Pentax K-50 First Shots: Check out the image quality of this feature-packed, mid-level DSLR
posted Tuesday, June 25, 2013 at 8:13 AM EST
Less than two weeks ago, we published our hands-on sneak peek with the new Pentax K-50 mid-level DSLR, and we've already begun our rigorous tests with this impressive camera in the IR Lab. We invite you to take a look at First Shots taken with the Pentax K-50, which so far appears to be a very worthy successor to the acclaimed Pentax K-30.
Boasting a number of evolutionary upgrades, the Pentax K-50 comes equipped with a refined version of the K-series' 16.3-megapixel APS-C sensor and PRIME M processor whose tweaks were designed to improve image quality. In particular, Pentax claims the K-50's sensor and processor work together to suppress jaggies (jagged lines) and reduce noise. The DSLR now also features low-light sensitivity up to ISO 51,200 (something it shares with the higher-end Pentax K-5 II). The Pentax K-50 offers remarkable performance for its class, shooting at nearly 6 frames per second in high-speed continuous mode (taking up to 30 JPEGs or 8 RAW shots in a burst). It also provides a max shutter speed of 1/6000 second and a SAFOX IXi+ 11-point (9 cross type) autofocus system with subject tracking. The K-50 also carries forward the K-30's full pentaprism optical viewfinder and its bright and gorgeous 100% field of view, full 1080p HD video recording at up to 30 frames per second, and twin control dials (one on the front grip and one just below the mode dial on the rear) which give you a ton of flexibility when setting exposure on the fly.
Based on its specs and pedigree, the Pentax K-50 seems like it could compete for one of the best bang-for-the-buck DSLRs on the market. Of course, it all hinges on image quality and real-world performance. You can pit sample photos taken with the Pentax K-50 directly against those from the Pentax K-30 -- or any other camera we've tested -- side by side in our image quality Comparometer™.
See First Shots taken with the Pentax K-50 here. And be sure to read our first impressions Pentax K-50 review for a detailed look at the DSLR's new features. We've even posted a handful of real-world gallery shots for your pixel-peeping pleasure. Stay tuned for our full Pentax K-50 review in the coming weeks.