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Pentax *ist D DSLR Camera

The Pentax *ist D is a 6.1 MP APS-C DSLR camera — known for its 6.1MP APS-C Sensor and 11-Point Phase Detection AF. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Pentax *ist D DSLR Camera

Pentax *ist D DSLR Camera

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Overview — Pentax *ist D

The Pentax *ist D is a DSLR camera built around an APS-C sensor delivering 6.1 megapixels of resolution, with a maximum image size of 3008 x 2008 pixels. It uses a phase detection autofocus system with 11 focus points, offering responsive subject acquisition for still photography. The camera supports an ISO range of 200 to 3200, providing a workable spread for various lighting conditions.

Continuous shooting is available at up to 2.7 frames per second, making it capable for moderately paced action. Color space options include both sRGB and Adobe RGB, giving shooters some flexibility in their color workflow. The body is constructed from a combination of magnesium alloy and polycarbonate, keeping weight at 550g while maintaining reasonable build integrity.

It measures 129 x 95 x 60 mm, resulting in a relatively compact DSLR form factor. Framing is handled through an optical pentaprism viewfinder, and image review is done on a 1.8-inch TFT LCD with 118,000 dots of resolution. Storage uses CompactFlash media, and the camera connects via USB.

Power comes from either 2x CR-V3 lithium or 4x AA batteries, with an estimated 400 shots per charge using CR-V3 lithium cells. A built-in retractable P-TTL auto flash is included, along with a hot shoe for external flash use. There is no video capability, no image stabilization of any kind, and no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity.

Key Features — Pentax *ist D

6.1MP APS-C Sensor: Captures images at up to 3008 x 2008 pixels, providing sufficient resolution for prints and general photography use.

11-Point Phase Detection AF: Offers reliable autofocus coverage across the frame for still subject acquisition.

ISO 200–3200 Range: Provides a workable sensitivity spread for shooting in varied lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low light.

Optical Pentaprism Viewfinder: Delivers a bright, accurate optical view of the scene for comfortable framing and composition.

Magnesium Alloy Construction: Combines magnesium alloy and polycarbonate materials to keep the body rigid and lightweight at 550g.

Flexible Battery System: Accepts either 2x CR-V3 lithium or 4x AA batteries, making power sources easy to find in the field.

Specifications — Pentax *ist D

Pentax *ist D full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesTravel
TypeDSLR
SensorAPS-C
Resolution6.1 MP
ProcessorHigh-speed image-processing circuitry
ISO Range200 – 3200
AF SystemPhase Detection
AF Points11
Max Photo Resolution3008 x 2008
Burst Rate2.7 fps
Image StabilizationNone
Display1.8 inches TFT LCD

Description — Pentax *ist D

The Pentax *ist D is a DSLR camera featuring an APS-C sensor with 6.1 MP of resolution and a maximum image output of 3008 x 2008 pixels. Its phase detection autofocus system spans 11 focus points, and the ISO sensitivity range runs from 200 to 3200. Burst shooting reaches up to 2.7 fps, and the camera supports both sRGB and Adobe RGB color profiles.

The body combines magnesium alloy and polycarbonate construction, weighing 550g and measuring 129 x 95 x 60 mm. Composition is aided by an optical pentaprism viewfinder, while image review uses a 1.8-inch TFT LCD with 118,000 dots of resolution. Storage is via CompactFlash cards, and the camera connects externally through USB.

Power is supplied by 2x CR-V3 lithium or 4x AA batteries, with an estimated 400 shots per charge on CR-V3 cells. A built-in retractable P-TTL auto flash and hot shoe are both present. There is no video recording, no image stabilization, and no wireless connectivity.

Pros — Pentax *ist D

  • ✓11-point phase detection autofocus system for reliable still subject acquisition
  • ✓ISO range of 200–3200 covers a broad range of lighting situations
  • ✓Magnesium alloy and polycarbonate body construction at a compact 129 x 95 x 60 mm

Cons — Pentax *ist D

  • ✗No video recording capability whatsoever
  • ✗No image stabilization — neither in-body nor digital
  • ✗1.8-inch LCD at 118,000 dots is small and low-resolution by modern standards

Videos — Pentax *ist D

The Six Megapixel Club - using a 14 year old Pentax DSLR in 2019 — snappiness

Resources & Downloads — Pentax *ist D

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Pentax *ist D

Does the Pentax *ist D have image stabilization?+
No. The specifications confirm that image stabilization type is listed as 'None,' with both in-body IS and digital IS explicitly set to false. Users requiring stabilization would need to use a tripod or stabilized lens if available.
Can the Pentax *ist D record video?+
No. The video specifications show null values for maximum resolution and frame rate, and no video color profiles or bit depth are listed. This camera is a stills-only device.
What memory cards does the Pentax *ist D use?+
The *ist D uses CompactFlash (CF) cards exclusively, as listed in the storage media specifications. CF cards are less common today but can still be sourced from various retailers.
What battery options are compatible with the Pentax *ist D?+
The camera accepts either 2x CR-V3 lithium batteries or 4x AA batteries. Using CR-V3 lithium batteries, the estimated battery life is approximately 400 shots per charge according to the specifications.
What autofocus system does the Pentax *ist D use?+
The *ist D uses a phase detection autofocus system with 11 focus points. Eye tracking and subject tracking are not supported.
Does the *ist D have a built-in flash?+
Yes. The camera includes a built-in retractable P-TTL auto flash, and there is also a hot shoe for attaching an external flash unit.

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