a radar-type display on the LCD
panel. The user can
easily see the effect of their adjustments by using the digital
preview option.
Expanded DynamicRange\
Function
The K20D adds a dynamic-range expansion function, which allows the
user to expand the
dynamic range (or range of gradation reproduction) while retaining the
proper contrast to
avoid white-washed areas. With an approximately 1EV expansion effect,
it assures
beautiful, rich-gradation images.
Dust-proof, Water-resistant Construction
The K20D boasts an extremely reliable weather-resistant and
dust-proof construction
with special seals applied to 72 different parts of the camera body,
including the shutter
release button and all the switches, levers, dials. This dependable
body makes it possible
to use the K20D in the rain or dusty locations without worries.
Comprehensive Dust Removal System With Prevention, Removal and
Alerting Devices
The K20D features the user-friendly Dust Removal system to prevent
dust from sticking
to the surface of the CMOS image sensor (or low-pass filter).
The PENTAX-original
Super Protect (SP) coating, applied to the image sensor surface
through vapor deposition
of a fluorine compound, effectively prevents dust from sticking to the
surface. In the
next step, dust that may remain on the surface will be shaken off when
the system shifts
the image sensor at high speed. Finally, the dust that is shaken off
the image sensor
falls onto an adhesive strip positioned at the bottom of the unit,
eliminating any
possibility of the dust returning to the image sensor surface. This
upgraded Dust
Reduction system also offers a new Dust Alert function, which shows
the user exactly where
dust may be sticking to the sensor surface.
The K20D also features a versatile exposure system for faithful
reproduction of
creative intentions:
Hyper Program Function
The K20D's Hyper Program function allows users to instantly switch
to the
Shutter-Priority or Aperture-Priority AE mode from the Programmed AE
mode with a simple
turn of the electronic dials on the grip. To return to the Programmed
AE mode, simply
press the green button positioned next to the shutter release
button.
Hyper Manual Function
When shooting in Manual mode, one push of the green button allows
the user to instantly
set the proper exposure for the subject.
Sensitivity-Priority Mode
The K20D features a unique Sensitivity-Priority (Sv) mode designed
to automatically
select the optimum combination of aperture and shutter speed for a
user-selected
sensitivity. The sensitivity can be shifted instantly in 1/2 or 1/3
steps by turning the
electronic dial on the back panel.
Shutter/Aperture-Priority Mode
Taking full advantage of the unique capability of digital cameras,
which permit
automatic shift of sensitivity at any time, the
Shutter/Aperture-Priority (TAv) mode
automatically selects the most appropriate sensitivity for a
user-selected
shutter-speed/aperture combination. This mode allows users to
experiment with a greater
range of photographic expressions with greater ease.
Bright, Clear Viewfinder
Featuring a glass pentaprism, the K20D's viewfinder offers an
approximately 95 percent
field of view and an approximately 0.95X magnification for easy
viewing of the subject and
effortless confirmation of focus and composition. Coupled with the
acclaimed
Natural-Bright-Matte II focusing screen, it delivers a large, bright
subject image.
Continuous Shooting at Approximately Three Images Per Second
To trace the movement of an active subject or capture a sequence of
the subject's
expressions, the K20D offers a continuous shooting mode that allows
the photographer to
capture as many as 38 images in succession (in JPEG recording format)
at a maximum speed
of approximately three images (frames) per second. When switched to
the new high-speed
advance mode, the user may capture up to approximately 115 images at
the speed of
approximately 21 images per second.*
*The image size is fixed at 1.6 megapixels in the Burst Shooting
mode.
High-precision 11-point wide-frame AF
The K20D's sophisticated SAFOX VIII autofocus system features 11
sensor points (with
nine cross-type sensors) to automatically focus on the subject with
utmost precision, even
when it is positioned off center. When the subject is captured in
focus, the in-focus
sensor point is automatically superimposed in red in the viewfinder
for at-a-glance
confirmation.
Powerful Rechargeable Batteries
The K20D features large capacity Lithium-ion rechargeable
batteries, which can capture
approximately 740 images* when fully charged. The dramatically
improved battery capacity
(over the previous K10D) is the result of a new energy saving
design.
* Under testing condition prescribed by Pentax, when using D-LI50
lithium-ion
rechargeable batteries with no flash.
Additional features
A PC Sync socket for shooting with studio lights. The
camera remains weather and
dust sealed even when the PC socket cap is removed.
Choice of 16-segment multi-pattern metering, center-weighted
metering and spot metering
to accommodate various photographic applications
Reliable, durable shutter unit assuring more than 100,000
shutter releases
High-rigidity stainless-steel chassis
36 custom functions to personalize camera operations
Universal-type X-sync socket
RAW button for single-action image-file switching
Digital Preview for verifying camera settings
Optional Battery Grip (D-BG2) for extended shooting sessions
Nine digital filters to add creative and artistic touches
In-body RAW data development for image filing in JPEG and TIFF
formats
Compatibility with SDM equipped lenses for quiet, extra-smooth
autofocus operation
PENTAX PHOTO Laboratory 3, RAW data processing software, PENTAX
PHOTO Browser 3, browser
software and PENTAX REMOTE Assistant 3, camera control software,
included on the
accompanying CD-ROM
The Pentax K20D is available for pre-order from amazon.com, and starts
shipping in May 2008.
This is not a detailed comparison, and the price difference is huge, but when you compare the weather seals of Nikon D3 or (particularly) D300, Pentax K20D (or K10D) is simply far superior!! I have compared them in a local store, so my experience is very limited. Just look at the big flexible rubberdoor on D300 left side, covering a significant area. You can not easily close it! Even the store rep could not!
D3 has a blazingly fast shutter. A joy to handhold -- but on the heavier side. Live view worked okay -- I am sure this is the first generation live view, and will improve much in all these cameras. No live view (on D3 or K20D) was fully satisfactory. K20D fps is quite low compared to D3 -- as is the price!
Pentax has added a X sync socket on the K20D, compared to K10D where this was a very foolish omission. The plastic cover on this sync outlet is too small for my hands, and can easily get lost. Looks like somebody designed this particular knob in a hurry. But all in all, K20D is a great camera. I have used K10D for a while, and now ordered a K20D.
K20D looks like a great bargain, as Bob mentioned.
BTW, I own both Pentax and Nikon cameras. So the idea is not to be-little any particular brand.
What a camera - It has so many features which really make sense and combines this with an outstanding image resolution, low noise, a superb handling and such a cheap price. I always like the situation, when a David wins succesfully against the goliaths - the K20D is such a winner type. The image quality was really superb (even with a Tamron 18-250 mm). This camera seems to be constructed for low light conditions as it combines a great built-in shake reduction system with really low noise at 800-1600 ISO. The body feels very solid and it is amazing to get this with adust and rain protection. The camera is fast enough for my purposes (from turning it on to having a first shot it takes onyl little more then two seconds) and it is no problem at all to shoot even action images.
The hyper program is really cool as it combines the easy usage of a full automatic camera with the possibility to modify shutter speed and aperture with two individual and easy-to-reach little weels. Adjusting features like white balancing, ISO, flash type etc. is easy and intuitive - in most case you need a few clicks and you can do this without even lifting the camera from your eye.
I love this camera and I am sure that getting all this in a Nikon or Canon means, spending a lot more money.
The only problem I have with this camera is, that it seems to be impossible to find a lot of test descriptions - probably an indicator that this is not a mainstream camera - I am wondering when dpreview is going to review this wonderfull camera. Comparing the full review coverage of Nikon (16 out of 18 SLRs are reviewed), Canon (10 out of 12 SLRs are reviewd) with Pentax (only 4 out of 11 SLRs are reviewed) is somehow hard to understand.
Moving up from a k10D to the K20D, I have to say I am very pleased with this camera. Below is some quick feedback I gave to Pentax on the camera. I think the best thing about this camera, and the K10D is that it feels right in my hands.... it is well laid out and the controls are where I need them. I don't fumble for buttons and don't accidently hit buttons like I did when I ran Olympus. I think the next step is obviously a K1D which may answer my wish list at the bottom of the page.... finally... no matter what camera you use. It is the camera you use, so use it.
John
My immediate impression when I picked up the camera and pulled the trigger was how quiet it was. Much more quiet than the K10D. The battery consumption is vastly superior to the K10D. I can shoot 700+ images on one battery with this camera where the K10D ran dry at about 480. Screen clarity is better. Burst mode is fun and useful. I'm very happy to see the sync socket and without a doubt the increased pixel count is a huge advantage (though I really burn through cards now). In fact the higher pixel count is so good now, that many times I'll opt for 10mp settings as that clarity is plenty for some types of high-volume shoots. I would rarely if ever reduce the K10D and I am very happy with the addition of one more quality level when shooting JPG images. I also believe, but have no direct evidence, that the image stabilization works better in this camera than my 10D... I have also used the dust identification function to great advantage already. Very nice.
Yesterday I shot a live-stage venue dress rehearsal, but this time it was as low-key as you can possibly shoot and still capture live-action (images were stopped down over 3 full stops): Black floors, ceiling, walls, costumes and the lighting was difficult. This situation would have made the K10D cringe with noise and focusing problems. To my pleasant surprise, once I settled into my camera settings (takes a little bit) I was able to capture these images (and others) with nice color and clarity with little perceptible noise (I have noise reduction set as high as it will go in-camera). Photos were taken as jpgs (14.6mp - four stars) at ISO 1600 (I've found 3200 is not so friendly). And on focusing, my K10D would have hunted for an eternity on these shots where the K20D did superbly in this very low light as long as I hit the focus point on the illuminated subject, even if they were wearing black).
Some wish-list ideas for future K series cameras, not necessarily in any order:
1. Low light focusing performance can always be improved and an SLR can always be quieter.
2. Faster frame-per-second rate would be advantageous at times (say 5-7fps).
3. I would like to see more focus points especially at the 1/3 frame areas where I compose most of my subject centers. I think the Nikon D3/D300 is the top of the heap in this regard.
4. When on focus point select mode, I should be able to hold an arrow down and have the focus point scroll to the other end without me tapping the button for every focus point. Tap to move once, hold down to scroll.
5. Shooting "continuous focus" mode means I want the focus mode ON all the time. I should be able, in the menus, to select how long I want the focus to be on after I tap the shutter button half way... say 5-30 seconds. This way I can concentrate on the action, move my focus point as needed and have that focus dot be ON and exposure readings on the whole time. Here the Sony has the right idea with the Alpha cameras but a tap-on-stay-on feature would be equal in my opinion.
6. Continuous focus mode could "track" better and anticipate the motion for a shot, especially when the subject is coming directly at the camera (like a bride walking down the isle towards the camera).
7. I would like to see what my zoom setting is in the view finder.
8. Burst mode should be able to capture 1.6mp images up to 30fps (motion picture) and quality should increase as fps decreases. At 20fps I'd like to have 6mp images, and at 10fps I'd like to see 10mp images and so on...
9. Though near impossible, it would be wonderful if autofocus would work in live-view mode... because of this lack of real-time focusing, I rarely use live-view except for portraits on a tripod.
10. Nikon's face recognition auto focus/exposure software found on the D3/D300 is very intriguing, a feature that, if it functions as reported, would greatly speed up professional quality shots at "candid" speeds.
11. Finally, a camera with a full frame sensor (Canon 5D or 1D) would be dreamy. Make it "switch" to small APS-C size mode when APS-C lenses are attached (so the camera automatically switches from 21mp to 14.6mp).
Again, I would like to thank you very much. I am truly enjoying my Pentax experience, am reaching new grounds with this camera, and I have a long way to go, learning daily.
