Pentax SMC PENTAX DA STAR 300MM F4 ED(IF) SDM : Review

Posted to Lenses 2010-02-21

Pentax SMC PENTAX DA STAR 300MM F4 ED(IF) SDM review:

Pentax digital SLR owners will be please to hear that their telephoto needs can be met by the PENTAX DA STAR 300MM F4 ED(IF) SDM. This ultra-quiet, ultra-durable, weather-resistant camera lens can take 300mm (equivalent to 450mm in 35mm format) shots with relatively easy configuration. If you are ready to leave your home or office and venture into the wild with your Pentax digital SLR, then consider bringing along this telephoto lens for long range needs.

This lens measures 3.3 x 7.2 inches and weighs approximately 37.7 ounces, which is heavy but certainly not overwhelming for such a large lens. This model features the PENTAX-original Quick-Shift Focus System, which allows instant switching from auto to manual focus. In addition, the SDM focus system utilizes a built-in supersonic motor to ensure that you enjoy smoother and quieter auto-focusing operations. If you are ready to step into the world of long range photography, and you don't mind paying the professional-level price, then this telephoto lens may be right for you.

Rating:

4.6 out of 5

Value

Although this model is quite expensive, the price factor is compensated by the automatic focus feature that really performs beyond expectations. One of the smaller details of this lens is the operating noise, which is quite minimal compared to other lenses. Although there are so many different kinds of telephoto lenses at different prices, this one is especially recommended because it is incredibly sharp and mounts to a Pentax digital SLR- one of the better cameras on the market.

Performance

Because the Pentax SMC PENTAX DA STAR 300MM F4 ED (IF) SDM features superior sealing, you can expect to have quick, clean, and flawless performance every time. The quick automatic/manual focus switching is a breeze, and the supersonic motor can barely be heard. If you want something extremely quiet, fast, and reliable, then you will want to consider this lens for your Pentax. Although you may find cheaper telephotos elsewhere, it will be hard to find one with the performance level of this one.

Summary

Before you venture out into the outdoors, be sure to bring along the Pentax SMC PENTAX DA STAR 300MM F4 ED (IF) SDM long-range lens as a companion to your Pentax digital SLR. Not only does it allow you to take crisp, rich long-range shots, but it also comes preconfigured with a supersonic motor for ultra-quiet, ultra-fast operations. If you are a hobbyist or professional photographer who wants a high-value telephoto lens, then you will definitely want to consider this one.

Pros

Easy- quickly adjustable with automatic and manual focus
Expansive- take your Pentax digital SLR to new horizons
Extraordinary- supersonic motor but ultra-quiet operations
Explorer-long-range lens allows high-quality distance shots

Cons

Expensive- competing lenses are cheaper