Pentax K-x Digital Camera Review

Dynamic Range

The K-x performed well in our dynamic range testing, making it a good choice for handling high-contrast shooting situations without losing detail in the very bright or deeply shadowed areas. We test dynamic range by shooting a Kodak stepchart with 20 patches from solid white to solid black, with a range of gray values in between. Test photos are taken at each ISO level, across the full aperture range. These test images are then analyzed using Imatest software to determine how many distinct patches can be identified in each, then those results are compiled to create an overall picture of the camera's performance.

The K-x delivers a 7-stop dynamic range at ISO 200, which is quite good, and retains nearly 5 stops out to ISO 1600. More on how we test dynamic range.

Comparing dynamic range for the cameras in our roundup at ISO 200, only the Canon T1i offered a wider dynamic range. After that, though, the T1i takes a steep dive, down to 4.27 stops at ISO 400, at which point the K-x still measures 6.21 stops.