Pentax doesn't offer quite as many cameras as some other major manufacturers, but the company includes some very interesting models, ranging from point and shoot cameras to entry-level DSLR models to advanced DSLRs. The best new Pentax cameras listed here have been released in the past 18 months.
1. Pentax Q DIL
Pentax
Count Pentax among the manufacturers who have added digital interchangeable lens (DIL) cameras to their product line alongside the company's DSLR cameras.
Because of the mirror-less design for the camera's interior, DIL cameras are smaller than DSLRs. However, they use a different lens system than DSLRs, meaning lenses cannot be shared between the two types of cameras.
Pentax's first DIL camera is the Pentax Q, which is currently available for sale in white or black. Japanese photographers had access to the Q for a few months before photographers in the United States. The Q offers a 12.4MP CMOS image sensor, 1080p HD video, a 3.0-inch high-resolution LCD, a built-in flash, and five frames per second capabilities.
2. Pentax K-5 DSLR
Pentax
As part of Photokina 2010, Pentax has announced a new DSLR camera aimed at advanced amateur photographers, the K-5. The Pentax K-5 includes a 16.3MP CMOS image sensor, high sensitivity ISO settings, 1080p HD video capabilities, a 1/8000th second maximum shutter speed, and a 3.0-inch high-resolution LCD.
3. Pentax K-r DSLR
Pentax
The Pentax K-r DSLR camera is a high-speed performer, as it includes a 1/6000th maximum shutter speed, and it can shoot up to six frames per second. Additionally, the K-r includes 12.4 megapixels of resolution with its high-performance CMOS image sensor, a 3.0-inch high-resolution LCD, and HD video capabilities up to 720p. The K-r even can run from four AA batteries, with the AA battery pack. Pentax is now offering the K-r in black, white, or red.
4. Pentax K-x DSLR
Pentax
Pentax hopes that it has successfully found a niche with its entry-level K-x DSLR camera. The K-x offers 12.4 megapixels of resolution, a 2.7-inch LCD, and HD video capabilities. For a DSLR, the fact that the K-x runs from four AA batteries is unique, as is having the DSLR camera body available in several different colors, including a limited-edition rainbow model. The K-x is an award-winning camera as well.
5. Pentax Optio W90
Pentax
The Optio W90 digital camera from Pentax is the 11th generation Optio waterproof camera, and it offers the strongest set of features thus far.
The Optio W90 has a nice set of "tough" features, making it a good option for nature photography. It works in up to 20 feet of water depth, can survive a fall of 4 feet, and can operate in temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, the Optio W90 includes a "microscope" mode -- using an LED light that allows it to focus on items as close as 0.39 inches, which is great for close-up nature photos -- and a fabric strap with a carabiner for attaching it securely to a backpack.
6. Pentax Optio RZ10
Pentax
With a 10X optical zoom lens, the Pentax Optio RZ10 digital camera provides something you don't find in many beginner-level digital cameras: A thin model that offers a large zoom capability.
Pentax has included a strong macro mode with the RZ10, too, giving this lens tremendous versatility. Additionally, Pentax has included dual IS with this model, which is important for a camera with such a large zoom lens. The RZ10 offers 14.1MP of resolution and a 2.7-inch LCD, and it can shoot HD video at 720p. Pentax offers this model in a variety of colors, including black, white, lime green, and violet.
7. Pentax Optio RS1000
Pentax
Think of the Optio RS1000 from Pentax as the "chameleon" camera, as it can change its look to match your mood. The RS1000 ships with 11 different skins that fit on the front of the camera, with holes for the lens and flash. Additionally, Pentax has teamed with Skinit.com to allow you to design your own skins for the camera. The RS1000 has some nice photography features, too. It offers 14 megapixels of resolution, a 4X optical zoom lens, and a 3.0-inch LCD screen.
8. Pentax Optio RS1500
Penatx
With the Pentax Optio RS1500, you can change the look of the camera at any time with a new faceplate, a new lens ring, or a customizable skin, such as the skin shown here feating the Green Lantern.You'll find 14 megapixels of resolution, a 4X optical zoom lens, 720p HD video capability, and a 3-inch LCD screen with the Optio RS1500.
The RS1500 is an upgrade to the Optio RS1000, which was released late in 2010 and could accept various skins. Pentax designed the RS1500 to be easier to customize than its predecessor.
9. Pentax Optio WG-1
Pentax
Pentax is proving a rugged camera can be stylish, too, with its WG-1 digital camera. The Pentax Optio WG-1, which is available in purple or black, includes a macro stand and a carabiner strap.
The WG-1 can be used in up to 33 feet of water depth, can survive a fall of 5 feet, can withstand 100 kilograms of force, and works in temperatures as cold as 14 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, the Optio WG-1 offers 14 megapixels of resolution, a 2.7-inch LCD, 720p HD video capabilities with an HDMI port, and a 5X optical zoom lens.
