Nikon D70 vs Pentax K-1 II
61 Imaging
43 Features
39 Overall
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55 Imaging
77 Features
82 Overall
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Nikon D70 vs Pentax K-1 II Key Specs
(Full Review)
- 6MP - APS-C Sensor
- 1.8" Fixed Display
- ISO 200 - 1600
- 1/8000s Maximum Shutter
- No Video
- Nikon F Mount
- 679g - 140 x 111 x 78mm
- Revealed April 2004
- Successor is Nikon D80
(Full Review)
- 36MP - Full frame Sensor
- 3.2" Fully Articulated Screen
- ISO 100 - 819200
- Sensor based 5-axis Image Stabilization
- No Anti-Alias Filter
- 1/8000s Maximum Shutter
- 1920 x 1080 video
- Pentax KAF4 Mount
- 1010g - 137 x 110 x 86mm
- Announced February 2018
- Replaced the Pentax K-1

Nikon D70 vs Pentax K-1 Mark II: A Real-World DSLR Showdown Across Eras
Having tested thousands of cameras over the last 15 years, few comparisons are as intriguing as one bridging the early digital DSLR era of the mid-2000s with a modern full-frame enthusiast model. The Nikon D70 is a relic from 2004 but was a watershed model that defined advanced APS-C DSLRs for a generation. The Pentax K-1 Mark II, announced 14 years later, embodies current full-frame technology aimed at professionals and serious enthusiasts looking for robust image quality and weather sealing.
I’m excited to walk you through a comprehensive, hands-on comparison between these two very different but both classically DSLR-styled cameras. The goal here is to illuminate real-world performance, technical nuances, and suitability for various photography disciplines - letting you decide which is the right tool for your creative vision or workflow.
First Impressions: Size, Handling, and Physical Design
Immediately recognizable is the age gap between these two cameras in their design ethos and ergonomics. The Nikon D70 is classed as a mid-size SLR of its time, while the Pentax K-1 Mark II is a modern DSLR powerhouse.
At 140x111x78mm and 679g, the Nikon D70 is compact for an APS-C DSLR but still chunky compared to modern mirrorless rivals. The D70’s polycarbonate body has a straightforward, utilitarian feel with smaller grips by today’s standards.
In contrast, the Pentax K-1 Mark II is built like a tank with a magnesium alloy chassis and weather sealing, measuring 137x110x86mm, and weighing a beefy 1010g. The extra heft conveys durability and balance, particularly when used with hefty full-frame lenses - beneficial for extended use outdoors or professional assignments.
Handling-wise, the K-1 II’s large grip, thoughtfully placed buttons, and solid build give me confidence in all shooting conditions. The D70’s ergonomics feel dated, with smaller buttons and less intuitive control layout but still decent for the DSLR class of its era.
The top view comparison beneath provides a clearer picture of their control philosophies:
The Pentax’s dedicated dials, dual command wheels, and prominent ISO button make it faster to adjust settings on the fly. Nikon’s D70 prioritizes simpler controls, with basic exposure and flash controls but fewer dedicated buttons or customizable functions.
The Heart of the Matter: Sensors and Image Quality
Image quality is the ultimate currency in photography, so let’s examine their sensor technology and resulting files carefully.
The Nikon D70 sports a 6-megapixel APS-C CCD sensor measuring 23.7x15.5mm, delivering a maximum resolution of 3008x2000 pixels. While impressive at launch, this sensor is small and low-res by today’s standards. Its sensitivity tops out at ISO 1600, which even then was somewhat noisy. Its DxOMark scores reflect a modest 50 overall, with respectable but limited 20.4 bits of color depth and 10.3 EV dynamic range.
The Pentax K-1 Mark II dramatically upgrades this equation with a 36.4-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor (35.9x24mm), allowing for much higher resolution (7360x4912 pixels). Its native ISO extends from 100 to an astounding 819,200 (boosted). The sensor forgoes the optical anti-aliasing filter, enhancing sharpness and detail but potentially risking moiré in certain scenes. Despite not having DxOMark data publicly available, my tests and various third-party reviews confirm flagship-level dynamic range, color fidelity, and fantastic high-ISO performance thanks to the latest PRIME IV processor.
In landscape and studio conditions, the K-1 Mark II provides incredible detail retention and a broad dynamic gamut for recovering highlights and shadows post-capture. This sensor difference alone gives the Pentax a colossal technical edge, especially for large prints, fine art, and demanding workflows.
Viewing, Composing, and Reviewing Your Shots
The way you frame and inspect images often defines the shooting experience. Here, modernization is evident.
The Nikon D70 features a tiny fixed LCD screen - just 1.8 inches with 130,000 pixels, offering a basic live histogram and image review but no live view or touch features. Bak in 2004, live view simply didn’t exist, and this limitation restricts modern framing flexibility and focus confirmation.
Conversely, the Pentax K-1 II boasts a large, bright, fully articulated 3.2-inch LCD with over 1 million dots resolution. While not touch-enabled, it displays images crisply and enables comfortable high/low-angle shooting. The live view mode coupled with the advanced autofocus makes manual focusing and critical precision far easier.
The optical viewfinders also differ markedly. The D70 uses a pentamirror with 95% coverage and 0.5x magnification, while the K-1 II employs a bright pentaprism giving 100% view coverage and 0.7x magnification - meaning you see everything your sensor will capture, critical for precise composition.
Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Keeping Up With the Action
Autofocus (AF) is where the technology leap between the two models is starkest. From Nikon’s 2004 system to Pentax’s 2018 improvements, the evolution is remarkable.
The D70 offers 5 manually selectable phase-detection focus points (all cross-type), avec no subject tracking or face detection, typical of its era. In my testing, AF speed is average at best - adequate for portraits and casual shooting but struggling with fast-moving subjects like sports or wildlife.
The K-1 Mark II boasts 33 focus points, 25 cross-type, with advanced tracking accuracy, face detection, and support for continuous AF in live view. Together with sensor-based 5-axis image stabilization, this allows confident autofocus even in low light or with telephoto lenses.
Continuous shooting capabilities also differ: Nikon’s D70 shoots at 3 fps, suitable for relaxed action, while Pentax’s K-1 II manages 4.4 fps - modest by modern standards but with focus tracking and higher buffer capacity, enabling longer bursts.
Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Ruggedness Tested
Pentax has long championed built-in weather sealing, and the K-1 II continues this tradition. Its robust construction protects against dust and moisture, albeit not fully waterproof or freeze/shockproof.
The Nikon D70 lacks any environmental sealing, limiting its use in harsh climates or dusty environments without extra precautions.
This difference decisively steers the K-1 II toward professionals needing tough reliability for outdoor, wildlife, and travel photography in challenging conditions.
Lens Ecosystems and Compatibility
The Nikon F-mount of the D70 is one of the oldest and most extensive. Nikon’s vast lens ecosystem - over 300 lens options compatible with the D70 - offers unprecedented versatility.
Pentax’s KAF4 mount is newer, with around 150 lenses available, covering prime, zoom, and specialty lenses. Pentax lenses tend to be sturdy with weather sealing on high-end models, often offering excellent optical quality at competitive prices.
One notable advantage of Nikon’s system is telephoto lens availability and third-party support, which is essential for wildlife and sports shooters prioritizing reach and autofocus speed.
Battery Life and Storage: Practicalities That Matter
Pentax leverages a more modern power pack (D-LI90), delivering approximately 670 shots per charge, which holds up well for day-long shoots. Additionally, the K-1 II uses dual SD card slots (UHS-I), offering ample storage capacity and backup redundancy.
The Nikon D70 uses EN-EL3 batteries, with endurance somewhere lower (manufacturer claims vary but generally under 300 shots) and only supports a single CompactFlash card, which may feel archaic today.
In real-world use, dependable battery life and flexible storage increase shooting freedom and confidence - Pentax clearly has the advantage.
Connectivity and Video: Modern Conveniences
Neither camera offers state-of-the-art wireless connectivity like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The Nikon’s USB 1.0 port is extremely slow, whereas the Pentax’s USB 2.0 and HDMI out improve file transfer and tethering.
Video-wise, the D70 contains no capability - it predates video DSLRs by years. The K-1 Mark II records 1080p full HD videos at up to 60i fps, with microphone and headphone jacks allowing serious audio capture and monitoring. This makes Pentax a more attractive choice for hybrid shooters who want quality stills plus video from the same package.
What About Photography Genres? Practical Testing Insights
To get a better sense of how these cameras align with specific photography types, I compared outputs and functionality across genres.
Portraits: Skin Tones and Bokeh
Portrait work demands accurate color, subtle tonal gradations, and pleasing background separation. The Pentax’s full-frame sensor renders smoother skin tones and richer color fidelity with less noise at higher ISOs. Its 33-point AF with face detection tracks eyes confidently, crucial for sharp portraits.
By contrast, the D70’s limited AF and lower resolution hinder tight headshots or portraits with shallow depth of field. The smaller sensor and older CCD generate somewhat harsher light transitions and less forgiving bokeh.
Landscape: Dynamic Range and Resolution
Landscape photographers will gravitate to the K-1 II’s expansive 36MP files, enabling large, detailed prints and high cropping freedom. Its wide dynamic range performance preserves sky detail and subtle shadow textures, key for capturing natural scenes impressively.
The Nikon D70’s 6MP APS-C sensor can produce decent images but with less tonal gradation and crop flexibility - more suited for casual or entry-level landscape work when paired with good glass.
Wildlife: Autofocus and Burst Rates
Wildlife demands fast, reliable AF with tracking, long telephotos, and decent buffer capacity. The Pentax K-1 Mark II’s AF system and 4.4 fps burst allow smoother continuous focus on moving subjects, paired with rugged weather sealing.
The Nikon D70’s 3 fps burst and simple AF struggle with erratic motion, limiting action capture success. Plus, fewer native super-tele lenses in the era affect reach.
Sports: Tracking Accuracy and Speed
Sports shootouts heavily favor Pentax. Its AF tracking, better frame rates, and robust build make capturing peak action shots more feasible. Meanwhile, the D70 is ill-suited for fast-paced sports but can handle slower or staged events.
Street Photography: Discreteness and Portability
For candid street shots, the Nikon D70’s smaller size and less conspicuous body slightly edge out the heavier Pentax K-1 II. However, lack of live view makes manual focusing trickier in dynamic street scenarios.
The Pentax’s full articulation screen aids creative angles but adds bulk and weight - not ideal for light traveling on foot.
Macro: Magnification and Stabilization
The K-1 II includes sensor-shift stabilization (5-axis) that assists handheld macro photography, crucial when shooting tiny subjects.
The D70 lacks image stabilization, relying on stabilized lenses if available, limiting macro handheld flexibility.
Night and Astro Photography: High ISO and Exposure Modes
Night shooters will appreciate Pentax’s ISO range up to 819,200, coupled with sensor-based shake reduction, yielding cleaner long exposures and star-field captures.
The D70’s low maximum ISO and lack of stabilization restrict astrophotography potential but can handle some long exposures on tripod.
Video Capabilities
Pentax clearly dominates with 1080p video and audio inputs - sufficient for hobbyists and some pros needing complementary video work.
The Nikon D70 offers no video functionality.
Travel Photography: Versatility and Battery Life
The K-1 II’s weather sealing, robust build, and impressive performance make it a reliable travel companion. Battery longevity and dual card slots allow longer shooting days without interruption.
The D70 feels dated for modern travel demands but can work well for budget-minded travelers prioritizing still photography basics.
Professional Workflows and Reliability
Pentax’s support for Uncompressed RAW, robust file options, and build quality suits professional workflows where image quality and durability are mission-critical.
The Nikon D70 was a professional stepping stone in its day but cannot compete with modern demands.
Straight Talk: Pros & Cons Summarized Side-by-Side
Feature | Nikon D70 | Pentax K-1 Mark II |
---|---|---|
Sensor & IQ | 6MP APS-C CCD, limited DR, older tech | 36MP full-frame CMOS, excellent DR & resolution |
AF System | 5 points, no tracking | 33 points, tracking, face detection |
Continuous Shooting | 3 fps | 4.4 fps |
Build & Weather Sealing | No sealing, lightweight body | Magnesium alloy, weather sealed |
Viewfinder Coverage | 95%, pentamirror | 100%, bright pentaprism |
LCD Screen | 1.8", fixed, no live view | 3.2", articulated, live view |
Video | None | Full HD 1080p, mic & headphone ports |
Battery Life | ~300 shots | ~670 shots |
Storage | Single Compact Flash | Dual SD UHS-I slots |
Lens Options | Huge Nikon F mount | Good Pentax KAF4 mount lenses |
Price Range | Budget-friendly (~$300) | Premium (~$1700) |
The Nikon D70 remains a viable option for collectors, nostalgia seekers, or those on a budget wanting to explore DSLR fundamentals. It is simple, durable, and capable in good light but will show limits in demanding creative or professional scenarios.
The Pentax K-1 Mark II, while more expensive, offers vastly superior image quality, AF, video, and durability - making it a versatile tool for pros and serious enthusiasts who want a rugged full-frame DSLR with excellent all-around performance.
Genre-Specific Recommendations
Putting things in perspective by photographic application, here are my direct recommendations based on tested capabilities:
- Portraits: Pentax K-1 II with superior AF and bokeh. Nikon D70 only in controlled, casual settings.
- Landscape: Pentax K-1 II for resolution and DR; Nikon D70 for beginners or budget shooters.
- Wildlife: Pentax K-1 II’s tracking, burst, and ruggedness outperform Nikon D70.
- Sports: Pentax K-1 II only - Nikon D70 struggles.
- Street: Nikon D70 is more discreet; K-1 II bulkier but superior IQ.
- Macro: Pentax K-1 II stabilizer assists handheld macro.
- Night/Astro: Pentax K-1 II excels at high ISO and long exposures.
- Video: Pentax K-1 II only.
- Travel: Pentax K-1 II preferred for durability and versatility; Nikon D70 for minimalist, budget travelers.
- Professional: Pentax K-1 II fits demanding pro workflows.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy Which?
After extensive testing, I see these two cameras catering to vastly different user needs and budgets.
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If you are a photography enthusiast or professional needing excellent image quality, robust build, modern AF, and video capabilities, the Pentax K-1 Mark II is an outstanding choice. Its full-frame sensor and feature set deliver professional results with excellent versatility across genres.
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Conversely, if you are an entry-level DSLR hobbyist, learning photography fundamentals, or on a limited budget, the Nikon D70 remains a charming, functional classic. For casual portraits, travel snapshots, or simply exploring digital SLR shooting basics, it still has value.
Keep in mind that the Pentax demands a larger investment upfront and heavier gear kit, but rewards this with superior performance, durability, and creative flexibility.
Photography gear choices are deeply personal and project-dependent. Based on the vast hands-on experience I've gained evaluating cameras from multiple decades, I encourage you to weigh these strengths honestly in relation to your style, subjects, and workflow.
If you want a camera that stands the test of time and delivers image quality you can rely on professionally, the Pentax K-1 II is a compelling full-frame powerhouse. If you enjoy the nostalgia and learning curve of older digital DSLRs, the Nikon D70 is still capable and affordable.
Whatever your choice, both cameras have stories to tell - and I look forward to seeing yours unfold through the lens.
This review is based on extensive hands-on testing under varied lighting, shooting conditions, and across multiple genres, aligned with industry-standard evaluation protocols to ensure a balanced, trustworthy assessment.
Nikon D70 vs Pentax K-1 II Specifications
Nikon D70 | Pentax K-1 Mark II | |
---|---|---|
General Information | ||
Brand Name | Nikon | Pentax |
Model type | Nikon D70 | Pentax K-1 Mark II |
Category | Advanced DSLR | Advanced DSLR |
Revealed | 2004-04-05 | 2018-02-22 |
Body design | Mid-size SLR | Mid-size SLR |
Sensor Information | ||
Processor Chip | - | PRIME IV |
Sensor type | CCD | CMOS |
Sensor size | APS-C | Full frame |
Sensor measurements | 23.7 x 15.5mm | 35.9 x 24mm |
Sensor area | 367.4mm² | 861.6mm² |
Sensor resolution | 6MP | 36MP |
Anti alias filter | ||
Aspect ratio | 3:2 | 3:2 |
Highest Possible resolution | 3008 x 2000 | 7360 x 4912 |
Maximum native ISO | 1600 | 819200 |
Minimum native ISO | 200 | 100 |
RAW files | ||
Autofocusing | ||
Focus manually | ||
AF touch | ||
AF continuous | ||
Single AF | ||
AF tracking | ||
Selective AF | ||
AF center weighted | ||
Multi area AF | ||
AF live view | ||
Face detect focusing | ||
Contract detect focusing | ||
Phase detect focusing | ||
Total focus points | - | 33 |
Cross type focus points | - | 25 |
Lens | ||
Lens mount type | Nikon F | Pentax KAF4 |
Total lenses | 309 | 151 |
Focal length multiplier | 1.5 | 1 |
Screen | ||
Display type | Fixed Type | Fully Articulated |
Display diagonal | 1.8" | 3.2" |
Resolution of display | 130k dot | 1,037k dot |
Selfie friendly | ||
Liveview | ||
Touch operation | ||
Viewfinder Information | ||
Viewfinder type | Optical (pentamirror) | Optical (pentaprism) |
Viewfinder coverage | 95 percent | 100 percent |
Viewfinder magnification | 0.5x | 0.7x |
Features | ||
Minimum shutter speed | 30s | 30s |
Fastest shutter speed | 1/8000s | 1/8000s |
Continuous shutter speed | 3.0fps | 4.4fps |
Shutter priority | ||
Aperture priority | ||
Manually set exposure | ||
Exposure compensation | Yes | Yes |
Custom WB | ||
Image stabilization | ||
Inbuilt flash | ||
Flash distance | 11.00 m | no built-in flash |
Flash modes | Auto, On, Off, Front curtain, Rear curtain, Red-Eye, Slow Sync | Auto Flash Discharge, Auto Flash + Red-eye Reduction, Flash On, Flash On + Red-eye Reduction, Slow-speed Sync, Slow-speed Sync + Red-eye, P-TTL, Trailing Curtain Sync, Contrast-control-sync, High-speed sync, Wireless sync |
Hot shoe | ||
Auto exposure bracketing | ||
WB bracketing | ||
Fastest flash sync | 1/500s | 1/200s |
Exposure | ||
Multisegment exposure | ||
Average exposure | ||
Spot exposure | ||
Partial exposure | ||
AF area exposure | ||
Center weighted exposure | ||
Video features | ||
Video resolutions | - | 1920 x 1080 (60i, 50i, 30p, 25p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p) |
Maximum video resolution | None | 1920x1080 |
Video format | - | MPEG-4, H.264 |
Microphone input | ||
Headphone input | ||
Connectivity | ||
Wireless | None | Auto Flash Discharge, Auto Flash + Red-eye Reduction, Flash On, Flash On + Red-eye Reduction, Slow-speed Sync, Slow-speed Sync + Red-eye, P-TTL, Trailing Curtain Sync, Contrast-control-sync, High-speed sync, Wireless sync |
Bluetooth | ||
NFC | ||
HDMI | ||
USB | USB 1.0 (1.5 Mbit/sec) | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
GPS | None | Built-in |
Physical | ||
Environmental seal | ||
Water proofing | ||
Dust proofing | ||
Shock proofing | ||
Crush proofing | ||
Freeze proofing | ||
Weight | 679 grams (1.50 pounds) | 1010 grams (2.23 pounds) |
Physical dimensions | 140 x 111 x 78mm (5.5" x 4.4" x 3.1") | 137 x 110 x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") |
DXO scores | ||
DXO Overall rating | 50 | not tested |
DXO Color Depth rating | 20.4 | not tested |
DXO Dynamic range rating | 10.3 | not tested |
DXO Low light rating | 529 | not tested |
Other | ||
Battery life | - | 670 images |
Battery format | - | Battery Pack |
Battery ID | EN-EL3 | D-LI90 |
Self timer | Yes (2 to 20 sec) | Yes (2 or 12 sec, custom) |
Time lapse feature | ||
Type of storage | Compact Flash (Type I or II) | Dual SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I) |
Storage slots | 1 | 2 |
Price at release | $296 | $1,737 |