Debating between the K7 and the K-4 - opinions?

[hsingarmymom]

Hey - this is my first post, so I hope I'm doing this right. I'm researching DSLR cameras and I'm pretty sure I have it narrowed down to the Pentax K7 and the K-r. I have an old ME and a bunch of lenses so, although I'm sure I wouldn't use the manual lenses often, I like the possibility of using them if I chose to.

I also considered the Nikon D90 and the Canon T2i. My budget is strictly under $2000 (I would prefer to be closer to $1500).

I live in rural KS and have 3 kids so I'm leaning towards the K7 for its durability - opinions/advice/suggestions??? Thanks!

[jml79]

In my opinion, definitely the K-7 over the K-r. It's better in every way and if I could afford it, the newer K-5 over the K-7. I'm not sure why the Pentax numbering works this way but the K-5 is newer and has higher resolution and better ISO performance. Either (K-5 or K-7) should be available for under $2000 but maybe a shade above $1500. The K-r should be a lot less than $1000

[Niresangwa]

Depending on what you want to do with the camera will determine which is better for you. The k-5 is the new flagship dslr released just this past fall, and is an upgrade over the k-7 in terms of AF, ISO capability (not just high ISO, but also at the bottom end too) and of course a higher resolution. The older samsung sensor doesn't live up to the new sony version installed in the k-5, k-r and k-x.

You can pick up a k-5 kit for about $1500. Everyone said upon release the k-5's street price will drop soon in 2011, but its selling very well still, tearing up reviews etc, so I don't expect the price to drop that far any time soon.

In my mind the k-r may be a better choice vs the k-7, which will leave you more money for glass, which is ultimately going to be your real investment.

All of the pentax line, especially newer generation cameras are built with arguably the best durability. Obviously the k-5 and k-7 are better than mid and entry level. Weather sealing is present on the 5, 7, and also k-20d, which you can find for bargain prices right now as many people off-load their older bodies. The k20 and the k10s are absolute TANKS, just like the 5 and 7.

Bottom line is, look through spec sheets and be honest about what you want to use your camera for. Anything from the older k10 through the k20 into the new generation line is going to give you a great body, but the more money you can open up for glass, the happier you'll be.