Pentax K-01 vs Sony H400: A Deep Dive into Two Very Different Cameras

Choosing a camera can feel like navigating a maze, especially when the gear in question comes from two worlds apart in design philosophy and target users. Today, I'll walk you through an in-depth comparison of the Pentax K-01, an entry-level mirrorless camera with an APS-C sensor, and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400, a small sensor superzoom bridge camera. These two have very different DNA, yet might appeal to a broad audience of enthusiasts - from those craving sensor quality to superzoom convenience. Let’s unpack their capabilities, real-world performance, and who should consider which.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Ergonomics

Looking side-by-side at the physical size and construction reveals an immediate contrast. The K-01 embraces a retro-DSLR style, sturdy yet minimalist, while the H400 is a hefty bridge camera with an enormous zoom barrel protruding upfront.

The K-01’s dimensions (122x79x58 mm, 561 g) reflect a compact mirrorless body that feels manageable in hand, though it’s not the lightest APS-C option out there. The absence of a built-in viewfinder shifts reliance to the rear LCD for composition, but I found the grip comfortable enough for extended handheld shoots.

The Sony H400, larger and heavier at 130x95x122 mm (628 g), balances its bulk with a traditional DSLR-style body, but the long zoom (25-1550 mm equivalent!) makes it front-heavy. This can tire your wrist in continuous shooting sessions, but the optical steadiness helps a lot with telephoto shots. Ergonomically, it isn’t quite as friendly for manual controls, tailored more towards point-and-shoot flexibility.

Both feature fixed 3-inch screens, but the K-01’s higher resolution TFT LCD (921k dots) offers a sharper viewing experience versus the H400’s Clear Photo LCD at 460k dots. This sharper screen on the Pentax helps during manual focusing and reviewing fine details - something I appreciated in my real-world tests.

The control layouts differ hugely, too. The K-01 lets you dip into aperture priority and manual modes with dedicated dials - handy if you want tactile feedback and quick exposure adjustments. The Sony’s controls feel simplified, with fewer buttons and no dedicated manual focus ring; focus adjustments are mostly automatic or via digital aid.

Under the Hood: Sensor Technologies and Image Quality

Here’s where the cameras diverge most fundamentally.

Sensor Size and Type

• Pentax K-01: APS-C CMOS (23.7 x 15.7 mm) with a 16MP resolution.
• Sony H400: 1/2.3" CCD sensor (6.17 x 4.55 mm) with about 20MP.

This difference is dramatic. The K-01 sports a much larger sensor, translating directly into superior image quality, dynamic range, and low-light capability. The 16MP resolution on the APS-C sensor also offers ample detail for prints and cropping.

Conversely, the H400’s tiny sensor, typical for superzoom bridge cameras, inherently struggles with noise at higher ISOs and dynamic range limitations. However, it compensates somewhat via a 63x optical zoom - offering reach no interchangeable lens camera can easily match without heavy telephoto glass.

Image Quality Metrics

Pentax’s sensor scores impressively, with around 79 DxOmark overall, boasting excellent color depth (23.7 bits) and dynamic range (12.9 EV). Low-light ISO performance extends native sensitivity up to ISO 12,800, with usable results thanks to its sensor size.

The Sony’s sensor hasn’t been tested by DxOMark and is known for limited performance in challenging lighting - top native ISO 3200 but retaining usable image quality only at base or low ISO due to the sensor's physical constraints.

In practice, the Pentax excels in producing detailed, vibrant images with pleasing skin tones and natural color rendition. It’s a real advantage for portraits, landscapes, and even macro work. The Sony, by contrast, is best used in bright conditions where its lens reach shines.

Autofocus Systems: Precision or Convenience?

Autofocus is an often overlooked factor that can make or break your shooting experience.

Pentax K-01

The K-01 employs an 81-point contrast detection AF system with face detection - impressive back in 2012. Yet, contrast detection autofocus tends to be slower and less reliable at tracking moving subjects compared to phase detection systems. The K-01 lacks phase detection entirely.

Still, in static shooting scenarios - portraits, landscapes, and studio work - the AF is accurate and sufficient. It also offers continuous autofocus for video and live view, which helps in capturing smooth focusing transitions.

Sony H400

The H400 is more limited, using contrast detection AF with fewer focus points and no phase detection or advanced tracking features. It has face detection and center weighting, but autofocus speed is comparatively slow, and continuous AF for moving subjects is not supported.

This makes the H400 less suited to action, wildlife, or sports where fast, reliable focus is a must.

Image Stabilization and Handling Shakes

Both cameras incorporate image stabilization, but approaches differ.

• Pentax K-01: Sensor-shift stabilization embedded in the body allows stabilization with any Pentax K-mount lens mounted. This is a significant advantage for stills shooters who use manual focus lenses or legacy glass - an area where many mirrorless cameras struggle.
• Sony H400: Features optical lens-based stabilization, critical for keeping steady shots at extreme telephoto lengths (up to 1550mm). This makes handheld superzoom shots feasible, even though you still need a steady hand.

If you're planning low-light photography, macro, or telephoto handheld shooting, the Pentax’s in-body stabilization combined with faster AF will edge out over the Sony’s more limited optical system - but the H400’s zoom reach is unparalleled.

Video Capabilities: More Than Just Stills?

Video shooters may find both cameras limited but also surprisingly useful depending on needs.

• Pentax K-01: Full HD 1080p at 24/25/30fps, with manual exposure modes available during recording. External mic input is a plus, allowing better audio capture. Sensor-based stabilization supports smoother handheld footage.
• Sony H400: Also shoots video, but limited to 720p HD only. No manual focus during video recording and no continuous AF, so video quality and control are basic.

For anyone dabbling seriously in video, the Pentax is far better suited, while the Sony is more of a casual “grab-and-go” video shooter.

Specialties in Photography Types: Putting Them Through Their Paces

Portrait Photography

The Pentax K-01 shines thanks to its APS-C sensor, superior color reproduction, and especially skin tone rendering. The lens mount gives access to a wide range of prime lenses with beautifully rendered bokeh - a key ingredient for pleasing portraits. The K-01 also offers face detection and multi-area AF to facilitate focusing on eyes, which is handy although not as quick as some modern models.

The Sony H400 has a fixed lens with relatively small maximum apertures (F3.4-6.5), making depth-of-field control much trickier and less aesthetic background separation. Additionally, its small sensor limits dynamic range when capturing subtle skin tone variations.

Landscape Photography

Here, sensor technology dominates. The Pentax’s 16MP APS-C sensor plus RAW support unlocks tremendous editing latitude. Its respectable dynamic range helps retain detail in highlights and shadows, important for high-contrast scenes like sunrises or forests.

The Sony’s sensor size and JPEG-only shooting constrain creative control and image quality. However, the H400’s massive zoom is less relevant for landscapes unless you want to isolate distant features - something better achieved with tripod support.

Weather sealing is absent from both, so take care in inclement conditions.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

The Sony H400’s headline feature is its 63x optical zoom lens - reaching focal lengths up to 1550mm equivalent. This is phenomenal for wildlife or long-distance shooting, especially with no lens changes.

But the catch? Its slow autofocus and single frame per second burst rate make capturing animals in motion chancy.

The Pentax K-01 shoots at up to 6 fps but has no autofocus tracking capabilities, making fast subjects problematic. Its 1.5x crop factor means you get moderate telephoto reach with longer lenses, but additional teleconverters add cost and weight.

Overall, neither camera is a wildlife or sports powerhouse, but I’d lean toward the H400 for its zoom reach if stationary subjects predominate.

Street Photography

Street photography demands portability, discretion, and responsiveness.

The Pentax K-01 is compact but somewhat boxy and conspicuous due to its DSLR styling. Its relatively quiet shutter and silent live view focusing help somewhat with discretion.

The Sony H400’s bulk and pronounced zoom barrel make it less inconspicuous, but if you prefer superzoom versatility, it offers focal lengths from 25mm wide to extreme telephoto, covering all compositional needs without lens swapping.

Neither camera has an articulated screen or touchscreen, so framing can be less flexible.

Macro Photography

With its interchangeable lens system, the Pentax K-01 supports dedicated macro lenses (like the Pentax-D FA 100mm f/2.8 WR Macro) that provide superior magnification and sharpness. The in-body stabilization further helps achieve tack-sharp close-ups handheld.

The Sony’s fixed lens, while allowing reasonable close focusing, is limited in magnification and lacks focusing precision compared to dedicated macro lenses.

Night and Astrophotography

Here, sensor performance and stabilization count.

The K-01’s higher ISO capability and sensor-shift image stabilization make it a better candidate for night photography and star trails, especially with tripod support and long exposures.

The H400’s small sensor struggles more with noise at elevated ISOs, and limited shutter speed range caps long-exposure flexibility.

Workflow and Professional Requirements

File Formats and Processing

The Pentax outputs RAW (PEF/DNG) and JPEG, giving maximum post-processing control - essential for professional workflows.

The Sony H400 shoots JPEG only. No RAW means compromises for editing, making it less attractive for pros or serious enthusiasts.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Both cameras lack weather sealing, so handle with care outdoors or in challenging conditions.

The Pentax’s all-metal construction gives a more robust feel compared to the mostly plastic Sony body.

Battery Life and Storage

• Pentax K-01: Rated at around 540 shots per charge (CIPA), quite good for mirrorless, and stores on SD cards.
• Sony H400: Rated for about 300 shots, reflecting continuous LCD and EVF usage. It supports a wider range of media including Memory Stick PRO Duo, which is less common now.

Connectivity and Extras

Neither camera offers wireless connectivity - no Wi-Fi, NFC, or Bluetooth. They both have micro HDMI ports and USB 2.0. This may be a deciding factor if you want quick image sharing or remote control capabilities.

Price-to-Performance and Who Should Buy Which?

At their respective launch prices - $899 for the Pentax K-01 and $268 for the Sony H400 - the value proposition differs widely.

The K-01 commands a premium for its sensor quality, lens compatibility, and versatile controls. It suits enthusiasts ready to grow within the Pentax ecosystem and demand quality stills and decent video from a lightweight mirrorless system.

The H400 is a budget-friendly superzoom camera for casual users who prioritize reach and simplicity over image quality and manual control.

Summarizing Strengths and Weaknesses

Hands-On Recommendations by Photography Type

If You’re Into Portraits and Studio Work

Pentax K-01. A larger sensor, access to quality lenses, and better bokeh control make it the clear choice.

Landscape Photography Lovers Seeking Rich Files

Pentax K-01 wins hands-down with its sensor size and RAW support.

Wildlife and Birdwatchers on a Budget

If travel weight and cost are major limits and you want enormous reach, the Sony H400 is tempting, but prepare for compromises in autofocus and image quality.

High-Speed Action and Sports (Entry Level)

Neither camera is well optimized here; but slight edge to Pentax for faster continuous shooting and manual controls.

Street Photography

I’d lean toward the Pentax for its sharper image quality and relatively compact form, though neither is ideal.

Macro Enthusiasts

Pentax, with dedicated lenses and in-body stabilization, is your best bet.

Night and Astrophotography

Pentax’s sensor and longer shutter capability make it far better.

Casual Travelers Needing All-in-One Zoom

Sony H400’s superzoom “one lens fits all” is perfect if you want easy versatility with no fuss.

Conclusion: Two Cameras, Two Worlds

The Pentax K-01 is a serious camera disguised in an entry-level mirrorless body - with solid image quality and lens ecosystem, sensor-shift stabilization, and competent video, it appeals to those who prioritize quality over versatility.

The Sony H400, meanwhile, is a playful, affordable superzoom bridge camera, perfect for casual use where zoom range and simplicity outweigh image fidelity.

Both have their distinctive charm and limitations. Whichever you pick, understanding these trade-offs helps you make a choice that fits your photography style and budget.

Pentax K 01 front Pentax K 01 screen back Sony H400 front Sony H400 screen back

Dear readers, I’ve tested thousands of cameras over the years, and while the latest mirrorless giants often steal the spotlight, it’s enlightening to revisit cameras like these - each serving a niche with unique strengths. So, what matters most to you in a camera? Is it sensor size, zoom range, controls, or price? Hopefully, this comparison nails down those answers.

Happy shooting!