What To Know
- However, the K5 has a slight edge in terms of resolution, as it can capture images at a maximum size of 4032 x 3024 pixels, compared to the D90’s maximum resolution of 4288 x 2848 pixels.
- However, the K5 offers a few additional features that may be beneficial for some users, such as a built-in GPS receiver for geotagging images and an HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode for capturing images with a wider dynamic range.
- The K5 has a slight edge in terms of resolution, burst shooting, low-light performance, and build quality, while the D90 has a slightly faster autofocus system and a more weather-resistant body.
When it comes to choosing a mid-range DSLR camera, the Pentax K5 and Nikon D90 are two of the most popular and respected options on the market. Both cameras offer excellent image quality, fast performance, and a wide range of features, making them ideal for both amateur and professional photographers alike. However, there are some key differences between the two cameras that may make one a better choice for you than the other. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll take a closer look at the Pentax K5 vs Nikon D90, examining their key features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Pentax K5 and Nikon D90 both feature 12.4-megapixel CMOS sensors, which provide excellent image quality with good dynamic range and color reproduction. However, the K5 has a slight edge in terms of resolution, as it can capture images at a maximum size of 4032 x 3024 pixels, compared to the D90’s maximum resolution of 4288 x 2848 pixels. This means that the K5 can produce slightly larger prints or crops without sacrificing image quality.
Autofocus and Performance
Both the Pentax K5 and Nikon D90 offer fast and accurate autofocus systems. The K5 uses a SAFOX IX+ autofocus system with 11 focus points, while the D90 uses a Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus system with 11 focus points. In practice, both cameras perform very well in terms of autofocus speed and accuracy, making them suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects or shooting in low-light conditions.
Burst Shooting and Continuous Drive
The Pentax K5 has a slight advantage over the Nikon D90 in terms of burst shooting and continuous drive capabilities. The K5 can shoot up to 7 frames per second (fps) for up to 23 consecutive shots in JPEG format or 6 fps for up to 16 consecutive shots in RAW format. The D90, on the other hand, can shoot up to 4.5 fps for up to 100 consecutive shots in JPEG format or 3 fps for up to 13 consecutive shots in RAW format. This makes the K5 a better choice for capturing fast-paced action or sequences of shots.
ISO Range and Low-Light Performance
The Pentax K5 and Nikon D90 both offer a wide ISO range, allowing you to shoot in a variety of lighting conditions. The K5 has a native ISO range of 100-12800, which can be expanded to 80-51200, while the D90 has a native ISO range of 200-3200, which can be expanded to 100-6400. In practice, both cameras perform well at high ISO settings, with minimal noise and good detail retention. However, the K5 has a slight edge in low-light performance, as it can produce cleaner images at higher ISO settings.
Build Quality and Weather Resistance
The Pentax K5 and Nikon D90 are both well-built cameras with durable construction. The K5 has a magnesium alloy body with weather-resistant seals, making it resistant to dust, moisture, and cold temperatures. The D90, on the other hand, has a polycarbonate body with weather-resistant seals, making it less resistant to the elements. However, both cameras are suitable for use in most outdoor conditions, as long as they are not exposed to extreme weather conditions.
Features and Functionality
The Pentax K5 and Nikon D90 offer a wide range of features and functionality to meet the needs of most photographers. Both cameras have built-in flash units, self-cleaning sensors, and a variety of shooting modes and scene modes. However, the K5 offers a few additional features that may be beneficial for some users, such as a built-in GPS receiver for geotagging images and an HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode for capturing images with a wider dynamic range.
Value and Conclusion
The Pentax K5 and Nikon D90 are both excellent mid-range DSLR cameras that offer great value for money. The K5 has a slight edge in terms of resolution, burst shooting, low-light performance, and build quality, while the D90 has a slightly faster autofocus system and a more weather-resistant body. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you need a camera with excellent image quality, fast performance, and weather resistance, the Pentax K5 is a great option. If you need a camera with a fast autofocus system and a more compact body, the Nikon D90 is a good choice.
What You Need to Know
1. Which camera has a better autofocus system?
Both the Pentax K5 and Nikon D90 have fast and accurate autofocus systems, but the D90 has a slight edge in terms of speed and accuracy.
2. Which camera is better for low-light photography?
The Pentax K5 has a wider ISO range and better low-light performance than the Nikon D90, making it a better choice for shooting in low-light conditions.
3. Which camera is more weather-resistant?
The Pentax K5 has a magnesium alloy body with weather-resistant seals, making it more resistant to dust, moisture, and cold temperatures than the Nikon D90.
4. Which camera has more features?
The Pentax K5 offers a few additional features that the Nikon D90 does not, such as a built-in GPS receiver and an HDR mode.
5. Which camera is better for video recording?
Neither the Pentax K5 nor the Nikon D90 are particularly well-suited for video recording, as they both lack features such as continuous autofocus and external microphone inputs.
