What To Know
- The Pentax K-5IIs has a continuous shooting speed of 7 frames per second (fps), while the Nikon D7100 can shoot at 6 fps.
- While the K-5IIs has a slightly faster shooting speed, the D7100 has a larger buffer capacity, allowing it to capture more consecutive shots before the buffer fills up.
- The Pentax K-5IIs has a pentaprism viewfinder with 100% coverage, while the Nikon D7100 has a pentamirror viewfinder with 95% coverage.
The Pentax K-5IIs and Nikon D7100 are two highly acclaimed DSLR cameras that have been popular among photographers for years. Both cameras offer impressive features, but they have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Pentax K-5IIs and Nikon D7100 to help you make an informed decision.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Pentax K-5IIs features a 16.3MP APS-C CMOS sensor, while the Nikon D7100 has a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor. In terms of resolution, the D7100 has a clear advantage, allowing you to capture images with more detail. However, the K-5IIs’ sensor is known for its excellent low-light performance, producing images with less noise at higher ISO settings.
Autofocus System
Both the Pentax K-5IIs and Nikon D7100 have advanced autofocus systems. The K-5IIs utilizes a hybrid autofocus system that combines phase-detection and contrast-detection autofocus points, while the D7100 has a phase-detection autofocus system with 51 focus points. The D7100’s autofocus system is generally faster and more accurate, especially in low-light conditions.
Continuous Shooting Speed
The Pentax K-5IIs has a continuous shooting speed of 7 frames per second (fps), while the Nikon D7100 can shoot at 6 fps. While the K-5IIs has a slightly faster shooting speed, the D7100 has a larger buffer capacity, allowing it to capture more consecutive shots before the buffer fills up.
Weather Sealing
The Pentax K-5IIs is weather-sealed, making it resistant to dust, moisture, and cold temperatures. This feature makes it an excellent choice for photographers who shoot in challenging outdoor conditions. The Nikon D7100, on the other hand, is not weather-sealed, so it is more vulnerable to the elements.
Viewfinder
The Pentax K-5IIs has a pentaprism viewfinder with 100% coverage, while the Nikon D7100 has a pentamirror viewfinder with 95% coverage. The K-5IIs’ viewfinder is brighter and clearer, providing a more accurate representation of the scene you are photographing.
Video Capabilities
Both the Pentax K-5IIs and Nikon D7100 can shoot full HD videos, but they have different capabilities. The K-5IIs has a maximum video resolution of 1920x1080p at 30 fps, while the D7100 can shoot 1920x1080p videos at 60 fps. Additionally, the D7100 has a built-in microphone jack for external audio recording.
Lens Compatibility
The Pentax K-5IIs uses the Pentax K-mount, which is compatible with a wide range of lenses from Pentax and other third-party manufacturers. The Nikon D7100 uses the Nikon F-mount, which is also compatible with a large selection of lenses. However, the D7100 can also use lenses designed for Nikon’s DX-format cameras, which gives it a slight advantage in terms of lens compatibility.
Wrap-Up: Which Camera Is Right for You?
The Pentax K-5IIs and Nikon D7100 are both excellent DSLR cameras, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The Pentax K-5IIs offers superior low-light performance and weather sealing, while the Nikon D7100 has a higher resolution sensor, faster autofocus system, and better video capabilities.
Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize low-light performance and weather resistance, the Pentax K-5IIs is a great choice. If you value high resolution, fast autofocus, and excellent video capabilities, the Nikon D7100 is a better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?
A: The Pentax K-5IIs has a longer battery life than the Nikon D7100.
Q: Which camera has a larger LCD screen?
A: The Nikon D7100 has a larger LCD screen than the Pentax K-5IIs.
Q: Which camera has a built-in flash?
A: Both the Pentax K-5IIs and Nikon D7100 have built-in flashes.
Q: Which camera is more affordable?
A: The Pentax K-5IIs is typically more affordable than the Nikon D7100.
Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A: The Nikon D7100 has a faster autofocus system and a longer burst shooting speed, making it better suited for wildlife photography.
