Pentax SMC PENTAX DA 12-24MM F4.0 ED AL (IF): Review

Posted to Lenses 2009-12-27

PENTAX SMC DA 12-24MM F4.0 ED AL (IF) review:

The Pentax SMC PENTAX DA 12-24MM F4.0 ED AL (IF) is a 12-24mm (18-36mm 35mm equivalent) ultra wide angle zoom lens for Pentax digital cameras. It features an angle of view ranging from 99 to 61 degrees for taking pictures of landscapes, buildings, interior rooms and large groups. The unit has a near-macro minimum focusing distance of 12 inches, and a maximum magnification of 0.12X.

The lens also features an 8-bladed diaphragm, is constructed using 13 elements in 11 groups and an aperture range of f/4 to f/22. The lens measures 3.3" x 3.4", weighs 15.2 ounces and uses a 77mm diameter filter. Its Pentax SP coating repels dust, water and grease to keep the lens clean and provide sharp images, the Quick-Shift Focus system allows fast switching from automatic to manual focusing, and the extra-low dispersion glass provides sharp images and minimizes chromatic aberration.

Rating:

3.6 out of 5

Quality

The SMC Pentax DA 12-24mm lens is built to near pro-quality standards, and should provide years of useful life. The Pentax exclusive SP coating helps keep the lens free of grease, water and dust, and the zoom and focus action are smooth and positive. The extra-low dispersion glass ensures sharp images from edge to edge, and reduces chromatic aberration. The lens produces excellent quality images throughout its range of focal lengths. The lens can be used for close-ups, and the focal length covers a true wide angle range.

Performance

The SMC Pentax DA 12-24mm delivers excellent performance. Pincushion and barrel distortion are not a problem, and it produces crisp, clear images at all focal lengths. It is quite fast, and has a truly useful aperture range. The Quick-Shift focus system makes switching from automatic to manual focus a snap, and the zoom and focus rings have a very firm and positive feel. Autofocus is near silent, thanks to an ultra quiet motor. And the focal length range makes for a very versatile all-around wide angle lens.

Summary

If you're in the market for a true wide angle lens for your Pentax digital camera, the SMC Pentax DA 12-24mm makes an excellent choice. It's perfect for landscape, architectural and group photography, and opens up a lot of new picture taking opportunities due to its extreme wide angle of view. It's a bit on the pricey side, but if it's within your budget it should provide years of picture taking enjoyment.

Pros

12-24mm (18-36mm 35mm equivalent)
f/4 - f/22 aperture range
99 - 61 degree angle of view
Quick-Shift focus feature

Cons

A bit pricey