Pentax K-r Pro Reviews

The entry-level Pentax K-r boasts fast continuous shooting and does a good job in low-light, but this D-SLR ships with a kit lens that is anything but sharp and lacks autofocus capability during video recording.

It's hard not to like the K-r. Reassuringly solid build and yet surprisingly compact, it sits nicely in the hand and is easy to operate. The menu layout actively encourages you to experiment with the built-in custom image presets and digital filters, combining one or more for fun effects, or even creating your own unique look with. Purists might argue that this is something best left to dedicated image-editing software at the post-production stage, however as the K-r is able to shoot perfectly neutral Raw images as well. Video recording is more of an added extra than a standout feature, and we were disappointed that the K-r isn't able to autofocus while recording. But aside from this there is little else to fault about the K-r and plenty to praise. In the end, most users are going to judge their camera on its image quality and in this respect we're happy to report that the K-r is capable of delivering consistently good results, with high ISO performance especially noteworthy.

The price has come down considerably since its original launch, and at £400 this impressive all-rounder is now an unbeatable bargain

Overall, the Pentax K-r provides a pretty good value proposition, even at a higher price tag than its predecessor. Especially for those with an investment in the company's glass, the K-r offers a very worthwhile upgrade over earlier Pentax models at a price that still won't break the bank. If you can afford to pay the extra for the K-5, it's clear that there's even more to recommend in the company's flagship mode, but those on a budget will doubtless still be very pleased with the Pentax K-r, and for photographers who want in-body AA battery compatibility it's clearly the best available option. Despite some slight reservations over the increased pricing of the company's 2011 DSLR lineup, we're happy to select the Pentax K-r as a Dave's Pick.

If you’re looking for a small, lightweight, inexpensive “starter” camera, then the Pentax K-r is a great choice. With its huge array of features and nice image quality, it might end up being the only SLR you never need. Even if you’re a more serious shooter who already has an investment in Pentax lenses, the K-r’s very usable high-ISO capability, and speedy autofocus make it an ideal second body.

Whether or not this is your first introduction to DSLR photography, the Pentax K-r is an outstanding creation that combines practical design with a host of creative and picture-enhancing features that result in fast performance and stunning picture quality.

A very competent upper entry-level camera that delivers decent image quality across the ISO range and at six frames per second comes with one of the fastest continuous shooting rates in its class. There's some stiff competition in the upper entry-level bracket of the market but the K-r is definitely worth a look.

The Pentax K-r sits in an odd position. It's a step up model from a totally entry level DSLR with its high-resolution screen, 11 focus points, and fast performance, but yet it lacks Full HD video (only HD Ready) and has a lower-resolution sensor than some other mid-range models. It also has some other idiosyncrasies. While it does have in-body image stabilisation and the ability to use AAs in place of its standard battery, it doesn't have an external mic input for video or HDMI output. The result is a camera that's a very versatile choice at its price point for just pure still image shooting, and would actually be our choice on that point alone, but that's not an allrounder when it comes to video.

There's really nothing new here, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Not everyone wants a camera that has loads of mostly unnecessary (and rarely/never used) capabilities - some shooters just want a dependable camera with decent optics that will do exactly what they want it to do precisely when they want it done.

With the K-r it appears Pentax has merged its entry level and mid range DSLRs into one comprehensive, good value device. And it has done it very well, with little apparent compromise. To pick holes in the K-r’s standalone performance feels like grasping at straws. OK, it lacks a certain sophistication and more experienced users may find the degree of hand holding on offer grates after a while, but for the price we humbly suggest that you can’t go far wrong at the beginner level. Canon and Nikon’s loss might be your gain.

The Pentax K-r, like the K-x before it, is a superb camera for keen photographers. Video quality is more mixed – for our money those looking for a low-end DSLR that shoots decent video files will do better with the Nikon D3100, which feels a little cheaper in the hand but shoots 1080p, H.264 video rather than 720p Motion-JPEG.

With breakneck performance, friendly controls, tons of features and remarkably little image noise, we’re won over by this keenly priced SLR.

The Pentax K-r adds a few new features, most notably the 6fps burst shooting mode and expanded ISO range, to the proven user interface of the cheaper K-x and the high-resolution screen and illuminated AF system of the more expensive K-7, to create a compelling mid-range DSLR. It's also significantly cheaper than its main rivals.

We have a well made, fully specified, compact and efficient camera in the Pentax K-r. It is attractive in appearance and handles beautifully. It can hold its head high in the company of higher priced rivals from the main manufacturers and also offers advantages in image quality, lens quality and extensive backwards compatibility. The excellent near-infra-red performance will please some buyers, as will the multiple power source options.