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Pentax *ist DL2 DSLR Camera

The Pentax *ist DL2 is a 6MP APS-C DSLR camera — known for its 6MP APS-C Sensor and Pentax K-Mount Compatible. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Pentax *ist DL2 DSLR Camera

Pentax *ist DL2 DSLR Camera

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Overview — Pentax *ist DL2

The Pentax *ist DL2 is an entry-level DSLR built around a 6MP APS-C sensor, offering a compact and approachable package for photographers stepping into interchangeable-lens photography. It pairs with any Pentax K-mount lens, giving users access to a broad ecosystem of glass. The camera's 3008x2008 maximum resolution and burst mode at 2.8 frames per second provide enough capability for everyday shooting and casual action.

Autofocus is handled by a 5-point TTL phase detection system, which delivers reliable focusing performance for a camera of this class. The 2.5-inch fixed LCD with 210,000 dots serves as the main review and menu interface. One of the more practical design choices is the battery system — the *ist DL2 runs on 4x AA batteries (alkaline, lithium, or NiMH), meaning you can grab power almost anywhere without relying on a proprietary pack.

Storage uses SD and SDHC cards. The body itself is plastic-constructed, measuring 125 x 93 x 67 mm and weighing just 470g, making it one of the lighter DSLRs in its era. There is no image stabilization on board, and no weather sealing, which are expected trade-offs at this price and size point.

A built-in P-TTL auto pop-up flash and a hot shoe round out the flash options. ISO sensitivity runs from 200 to 3200.

Key Features — Pentax *ist DL2

6MP APS-C Sensor: Captures images at up to 3008x2008 pixels, sufficient for everyday photography and standard print sizes.

Pentax K-Mount Compatible: Works with the broad Pentax K-mount lens ecosystem, including decades of legacy and modern optics.

AA Battery System: Runs on 4x AA batteries in alkaline, lithium, or NiMH format, so replacement power is available virtually anywhere.

5-Point Phase Detection AF: TTL phase detection autofocus delivers reliable focusing performance across a spread of five focus points.

2.8 fps Burst Mode: Continuous shooting at up to 2.8 frames per second for capturing sequences of moving subjects.

Built-In P-TTL Flash: Auto pop-up flash with P-TTL metering plus a hot shoe for attaching an external flash unit.

Specifications — Pentax *ist DL2

Pentax *ist DL2 full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesTravel, Beginner-Friendly
TypeDSLR
SensorAPS-C
Resolution6MP
ISO Range200 – 3200
AF SystemPhase Detection
AF Points5-point TTL
Max Photo Resolution3008x2008
Burst Rate2.8 fps
Image StabilizationNone
Display2.5 inch Fixed LCD
Display Resolution210,000 dots

Description — Pentax *ist DL2

The Pentax *ist DL2 is a compact entry-level DSLR centered on a 6MP APS-C sensor capable of producing images at up to 3008x2008 pixels. It uses the Pentax K mount, making it compatible with K-mount lenses. The autofocus system uses phase detection with a 5-point TTL configuration for reliable everyday focusing.

Continuous shooting reaches 2.8 fps in burst mode, and the ISO range spans 200 to 3200 for varied lighting conditions. The 2.5-inch fixed LCD at 210,000 dots handles image review and menu navigation, while the optical penta-mirror viewfinder provides a direct optical framing experience. Flash options include a built-in P-TTL auto pop-up flash and a hot shoe for external units.

The body is constructed from plastic, weighs 470g, and measures 125 x 93 x 67 mm — a notably compact and lightweight form factor. Power comes from 4x AA batteries (alkaline, lithium, or NiMH), and storage is handled via SD and SDHC cards. There is no weather sealing and no image stabilization of any type.

Pros — Pentax *ist DL2

  • ✓Lightweight 470g plastic body at 125 x 93 x 67 mm makes it easy to carry for extended periods
  • ✓AA battery compatibility (alkaline, lithium, or NiMH) means power is available virtually anywhere
  • ✓Pentax K-mount compatibility opens access to a wide range of lenses

Cons — Pentax *ist DL2

  • ✗No image stabilization of any kind (in-body or digital) requires steady hands or faster shutter speeds
  • ✗No weather sealing limits use in rain or dusty environments
  • ✗6MP maximum resolution (3008x2008) is modest and limits large-print output

Reviews — Pentax *ist DL2

Videos — Pentax *ist DL2

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

Resources & Downloads — Pentax *ist DL2

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Pentax *ist DL2

What lenses are compatible with the Pentax *ist DL2?+
The *ist DL2 uses the Pentax K mount, so it is compatible with Pentax K-mount lenses. The camera has an APS-C sensor, so lens field of view will be affected by the crop factor.
What kind of batteries does the Pentax *ist DL2 use?+
The camera runs on 4x AA batteries and accepts alkaline, lithium, or NiMH rechargeable types. This is a practical advantage since AA batteries are widely available at most stores.
Does the Pentax *ist DL2 have image stabilization?+
No. The specifications confirm no in-body stabilization and no digital stabilization. Any stabilization would need to come from a lens that includes its own optical stabilization system.
What memory cards does the *ist DL2 accept?+
The camera supports SD and SDHC cards, which are widely available and affordable. SDHC support allows for larger capacity cards beyond the original 2GB SD limit.
Can the Pentax *ist DL2 shoot video?+
Based on the available specifications, there is no video resolution, frame rate, or related video data listed, indicating this camera is a stills-only DSLR.
Does the *ist DL2 have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity?+
No. The connectivity specifications confirm that both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are absent. The camera does include USB connectivity for wired image transfer.

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