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Easy-to-use and high-quality performance

This cost-efficient model inherits such remarkable features as a compact, lightweight, easy-to-hold body; high-resolution image reproduction with approximately 16.2 effective megapixels; super-high-sensitivity shooting at ISO 51200; and high-speed continuous shooting at approximately six images per second, making it an ideal imaging tool for all casual digital photographers.

High-resolution, super-high-sensitivity shooting at ISO 51200

The K-500 features the state-of-the-art CMOS image sensor with a large image-capturing area measuring 23.7mm by 15.7mm, to assure high-speed image data readout. This image sensor is coupled with PRIME M — the same high-performance imaging engine incorporated in upper-class models — to deliver super-high-resolution, rich-gradation digital images with approximately 16.28 effective megapixels. The K-500 also offers super-high-sensitivity shooting at a top sensitivity of ISO 51200, allowing the photographer to handhold the camera for beautiful nighttime snapshots.

Innovative SR mechanism

The PENTAX-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism effectively compensates the adverse effect of camera shake to deliver sharp, blur-free images, even under shake-prone conditions such as when using a telephoto lens, shooting in the dark without flash illumination, or taking landscapes in twilight. This innovative mechanism works with almost all PENTAX interchangeable lenses — even those developed for film-format cameras.* It is also the key to some special functions, including the ASTRO TRACER mode that simplifies astronomical photography in combination with the optional O-GPS1 GPS Unit.

* Lenses compatible with this mechanism: PENTAX K, KA, KAF, KAF2 and KAF3mount lenses; screw-mount lenses (with an adapter); and 645 and 67system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be available with certain lenses.

High-speed continuous shooting, at approximately 6 fps

The K-500’s high-speed continuous shooting function captures active, fast-moving subjects — such as athletes, stage performers and wildlife — in a series of images, at a maximum speed of approximately six images per second (in the JPEG recording format).

High-quality movie recording

The K-500 records high-resolution, full HD movie clips (1920 x 1080 pixels) in the H.264 recording format, with a choice of frame rate (30, 25 or 24 frames per second). It even offers creative image-processing tools** like Custom Images, and useful movie-recording features such as an interval movie recording function, for the production of more personalized movies.

** The frame rate may vary when nonstandard image processing is required.