Posted to Digital SLR 2009-04-07
The Pentax K200D is the latest model from Pentax in the entry-level class of digital SLRs. Targeted to beginning DSLR users who want some room to grow, the camera borrows some features from it's more expensive mid-level cousin, the K20D. Featuring a dustproof, weather resistant body, 10.2 MP resolution, and a body-based shake reduction system, the camera is priced just a little above most entry level DSLR's. The K200D also features a 2.7" 230,000 pixel color LCD, a large, bright viewfinder, a host of Auto Picture and scene modes, and AA battery compatibility. There's an 11-point TTL phase matching autofocus system, 16 segment metering, a built-in flash with hot shoe for external flash, and a 2.8fps continuous shooting mode. The camera features a shutter speed range of 30 to 1/4000 second, ISO settings of 100-1600 ISO, and RAW + high-quality JPEG capture. The K200D uses SD/SDHC cards for storage, is USB 2.0 and PictBridge compatible, and is capable of using any lens ever made by Pentax.
QualityThe build quality of this camera is easily best in class. Starting with dustproof, weatherproof construction, the K200D is built on a stainless steel chassis surrounded by a reinforced plastic polymer shell. This translates into a camera that has a substantial feel to it, and there are no creaks or other "plasticy" noises when in use. You would have to spend quite a bit more with the competition to obtain a camera with the build quality of the K200D. ValueEven though it's priced just a little bit higher than the other entry-level contributions, this camera is an excellent value for the money. The build quality, plus the fact that Pentax did not skimp on features, add up to the fact that this is truly a camera with some room to grow into. The K200D has enough auto features to allow the novice to take excellent pictures, yet has plenty of advanced features as you learn your way around the camera. So the useable life of this camera is probably longer for most people than its entry-level competition. SummaryIf you're in the market for an entry- level digital SLR, or you're an enthusiast on a budget, the Pentax K200D definitely deserves a look. While the image quality is very close to Canon's or Nikon's similarly priced cameras, you won't notice it unless you're using your camera under extreme conditions. And Pentax has packaged the K200D with an excellent quality 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 lens. Pentax has always had a reputation of providing more bang for the buck, and they've succeeded once again with the K200D. Pros
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