Pentax K-01 Digital Camera Review

Dynamic Range

At the minimum sensitivity, the K-01 is capable of achieving just over 7 stops of dynamic range. That's excellent, and to give you an idea of what sort of range 7 full stops looks like, be sure to check out our second sample photo.

Only ISO 100 can reach 7 stops. After that, 6 stops becomes the norm until around ISO 1600. We were very impressed how far into the ISO spectrum this camera retained its dynamic range. After ISO 1600, performance drops off more sharply. Only 5 stops are possible at ISO 3200, almost 4 stops at 6400, 2.7 stops at 12800, and finally 1.8 stops at 25600. More on how we test dynamic range.

These are great results, surpassing even the mighty Pentax K-5. The only comparable camera to post a better score was the Sony NEX-5N, which is part of a model line known for its dynamic range.