K-X to K-5 upgrade worthwhile?
Posted 26/12/2011 - 23:41 - Helpful Comment
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We have two K-5s and they are superb. At current prices an incredible bargain.
Best regards, John
Posted 27/12/2011 - 00:05 - Helpful Comment
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The K-5 is an amazing camera, I'd jump for one now, if you don't have any use for the K-x after you get the K-5 sell it. Put the money in the S/H 17-50 Tamron to replace the rather weak 18-55. If you have the DA 35mm 2.4 it is a great lens, I have one. The 55-300 sounds terrific too but I don't own one.
I paid 820£ for the kit and I am not looking back. It is quite a special little camera!
I paid 820£ for the kit and I am not looking back. It is quite a special little camera!
Posted 27/12/2011 - 00:06
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Great advice, thanks
Posted 27/12/2011 - 03:20
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I joust got my K5 and I am still using the K7. What a vast improvement!!
K1/K3, DA*16-50mm F2.8, FA 31mm F1.8, FA43mm F1.9 Limited, FA77mm F1.8 Limited, SMC Pentax K 85mm F1.8, DA18-135mm F3.5-5.6, FA*28-70mm F1.8, FA*200mm F1.8
Posted 27/12/2011 - 03:37
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thespirit3, don't think about it, please do it, you will have no regrets.
I've had my K5 since the end of May, it's frozen-up on me about 5 times (only 'issue' encountered).
I have the reassurance that I bought it from SRS, who's after sales service if called upon are of the highest standard.
A great friend of mine paid 7K for a Canon lens, after he sold his house.
He got to use it 3 times before the Big C claimed him just over 2 years ago, at the ripe old age of 45.
Live life now, go for it whilst you can
Regards
Adrian
I've had my K5 since the end of May, it's frozen-up on me about 5 times (only 'issue' encountered).
I have the reassurance that I bought it from SRS, who's after sales service if called upon are of the highest standard.
A great friend of mine paid 7K for a Canon lens, after he sold his house.
He got to use it 3 times before the Big C claimed him just over 2 years ago, at the ripe old age of 45.
Live life now, go for it whilst you can
Regards
Adrian
K5IIs, Sigma 10-20, Pentax DA 16-85, Pentax DA 55-300, Pentax 70 Ltd, Metz 44 AF-2.
Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/ambott/
Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/ambott/
Posted 27/12/2011 - 10:23
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If you are happy with the results from your K-X and your only limiting factor is your own photography learning curve, then I would say you should stick with the K-X.
.....But, on the other hand the K-5 is an amazing camera, so I understand your question. Maybe you need to ask yourself what would you do with the K-5 that you couldn't do with the K-X? Do you have a purpose for it that your K-X couldn't handle? What are you primary goals for needing it?
In my case I bought one to complement another DSLR I still use regularly (not a Pentax), and mainly because of the following.
I can use it outside in all weathers
I can get better images in low light at high ISO
I can configure all manner of colour/tone/style in the K-5 menus
It is ergonomically very comfortable
It can fire off at 7fps, which is good for sports/nature
It is very quick and responsive when changing settings (proper buttons rather than menus)
What I wish it could do is shoot at a variety of aspect ratios as my other DSLR does, but all in all, it complements my other camera very well, and was a worthy purchase, (the £90 cashback was a nice incentive too).
.....But, on the other hand the K-5 is an amazing camera, so I understand your question. Maybe you need to ask yourself what would you do with the K-5 that you couldn't do with the K-X? Do you have a purpose for it that your K-X couldn't handle? What are you primary goals for needing it?
In my case I bought one to complement another DSLR I still use regularly (not a Pentax), and mainly because of the following.
I can use it outside in all weathers
I can get better images in low light at high ISO
I can configure all manner of colour/tone/style in the K-5 menus
It is ergonomically very comfortable
It can fire off at 7fps, which is good for sports/nature
It is very quick and responsive when changing settings (proper buttons rather than menus)
What I wish it could do is shoot at a variety of aspect ratios as my other DSLR does, but all in all, it complements my other camera very well, and was a worthy purchase, (the £90 cashback was a nice incentive too).
'The best camera you ever have is the one in your hand'
Posted 27/12/2011 - 12:06
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Hi,
" If you are happy with the results from your K-X and your only limiting factor is your own photography learning curve, then I would say you should stick with the K-X "
I agree with the aforesaid, there is so much to learn and take in with photography including getting used to the many combinations, settings and ability of your camera. I myself am a keen learner and only now started to get to grips with the functionality of the DSLR. A bargin is only a bargin if you really need it, their will be many other opportunities that come along to upgrade if you desire so.
I have also read many reviews that applaud the sensor along with the low light capabilities on the K-X. I would spend the money on some good glass.
Saying that I always find that when I buy a camera or a lens which I think is a knockout price only to find 3 months or so later its even cheaper.
Best of luck whatever your decision let us know how you get on.
Best Wishes Willie
" If you are happy with the results from your K-X and your only limiting factor is your own photography learning curve, then I would say you should stick with the K-X "
I agree with the aforesaid, there is so much to learn and take in with photography including getting used to the many combinations, settings and ability of your camera. I myself am a keen learner and only now started to get to grips with the functionality of the DSLR. A bargin is only a bargin if you really need it, their will be many other opportunities that come along to upgrade if you desire so.
I have also read many reviews that applaud the sensor along with the low light capabilities on the K-X. I would spend the money on some good glass.
Saying that I always find that when I buy a camera or a lens which I think is a knockout price only to find 3 months or so later its even cheaper.
Best of luck whatever your decision let us know how you get on.
Best Wishes Willie
Willie
Posted 27/12/2011 - 12:20
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With regard to the 'urgency' factor due to the time limited price that you imply is 'rushing' you into a decision, I would ignore this totally.
The K5 is undoubtedly a fine camera but has been steadily dropping in price due to its age and market position relative to the competition.The short to mid term price level is likely to stabilise at around its current discounted level until well into the new year by which time its replacement will likely have been announced.
Don't forget the UK economy is getting worse all the time. Unemployment is continuing to rise, hundreds of thousands of public sector workers will be paying more into their pensions and thus have less disposable income, rents are increasing faster than wage growth as is the cost of transport, utility bills are continuing to rise relentlessly...all this means that disposable income is shrinking for most of the population. Camera gear is a 'luxury' for most and will therefore face strong downward price pressure. All manufacturers will have to accept lower 'profit'
or exit the industry.
So, in a nutshell make your decision on perceived increased capability, ergonomics,
usefulness etc...but don't allow yourself to be stampeded by corporate marketeers.
The K5 is undoubtedly a fine camera but has been steadily dropping in price due to its age and market position relative to the competition.The short to mid term price level is likely to stabilise at around its current discounted level until well into the new year by which time its replacement will likely have been announced.
Don't forget the UK economy is getting worse all the time. Unemployment is continuing to rise, hundreds of thousands of public sector workers will be paying more into their pensions and thus have less disposable income, rents are increasing faster than wage growth as is the cost of transport, utility bills are continuing to rise relentlessly...all this means that disposable income is shrinking for most of the population. Camera gear is a 'luxury' for most and will therefore face strong downward price pressure. All manufacturers will have to accept lower 'profit'
or exit the industry.
So, in a nutshell make your decision on perceived increased capability, ergonomics,
usefulness etc...but don't allow yourself to be stampeded by corporate marketeers.
Posted 27/12/2011 - 12:55
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1stEverPentax wrote:
With regard to the 'urgency' factor due to the time limited price that you imply is 'rushing' you into a decision, I would ignore this totally.
The K5 is undoubtedly a fine camera but has been steadily dropping in price due to its age and market position relative to the competition.The short to mid term price level is likely to stabilise at around its current discounted level until well into the new year by which time its replacement will likely have been announced.
Don't forget the UK economy is getting worse all the time. Unemployment is continuing to rise, hundreds of thousands of public sector workers will be paying more into their pensions and thus have less disposable income, rents are increasing faster than wage growth as is the cost of transport, utility bills are continuing to rise relentlessly...all this means that disposable income is shrinking for most of the population. Camera gear is a 'luxury' for most and will therefore face strong downward price pressure. All manufacturers will have to accept lower 'profit'
or exit the industry.
So, in a nutshell make your decision on perceived increased capability, ergonomics,
usefulness etc...but don't allow yourself to be stampeded by corporate marketeers.
You forgot though that fewer sales does not necessarily mean lower prices as it could mean fewer resellers and thus less competition and also companies adjusting by positioning themselves as low volume high margin brands. Both increasing prices as a result...
With regard to the 'urgency' factor due to the time limited price that you imply is 'rushing' you into a decision, I would ignore this totally.
The K5 is undoubtedly a fine camera but has been steadily dropping in price due to its age and market position relative to the competition.The short to mid term price level is likely to stabilise at around its current discounted level until well into the new year by which time its replacement will likely have been announced.
Don't forget the UK economy is getting worse all the time. Unemployment is continuing to rise, hundreds of thousands of public sector workers will be paying more into their pensions and thus have less disposable income, rents are increasing faster than wage growth as is the cost of transport, utility bills are continuing to rise relentlessly...all this means that disposable income is shrinking for most of the population. Camera gear is a 'luxury' for most and will therefore face strong downward price pressure. All manufacturers will have to accept lower 'profit'
or exit the industry.
So, in a nutshell make your decision on perceived increased capability, ergonomics,
usefulness etc...but don't allow yourself to be stampeded by corporate marketeers.
Posted 27/12/2011 - 13:55
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vrapan,
Agreed, fewer sales could mean higher prices and will certainly mean fewer resellers.
I predict that by Easter there will have been major corporate retail casualties on the High Street, unfortunately many smaller photographic chains and family businesses will also have gone under by then. My comments were mainly based on the K5/Ricoh though as the subject of the initial posting.
Ricoh is a high volume, mass market brand and i'm assuming will want to take Pentax down that road. If it doesn't then it has just wasted hundreds of millions in its investment and Pentax will probably fold this year. As long as Canon, Nikon and Sony
stay in the DSLR marketplace then Pentax will be forced to compete or close. Trying to reposition a mid level but mass market company as another Leica, Rollei or Hasselblad...just won't work in current economic depression.
Agreed, fewer sales could mean higher prices and will certainly mean fewer resellers.
I predict that by Easter there will have been major corporate retail casualties on the High Street, unfortunately many smaller photographic chains and family businesses will also have gone under by then. My comments were mainly based on the K5/Ricoh though as the subject of the initial posting.
Ricoh is a high volume, mass market brand and i'm assuming will want to take Pentax down that road. If it doesn't then it has just wasted hundreds of millions in its investment and Pentax will probably fold this year. As long as Canon, Nikon and Sony
stay in the DSLR marketplace then Pentax will be forced to compete or close. Trying to reposition a mid level but mass market company as another Leica, Rollei or Hasselblad...just won't work in current economic depression.
Posted 27/12/2011 - 14:41
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1stEverPentax wrote:
With regard to the 'urgency' factor due to the time limited price that you imply is 'rushing' you into a decision, I would ignore this totally.
The K5 is undoubtedly a fine camera but has been steadily dropping in price due to its age and market position relative to the competition.The short to mid term price level is likely to stabilise at around its current discounted level until well into the new year by which time its replacement will likely have been announced.
Don't forget the UK economy is getting worse all the time. Unemployment is continuing to rise, hundreds of thousands of public sector workers will be paying more into their pensions and thus have less disposable income, rents are increasing faster than wage growth as is the cost of transport, utility bills are continuing to rise relentlessly...all this means that disposable income is shrinking for most of the population. Camera gear is a 'luxury' for most and will therefore face strong downward price pressure. All manufacturers will have to accept lower 'profit'
or exit the industry.
So, in a nutshell make your decision on perceived increased capability, ergonomics,
usefulness etc...but don't allow yourself to be stampeded by corporate marketeers.
The UK and EU economy is bad and fewer people purchase cameras but pentax's main market is in Asia, mainly in Japan and Taiwan. If you look at the pentax product range you will find that most of the entry level models are aimed for asian female market, like the K-r with fancy colours, the Q for young girls.With regard to the 'urgency' factor due to the time limited price that you imply is 'rushing' you into a decision, I would ignore this totally.
The K5 is undoubtedly a fine camera but has been steadily dropping in price due to its age and market position relative to the competition.The short to mid term price level is likely to stabilise at around its current discounted level until well into the new year by which time its replacement will likely have been announced.
Don't forget the UK economy is getting worse all the time. Unemployment is continuing to rise, hundreds of thousands of public sector workers will be paying more into their pensions and thus have less disposable income, rents are increasing faster than wage growth as is the cost of transport, utility bills are continuing to rise relentlessly...all this means that disposable income is shrinking for most of the population. Camera gear is a 'luxury' for most and will therefore face strong downward price pressure. All manufacturers will have to accept lower 'profit'
or exit the industry.
So, in a nutshell make your decision on perceived increased capability, ergonomics,
usefulness etc...but don't allow yourself to be stampeded by corporate marketeers.
I don't think the EU economy will change pentax's marketing plan as a whole, surly they can not make discounts in EU while keeping their products expensive elsewhere.
Posted 27/12/2011 - 19:53
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thespirit3 wrote:
I'm perfectly happy with the K-X
Think you've answered your own question. Over the course of the year I've been tempted, and each time managed to talk myself out of it, then another price drop and we start again. I would not worry at all about the timing, another offer will come around again, maybe a replacement will come - then how cheap will a K5 be...I'm perfectly happy with the K-X
If your at all worried about the money, just try to forget about it and concentrate on taking great shots, thats what its all about after all
Pentax pour des images riches en détails!
Posted 27/12/2011 - 20:03
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Hello,
My advice would be to go for the K5, as your learning curve in photography can be performed just as well with a different camera to what you are using now and you will have a very good camera to "grow"into, as I have been doing since May last year. Paid £1055 for mine with both lenses - don't regret not waiting - having the camera has been a joy.
My advice would be to go for the K5, as your learning curve in photography can be performed just as well with a different camera to what you are using now and you will have a very good camera to "grow"into, as I have been doing since May last year. Paid £1055 for mine with both lenses - don't regret not waiting - having the camera has been a joy.
Pentax K5,Sigma 10-20 f3.5,Sigma 17-70 f2.8/4, Sigma 70-200 f2.8
Posted 27/12/2011 - 20:14
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Its really just the difference between want and need. You dont need it, but you do want it!
Id like one too but i dont ( at the moment)need it and i dont think it will improve my photography at all! however good glass might improve IQ the rest will be down to reading and lots and lots of practise
Id like one too but i dont ( at the moment)need it and i dont think it will improve my photography at all! however good glass might improve IQ the rest will be down to reading and lots and lots of practise
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80 posts
15 years
The current discounts *and* £90 cashback deal on the K5 are seriously tempting me to upgrade from the K-x to K5. However, the more I look into this and the more I read the less sure I become. Initially >£1000 of body for around £600 seemed like a phenomenal deal. The stories of great low light sensitivity, the higher frame rate, quieter shutter etc make it very difficult NOT to buy it at this price. However, I then dig further and find some articles indicating the K-X sensor is actually the better of the two and that the known issues with the K-5 are a major detraction - that even at £600 it isn't necessarily a worthwhile upgrade in terms of absolute IQ when compared to the newer (?) K-X sensor.
Basically, I'm ready to get spendy (and in a hurry due to the cashback offer ending) - I just need some reassurance that the K5 is the right decision here.
I'll be shooting raw, using my current very basic range of lenses:-
18-55 1:3.5-5.6 AL
55-300 F4.5-5.8 ED
35 FA F2.4 AL
Searching google for "k-x vs k5" will list a number of articles which have resulted in my uncertainty.
I'm perfectly happy with the K-X; I'm getting great results, my own skills are certainly the limiting factor here rather than camera but I can't help feel I'll kick myself if I miss this opportunity. It's a lot of camera for the money, it seems it'll last me well into the future, plus it has the shiny 'new toy' factor
Should I? Shouldn't I? Would it be wasted on my current lenses?
Help!
Thanks,
Steve