Pentax's budget manual-focus SLR — simple K-mount camera with manual exposure and LED metering.
The Pentax P30 was released in 1985 as an entry-level 35mm SLR for Pentax K-mount, providing program and manual exposure modes. Shutter speeds 1s to 1/1000, flash sync 1/100. DX film coding (ISO 25-1600). Two SR44 or LR44 button batteries. Lightweight construction.
35mm SLR, Pentax K mount. Exposure modes: Program (P), Manual (M), Bulb (B). Shutter: 1s to 1/1000 (electronically controlled), Bulb. Flash sync at 1/100. DX film coding (ISO 25-1600 automatic). Center-weighted metering (EV 1-18). Two SR44 or LR44 button batteries. 35mm film format.
The P30 positions as Pentax's entry-level program SLR: program exposure provided point-and-shoot simplicity for beginners while manual mode retained full control for experienced users. The DX film coding automatically reads the film ISO from the cartridge barcode, eliminating manual ISO setting. The lightweight body made the P30 accessible as a first system SLR.
On the used market the Pentax P30 is affordable as a vintage Pentax K-mount entry-level SLR. Condition checks: shutter accuracy, mirror/shutter foam condition, SR44/LR44 battery function. Compatible with all Pentax K-mount lenses.