CameraReview

Pentax K-01

Pentax · Mirrorless · 16.28 MP · APS-C · Full HD video

Pentax K-01

Score Breakdown

Scores combine our editorial testing with published lab data.

Optics 61
Video 70
Features 41
Storage & Battery 27
53
SCORE /100
Independent Lab Scores
THIRD-PARTY LAB DATA · DXOMARK
79
Overall score
23.7
Color depth
12.9
Dynamic range
1135
Low light ISO
Independent measurement — not part of our /100 score.
Buying Options

General

BrandPentax
ModelK-01
Released
ⓘ
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2012
Announcement date
ⓘ
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
February 2, 2012
Camera typeMirrorless
Camera size122 x 79 x 58 mm
Camera weight561 g

Optics

61/100
About the Optics

The Pentax K-01 receives a score of 53/100, which reflects its general specifications. Measuring 122 x 79 x 58mm and weighing 561g (1.24lbs), it offers a compact and lightweight design.

When comparing the K-01 to today’s market, it falls short in certain aspects. However, considering its release date, it still provides decent features for photography enthusiasts. The camera’s score represents its capabilities rather than determining its quality.

Pentax K-01 Overview and Optics

The Pentax K-01 receives a score of 61/100 for its optics. This camera has 16.28 megapixels, a shooting speed of 6, and a CMOS sensor type. The Prime M processor and a DXOMARK score of 79 for the sensor contribute to its performance. The K-01 features an APS-C sensor size and is compatible with the Pentax KAF lens mount. Image stabilization is included, and the aspect ratio is 3:2.

In today’s market, the Pentax K-01’s specifications may not be outstanding, but they remain competitive. The camera’s 16.28-megapixel resolution is sufficient for most photography purposes, and the 6 fps shooting speed allows for capturing fast-moving subjects. The image stabilization feature ensures sharp images, even in challenging conditions.

The Pentax K-01’s optics offer solid performance for various photography needs. While it may not be a top choice for professionals, it is an excellent option for enthusiasts and hobbyists seeking a reliable camera with good image quality.

Megapixels
ⓘ
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
16.28 MP050
Image resolution
ⓘ
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4928 x 3264
Sensor type
ⓘ
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOS
Sensor size
ⓘ
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
15.7 x 23.7
Sensor format
ⓘ
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-C
Continuous shooting
ⓘ
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
6 fps045
Lens mount
ⓘ
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Pentax KAF
Image processor
ⓘ
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Prime M
Aspect ratio
ⓘ
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:2
Min ISO
ⓘ
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
10030200
Max ISO
ⓘ
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
128003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
ⓘ
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
10030200
Max ISO (expanded)
ⓘ
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
ⓘ
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
3044080
Max shutter speed
ⓘ
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
400080032000
Autofocus points
ⓘ
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
810300
In-body stabilisation
ⓘ
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Yes
Viewfinder type
ⓘ
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
None
Viewfinder dotsN/A

Video

70/100
About the Video

The Pentax K-01 receives a video score of 70 out of 100. Its video capabilities include Full HD resolution with a maximum dimension of 1920 x 1080 pixels, providing clear and detailed footage. The camera also offers a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, ensuring smooth motion capture for fast-moving subjects.

In today’s market, the K-01’s video specifications are considered average, as many cameras now offer 4K resolution and higher frame rates. However, the K-01 does feature built-in time-lapse functionality, which is an attractive feature for those interested in capturing the passage of time in their videos.

While not the top choice for videographers, the Pentax K-01 still provides decent video capabilities for casual users and those looking for time-lapse functionality.

Video
ⓘ
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Yes
Max video resolution
ⓘ
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HD
Max video format
ⓘ
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
1920 x 1080
Max video frame rate
ⓘ
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
60 fps
Timelapse built in
ⓘ
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Yes
Video file format
ⓘ
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MPEG-4

Features

41/100
About the Features

The Pentax K-01 features score stands at 41/100. With a 3-inch screen and a resolution of 921,000 dots, the camera does not offer a touchscreen or flip screen. Additionally, it lacks GPS and Bluetooth capabilities. However, it does include WIFI functionality.

Comparing these specifications to today’s market, the Pentax K-01 falls short in certain aspects. Modern cameras often come with touchscreens, flip screens, and GPS, providing more convenience and functionality for users. Bluetooth connectivity is also becoming increasingly common, allowing for seamless file transfers and remote control capabilities.

Despite its limitations, the Pentax K-01 still provides decent features, such as its WIFI connectivity. However, for users seeking the latest technology and advanced capabilities, they may find other contemporary camera models more suitable.

Builtin flash
ⓘ
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
Yes
External flash
ⓘ
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
Yes
GPS
ⓘ
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
No
Weather sealing
ⓘ
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
No
Screen typeTFT LCD
Touch screen
ⓘ
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
No
Screen size3"
Screen dots
ⓘ
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
9210001150001500000
Flip screen
ⓘ
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
No
Live view
ⓘ
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Yes
Wi-Fi
ⓘ
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Yes
Bluetooth
ⓘ
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
No

Storage & Battery

27/100
About the Storage & Battery

The Pentax K-01 scores 27/100 in the storage and battery category. It has one memory card slot that accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. In today’s market, this is a standard feature for most cameras. However, multiple card slots are preferred for increased storage capacity and flexibility.

The camera’s battery life is 540 shots, powered by a D-LI90 battery. This battery life is decent but not exceptional compared to other cameras in the market. The K-01 does not offer USB charging, which is a disadvantage as it limits charging options for users.

To conclude, the Pentax K-01’s storage and battery specifications are average. While it meets basic requirements, it lacks features such as multiple card slots and USB charging that would make it stand out in today’s market.

Memory cardSD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slotsNo
Battery typeD-LI90
Battery life
ⓘ
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
540 shots1505000
USB chargingNo