36.4MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor & PRIME IV Image Processor

The first full-frame DSLR from Pentax, the K-1 delivers high-quality imagery through an advanced 36.4MP CMOS sensor that is designed to create detailed images with minimal noise. Guaranteeing maximum resolution, the sensor lacks an anti-aliasing, or optical low-pass, filter though this will cause a higher chance of aliasing and moiré. For situations at risk of these artifacts users can leverage an AA Filter Simulator function, which slightly moves the sensor in order to mimic the effects of a physical filter.

This sensor combines with the power of the PRIME IV 14-bit image processing engine to create large images with ease and speed. Improving upon the past generation by about 150%, the PRIME IV can deliver photographs at up to 4.5 fps in raw format at sensitivities ranging up to ISO 204800. This processor also helps control numerous advanced features, including Pixel Shift Resolution, AstroTracer, and more.

High-resolution, fine-gradation images supported by approximately 36.4 effective megapixels

The K-1 features an AA filter-less design that prioritizes image resolution and a new PRIME IV imaging engine that's capable of 14-bit RAW file output. The K-1's unique full frame sensor and imaging engine design allows for super-high-sensitivity shooting up to ISO 204,800

In-body SRII mechanism assures optimal shake reduction performance

The PENTAX-developed SR II (Shake Reduction) five-axis mechanism enables accurate control of the large full-frame image sensor with all compatible PENTAX interchangeable lenses* at a compensation range of up to 5 shutter steps. In addition to camera shake caused by pitch and yaw, it effectively compensates for camera shake caused by horizontal and vertical shift, as well as camera shake caused by roll, which is difficult to control with lens-installed shake reduction mechanisms. Even when taking a panning shot, this system automatically detects the direction of the camera's movement, and efficiently controls the SR unit to always produce the best image possible. The K-1's SR unit's flexible design tilts the image sensor in all directions, offering a host of handy shooting functions including: Automatic Horizon Correction which automatically levels the horizon; Selectable AA Filter Simulator which replicates the effect of an optical low-pass filter by removing moiré; Composition Fine Adjustment which allows you to fine tune your composition without having to re-adjust your tripod; and ASTROTRACER which simplifies advanced astronomical photography using the built-in GPS module. * Lenses compatible with this mechanism: K-, KA-, KAF-, KAF2- and KAF3-mount lenses; screw-mount lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be available with certain lenses.

High-speed shooting operation to capture fast moving objects and fleeting photographic moments

The K-1 features a newly designed, flexible tilt-type 3.2-inch LCD monitor, which tilts horizontally, vertically or diagonally with a single action, without deviating from the lens's optical axis. It features a tempered-glass front panel for added durability and a unique air-gapless construction to effectively reduce reflections. A new Outdoor View Setting mode allows the user to instantly choose the desired monitor brightness level with a single push of a button.

Newly developed SAFOX 12 with 33 sensor points and full-frame-proportioned AF frame

The SAFOX 12 AF sensor module features 33 AF sensors (25 cross-type sensors positioned throughout the frame). The center sensor and the two sensors located just above and below it are designed to detect the light flux of an F2.8 lens, making it easy to obtain pinpoint focus on a subject when using large-aperture F2.8 lenses.

Pixel Shift Resolution System with a new motion correction function

The K-1's Pixel Shift Resolution System** captures four images of the same scene by shifting the image sensor by a single pixel for each image, and then synthesizes them into a single composite image. It delivers super-high-resolution images with more truthful colors and much finer details than those produced by conventional full-frame image sensors. The motion correction function*** automatically detects and corrects for moving objects during the capture process, in order to accommodate a wider range of scenes and subjects.

** When using this system, the user is advised to stabilize the camera firmly on a tripod. When a moving subject is captured in the camera's image field, its image may not be reproduced clearly, either in part or as a whole.

*** The movement may not be sufficiently corrected when the object is moving in a certain direction and/or pattern. This function does not guarantee that the movement is properly corrected with all subjects.

Upgraded PENTAX Real-Time Scene Analysis System, with application of artificial intelligence technology

The K-1's advanced PENTAX Real-Time Scene Analysis System performs near instant analysis of exposure, color, movement and other factors. Combining with a breakthrough artificial intelligence technology called deep learning, the K-1 instantly optimizes settings for even the most difficult shooting situations.

Easy-to-focus optical viewfinder with nearly 100-percent field of view

Newly developed for it's 35mm full-frame design, the K-1's optical viewfinder provides a nearly 100-percent field of view and an approximately 0.7-times magnification. A Natural Bright Matte III focusing screen allows ease of focusing and a true-to-life rendition of defocused areas in the viewfinder image.

High-speed continuous shooting with a top speed of approximately 4.4 images per second

The K-1 has a larger shutter unit that easily accommodates the camera's full-frame image sensor and provides high-speed, high-accuracy control of the mirror unit. A high-speed data transmission system incorporated in the PRIME IV imaging engine allows the user to continuously record as many as 17 images in the RAW format (or a maximum of 70 images in the JPEG) in a single sequence, at a top speed of approximately 4.4 images per second.

Supportive shooting functions to improve picture-taking efficiency and operational comfort

Operation assist light function provides LED lights above the lens mount, behind the LCD monitor, at the memory car slot, and at the cable switch terminal to help facilitate fast and easy operation in poorly lit settings. The key lock function prevents erroneous operation of the four-way controller and other exposure-related control buttons. The Smart Function allows users to swiftly choose and set desired functions using just the function dial and the set dial on the camera's upper panel, without referring to the menu screen on the LCD monitor.

Compact, solid body with dustproof, weather-resistant construction

Constructed of sturdy yet lightweight magnesium alloy with the inclusion of 87 sealing parts in the body, the K-1 also boasts a dustproof, weather-resistant and cold-resistant construction.

Additional Features:

• Wi-Fi operation allowing camera control and image transfer to tablet or smartphone via the free ImageSync app
• Full HD movie recording at 1920 x 1080 pixels in the H.264 recording format
• Built-in GPS module and electronic compass
• High-grade DRII (Dust Removal II) mechanism for effective elimination of dust on the image sensor using zltrasonic vibration
• Crop mode with a choice of image area from AUTO, FF (Full Frame) and APS-C, to accommodate different types of lenses
• Clarity control and Skin Tone correction functions, a pair of the latest image processing technologies developed by RICOH Central Laboratory
• HDR (High Dynamic Range) shooting mode with RAW-format data filing, usable in handheld shooting
• The PENTAX-invented hyper operating system for quick, accurate response to the photographer's creative intentions
• Dual SD card slots for memory card flexibility (compatible with SDXC UHS-1 speed class in SDR104 buss speed mode)
• Compensation of various parameters: lens distortion, lateral chromatic aberration, diffraction, and brightness level at image-field edges. Fringe effect compensation is also available in RAW-format processing.