Pentax K2000 Digital Camera Review

Pentax K2000

Digital Camera Review

Sep 25, 2008 - By Tim Barribeau
4.3 The Pentax K2000 (dubbed the K-M outside of the USA) joins the already saturated entry-level SLR market. The K2000 distinguishes itself by providing a generous amount of help to new users; a simple and clear control system; and a bevy of image presets and filters. Pentax has also included an external flash unit to the body-and-lens kit, providing more bang for your 700 bucks. In our brief stint using a pre-release version of the camera at the Photokina show, the focus felt very fast, and the camera was light without feeling fragile. The K2000 kit will debut in November 2008 for $699.99 with a DA L 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 AL lens and AF200FG flash. The body  will be released separately in early 2009 for an unannounced price.
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Conclusion
The Pentax K2000 (called the K-M outside the USA) is an interesting addition to the already crowded entry-level SLR market. It lacks some of the features of its competition (such as Live View), and it doesn't have quite the same extensive support network of lenses and accessories as Canon or Nikon. On the other hand, for $700 you are getting body, lens and an external flash, for the same price as the Rebel XSi. The focusing on the lens felt quick, the body was well crafted, and there are many helpful features designed with new users in mind. The K2000 strikes us as a strong introductory camera for someone considering the jump from point-and-shoot to SLR. The K2000 kit will be available in November 2008 for $699.99, with the body along to be released separately in early 2009 at a price to be announced.


Likes 

- Reasonable price
- Fast autofocus
- Good for new users (Help button, scene presets, strong auto mode)
- Small size
- Easy layout to use
- Customizable

Dislikes

- Lack of single-function buttons
- Shutter release felt insubstantial




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