Pentax K-1 a ‘Full-Frame Marvel,’ Third Best ILC DxOMark Has Ever Tested

DxOMark just got done taking the Pentax K-1 through its paces, and their conclusion is simple: this ‘full frame marvel’ boasts one of the best camera sensor they’ve ever tested. In fact, it’s the best sensor in its price range and the third best they’ve ever tested.

If you’re already heavily invested in Canon, Nikon, or Sony glass, this revelation might be a bit painful. If, on the other hand, you’re looking to pick up your first full-frame DSLR, the weather-sealed K-1 with its 36MP sensor and affordable price tag should be, in DxOMark’s words, “on your short list.”

“Boasting a robust, weather-sealed construction with some interesting features, including built-in stabilization, pixel shift image merging, and Pentax’s AA filter simulator, the Pentax K-1 offers a lot at a competitive price point,” writes DxO in their conclusion. “What’s more, image quality is among the best we’ve tested for full-frame interchangeable lens cameras.”

Here it is compared to the full-frame DSLRs in its price range:

And here it is taking the third spot overall, just barely losing out to the Nikon D810 that costs nearly twice as much:

The overall sensor score of 96 is incredibly impressive for a full-frame DSLR that costs just $1,800 and boasts a ton of exciting features like pixel shift and robust weather sealing. Remember, the Canon 5D Mark IV—the best Canon sensor DxO has ever tested—only scored a 91.

“The K-1 is a successful first full-frame DSLR from Pentax, giving photographers looking for great image quality another camera to consider,” concludes DxOMark. “If you’re not already heavily invested in a particular brand’s lenses and accessories, put the 36MP Pentax K-1 on your short list.”

Check out the full review on DxOMark.