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SMC Pentax-M 40mm f/2.8 Lens

The Pentax 40mm f/2.8 is a 40mm f/2.8 lens designed for Pentax K mount cameras. Used copies start from $175 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.

SMC Pentax-M 40mm f/2.8 Lens

SMC Pentax-M 40mm f/2.8 Lens

Used Pentax 40mm f/2.8 Listings on GearFocus

Lens Overview — Pentax 40mm f/2.8

The SMC Pentax-M 40mm f/2.8 is a prime lens built for Pentax K-mount cameras, covering a full-frame image circle and designed for use with DSLR camera systems. With a fixed 40mm focal length sitting comfortably in the standard range, it delivers a perspective that translates well across a wide variety of shooting situations. The maximum aperture of f/2.8 provides a meaningful advantage in lower light conditions compared to slower kit lenses, while also offering some degree of background separation for portraits and everyday subjects.

Focusing is entirely manual, making it well suited to photographers who prefer deliberate, hands-on control over their focus point. Weighing just 110g, this lens is one of the lightest options available for the Pentax K mount, and its slim physical profile makes it an easy companion for shooters who prioritize portability. The 49mm filter thread is a common size, keeping the cost of compatible filters accessible.

There is no image stabilization, which is worth noting for handheld shooting in challenging light. Overall, this is a compact, straightforward prime that pairs well with any Pentax K-mount body for photographers who value a lightweight, manual-focus standard lens.

Key Features — Pentax 40mm f/2.8

40mm f/2.8 Prime: A standard focal length with an f/2.8 maximum aperture, offering useful low-light capability and modest background separation in a fixed-focal-length design.

Pentax K Mount: Compatible with the full range of Pentax K-mount film and digital bodies, including modern DSLRs.

Full-Frame Coverage: Projects an image circle large enough for full-frame sensors, making it usable across the entire Pentax K-mount lineup without vignetting.

Manual Focus Only: Fully manual focus operation suits photographers who prefer deliberate, hands-on control over their focus point.

110g Ultra-Lightweight Build: At just 110g, this is one of the lightest lenses available for the Pentax K mount, making it easy to carry for extended periods.

Slim Pancake Profile: The compact, low-profile form factor keeps the overall camera-and-lens package small and unobtrusive.

Lens Specifications — Pentax 40mm f/2.8

Pentax 40mm f/2.8 full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesPortrait, Street, Travel
Lens TypePrime
FormatFull Frame
Zoom/PrimePrime
Focal Length40mm
Maximum Aperturef/2.8
Camera SystemDSLR
Lens MountPentax K
AutofocusNo
Focus TypeManual
Image StabilizationNone
Filter Thread49mm

Description — Pentax 40mm f/2.8

The SMC Pentax-M 40mm f/2.8 is a prime lens with a Pentax K mount, designed for full-frame coverage and compatible with DSLR camera systems. Its 40mm focal length sits in the standard range, offering a natural perspective well suited to everyday shooting. The f/2.8 maximum aperture provides solid performance in varied lighting and enables some background separation in your images.

Focusing is manual only, giving photographers direct, tactile control over where the lens focuses. At just 110g, this is a remarkably light lens that won't add significant weight to any Pentax K-mount kit. The 49mm filter thread keeps filter accessories affordable and easy to source.

There is no image stabilization, so steady technique or faster shutter speeds are recommended when shooting handheld. For Pentax K-mount photographers looking for a lightweight, no-frills manual prime at a standard focal length, this lens offers a compact and practical option.

Pros — Pentax 40mm f/2.8

  • ✓Extremely lightweight at just 110g, ideal for shooters who prioritize portability
  • ✓Full-frame coverage means it works across the entire Pentax K-mount camera range
  • ✓f/2.8 maximum aperture offers useful low-light capability for a lens of this size

Cons — Pentax 40mm f/2.8

  • ✗Manual focus only — no autofocus support for faster or more spontaneous shooting
  • ✗No image stabilization, which can be limiting in lower light at slower shutter speeds
  • ✗f/2.8 maximum aperture, while usable, is not as fast as some other compact primes in this focal range

Videos — Pentax 40mm f/2.8

Pentax SMC 35mm f2.8 - Vintage Lens — Thomas Fransson

Resources & Downloads — Pentax 40mm f/2.8

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Pentax 40mm f/2.8

What camera mount does this lens use?+
The SMC Pentax-M 40mm f/2.8 uses the Pentax K mount. It is compatible with Pentax K-mount DSLR cameras and covers a full-frame image circle.
Does this lens have autofocus?+
No, this lens is manual focus only. Photographers must focus by hand using the focus ring, with no autofocus motor present.
What filter size does this lens accept?+
The lens has a 49mm filter thread, which is a common and widely available size compatible with a broad range of filters.
How heavy is the SMC Pentax-M 40mm f/2.8?+
The lens weighs 110g, making it one of the lightest options available for the Pentax K mount and a strong choice for photographers who prioritize a compact, travel-friendly kit.
Does this lens include image stabilization?+
No, this lens has no built-in image stabilization. Photographers shooting handheld in low light should compensate with shutter speed or camera body-based stabilization if available.

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