Pentax K-S2
Announced February 9, 2015
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Pentax K-S2 is a capable, weather-sealed DSLR that offers enthusiasts a robust feature set, including a bright pentaprism viewfinder and effective in-body stabilization. While it excels in still photography and ergonomics, the camera struggles significantly with video performance and limited buffer capacity.
Weighted from 16 reviewer scores
Pros
- Weather-sealed, rugged, and compact design
- High-quality pentaprism viewfinder with 100% coverage
- Excellent image quality and RAW capture
- Versatile controls including dual command dials and articulating screen
- Comprehensive in-body image stabilization
Cons
- Poor video quality and limited functionality
- Limited buffer and slow continuous shooting performance
- Lack of a touchscreen interface
- Unreliable or limited companion mobile app
- Aggressive JPEG processing and occasional image artifacts
- Launch price $799.95 (USD)
- Sensor 20.12MP CMOS
What the Reviewers Say
All 16 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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Despite its slightly lower resolution, the Pentax K-S2 arguably holds onto just a little more detail than does its higher-end sibling in the mosaic crop.
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Throw in the extensive range of compatible Pentax K mount lenses and you’ve got a camera which represents excellent value and is one of the best in its class.
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[I]f you're doing action, if you're going to beat up your camera and you absolutely want an SLR, the K-S2 is a great way to go.
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The K-S2 is highly impressive and performs flawlessly.
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[T]he Pentax KS-2 is a very capable camera which should be enjoyed by enthusiasts, especially those who have no particular affinity to the other more popular brands on the market.
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The Pentax K-S2 is a great entry-level DSLR that offers a lot for the money. It’s not perfect, but it’s a great alternative to the Canon and Nikon models.
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The Pentax K-S2 D-SLR packs a lot of features into its weather-sealed body, but its burst shooting capability is very limited and its companion Wi-Fi app needs some work.
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For those who can't find a Canon or Nikon camera to suit them, or perhaps those who have vintage Pentax lenses, the K-S2 makes for a fantastic first time DSLR.
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The K-S2 offers several appealing features, including weatherproofing and sensor-shift image stabilization, but its video quality falls short.
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In a competitive class it could well be argued that the K-S2 is one of the most pleasing DSLRs to use thanks to the large viewfinder and impressive control set-up.
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The K-S2 is the best choice for most serious beginning photographers. No other manufacturer can match the features, usability and ruggedness at this price.
- CNET 7.7/10
For the first-timer or family photographer, the Pentax K-S2 is a nice dSLR, but it drops the ball for video and you should pass on the new 18-50mm kit lens.
- Photo Review 8.6/10
Like the K50 and K-S1, the K-S2 will suit a wide range of photo enthusiasts with different levels of expertise.
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So while it narrowly misses out on full marks, this is a camera that deserves to be hugely successful.
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Ricoh under the Pentax badge is making the best and most exciting cameras on the market today. The Pentax K-S2 is a prime example, very possibly at the top of that exciting camera list.
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To sum it up, if you want a solid DSLR with dual control dials and a host of advanced features, great image quality, and super easy to use Wi-Fi for an amazing price, the Pentax K-S2 is a no-brainer.
