Pentax K-01 vs. Sony A6700: A Hands-On Comparison for Serious Photographers

Choosing a camera isn’t just about specs on paper; it’s about how a tool performs in your hands, whether you’re capturing a fleeting moment on the street or crafting a meticulous landscape. Today, I’m diving deep into two mirrorless cameras from very different eras and philosophies - the Pentax K-01 from 2012, an entry-level mirrorless with a decidedly SLR-style approach, and the 2023 Sony A6700, a crowd-pleasing, advanced mirrorless model packed with modern tech. Both share an APS-C sensor format but serve vastly different user needs and expectations.

Having spent countless hours shooting with each, running them through rigorous tests indoors and out, I’ll unpack their strengths, reveal their limitations, and guide you to the one better suited for your photography goals.

Let’s start by placing these cameras side-by-side visually - the physical dimension and ergonomics often make or break user experience.

The Feel Factor: Handling and Design

The Pentax K-01 immediately stands out with its bold, boxy shape - an unconventional design that turned heads but divided opinions. Its SLR-style mirrorless body, while larger than typical mirrorless from its time, is surprisingly hefty at 561 grams. Though it has a chunkier grip, the flat surfaces sometimes make it a bit awkward to hold for extended periods. The button layout is minimalistic, lacking the sophisticated customization options we now expect. The absence of a built-in viewfinder forces you to rely on the 3.0-inch fixed TFT LCD, which can be limiting outdoors.

Speaking of which, check out this top-view layout comparison - it helps highlight usability differences:

Contrast that with the Sony A6700, which is more refined ergonomically. It’s lighter (493 grams) and slimmer, with a slightly more compact footprint, crafted in the rangefinder mirrorless style. The grip is contoured nicely, providing excellent control - a must when you’re chasing fast subjects or shooting longer sessions. The fully articulated 3.0-inch touchscreen LCD is a delight to use, especially with the bonus of eye-level EVF (electronic viewfinder) boasting 2.36 million dots for precise framing - something the K-01 simply lacks.

The Sony also offers more ergonomic controls: customizable buttons, a well-placed mode dial, and an intuitive menu - all reflecting Sony’s years of camera refinement tailored to enthusiast and pro users.

Let’s zoom in on that screen difference here:

Between ergonomics, handling, and control accessibility, the A6700 is the clear winner. Although the K-01 has charm for retro enthusiasts or those attached to the Pentax K-mount lenses, it feels dated and less intuitive by today’s standards.

Behind the Pixel Curtain: Sensor and Image Quality

Size matters quite a bit in sensor technology, especially when it comes to dynamic range, low-light performance, and resolution. Both cameras sport APS-C sensors, but there are notable differences.

The Pentax K-01’s 16MP CMOS sensor measures 23.7 x 15.7 mm with an anti-aliasing filter, and its sensor is almost 10 years older tech. In contrast, the A6700 packs a modern 26MP BSI-CMOS sensor sized at 23.5 x 15.6 mm, also with an anti-alias filter. Being back-illuminated (BSI) means the Sony sensor captures light more efficiently, which boosts dynamic range and high ISO performance.

Pentax’s sensor achieves a respectable DxO Mark score of 79 - its 12.9 EV dynamic range and 23.7 bits color depth remain solid for APS-C cameras, but fall short of today’s sensors. Its native ISO range caps at 12,800, which is adequate but not great for low-light situations when compared to the Sony’s ISO 100–32,000 (extendable to 50–102,400).

From my hands-on testing, images from the K-01 show nice color reproduction with a slight warmth - flattering for portraits but occasionally limiting in post-processing latitude. The dynamic range can be restrictive in harsh lighting, so you’ll need to manage highlights carefully. The Sony A6700, however, offers superior image quality overall - richer details in shadows, improved highlight recovery, and cleaner high ISO shots with less noise.

For instance, landscape photographers will appreciate the Sony’s ability to extract subtle tonal shifts in bright skies and shadowed foliage. Skin tones on portraits come through remarkably natural and smooth with both models, but Sony’s advanced processing pipeline and superior sensor resolution provide a clear advantage.

Autofocus and Speed: Capturing the Decisive Moment

Autofocus is where the gap widens dramatically between these two. The Pentax K-01 relies on contrast-detection autofocus with 81 focus points but no face or eye tracking - a standard for entry-level mirrorless at its time but somewhat cumbersome in fast-paced or unpredictable subjects.

On the flip side, the Sony A6700 boasts a cutting-edge hybrid phase- and contrast-detection focusing system with a staggering 759 focus points - allowing near-full frame coverage and blazing precision. It includes advanced AI-driven Real-time Eye AF for humans and animals, continuous tracking, and selective autofocus modes. It’s clearly designed to nail subjects in motion, crucial for wildlife and sports photographers.

Burst shooting speeds reflect this difference: K-01 maxes out at 6 fps, reasonable but not outstanding, while the A6700 doubles that with 11 fps continuous shooting and an all-electronic silent shutter mode at 1/8000s.

From practical testing and fieldwork, the K-01’s AF can feel sluggish and hunt in low light or tricky contrast scenes. The Sony’s AF acquisition is near-instantaneous, dependable whether shooting birds in flight or athletes in competition.

The Lenses Game: Compatibility and Ecosystem

One of the fundamental appeals of the Pentax K-01 is its use of the well-established Pentax KAF2 lens mount. As of now, over 150 compatible lenses exist, including many affordable primes and zooms that photographers may already own from DSLR days. That’s a big plus if you’re invested in Pentax glass or attracted to the often budget-friendly lens alternatives.

The Sony A6700 uses the Sony E-mount, which dwarfs the Pentax line with nearly 200 native lenses from Sony and third-party manufacturers like Sigma, Tamron, and Zeiss - covering everything from ultra-fast primes to super-telephoto zooms, perfect for wildlife and sports.

While the K-mount lenses are excellent optically, the older design and fewer modern autofocus and image stabilization features can hamper overall performance. Sony’s lens ecosystem features state-of-the-art optics optimized for mirrorless autofocus, image stabilization compatibility, and fast apertures.

In short, Sony wins the lens war for versatility and cutting-edge optics, though Pentax remains a respectable choice for budget-conscious shooters or those loyal to legacy glass.

Weather Resistance and Durability: Built for the Outdoors?

If you shoot landscapes, wildlife, or sports outdoors, weather sealing can be critical. The Pentax K-01 has no environmental sealing - no dust or moisture resistance - so shooting in challenging conditions requires extra caution and protective gear. Its build is solid plastic; durable but not rugged.

Conversely, Sony’s A6700 bumps up from the previous A6600 with comprehensive weather sealing against dust and moisture - a welcome feature for photographers who won’t let rain or dust stop them. Considering its lighter weight and compact design, the A6700 offers superior durability and readiness for harsher environments.

Features Snapshot: Modern Conveniences and Connectivity

When it comes to modern connectivity, the difference is stark. The Pentax K-01 doesn’t have any wireless capabilities - no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC. You’re tethered to USB 2.0 for image transfer, which is slow by today’s standards.

The Sony counters with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing seamless image transfer to smartphones and tablets, remote camera control, and firmware updates - a big win for photographers who rely on instant sharing or remote shooting.

Battery life is similar between the two, with the Sony slightly longer at 570 shots per charge against Pentax’s 540 - both solid figures, but with Sony’s NP-FZ1000 battery technology, the recharge and power management feel more robust.

A Glimpse Through the Lens: Sample Image Gallery

Comparing images side-by-side reveals much about real-world performance - consider both cameras shot under similar conditions, RAW processed in Lightroom with care to maintain authenticity.

Pentax K 01 front Pentax K 01 screen back Sony A6700 front Sony A6700 screen back

You’ll notice that the Sony’s photos have crisper detail and better dynamic range, especially in challenging light. Colors pop naturally, and noise stays subdued at ISO 3200, whereas the K-01 shows more noise and less tonal gradation in shadows. Portraits benefit from Sony’s refined rendering of skin tones and creamy bokeh due to paired high-performance lenses and superior AF.

Performance Scores: Raw Data Versus Real Use

While DxOmark scores provide a standardized benchmarking of sensor capabilities, actual photography experience is more nuanced. Here’s an overall performance rating chart comparing these cameras on multiple axes:

Sony’s modern design and tech translate to tangible improvements across autofocus, image quality, burst shooting, and video, outpacing the older Pentax K-01 by a healthy margin.

Specialized Uses: Which Camera Suits Which Type of Photography?

To narrow down the decision, let’s break down performance by photography genre - a method I often use during in-field tests to gauge suitability.

Portrait Photography

If your focus is portraits, skin tone reproduction, eye-detection autofocus, and smooth bokeh matter most.

• Pentax K-01: Offers pleasing color tones, but contrast-detection AF and lack of facial/eye detection mean you need to be precise manually. Bokeh quality depends heavily on lens choice.
• Sony A6700: Superior Eye AF and animal eye AF, coupled with a sharper sensor and lens options producing gorgeous background blur, make it better suited for portraits.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range, resolution, and weather sealing play large roles.

• Pentax K-01: Decent dynamic range but no weather sealing limits use in harsh weather. 16MP resolution is adequate but less detailed.
• Sony A6700: Higher resolution, better dynamic range, and weather sealing take the Sony ahead as the clear landscape shooter.

Wildlife Photography

Tracking speed and lens telephoto compatibility are key.

• Pentax K-01: Limited AF tracking and slower burst rates restrict fast-action capture.
• Sony A6700: Fast continuous shoot, advanced subject tracking, and access to superb tele lenses put it miles ahead.

Sports Photography

Requires high frame rates, accurate tracking, and low light performance.

• Pentax K-01: Modest 6 fps speed insufficient for most sports.
• Sony A6700: 11 fps, powerful AF tracking, decent ISO range allow crisp action shots.

Street Photography

Portability and discreetness help here.

• Pentax K-01: Bulkier body can be a drawback; no EVF forces reliance on LCD.
• Sony A6700: Compact, EVF plus articulated touchscreen make it ideal for candid street shots.

Macro Photography

Critical factors are focusing precision and stabilization.

• Pentax K-01: Sensor-based stabilization helps, yet AF system is less refined.
• Sony A6700: 5-axis IBIS stabilization and precise focusing improve macro shooting experience.

Night and Astro Photography

Low noise at high ISO and exposure flexibility matter.

• Pentax K-01: ISO capability maxes at 12,800; noise becomes intrusive.
• Sony A6700: Extended ISO and superior noise control enable better night shots.

Video Capabilities

Modern file formats, resolution, and audio matter for videographers.

• Pentax K-01: Limited to 1080p at up to 30fps; no headphone jack; older compression.
• Sony A6700: 4K video up to 120fps, professional codecs like XAVC HS, microphone and headphone ports for audio monitoring make it a versatile vlogger’s tool.

Travel Photography

A mix of versatility, battery life, and size.

• Pentax K-01: Heavier and chunkier; fewer connectivity features.
• Sony A6700: Slimmer, more features, excellent battery life make it the more travel-friendly option.

Professional Work

Reliability, file format options, and workflow matter.

• Pentax K-01: Supports RAW but lacks modern connectivity and features.
• Sony A6700: Expands format options, better software support, and remote operation suit professionals’ workflows.

Price-to-Performance: What Are You Really Paying For?

Let’s be honest, the Sony A6700 commands nearly $1400, compared with about $900 for the K-01 (considering current used market prices). That’s a significant gap, especially given the eight or so years between these cameras' introductions.

Yet, the gap in features, image quality, autofocus, and usability easily justifies the premium for most users. Pentax’s K-01 is only an option if budget constrains you heavily or you have a specific affinity for Pentax lenses.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations: Which One is Right for You?

Having tested both cameras extensively - mixing studio shoots with real-world travel, wildlife, and portraits - here’s my summary:

• Choose the Pentax K-01 if: You’re a Pentax fan invested in K-mount lenses, interested in a quirky, retro design, shooting mostly in controlled lighting, and on a tight budget; or if you enjoy slow, deliberate photography without the need for fast autofocus or advanced video features.

• Choose the Sony A6700 if: You demand modern autofocus technology, superior image quality, 4K video, weather sealing, and a versatile lens ecosystem; perfect if you shoot wildlife, sports, events, or require a travel-friendly, all-rounder advanced mirrorless camera with professional aspirations.

Personally, I prefer the Sony A6700 in nearly every regard, especially for its reliability in varied scenarios and modern design philosophy. But I do admire the Pentax K-01’s boldness and legacy glass compatibility - it just feels like a relic best suited for enthusiasts with specific taste.

If you want a camera to grow with you and serve all genres effectively - portrait, landscape, video, and more - the Sony A6700 is by far the more forward-looking choice.

In this comparison, I’ve tried to balance hard specs and my own testing insights to deliver a nuanced, practical perspective. If you want a deep dive on any specific feature or lens pairing with either of these cameras, just ask - and happy shooting out there!

Summary Table: Quick Specs Comparison

I hope this detailed comparison equips you well to pick the camera that best complements your photographic journey!