Pentax K-x

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Note: This article describes the 2009 digital K-x; the 1970s Pentax KX 35mm SLR is described in its own entry.

The K-x is a digital SLR introduced in September 2009. Based around a 12 megapixel APS-C sensor (provided by Sony), the K-x was positioned as Pentax's entry-level model, successor to the K100D and K200D.

The camera has smaller dimensions than most other DLSRs, and was further distinguished by Pentax's whimsical Japanese marketing campaign offering the body in "100 colors" (actually, 20 body colors combined with 5 handgrip colors). Initially only white, red, and metallic blue bodies were available outside Japan; eventually other markets received a selection of colors too, although only with black handgrips.[1]

While the colors were intended to attract first-time DSLR shoppers, the K-x was regarded as offering good value to enthusiasts as well. Tests at high ISOs showed low noise levels,[2] competitive with APS-C cameras at much higher price points. The sensor-shift image stabilization system, while not the best on the market, aided in low light with any lens attached. The K-x offers full compatibility with a large variety of K mount lenses: The body is able to set the aperture (and record it in the EXIF data) even using manual focus Pentax-A lenses dating back to 1983.

The use of 4 AA batteries for power was disliked by some, although it does allow for emergency drugstore replacements. Rechargeable NiMH AA cells tend to give erratic battery-level indications, although using the latest firmware update improves the problem.

As with most entry-level DLSRs, the pentamirror viewfinder of the K-x is unimpressive. A further complaint about this model was the lack of viewfinder display of the autofocus point selected by the camera. This was remedied in the (presumed) replacement for the K-x, the K-r.


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Pentax K mount DSLR Cameras
ist D | ist DS | ist DL | ist DS2 | ist DL2 | K100D | K110D | K10D | K100D Super | K20D | K200D | K-m | K-t | K-x | K-5 | K-r | K-30 | K-5 II and K-5 IIs | K-500 | K-50 | K-S1 and K-S2 | K-3 | K-1 | K-P | K-3 II | K-1 II | K-3 III | K-F | K-3 III-Monochrome