Something of a cross between 2009's flagship K-7 and entry-level K-x models, the Pentax K-r has the basic body elements of the K-x, but mimics the styling and incorporates some of the more advanced features of the K-7. Based around a slightly tweaked version of the sensor that debuted in the K-x, the K-r has identical sensor resolution and pixel density, and yields similar image quality -- great news, because the K-x's 12.4-megapixel sensor beat the 14.6-megapixel sensor in the K-7 hands down, although the company's current flagship K-5 has since made a significant step forward in image quality, and now rules the roost. Even if it doesn't quite match up to the K-5's sensor in terms of resolution and noise performance, though, the K-r provides Pentax fans with a more affordable alternative to the company's flagship model, while still retaining very good image quality, and a number of important benefits over the K-x, key among these being the autofocus indicators in the optical viewfinder. *Walkaround*. The Pentax K-r is physically a little larger than the K-x and a little smaller than the K-7. Its weight with lithium-ion battery and Secure Digital card loaded--but with no lens mounted--is 21.1 ounces (598g), a little heavier than the K-x, but still a fair way below that of the K-7 and K-5. If you prefer to use AA batteries, the K-r falls closer to the middle ground. AA battery weight will obviously vary depending on the type selected, but by way of comparison, a set of Sanyo's Eneloop batteries weigh somewhere in the region of 3.8 ounces (108g), plus about another 0.6 ounces (16g) for the battery holder. Combined, that's well over double the weight of Pentax's proprietary pack. Read full review ...
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