Pentax is cramming more features into a smaller body with the KP, a compact, weather-sealed DSLR.
The KP uses an APS-C sensor, and like several of Pentax's earlier models, doesn't have an anti-aliasing filter but uses the sensor shift stabilization system to create a similar effect that can be turned on and off. The sensor boasts an impressive sensitivity range, reaching ISOs up to 819200. Pair the camera with a good lens and the ISO range plus the five-axis sensor shift stabilization system should translate into solid low light performance.
The KP maintains a respectable 7 fps burst speed that's slightly slower than earlier options like the K-3 II but within the typical range expected for DSLRs at this price point. The shutter speed is a nice 1/8000 that can be bumped up to 1/24000 using the electronic shutter instead. The contrast-detection autofocus uses 27 points.
While the sensor and stabilization system is upgraded, Pentax has managed to slim down the body even further, giving it a remarkably small body for a DSLR. The camera weighs less than two pounds. Despite the smaller body, the KP still has a decent set of controls, with dual control wheels and several shortcuts, along with both a tilting LCD screen and an optical viewfinder. The camera also keeps Pentax's characteristic weather-sealing for shooting in any weather (though not submerging).
The camera's $1,200 price point puts it in line with competitors like the Nikon D7200. Overall, the KP is a nice addition to Pentax's line-up, with features like a tilting LCD screen that are harder to find in high-end APS-C DSLRs along with a nice sensor upgrade. The camera's compact size is also likely to factor in, making it more portable than other cameras at this level.
COMMENTS, QUESTIONS, & ANSWERS FORUM BY VIEWERS AND EDITORS