PENTAX K200D Review

The latest PENTAX entry-level dSLR, the K200D, is a replacement for the K100D. PENTAX may be marketing the K200D as an enthusiast-level dSLR but it has an impressive list of features including a weather-resistant body, the PRIME image processor, anti-shake and dust removal systems. As you might expect the resolution has increased also and the CCD sensor is now rated at 10.2-megapixel resolution. After further examination the K200D appears to have more in common with the K10D than the K100D.

I think you'll be impressed with of the K200D's ergonomic design. If you're replacing an older camera you'll be surprised at how lightweight the K200D is. The camera body dimensions are (W x H x D): 5.2 x 3.7 x 2.9� and it weights under 25 oz with memory card and lithium batteries. The new lenses too are very light. The controls on the camera are breeze to use even without looking at the manual, and the menus are informative and easy to read on the 2.7" color LCD. The monochrome data LCD display is very useful displaying Shutter speed, Aperture value, Flash mode, and many other important settings at a glance.

PENTAX claims the shake reduction technology in their current K200D helps produce sharp photos without using a tripod - even with telephoto lenses. I used the PENTAX DA 200mm f/2.8 ED (IF) SDM to shoot some of the images on the Samples page and I have to agree that the new SR system has made hand-held photography easier for me with the longer lens. This system is integrated into the camera body so it works with whatever lens you choose.

If you're new to digital photography you'll probably love the Auto Picture mode that will automatically select one of the four Picture modes (including Portrait, Landscape and Macro) by calculating available conditions to achieve a proper exposure. Also the Scene mode allows you to select from eight pre-configured settings such as Night Scene, Portrait, Sunset, or Pet mode. You just select the mode that most closely matches your subject and the K200D automatically sets the proper exposure, white balance, and other settings to capture the best picture possible. When you're ready to use the K200D in manual mode all exposure adjustments are easily accessible through the controls of the camera. You have full access to 23 custom options with 52 settings that allow you to adjust how your K200D operates.

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