Pentax *ist DL DSLR Camera
The Pentax *ist DL is a 3008 x 2008 pixels APS-C DSLR camera — known for its 6.0MP APS-C Sensor and RAW & JPEG Capture. Used copies start from $129.99 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Pentax *ist DL DSLR Camera
Used Pentax *ist DL Listings on GearFocus
Overview — Pentax *ist DL
Key Features — Pentax *ist DL
6.0MP APS-C Sensor: Captures images at 3008 x 2008 pixels, delivering sufficient resolution for standard prints and everyday photography.
RAW & JPEG Capture: Supports both RAW and JPEG formats, giving photographers the option to edit files with full detail in post-processing.
ISO 200–3200 Range: Covers a practical spread of sensitivities for shooting in daylight through moderately low-light conditions.
Phase Detection Autofocus: 3-point phase detection system provides reliable, fast focusing suited to straightforward shooting scenarios.
2.8fps Burst Shooting: Continuous shooting at up to 2.8 frames per second handles casual action and everyday subjects adequately.
Pentamirror Optical Viewfinder: Provides a real optical view of the scene for composing shots without relying on the rear LCD.
Specifications — Pentax *ist DL
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Travel, Beginner-Friendly |
| Type | DSLR |
| Sensor | APS-C |
| Resolution | 3008 x 2008 pixels |
| ISO Range | 200 – 3200 |
| AF System | Phase Detection |
| AF Points | 3-point |
| Max Photo Resolution | 3008 x 2008 |
| Burst Rate | 2.8 fps |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Display | 2.5 inch LCD |
| Display Resolution | 210,000 dots |
Description — Pentax *ist DL
The Pentax *ist DL is a straightforward DSLR built on an APS-C sensor with a maximum still image resolution of 3008 x 2008 pixels. Photographers can shoot in both JPEG and RAW formats, preserving full image data for those who want to edit in post. The autofocus system uses phase detection with a 3-point layout, keeping operation simple and accessible.
Continuous shooting is available at up to 2.8 frames per second. The ISO range spans 200 to 3200, covering a useful range of lighting situations. On the back, a 2.5-inch LCD with 210,000 dots handles image review, while a pentamirror viewfinder provides the optical shooting experience.
Storage relies on SD cards, and the camera connects to a computer via USB. The body is made of plastic with no weather sealing, so care should be taken in damp or dusty conditions. There is no image stabilization — optical, in-body, or digital — and no video recording capability.
Connectivity is limited to USB, with no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Pros — Pentax *ist DL
- ✓RAW capture support alongside JPEG gives shooters control over post-processing (photoSpecs.colorProfiles)
- ✓Phase detection autofocus system provides reliable focusing performance (autofocus.system)
- ✓2.5-inch LCD display with 210,000 dots for image review (display.size, display.resolution)
Cons — Pentax *ist DL
- ✗No image stabilization of any kind — optical, in-body, or digital (imageStabilization.type)
- ✗3-point autofocus system is limited compared to more advanced configurations (autofocus.focusPoints)
- ✗No video recording capability whatsoever (videoSpecs.maxResolution is null)
Videos — Pentax *ist DL
The Six Megapixel Club - using a 14 year old Pentax DSLR in 2019 — snappiness
Frequently Asked Questions — Pentax *ist DL
Does the Pentax *ist DL support RAW file capture?+
Yes, the *ist DL supports both RAW and JPEG capture as listed in its photo specifications. This allows photographers to retain maximum image data for editing in post-processing software.
What autofocus system does the *ist DL use?+
The camera uses a phase detection autofocus system with a 3-point configuration. It does not include eye tracking or subject tracking capabilities.
Can this camera record video?+
No. The Pentax *ist DL has no video recording capability. It is exclusively a stills camera.
Is the *ist DL weather sealed?+
No, the body is constructed from plastic and carries no weather sealing. It should be kept away from rain, dust, and moisture.
What memory cards does the Pentax *ist DL accept?+
The camera uses SD cards for storage. SD cards are widely available and straightforward to find at most retailers.
What is the ISO range of the *ist DL?+
The camera offers an ISO range from 200 to 3200. The minimum ISO starts at 200, so it does not offer extended low-sensitivity settings below that value.