Pentax K20D 14.6MP Digital SLR Camera with Shake Reduction (Body Only)
Manufacturer: Pentax
The Pentax K20D digital SLR offers advanced photo enthusiasts an array of exciting Pentax innovations. The CMOS image sensor brings out optimum performance of Pentax interchangeable lenses. Featuring 14.6 effective megapixels (highest in its class) and noise-reduction technology, the sensor assures superb image quality. This SLR will make you feel in control with its Live View function that allows the photographer to see the image on the camera's back panel LCD monitor while shooting. Customizable features ideal for shooters who demand complete control include the Expanded Dynamic Range function that allows users to gain more contrast / detail in bright settings and a Custom Image function to select / adjust finishing touches to an image. An improved Dust Reduction system features prevention, removal and alerting devices. Combine these innovations with the renowned Pentax-developed Shake Reduction (SR) system, Pentax Real IMage Engine (PRIME) and incorporate them in a dependable dust-proof, weather-resistant body - you've now got a superb camera that allow photographers to shoot anytime, anywhere, even in dusty or rainy environments.
Lowest Used Price: USD 699.00
Lowest New Price: USD 811.99
- 14.6-megapixel resolution captures enough detail for poster-sized prints
- 2.7-inch LCD display; body only--no lens included
- Dust-proof, water-resistant construction; comprehensive Dust Removal system
- New Live View function
- Capture images to SD/SDHC cards (not included)
Model: B0012Q94AI
Pentax K20D
This camera is not the top of the line model in Pentax, but is is cheaper, (Approximately 0.00), and does an excellent job, and it does perform many of the same functions as the K7D.
Best bang for the buck
As a world traveler I wanted a weatherproof, dust resistant Primary DSLR for a reasonable price. This is a discontinued model which received rave reviews and cost 1/3 the price of cameras with similar features. The shake reduction works so well that I can take hand held pictures with a 300mm telephoto.
Shake Reduction / Image Stabilization / Vibration Reduction doesn't work
I will be returning this. The Shake Reduction doesn't work, in fact, it appears to make some pictures worse and definitely makes the camera run a little slower. I tested extensively including a Tamron 18-200mm set at 200mm, f6.7, 1/15s. In all my tests the pictures with the Shake Reduction on were either the same or worse than with the Shake Reduction set to off. This is very disappointing. This is the reason I bought this camera and not the D90 or the XSi. I wanted to use a 18-200mm with Shake Reduction (Nikon charges 0 for the lense alone in this scenario). I spent a long time on this expensive decision and I am very disappointed. I hope for other Pentax owners that this is an isolated example.
I've owned my K20D for two months...
I came from Nikon, which does offer great products. I am now however, a full-fledged Pentax evangelist. I can't say enough about their products. I now own a K20D and two lenses: the DA* 16-50 f/2.8 and the DA* 50-135 f/2.8. The combination of these two lenses and the K20D offers some of the best semi-pro quality available for the money.
There are 4 main features that made me buy this camera:
1) Price. Hands down, it is in my opinion, the most value for your money.
2) Weather proofing. 72 weather proofing seals on the camera body and coatings on their DA series lenses make this camera ideal for travel.
3) Top-side LCD panel. This is a must-have feature for anyone serious about photography.
4) Front AND Rear dials. This allows for quick modifications of various camera settings and are customizable for each exposure mode.
Regarding image quality - the camera is somewhat important as we're now dealing with sensors instead of film, but the glass (lenses) are without a doubt the most important element of the equation. So - that said, you should seriously consider replacing the kit lens with a DA* or Limited series lens as soon as possible. The kit lens is very good (compared especially to competitor kit lenses). However, the DA* lenses are phenomenal.
Regarding comfort - the camera is very comfortable to hold. I have trouble putting it down. It literally goes everywhere with me.
Buy it. Don't hesitate. You won't regret it.
Excellent camera
The Pentax K20D takes excellent pictures and is very easy to use. I bought this model over less expensive Pentax DSLRs because it had LiveView. It would be nice to be able to focus while using LiveView, but this apparently is not technically possible. I do a lot of macro photography and even though LiveView is a great feature to have, I get by with just the viewfinder most of the time.
I added an Eye-Fi wireless SD card which sends my pictures directly to my computer without the need to plug it in, so I haven't used the Pentax bundled software.
I added a grip, extra battery, and remote control. It is great to have an extra battery, remote, and extra SD card stored in the grip. The grip makes it a bit heavy - very much like an film SLR.
Overall it is an easy to use camera right out of the box. Oh, if you buy this camera from Amazon, it comes with the same accessories as if you bought it from the Pentax store (not gray market or repackaged). For some reason Amazon doesn't list what is in the box as Pentax does. It took several phone calls and then a roll of the dice to finally confirm that everything listed on the Pentax site was the same as what came in the box on Amazon's site. One thing to note though is that while it comes with an AC cord, it is not an AC adapter to power the camera. The AC cord it comes with is for the battery charger. If you want to power the directly from AC you must buy the AC adapter. Neither Pentax or Amazon are clear about this detail. The AC adapter is about 0 extra. Most people will not need it. Battery power is excellent, though a spare is nice to have. The battery charges fully in less than 3 hours and full charge is indicated by a light on the charger.
