subject: Review Pentax K x 18 55mm Black Kit [print this page] This camera may be about the best choice for a super-zoom sufferer who is finally ready to give up on limited optics and tiny point-and-shoot sensors and wants to explore what a real digital camera can do. If you do not feel like spending thousands of $$$ on your dSLR setup, then this camera is a great choice. You might just want to buy a more flexible lens, such as Sigma 18-200mm for Pentax (or anything similar according to your preference and budget) as the kit lenses are not as multifunctional as this Sigma. You might want to buy just the body and then choose your optics.
I think that the 4 AA battery power source is a great choice and a money-saver, but you have to buy good quality batteries (lithium or NiMH) in order to avoid any disappointment that is inevitable when you try to use cheap Alkalines in a high-drain device such as a full-featured digital camera. I use NiMH batteries from respectable manufacturers (Sanyo, MAHA, Lenmar) and they work just fine.
My Pentax K-x went through spontaneous photo shoots, low-light long distance photo shoots, a vacation in a mountainous wilderness and I do not see any negative impact upon its performance or looks. Just make sure that you use the proper lens wiping sheets with Methanol to clean the lenses and filters. Do use a good UV filter at all times to keep the lenses our of trouble. Make sure that you change your lens in a clean environment or at least, do it quickly and use a body cap in the process.
Most importantly, though, once you get your K-x, download and install the latest Firmware update. Doing so can make your photo shooting experience somewhat better.
I bought this as a back up for the K-7. I shoot wildlife only. I know nothing about any other photography. But i find myself reaching for this sometimes. It is really an excellent camera for the price. I also want to comment on the excellent sensor in the camera. It is better than my K-7 at hight ISO settings. Which is very important to me. Very good product for the price.
