Ricoh is taking the Pentax photography experience to new heights with the launch of its new HD Pentax 16-50mm f/2.8 lens. This zoom lens promises focusing precision and great image quality with a range of 16 to 50mm. It’s perfect for everything from portraits and food photography to landscapes and astrophotography.
The Pentax 16-50mm lens guarantees images have higher resolution and contrast than ever with a new pulse motor for seamless autofocusing—a first for large-aperture lenses. It pairs perfectly with the K-3 Mark III camera for optimal results.
Here’s everything we know about the Pentax 16-50mm F/2.8 lens, which is available for preorder today.
Key Features of the Pentax 16-50mm Lens
With an f/2.8 aperture and a zoom range of 16 to 50mm, Ricoh’s new Pentax 16-50mm is a game-changer for Pentax creators. This lens packs countless coveted features into its 1.5-pound frame: from speedy autofocus to a pulse motor for ultra-precise focusing. Not to mention, it has a quick-shift system to alternate between manual and autofocus. Add the lens’ high-resolution images to the mix, and it’ll be hard to beat this powerful new lens. This is ideal for landscapes, street scenes, portraits, astrophotography, architecture, and about every category between.
- Large f/2.8 aperture
- Works with Pentax APS-C-format digital SLR cameras, like Pentax K-3 Mark III
- Incorporates pulse motor (PLM) for focusing
- Features electromagnetic diaphragm control mechanism for exposure control and focus tracking
- Minimum focusing distance of 0.3 meters/ 0.98 feet
- Maximum magnification of 0.24x
- Extra-low dispersion glass with high-grade, multi-layer HD coating
- Dustproof and weather-resistant
- Nine-blade circular diaphragm
- Quick-shift focus system between manual and AF
- Super protect (SP) coating to protect lens from dust and stains
Impressive image quality
Ricoh did not skip on image quality with its new Pentax 16-50mm lens, part of its next generation of Star-series lenses. This standard zoom lens adapts to guarantee crystal-clear images from edge to edge. Plus, with the high-quality extra low dispersion glass, this lens reduces chromatic aberration to guarantee sharp shots. The f/2.8 aperture gives photographers more wiggle room when it comes to low-lit situations. To add, it guarantees soft, silky blurred backgrounds and bokeh that help the subject shine.
Quick and precise focusing in MF or AF
High-resolution images are a great first step for creators but that’s only part of the equation. Photographers need sharp, in-focus subjects as well. That’s where the Pentax 16-50mm’s focusing features come into play. This lens uses a newly designed system that, with the power of the PLM (pulse motor), guarantees high-speed autofocus with a minimum focusing distance of .3 meters. A quick-shift feature allows photographers to transition between auto and manual focusing, too.
A durable, portable lens
The new Pentax 16-50mm lens isn’t just powerful — it’s portable and great for travel. This lightweight, 1.5-pound lens packs perfectly into carry-on camera bags. Plus, with its dustproof and weather-resistant construction, including a super protect (SP) coating to prevent dust and stains, this lens is as ready for off-the-grid adventures as it is high-end fashion shoots or commercial work—making it the ultimate all-around lens for any Pentax creator.
The Pentax 16-50mm F/2.8 lens is available here for $1,396.95.
