Pentax's compact entry DSLR — the K-S1, APS-C CMOS, K mount, in-body SR, pentaprism, 1080p, 2014.
The Pentax K-S1 was released in 2014 as an entry-level K-series digital SLR with a distinctive compact body and illuminated controls. It was aimed at newcomers to DSLRs, offered in several colours, and used the Pentax K bayonet so existing lenses could be fitted.
This is an APS-C digital SLR on the Pentax K mount. It uses a CMOS sensor without an anti-aliasing filter and an optical pentaprism viewfinder, and it includes sensor-shift in-body Shake Reduction that works with any mounted lens. It records 1080p video. The body has LED-lit status indicators around the grip, and composition is through the optical finder.
The compact body, in-body stabilisation and higher-resolution sensor make it a capable entry and travel camera, well suited to beginners who want stabilisation on any lens including older manual Pentax glass. Its unusual illuminated design divides opinion on handling, but the core imaging and mount compatibility give it solid everyday appeal.
On the used market, check the shutter operation and actuation count against its rated life, listen for normal versus faulty Shake Reduction rattle, and inspect the sensor for dust and marks. Test the rear LCD for dead or stuck pixels, check the card and battery door latches, and confirm the D-LI109 battery holds charge; aftermarket cells are available. Check the grip rubber and note the K mount's broad compatibility with older Pentax lenses.