Photo answers review
Photo answers rating 
Features & handlingLove it or hate it, HD video is the DSLR function of the moment, and Pentax has just released its first offering – the Pentax K-x. But even if HD video isn’t for you, don’t be put off by it because the K-x is no lightweight DSLR. Incorporating all the functions you’d expect and more for a camera in the entry-level class, the K-x shows real progress from Pentax since the release of the K-m last year. With HD video, a new processor and a higher resolution among other things, the K-x represents what a true DSLR upgrade should be.
The K-x offers a resolution of 12.4MP with its CMOS sensor, powered by the same Prime II processor found in the more advanced Pentax K-7. This provides improved image quality and facilitates faster processing of HD movie data. The HD video function on this camera is actually one of the most intuitive and easy to use that you’ll find on any of the DSLRs offering this feature. With a video resolution of 1280x720pixels at 24fps, you won’t be shooting full HD but quality will still be excellent.
That’s already quite a lot to pack into the petite 515g body of the K-x, and although it may not be the smallest DSLR on the market it’s certainly not far from it and very comfortable to hold. The more style-conscious among you will be happy to hear that it’s available in four colours, namely black, navy blue, red and white.
Performance & image qualityThis may be a small DSLR but be under no illusions that this means performance is also scaled down. Shooting fast-moving subjects should be no problem with the K-x thanks to a 4.7fps shooting speed. Then there are the art filters and HDR capture that shoots three shots and blends them into a single image, all in-camera. Both the filters and HDR can be a lot of fun and very creative, although they can only be applied when shooting in JPEG mode.
For sharp images, assistance comes from the 11 focus points that are well spaced across the central area of the frame, and can be set to one of four main configuration options. However, and this is a big one, the points don’t light up to show you where they are. This means you have to remember which point is active, and estimate its placement over the subject. There are lines in the viewfinder to assist with focus point location, but this pales in comparison to a full visual representation.
The question on everyone’s lips when a new DSLR comes into the office is what’s the image quality like? The K-x is a very able performer with hardly any noise, even at ISO 800. At ISO 1600 noise begins to creep in a bit but it’s not until you push up to ISO 3200 that it really becomes apparent. Overall it’s a very able performer and will have no problems standing its ground against the competition.
The Pentax K-x represents what an upgrade should be, with a range of impressive new features to set it apart from and allow it to sit between the K-m and K-7. The K-x is a solidly built entry-level DSLR offering a good set of special features and impressive image quality. Unfortunately, it’s been let down by a lack of perceivable focus points in the viewfinder, making autofocus a rather hit-or-miss affair. Then there’s the use of AA batteries, which admittedly are easier to come by than other DSLR specific batteries, but the average readily available AA batteries have a much shorter life. If these two issues aren’t a problem for you the K-x is a very good DSLR, but not as great a DSLR as it could and perhaps should be. PP
Key specificationStreet price £594 with 18-55mm lens
Effective resolution 12.4MP
Sensor type CMOS
Crop factor 1.5x
Lens mount Pentax
Exposure modes Auto, P/A/S/M
Metering modes Multi-segment, centre-weighted, spot
ISO range 200-6400 (100-12800 expanded)
Shooting speed 4.7fps
Video resolution 1280x720p/24fps
Card type SD, SDHC
LCD monitor size 2.7in
Aspect ratio 3:2,16:9
Live View Yes
Autofocus 11-point
Integrated cleaning Yes
Built-in stabilisation Yes
Weight/size (wxhxd) 515g/91.5x122.5x67.5mm