Pentax K-30 Digital Camera Review

Dynamic Range

We found that the Pentax K-30 was able to return nearly 8 stops of "high" dynamic range in our testing at its minimum ISO of 100. "High" dynamic range is defined as stops in which the signal to noise ratio is in excess of 10:1. The K-30 was able to largely keep this under control as well through much of its ISO range. We found the high quickly fell off to between 6 and 7 stops, but stayed above 6.25 stops through ISO 1600, held on with 5.8 stops at ISO 3200, and fell to below 3 stops above that. More on how we test dynamic range.

The Pentax K-30 compares well to other cameras in its class. The K-30 has the same image sensor and processing as its compatriot, the mirrorless K-01. Its performance holds right in line with the K-01, with a performance pattern that is nearly identical. If you're deciding between just these two cameras, then you'll have to look at features and design, because dynamic range is practically a wash. The same also goes for the K-30 vs. the slightly older K-5, as both also perform nearly identically in our testing.