Pentax K-01 Digital Camera Review

Shooting Modes

The K-01 is equipped with a full size hardware mode dial that includes dedicated stops for HDR shooting, scene mode options, bulb mode, no flash, video, and the remaining "PASM" modes.

Manual Controls

The best manual control is the thin focus ring on the K-01's 40mm kit lens. This isn't focus by wire, the ring actually moves glass mechanically, so you'll be able to achieve excellent precision. Other than that, most variables can be set manually, including program shift and auto ISO range.

Focus

We haven't yet implemented our focus speed test, but, on an observational level, the K-01 has few problems locking focus on subjects within its listed focus distance. The same goes for low light in most cases.

Plenty of autofocus methods are available, like face detection, tracking, custom zone, and center; but the real fun is manual focus. The 40mm kit lens features an all-mechanical focus ring. This isn't electronic focus by wire, the glass is instantly responsive and very fun to use. Swapping between manual and automatic focus is simply a matter of toggling a small switch with the left hand.

Recording Options

Four aspect ratios are supported, and for each of these four resolution settings of varying size are available. RAW and JPEG+RAW shooting is available, and all resolutions supported for JPEG are also supported for RAW.