Weaknesses
Okay, so not much has changed over its predecessor. Though it's cheaper, the K100D Super hasn't upped its 6-megapixel resolution -- look to Pentax's K10D for that. Pixel count aside, the four non-rechargeable AAs are one of the few signifiers that this is a budget model, though battery life is respectable.
It's also a moot point whether the K100D Super's target audience -- beginners and family users in the main -- are truly going to benefit from the new dust prevention feature since they're not the type to be swapping lenses with any regularity. Still, it's a nice extra that gives the Super the edge over its nearest rival -- and in a cutthroat marketplace, that makes all the difference.
Though it's always fun finding negatives, the simple fact is that on the K100D Super they're few and far between. It's an old adage that you get what you pay for, and, unbelievably, with the K100D Super you actually get more.
Conclusion
For a beginner with no history of dSLR ownership -- so no old lenses to find a new home for -- the choice of the Pentax K100D Super is a veritable no brainer.
It's built to last, quick in operation, delivers warm and colourful images straight out of the camera that are on a par with 10-megapixel rivals and did we mention that it's a bargain at £370?
Edited by Jason Jenkins
Additional editing by Jon Squire
User reviews3
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Terry Good 14 May 2011
Good: build quality images excellent
Bad: nothing
Comment: great camera dont bother about pixel count i have kr about double pixel count but you will not be able to tell the difference
Chris Ness 22 June 2008
Good: Picture quality, easy to use, comfortable to hold, great price
Bad: Slightly heavy to hold for long periods
Comment: I wanted to replace my excellent Pentax KM film based camera, which is still working well after 35 years, with a digital SLR. I waited until the prices came down and for £250, June 2008, (main high street store) the K100D Super is fantastic value.
I have still to put it through all its functions but the ones I have used so far have exceeded expecations. I was a little worried about the low megapixel figure of 6.1 but this camera goes to show that the mp rating has to be combined with build quality, lens and sensor quality. The pictures are superb and the built in flash is so good I don't think I'll reinvest in a hot-shoe flash.
Regarding the weight the K100D weighs in at 954 grammes compared to my old KM at 1115 grammes so its actually lighter but somehow seems heavier maybe because of the different shape.
It is also very easy to use and is much quieter than the shutter on the old KM. The viewing screen is very clear and the menus are logical and easy to follow.
I still cannot believe that this camera was available at £250 and I consider that I got a true bargain.
scott benson 16 May 2008
Good: Picture quality, ease of use, build quality, just everything
Bad: Nothing of the top of my head
Comment: All I can say is you won't be dissapointed, its easy to use, gives great pics, its well made and its feature packed. Alright some dslrs on the market pack 10 mega pixels and cost more but the picture quality of the pentax will keep up easy + it has image stablisation built in and a self cleaning system and lcd display on top, which some dearer dslrs on the market dont have. The pentax k100d super has the right name because it truely is a super dslr.
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