Pentax’s New K-x DSLR Handles HD Video…and Breaks the Color Barrier

Pentax's new entry-level K-x DSLR offers a 12.4 megapixel resolution, shoots high-definition video...and comes in body colors other than boring old black.

Pentax has taken the wraps off its new entry-level K-x DSLR, and in addition to offering a 12.4 megapixel resolution, the ability to shoot HD video, and a consumer-friendly price tag, Pentax plans to appeal to first-tiem DSLR buyers buy offering the camera in a range of body colors: red, navy, white, and the traditional DSLR black.

The K-x builds on last year’s K-2000 DSLR, offering design that enables one-handed shooting and simplified operations designed to appeal to users stepping up into the DSLR world from point-and-shoot digital cameras. The K-x sports a 12.4 megapixel resolution, a 2.7-inch LCD display with live preview, and the capability of capturing widescreen 720p video at 24 fps. The K-x also offers a high-dynamic range image capture feature (which blends three images together to improve image detail, ISO sensitivity down to 6400 (and all the way to 12800 with a custom function), and offers a fast capture speed of 4.7 images per second for capturing action shots. Folks looking for a simple experience can tap into full automatic picture and scene modes, while—being a DSLR—fully manual control is also available, with in-camera filter modes and creative processing to give images an individual flare.

The black and white editions will be available in October, with pre-orders available now; the red and navy editions will become available at selected locations son. The basis single-lens kit (featuring a Pentax DA L 18-55mm lens) will go for $649.95; two-lens editions adding a Pentax DA L 50-200mm zoom or Pentax DA L 55-300mm zoom lens will go for $749.95 and $849.95, respectively.