Pentax K-r Entry-Level SLR Announced

A year after releasing the well-liked K-x, Pentax has announced a new version of its entry-level dSLR. On the inside, not much has changed, but the K-r does correct some of the faults that the K-x was widely criticised for, notably the lack of AF focusing points in the viewfinder.

The Pentax K-r feels familiar to handle as it's heavily based on the K-x. The overall design has changed noticeably though, as there's a more angular viewfinder (reminiscent of the K-7) and the chrome-effect details have been removed. The controls, on the other hand, haven't changed a bit.

The sensor and image processor are the same as in the K-x too. At the launch event, we managed to have a quick play around with a prototype of the K-r, and we already noticed slight improvements in Jpeg mode, probably thanks to its new and improved algorithms. Pentax also claims the K-r to have an ISO range of from 100 to 25,600. Although the limit of actual usability still seems to be around 6,400 ISO, it's a good sign of what the brand's technology is capable of.

The 720p HD video mode has been upped to 25 fps, but footage is still recorded in Mjpeg with mono sound.

However, there are two particularly promising new features in this camera. The first is that the new screen displays 920,000 dots, for four times more definition than on the K-x. The second is that the viewfinder now displays the AF focusing points selected. The fact that these weren't available in the original model was subject to much debate. While some said it wasn't all that important and put their confidence in the multi-zone autofocus or locked onto one central focusing point, others found their omission simply unforgivable.

The Pentax K-r is due for release in October and will be available with an 18-55mm DAL lens for £600 or with the 18-55mm DAL + 50-200MM DAL lenses for £700.

This prices the K-r a couple of hundred quid above the K-x (single lens pack), which is slowly working its way under £400.


> Digital Cameras: SLRs, Micro 4/3 and Interchangeable Lens Reviews

> Buyer's Guides: Our Pick of The Best Products