Pentax DA 40mm f/2.8 XS Pancake

Pentax DA 40mm F/2.8 XS Pancake Lens Handling and features

The slender lens body of this 40mm pancake lens is constructed from high quality plastics and protrudes just 9.2mm from the lens mount, which is made of metal. At only 52g in weight, it is the perfect accompaniment to either the Pentax K-01 camera, used for testing, or any of the more compact SLRs from their range.

Focusing isn't performed internally (you wouldn't expect this from a lens so thin), but the filter thread does not rotate, making it perfect for use with graduated and polarising filters. The 27mm filter thread size is quite a common size for camcorders, so it shouldn't be too difficult to pick up accessories to fit. A thin manual focusing ring rotates during auto-focus, so care may need to be taken not to catch fingers on it as it spins back and forth. This ring is reasonably well damped and feels smooth to operate.

Auto focus speeds aren't lighting quick, plus as it is a screw-driven focusing mechanism, it makes a fair bit more noise than the newer silent lenses many have become accustomed to. A rubber lens cap is supplied, but as it is only held in place with friction, it tends to fall off easily.

The minimum focus distance of 40cm is fairly typical for pancake lenses. The maximum magnification of 0.13x means this lens isn't best suited for frame filling close-up images.

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