Need a little help deciding which Pentax DSLR

Schmutzie wrote:

Hi all,

I am looking for a new Pentax DSLR, my K-30 was stolen a few months ago (along with my 18-135) and I have gone without a camera long enough! Prior to the K-30 I had an *ist DS, and an K-200. While I loved the K-30's auto focus and high ISO performance, my favorite by far was the K-200.

I am trying to decide between a K-70, a K-3, or a K-3ii. I think the K-3 and K3ii will give me the heft and 'feel' that I liked with the k-200 along with the top LCD, while the K-70 will have somewhat newer/better technology. Price are $599 for the K-70 body only and $896 for the K-70 with the 18-135 and the K-3 and K-3ii bodies only are $799 and $835 respectively.

The K-3 option for $800 is at a local shop which is nice, but I am not opposed to Amazon or any other place online.

Does anyone have experience with moving from a K-30 (or K-50) to the K-70, K-3, or K-3ii?

I would really appreciate any input that helps me make a decision!!!

thanks!

-Schmutzie

I started with K-5, upgraded to K-3ii and now also use a K-1. I know what you mean about heft, not least when these are paired with DA star lenses or big zooms. Sometimes though, the weight can be unwanted, like on the occasions when I am taking a camera just in case, rather than going out on with distinct photographic purposes. On these occasions I would sometimes borrow my partner's K-50 and eventually got myself a K-S2. It pairs well with the standard DA 18-135 or D FA 28-105 and DA Limiteds.

I like the lower weight and bulk of the K-S2 and am very happy with the quality of image, even if it is not quite (in theory) up to K-3ii standards. I have found the swiveling screen to be a real bonus, something the K-3 and K-3ii lack. Personally I like gps tagged images, so for that the K-3ii (and K-1) are fantastic.

If I were in your position, I would give the K-70 serious thought, it combines the best of K-S2 and K-3ii. Pixel shift is really nice to have when conditions are right (only if you use a tripod). It misses out on gps, but if you don't need that, you wont miss it. I find that the data on rear screen and through lens means that I seldom rely on the top LCD.

The K-70 is excellent value for money, the KP, nice as it may be, is so much more expensive and for me does not justify the price hike over the K-70. This would give you more latitude for spending on good lenses. The 16-85 and 28-105 are far superior to the softish off-centre 18-135 (still a nice lens though). I think lens choice will matter more than the difference between the cameras you are considering.

From my experience K-70 is a logical progression from K-50, but if you don't need the built in flash (I never use it) and want a step up in camera body, the K-3ii will offer you this. Fantastic camera, that's also very well built with the heft that goes with that.

I'm sure you'll be happy with whatever you choose - all good cameras these Pentaxes!  Do let us know your final decision and good luck.