HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm f/4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE Review

HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm f/4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE Verdict

The HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm f/4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE lens has some interesting and useful features. Weather resistance, superb bokeh, good sharpness ay most focal lengths, electromagnetic diaphragm and retractable construction. However, the previous version is also as good and also slightly brighter, being f/4-5.8 as opposed to f/4.5-6.3. It is certainly considerably less expensive.

The new lens is a reliable choice for Pentax APS-C cameras but does compromise compatibility with many cameras. There was a time when all Pentax lenses were 100% compatible with all bodies, and this has held well, up to now. Here we see the first lens that is specific to a few models and this may well be the price of progress as technology inexorably marches onwards.

HD DA 55-300mm f/4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE Pros

Low flare
Generally good sharpness
Very useful focal length range
Weather resistance
Electromagnetic diaphragm
Beautiful bokeh
Good contrast for punchy images

HD DA 55-300mm f/4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE Cons

Only usable with limited range of bodies
Zoom action could be smoother
Sharpness falls off at longer focal lengths

Features: 4/5

Handling: 4/5

Performance: 3.5/5

Value: 3.5/5

Overall Verdict

4/5

Specifications

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