Hands on video: Pentax MX-1 enthusiast compact camera launched
The Pentax MX-1 has been unveiled as an enthusiast-level compact with an impressive feature set that includes an f1.8 lens.
As well as a fast lens it sports a high-resolution monitor and a trendy retro design with a metal top and bottom and leather grip.
Pentax MX-1 Mini Specs
At the core of the Pentax MX-1 sits a relatively large 1/1.7in back-illuminated CMOS sensor, which features a top sensitivity of ISO 12,800 and picks out 12MP. This is backed up by that impressively fast lens, which ranges from f/1.8 at wide angle to f/2.5 at its telephoto end. However, with a focal length range of only 28-112mm, it’s neiter rangy nor particularly wide. It does have a 1cm Macro feature for close subject shooting.
Accompanying the lens is Pentax’s Shake Reduction system. This combines both sensor-shift stabilisation and digital SR systems to provide sharp images in a range of conditions.
One of the highlights of the Pentax MX-1 is sure to be its 3in, LCD screen which has a 920k-dot resolution – a resolution only present on higher-end models. Furthermore, the screen is of the vari-angle variety meaning it can be pulled out from the body for waist-level or overhead shooting. What’s disappointing for an advanced compact is that the Pentax MX-1 is lacking a hot-shoe for attaching accesories such as flashes and microphones, plus it means it’s unlikely an optional optical viewfinder will be announced.
Pentax MX-1 Release Date and Price
If the Pentax MX-1 has you interested, the good news is that you’ll not have to wait for long to get your hands on the model. The camera is due to ship next month, and will feature an SRP of £399.