Pentax K-5 IIs Summary

The Pentax K-5 IIs follows its predecessor by two years with an almost identical specification which hides two critical changes: The removal of the anti-alias filter and the most sensitive autofocus system yet. Yet, until the K-5 IIs arrived, the K-5 was still the image quality champion among APS-C DSLRs.

This review of the Pentax K-5 IIs shows that Pentax to deliver a new flagship DSLR which exceeds the K-5. Everything that is exceptional about the K-5 remains true about the K-5 IIs. Retention of details and image noise have improved visibly.

The new autofocus system is indeed more sensitive and slightly faster. While this performance is good, it leaves the K-5 IIs behind in terms of autofocus speed compared to the top-of-the line DSLR and mirrorless cameras from other brands.

The Pentax K-5 IIs remains the most feature-rich DSLR on the market and has plenty of very useful features which only exist among Pentax DSLRs.

In terms of performance, there is nearly nothing to fault the Pentax K-5. It shows extremely low image-noise with good retention of details, great dynamic range, natural colors with good white-balance, good metering and has a reliable AF system. Speed could be improved but is not a major issue. The closest competitor to the K-5 IIs are its own siblings. The K-5 II goes for around one hundred less and should only lag behind in terms of sharpness. Most importantly, the excellent K-5 is now almost $500 USD less and still delivers top-notch performance. The difference in price can easily make up for a better lens.

Pentax K-5 IIs

Pentax K-5

Neocamera detailed review Read the full Pentax K-5 IIs review here.