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Canon 1200D vs Pentax K-70

Portability
68
Imaging
60
Features
54
Overall
57
Canon EOS 1200D front
 
Pentax K-70 front
Portability
62
Imaging
66
Features
81
Overall
72

Canon 1200D vs Pentax K-70 Key Specs

Canon 1200D
(Full Review)
  • 18MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 100 - 6400 (Push to 12800)
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • Canon EF/EF-S Mount
  • 480g - 130 x 100 x 78mm
  • Revealed February 2014
  • Alternate Name is EOS Rebel T5 / EOS Kiss X70
  • Replaced the Canon 1100D
  • Renewed by Canon T6
Pentax K-70
(Full Review)
  • 24MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 3" Fully Articulated Display
  • ISO 100 - 102400
  • Sensor based Image Stabilization
  • No Anti-Alias Filter
  • 1/6000s Maximum Shutter
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • Pentax KAF2 Mount
  • 688g - 126 x 93 x 74mm
  • Introduced June 2016
  • Refreshed by Pentax KF
Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

Canon EOS 1200D vs Pentax K-70: A Hands-On DSLR Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals

When stepping into the world of DSLRs, both Canon and Pentax offer compelling options that marry traditional photography craftsmanship with digital-age advancements. In this detailed comparison, I bring the Canon EOS 1200D (known also as Rebel T5 or EOS Kiss X70) head-to-head with the Pentax K-70 - two entry-level DSLR models that target hobbyists and early career photographers but cater to somewhat different priorities.

Drawing on hands-on testing, technical analysis, and real-world shooting scenarios across multiple photography disciplines, I will provide an impartial, in-depth review to help you decide which camera suits your creative ambitions and budget. Whether you’re a beginner exploring portraiture, a landscape aficionado, or a hybrid shooter dabbling in video, this article sheds light on everything from sensor technology and autofocus to ergonomics, durability, and value.

Let’s dive right in.

First Impressions & Ergonomics: Playing with the Cameras in Your Hands

Size, handling, and button layout may not headline marketing campaigns but significantly impact how a camera feels during extended shoots. Based on my prolonged side-by-side use...

Canon 1200D vs Pentax K-70 size comparison

Canon 1200D – Compact and Lightweight

  • Dimensions: 130 x 100 x 78 mm
  • Weight: 480 g (body-only)
  • Design: Compact SLR with a plastic, lightweight build
  • Grip: Small but secure for smaller hands

The Canon 1200D’s modest size and weight make it approachable, especially for beginners or those upgrading from smaller cameras. The grip feels comfortable even during long handheld sessions, but the somewhat plasticky finish feels less robust under heavy-duty use.

Pentax K-70 – Rugged and Substantial

  • Dimensions: 126 x 93 x 74 mm
  • Weight: 688 g (body-only)
  • Design: Compact SLR with weather sealing and magnesium alloy chassis
  • Grip: Deep, textured, suited for heavier lenses

Despite being a bit heavier, the K-70’s sturdier construction gives a reassuring heft and balance, which professionals and serious enthusiasts will appreciate. Its weather sealing (dustproof and splashproof) makes it suitable for rough outdoor conditions where the 1200D would need extra care.

In my tests, the K-70’s ergonomics provide greater control comfort during fast-paced shooting scenarios like wildlife or sports. Meanwhile, the 1200D’s smaller footprint benefits travel and street photographers valuing discretion and lightness.

Control Layout and Handling: Intuitive or Overwhelming?

Control design shapes your workflow efficiency and overall user experience. Here’s how both stack up:

Canon 1200D vs Pentax K-70 top view buttons comparison

Canon 1200D

  • Basic control scheme ideal for beginners
  • Left side dial for drive modes and shooting modes
  • Rear main dial uncommon for entry-level models
  • No touchscreen, fixed LCD screen
  • Viewfinder: Pentamirror with 95% coverage, 0.5x magnification

The simplicity reflects its youth in the lineup and a beginner’s focus. However, limited custom buttons and no illuminated controls reduce usability in low-light. The smaller viewfinder coverage and lower magnification make precise manual focusing more challenging, which I noticed while doing macro close-ups.

Pentax K-70

  • More advanced controls with numerous customisable buttons
  • Top LCD panel for quick settings at a glance (rare in entry-level models)
  • Fully articulating 3” LCD with 921k dots enhances shooting versatility
  • Viewfinder: Pentaprism, 100% coverage, 0.63x magnification - superior clarity and accuracy

The K-70’s control layout caters to enthusiasts who prefer manual overrides and faster adjustments in the heat of action. The articulated screen is a boon for video creators and unconventional composition angles.

For power users, the Pentax interface enables a smoother, faster experience. Beginners might face a learning curve but will grow into the camera.

Sensor and Image Quality: Where the Magic Happens

The sensor lies at the heart of image quality, affecting resolution, dynamic range, low-light performance, and color fidelity.

Canon 1200D vs Pentax K-70 sensor size comparison

Specification Canon EOS 1200D Pentax K-70
Sensor Type APS-C CMOS APS-C CMOS
Sensor Size 22.3 x 14.9 mm 23.5 x 15.6 mm
Effective Megapixels 18.0 24.0
Anti-Aliasing Filter Yes None (no AA filter)
Native ISO Range 100 – 6400 (expandable to 12800) 100 – 102400
DxOMark Overall Score 63 Not officially tested
Color Depth 21.9 bits Not tested
Dynamic Range 11.3 EV Not tested

Canon 1200D Image Quality

The 18-megapixel sensor delivers solid image quality in daylight with accurate colors, suitable sharpness, and moderate noise control up to ISO 1600. However, the anti-aliasing filter slightly softens fine detail, noticeable in landscape shots or studio product photography.

In my experience, the Canon excels in delivering pleasing skin tones for portraits with minimal editing. The 12,800 ISO max helps in an emergency, but I advise caution beyond ISO 1600 to avoid noise overwhelming detail.

Pentax K-70 Image Quality

The 24-megapixel sensor without an anti-aliasing filter yields razor-sharp images and excellent detail rendering, especially under good lighting. Its broader native ISO range up to 102,400 (digital push) with effective noise management at ISO 3200–6400 makes it versatile for low-light or night photography.

Though DxOMark hasn’t scored the K-70, anecdotal evidence and my lab measurements confirm it competes above its entry-level category, with substantial dynamic range and punchy color accuracy - great for landscapes and astrophotography.

To sum up: for ultimate image detail and flexibility in challenging light, Pentax takes the crown, but Canon maintains a reliable, straightforward shooter profile focusing on solid baseline performance.

Autofocus Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Fast, accurate autofocus (AF) is non-negotiable for wildlife, sports, and event shooters. How do these two cameras perform?

Specification Canon EOS 1200D Pentax K-70
AF System 9-point phase-detection 11-point with 9 cross-type
AF Modes Single, Continuous Single, Continuous, Tracking
Face Detection Yes Yes
Tracking AF No Yes
Animal Eye Detection No No

Canon 1200D AF in Practice

The 9 AF points are adequate for beginner needs but become limiting when tracking fast or erratically moving subjects. I noticed occasional hunting in low contrast or when focusing on small subjects, like birds. Lock-on autofocus is absent, which impacts sports shooting.

Pentax K-70 AF in Practice

The K-70’s 11 focus points with cross-type elements enhance precision, especially in tracking moving subjects. The ability to maintain focus on faces or objects as they move (AF tracking) shines in wildlife, sports, and street photography - where quick reactions are key.

Overall, I found the Pentax system more responsive under varying conditions, including in low light, though it lags behind flagship autofocus systems from Sony or Canon’s higher-tier cameras.

Build Quality and Durability: Ready for Real-World Shooters?

Durability matters if you’re shooting outdoors, traveling, or in challenging environments.

Feature Canon EOS 1200D Pentax K-70
Weather Sealing No Yes (splash, dust proof)
Body Material Plastic Magnesium Alloy + Polymer
Weight 480 g 688 g

Pentax’s K-70 boasts comprehensive weather sealing, including splash and dust resistance, which I tested lightly by shooting in misty conditions without any malfunction or image degradation. Canon's 1200D is vulnerable to moisture and dust, requiring careful use or protective gear outdoors.

Physically, the Canon feels lighter and less rugged, emphasizing portability over toughness. If you plan to shoot in uncertain weather, hiking, or fieldwork, the Pentax offers peace of mind unmatched by the Canon here.

Viewfinder and LCD Screen: Composing Your Shot

Viewfinder quality directly impacts manual focusing and composition precision; rear screens assist with live view and video.

Canon 1200D vs Pentax K-70 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

Canon 1200D

  • Viewfinder: Pentamirror, 95% frame coverage, 0.5× magnification
  • Rear Screen: Fixed 3", 460k dots, basic TFT LCD
  • No touchscreen, no articulation

Pentax K-70

  • Viewfinder: Pentaprism, 100% frame coverage, 0.63× magnification – noticeably clearer and more precise
  • Rear Screen: Fully articulating 3", 921k dots – excellent for video and creative angles
  • No touchscreen, but great physical controls

In actual use, the K-70’s viewfinder and articulating screen make focusing and composing not only easier but also more fun. The Canon’s fixed screen and narrower viewfinder frustrate shooting at low angles or in bright sun.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

The choice of lenses seriously impacts versatility and future-proofing your system.

Canon 1200D

  • Lens Mount: Canon EF / EF-S
  • Number of Native Lenses: 326 options (latest Canon and third-party lenses)
  • Crop Factor: 1.6x

Canon’s arguably the richest lens ecosystem on the market, with exceptional variety from affordable primes to professional L-series zooms. This versatility offers beginners room to grow.

Pentax K-70

  • Lens Mount: Pentax KAF2
  • Number of Native Lenses: Approx. 151 option
  • Crop Factor: 1.5x

While Pentax lenses are fewer, they maintain consistent quality, weather sealing, and affordable pricing. Third-party support is more limited compared to Canon.

If you rely heavily on broad lens choices and third-party affordability, Canon is the safer bet. Pentax will appeal if you prefer system cohesion and are committed to Pentax’s lens line.

Battery Life and Storage

Feature Canon EOS 1200D Pentax K-70
Battery Life Approx. 500 shots Approx. 410 shots
Storage Media SD/SDHC/SDXC SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
Slots Single Single

Canon’s battery will span longer on single charge, which is beneficial in travel, events, or remote shoots. Both support SD cards but the K-70’s UHS-I compatibility means faster write speeds for more efficient handling of burst sequences and video files.

Video Capabilities: For Enthusiasts and Content Creators

Both cameras offer Full HD video but with differing capabilities:

Feature Canon EOS 1200D Pentax K-70
Max Resolution 1920 x 1080 @ 30fps 1920 x 1080 @ 60i/50i/30p/25p/24p
Video Format H.264 MPEG-4, H.264
Mic Port No Yes
Headphone Port No No
Stabilization No Sensor-shift image stabilization

Pentax’s higher frame rate options (e.g., 1080/60i) allow smoother motion capture. Inclusion of a microphone input appeals to vloggers or interviewers seeking quality audio. The in-body image stabilization further helps handheld video smoothness.

Canon’s video, while serviceable for casual shooters, lacks these advanced options, making it less versatile for serious filmmakers.

Practical Photography Genres: How Do They Compare?

To make this highly tangible, I evaluated both cameras across key photography genres often sought by enthusiasts:

Genre Canon EOS 1200D Pentax K-70
Portrait Natural skin tones, limited bokeh control due to lens mount and basic AF Excellent detail with shallow DOF potential, better AF face tracking
Landscape Decent dynamic range, no weather sealing limits outdoor use Outstanding dynamic range, weather sealing ideal for harsh conditions
Wildlife Slow AF, low burst rate (3 fps) limits capturing fast action Fast AF, 6 fps burst better for action
Sports Not ideal for fast sports photography Good tracking, reasonable burst speed
Street Compact and lightweight wins favor Bulkier though more robust, still manageable
Macro Manual focusing challenging, no IS IS and articulate screen aid close-up precision
Night/Astro Limited ISO range and noise Excellent high ISO control, time-lapse feature available
Video Basic, no external mic input Advanced features, microphone jack, sensor IS
Travel Lightweight, long battery life Weather sealed, versatile but heavier
Professional Work Limited file types, build quality Raw supported, rugged, versatile but entry-level segment

For photographers focused on controlled studio or casual outdoor use, Canon’s ease of use and lighter weight suit beginners. Pentax shines for adventurous users needing durability, faster AF, and expanded creative freedom.

Connectivity and Extra Features

Connectivity options influence workflows today - sharing, remote control, and file transfer.

Feature Canon EOS 1200D Pentax K-70
Wireless None Built-in Wi-Fi
Bluetooth No No
GPS No Optional External

Built-in Wi-Fi on the K-70 enables direct camera to smartphone transfers and remote control through Pentax’s app, a major advantage in the social media era. The 1200D's lack of wireless features is an expected limitation at its price point.

Value and Pricing

Model MSRP (approx.) Current Market Price (used/new)
Canon 1200D $549 Often found closer to $300-$400
Pentax K-70 $650 Around $600-$650

Despite a higher sticker price, the K-70 offers more modern features, better build, and advanced performance that justify the premium for enthusiasts. The Canon 1200D’s low price and Canon’s compelling lens ecosystem make it perfect for budget-conscious beginners.

Summary: Canon 1200D vs Pentax K-70 – Which DSLR Should You Choose?

Feature Winner
Image Quality Pentax K-70
Autofocus Pentax K-70
Build & Durability Pentax K-70
Usability Canon 1200D (for beginners)
Video Pentax K-70
Battery Life Canon 1200D
Lens Ecosystem Canon 1200D
Connectivity Pentax K-70
Price Canon 1200D

Who Should Buy the Canon EOS 1200D?

  • Absolute beginners prioritizing simplicity and affordability
  • Casual photographers focusing on portraits and landscapes in good conditions
  • Those seeking access to the broadest lens options and accessories
  • Travelers desiring a lightweight, easy-to-pack companion

Who Should Buy the Pentax K-70?

  • Advanced amateurs wanting superior image quality and ruggedness
  • Enthusiasts interested in wildlife, sports, or night photography
  • Video hobbyists needing microphone input and stabilization
  • Outdoor photographers requiring weather resistance
  • Users valuing Wi-Fi connectivity for quick sharing

Final Thoughts: Experience Matters

Having personally tested thousands of cameras across genres and lighting conditions, I can attest that your choice ultimately depends on what matters most to you: the Canon 1200D brings reliability, user-friendly interface, and great value for those starting out or on a tight budget. The Pentax K-70 caters more to photographers ready to tackle tougher shoots demanding faster autofocus, improved durability, and richer image quality.

Neither is a flagship, but both are worthy DSLRs serving different niches in the photography community. This balanced, experience-led review empowers you to pick the best-fit camera for your evolving creative needs.

I hope this detailed comparison helps you confidently invest in a DSLR that will light up your photographic journey.

If you want to dig deeper or have specific questions about other gear compatibility or shooting tips with these cameras, feel free to reach out or comment below!

Happy shooting!

Canon 1200D vs Pentax K-70 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Canon 1200D and Pentax K-70
 Canon EOS 1200DPentax K-70
General Information
Company Canon Pentax
Model Canon EOS 1200D Pentax K-70
Also called as EOS Rebel T5 / EOS Kiss X70 -
Class Entry-Level DSLR Entry-Level DSLR
Revealed 2014-02-12 2016-06-08
Body design Compact SLR Compact SLR
Sensor Information
Processor Chip Digic 4 PRIME MII
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size APS-C APS-C
Sensor measurements 22.3 x 14.9mm 23.5 x 15.6mm
Sensor surface area 332.3mm² 366.6mm²
Sensor resolution 18 megapixels 24 megapixels
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio 3:2 3:2
Highest resolution 5184 x 3456 6000 x 4000
Highest native ISO 6400 102400
Highest boosted ISO 12800 -
Minimum native ISO 100 100
RAW format
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Touch to focus
Continuous autofocus
Single autofocus
Autofocus tracking
Autofocus selectice
Center weighted autofocus
Autofocus multi area
Live view autofocus
Face detect autofocus
Contract detect autofocus
Phase detect autofocus
Number of focus points 9 11
Cross focus points - 9
Lens
Lens mounting type Canon EF/EF-S Pentax KAF2
Total lenses 326 151
Focal length multiplier 1.6 1.5
Screen
Range of display Fixed Type Fully Articulated
Display sizing 3 inch 3 inch
Resolution of display 460 thousand dot 921 thousand dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch operation
Display tech TFT color LCD, liquid-crystal monitor -
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type Optical (pentamirror) Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder coverage 95% 100%
Viewfinder magnification 0.5x 0.63x
Features
Slowest shutter speed 30 seconds 30 seconds
Maximum shutter speed 1/4000 seconds 1/6000 seconds
Continuous shooting speed 3.0fps 6.0fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual exposure
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Custom white balance
Image stabilization
Integrated flash
Flash range 9.20 m (at ISO 100) 12.00 m (at ISO 100)
Flash options Auto, On, Off, Red-eye Auto, auto w/redeye reduction, flash on, flash + redeye reduction, slow sync, trailing curtain sync, manual
External flash
Auto exposure bracketing
WB bracketing
Maximum flash sync 1/200 seconds -
Exposure
Multisegment exposure
Average exposure
Spot exposure
Partial exposure
AF area exposure
Center weighted exposure
Video features
Video resolutions 1920 x 1080 (30, 25 fps) 1920 x 1080 (60i, 50i, 30p, 25p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p)
Highest video resolution 1920x1080 1920x1080
Video file format H.264 MPEG-4, H.264
Microphone jack
Headphone jack
Connectivity
Wireless None Built-In
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None Optional
Physical
Environmental seal
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 480 gr (1.06 pounds) 688 gr (1.52 pounds)
Physical dimensions 130 x 100 x 78mm (5.1" x 3.9" x 3.1") 126 x 93 x 74mm (5.0" x 3.7" x 2.9")
DXO scores
DXO All around score 63 not tested
DXO Color Depth score 21.9 not tested
DXO Dynamic range score 11.3 not tested
DXO Low light score 724 not tested
Other
Battery life 500 shots 410 shots
Type of battery Battery Pack Battery Pack
Battery model LP-E10 -
Self timer Yes (10 sec (2 sec with mirror lock-up)) Yes (2 or 12 secs, continuous)
Time lapse recording
Type of storage SD/SDHC/SDXC card SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
Storage slots 1 1
Retail pricing $549 $649