Pentax

Pentax K-5 16.3 MP Digital SLR (Body Only)

4.3 (203 reviews)
1080p3 MP

Weather-sealed 16.3MP DSLR with fast continuous shooting and rugged build for serious outdoor photography.

$289.99*
In Stock on Amazon.com
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jun 04, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Pentax K-5 is a mid-range DSLR built for photographers who demand durability without sacrificing image quality. Its 16.3-megapixel CMOS sensor delivers detailed, low-noise images across an ISO range of 80 to 12800, making it capable in both bright daylight and challenging low-light environments. The 11-point SAFOX IX+ autofocus system, enhanced with a dedicated AF assist lamp and light wavelength sensor, provides reliable subject tracking and focus accuracy. At 6 to 7 frames per second in continuous shooting mode, the K-5 keeps pace with fast-moving subjects, whether capturing wildlife, sports, or street photography.

What sets the K-5 apart in its class is the fully weather-sealed and coldproof magnesium alloy body, allowing photographers to shoot confidently in rain, snow, and dust when using compatible weather-resistant Pentax lenses. The large 3-inch rear LCD with 921,000 dots of resolution provides a sharp, detailed view for composing shots and reviewing images in the field. Video capability is included with 1080p recording at 25fps, with audio input via the built-in microphone or an external stereo mic through the 3.5mm jack. As a body-only unit compatible with the full range of Pentax K-mount lenses, the K-5 offers a versatile foundation for building or expanding a Pentax system.

Key Features

16.3-megapixel CMOS sensor; 80-12800 ISO range with improved noise performance

Body only; lenses sold separately

Widescreen 1080p HD video at 25 FPS, with sound via built-in or external 3.5mm stereo microphone jack

6-7fps captures fast action shots; 11-point SAFOX IX+ autofocus system with dedicated AF assist lamp and light wavelength sensor

Large 3-inch LCD with 921,000 dots of resolution; fully weather-sealed and coldproof design

SDXC memory card compatibility (via firmware update)

Specifications

Sensor
16.3-megapixel CMOS
ISO Range
80–12800 (expandable)
Autofocus
11-point SAFOX IX+ with AF Assist Lamp
Continuous Shooting
6–7 fps
Video
1080p HD at 25 fps
LCD
3-inch, 921,000 dots
Weather Sealing
Fully weather-sealed and coldproof
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC
Audio Input
3.5mm stereo microphone jack
Lens Mount
Pentax K-mount (body only)

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Fully weather-sealed and coldproof body allows reliable shooting in harsh outdoor conditions
  • 6-7fps continuous shooting captures fast action effectively for a mid-range DSLR
  • High-resolution 3-inch LCD with 921,000 dots provides sharp image review and live view
  • 16.3MP CMOS sensor with ISO 80-12800 delivers good image quality across a wide sensitivity range
  • Compatible with the extensive Pentax K-mount lens library

👎 Cons

  • Video is limited to 25fps at 1080p with no 60fps option for smooth slow-motion footage
  • The 11-point autofocus system has fewer focus points than many competing DSLRs of its era
  • Body-only purchase means adding a lens increases the total cost significantly
  • No built-in Wi-Fi or GPS for wireless image transfer or geotagging
  • LCD is fixed and does not tilt or articulate for awkward shooting angles

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the K-5 body is fully weather-sealed and coldproof, designed to withstand rain, dust, and freezing temperatures when paired with weather-resistant Pentax lenses.
It features an 11-point SAFOX IX+ autofocus system with a dedicated AF assist lamp and light wavelength sensor for improved accuracy in various lighting conditions.
Yes, it records 1080p HD video at 25 frames per second with audio captured via the built-in microphone or an external stereo microphone through the 3.5mm jack.
It supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards (SDXC support available via firmware update).
No, this is a body-only purchase. Lenses are sold separately and the K-5 is compatible with the Pentax K-mount lens system.