Am I crazy for still wanting the K-S2?

wed7 wrote:

The camera was released about 2 years ago and the K-70 is out for a couple of months bringing what we thought high end specs (pixel shift) to enthusiast level. Something similar when we learned that the K-S2 also has AA filter simulations.

I just sold my K-5ii's and now I am about to let go my K-30... I am more inclined into smaller camera as I am now a member ot the #Dadlife,

On the lens department, I intend to keep only "trinity" 21/35/70. but a WR zoom is nice perhaps a 16-85 f3.5-5.6 and not the compact WR RE kit lens to cover everything.

What I am really frustrated with this K-XX model is their appalling battery (too small for enthusiast, imho)

Is my choice sensible?*

In answer to this last *question, not really. I mean, if you as asking which is the better camera, for four obvious reasons, the K-70 is better than the K-S2;

1. pixel shift vs no pixel shift,
2. RAW 14 bit vs RAW 12 bit
3. 24 Mp vs. 20 Mp.
4. Prime M II vs Prime M

I think that in most other respects they are quite similar, but with some nice tweaks on the K-70.

I have a K-S2 and I really do like it - it is a delight to use. I bought it as a lightweight companion to my K-3 II which is a fantastic camera. The critical factor in advising you get a K-70 is that is takes some of the excellent features of the K-3 II and wraps them up in a lightweight compact body with articulating screen. From what I can deduce, I would find it difficult to justify having a K-3 II if I already had a K- 70, it really sounds that good.

If funds are limited, the K-S2 will save you approx $150 if buying new, more if buying used. That would be the only reason to go for K-S2, but despite what I say, I am sure that you would be more than happy with the K-S2 in comparison with the K-30 you are currently using. Do note however that the higher resolution cameras do loose out a little in terms of low light performance & high iso noise relative to the 16 Mp K-5ii and K-30, but in my opinion, this is a pixel peepers observation rather than a real issue.

As for batteries, it is probably better than most of the mirrorless offerings, but in any case this need not be an issue. I never hesitate to buy a second battery, actually I have 3 and more than that for my K-3 II, therefore never run out of power. If you buy a reputable third party battery, this is not an expensive extra in the grand scheme of things.

On lenses, I have to agree with you about the 18-50 RW, I think it is a shoddy little lens in terms of construction and handling in comparison to what I read about the 16-85 which is very highly rated. I have the former, not the latter. I also have an 18-135 but find it rather soft at the long end so agree with your 16-85 choice. You need no persuasion about the DA Limiteds, lovely babes these!

For a comparison between K-S2 and K-70 specs, and a comprehensive review go to: Pentax Forums and in particular to the third page.