Clicky

Pentax P70 vs Pentax ist DS2

Portability
95
Imaging
34
Features
20
Overall
28
Pentax Optio P70 front
 
Pentax ist DS2 front
Portability
68
Imaging
44
Features
33
Overall
39

Pentax P70 vs Pentax ist DS2 Key Specs

Pentax P70
(Full Review)
  • 12MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 2.7" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 64 - 6400
  • 1280 x 720 video
  • 28-110mm (F2.8-5.0) lens
  • 155g - 97 x 54 x 22mm
  • Revealed March 2009
Pentax ist DS2
(Full Review)
  • 6MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 2.5" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 200 - 3200
  • Pentax KAF Mount
  • 605g - 125 x 93 x 66mm
  • Introduced August 2005
Samsung Releases Faster Versions of EVO MicroSD Cards

Pentax P70 vs. Pentax ist DS2: A Deep Dive into Two Different Worlds of Photography

When exploring cameras from Pentax, you'll find a broad spectrum of devices tailored to distinct types of users and photography styles. Today, we'll take a comprehensive look at two very different cameras: the Pentax P70, an ultracompact point-and-shoot from 2009, and the Pentax ist DS2, a mid-size DSLR introduced in 2005. Through detailed technical analysis and practical real-world testing, we'll help you understand which camera suits your creative needs and shooting preferences.

Whether you’re contemplating an upgrade from casual snapshots to serious DSLR work, or just curious about how these two models compare across genres, this article offers an expert evaluation based on extensive hands-on experience.

Pentax P70 vs Pentax ist DS2 size comparison

Welcome to Two Different Eras: Form Factor and Handling

Right off the bat, the Pentax P70 and Pentax ist DS2 present contrasting physical designs, catering to vastly different photography styles and user expectations.

  • Pentax P70: This ultracompact camera weighs just 155g and measures a slender 97x54x22mm. Its pocketable size and light footprint make it an ideal grab-and-go camera for casual shooting, travel, or everyday moments. The ergonomics are minimal, with limited physical controls, fitting the point-and-shoot mold.

  • Pentax ist DS2: In contrast, the ist DS2 is a substantial DSLR body weighing 605g with dimensions of 125x93x66mm. This camera demands a more engaged shooting style, with a comfortable grip, plentiful buttons, and a solid build that supports interchangeable lenses. Its presence implies dedication to manual settings, extended control, and professional work.

The discrepancy in size and ergonomics impacts not only handling but also your photographic approach. The P70 encourages spontaneity and ease of use, while the ist DS2 invites you to explore photographic fundamentals and creative control more deeply.

Reading the Controls: Top Layout and Interface Differences

Understanding how each camera communicates with you during shooting is crucial for efficiency and creative flow.

Pentax P70 vs Pentax ist DS2 top view buttons comparison

  • The Pentax P70 features a simplified control scheme with minimal buttons and no exposure mode dials. The absence of dedicated manual or priority modes means you rely mostly on full-auto or preset scene modes.

  • The Pentax ist DS2 has a traditional DSLR layout with shutter speed, aperture, and exposure compensation controls easily accessible. It supports shutter priority, aperture priority, and full manual exposure - a boon for photographers who want fine-tuned creative input.

This hands-on control distinction shapes the photographic experience: the P70 allows you to keep shooting simple, whereas the ist DS2 invites deliberation and experimentation.

Sensor Size and Image Quality: CCD Technology in Different Bodies

The sensor is the heart of image quality, and here the two cameras differentiate themselves clearly:

Pentax P70 vs Pentax ist DS2 sensor size comparison

Specification Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Sensor Type CCD CCD
Sensor Size 1/2.3" (6.17 x 4.55 mm) APS-C (23.5 x 15.7 mm)
Sensor Area (mm²) 28.07 368.95
Sensor Resolution 12 MP 6 MP
Max Native ISO 6400 3200
Raw Format Support No Yes
Aspect Ratio 4:3 3:2
  • Pentax P70: The 1/2.3” sensor is typical for ultracompacts with decent resolution at 12 MP. While the higher pixel count suggests fine details, the small sensor size limits dynamic range and noise performance, especially in low light. JPEG-only support restricts post-processing flexibility.

  • Pentax ist DS2: The APS-C sensor is significantly larger, roughly 13x the surface area of the P70’s sensor, delivering superior image quality, improved low-light capabilities, and richer tonal gradation. Although the resolution is lower at 6 MP, the larger pixels typically translate to better signal-to-noise ratio. Raw support unlocks full creative control during editing.

This fundamental difference means the ist DS2 is more suitable for serious photography where image quality is paramount, while the P70 trades quality for convenience.

LCD Screens and Live View: Monitoring Your Shot

Let’s discuss how each camera handles framing and reviewing your images.

Pentax P70 vs Pentax ist DS2 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

  • Pentax P70: Equipped with a 2.7-inch fixed, non-touch, low-resolution 230k-dot LCD screen and supports live view focusing with contrast-detection autofocus.

  • Pentax ist DS2: Boasts a slightly smaller 2.5-inch, 210k-dot fixed LCD. It lacks live view and touchscreen capabilities, adhering to the more traditional DSLR optical viewfinder shooting style.

The P70’s live view mode is helpful for composing in awkward positions but is limited by the screen's modest resolution. The ist DS2 relies on its optical pentaprism viewfinder for accurate framing, preferred by many professionals for real-time preview without lag.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Flexibility

Focusing performance profoundly impacts the usability and outcome in dynamic shooting environments.

Feature Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Autofocus Type Contrast-detection (Live View) Phase-detection (DSLR)
Number of Focus Points 9 (CCD-based, no face detection) 11 (various modes, selectivity)
AF Modes Single AF only Single AF, Continuous AF, Selective AF
Face/ Eye Detection No No
  • The Pentax P70’s autofocus works adequately in good light for casual subjects but lacks continuous tracking or advanced focus area selection, limiting utility for moving subjects.

  • The Pentax ist DS2 benefits from a dedicated phase-detection autofocus system offering faster, more reliable focusing and continuous AF mode for moving subjects - critical for sports, wildlife, and action shooting.

Zoom Lens and Lens Ecosystem: Fixed vs. Interchangeable

Your choice of lens impacts creativity and optical performance considerably.

  • Pentax P70: Comes with a fixed 28-110mm equivalent zoom lens (3.9x optical zoom) with a maximum aperture range of f/2.8-5.0. While versatile for snapshots and travel, the limited zoom and aperture range restrict low-light and creative depth of field control.

  • Pentax ist DS2: Uses the Pentax KAF mount with access to over 150 compatible lenses, including fast primes, telephotos, macros, and specialized optics. This expansive ecosystem empowers you to tailor your gear exactly to your photography niche and style.

For example, portrait shooters can select bright f/1.4–f/1.8 lenses for shallow depth of field; wildlife photographers can equip powerful telephotos with image stabilization features unavailable on fixed lens compacts.

Performance Across Popular Photography Genres

Let’s explore how each camera adapts to various shooting scenarios.

Portrait Photography

Criterion Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Skin Tone Rendering Average, automatic jpeg processing Natural, customizable with raw files
Bokeh Quality Limited by small sensor and variable aperture Excellent with fast lenses and APS-C sensor
Eye Detection No No

Summary: The ist DS2 excels in portraits due to its larger sensor, raw support, and interchangeable fast lenses, creating more flattering tones and creamy backgrounds. The P70 delivers only basic snapshots with average bokeh.

Landscape Photography

Criterion Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Dynamic Range Narrow due to small sensor and jpeg-only Improved due to larger sensor and raw
Resolution 12MP, reasonable for prints up to A4 6MP but with high image quality
Weather/Environmental Protection None None

Summary: Landscapes demand detail and tonal nuance, where the ist DS2 is superior despite fewer megapixels - larger pixels, RAW files, and lens choices for wide-angle make it preferable.

Wildlife Photography

Criterion Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Autofocus Speed Moderate, contrast detection Fast phase detection with continuous AF
Telephoto Capability Limited 110mm max zoom equivalent Supports long telephoto lenses (e.g., 150-300mm)
Burst Rate Not applicable 3 fps, modest but workable for casual action shots

Summary: Wildlife shooters will find the ist DS2 markedly better focused and telephoto-ready, though its moderate burst speed makes it less suited to rapid action capture than modern DSLRs.

Sports Photography

Criterion Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Tracking Accuracy None Continuous AF but no advanced tracking algorithms
Low Light Performance Limited (ISO 6400 max, high noise level) Better ISO performance up to 3200 (more usable noise)
Frame Rates N/A 3 fps

Summary: The ist DS2 holds a practical edge for amateur sports photography yet is outclassed by modern cameras with higher frame rates and advanced AF.

Street Photography

Criterion Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Discreteness Small, discreet, lightweight Larger, more conspicuous
Low Light Limited ISO performance Better sensor helps but noisy at high ISO
Portability Exceptional Moderate

Summary: Street photographers seeking stealth and portability may appreciate the P70’s slim design and quick readiness, but will sacrifice image control and low light capacity.

Macro Photography

Criterion Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Magnification Close focusing at 10 cm Dependent on lens; with macro lenses, excellent
Focusing Precision Basic autofocus Advanced phase detection benefits manual focus

Summary: The ist DS2 combined with dedicated macro lenses wins easily here; P70’s limited macro capabilities suit casual close-ups only.

Night & Astro Photography

Criterion Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Maximum ISO 6400, but noisy and low-quality images 3200, better noise control
Exposure Modes No manual exposure control Full manual control

Summary: The ist DS2’s ability to manually expose combined with better sensor size and raw shooting make it the reliable choice for night and astro work.

Video Capabilities

Criterion Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Max Resolution 720p @ 15fps (Motion JPEG) No video recording
Stabilization None N/A
Audio Input Ports None N/A

Summary: The P70 offers basic HD video functions; the ist DS2 lacks video capabilities altogether, representing its DSLR era design.

Travel Photography

Criterion Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Versatility Good zoom and portability Lens interchangeability, full control
Battery Life Unspecified, likely less due to size Uses 4 x AA, replaceable anywhere
Size and Weight Ultra-light and compact Bulkier but robust

Summary: For lightweight travel snapshots, the P70 is excellent; the ist DS2 suits travel photographers prioritizing quality and creative control with heavier setups.

Professional Workflows

Criterion Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Reliability Consumer grade, limited durability Professional APS-C DSLR robustness
File Formats JPEG only RAW and JPEG support
Workflow Integration Basic USB 2.0 image transfer USB 1.0, but with specialized software support

Summary: Professionals demanding flexible workflows will prefer the ist DS2 for its raw files and DSLR reliability. The P70 is an entry-level snapshot tool without professional utility.

Above, sample images highlight differences in sharpness, color accuracy, and dynamic range - notice the richer tones and detail in the ist DS2 photo next to the oversaturated compact camera results from the P70.

Build, Weather Sealing, and Durability

Neither camera features environmental sealing, weatherproofing, dustproofing, shockproofing, or freezeproof capabilities. The ist DS2’s DSLR body construction feels sturdier overall, which should translate to better longevity with careful use. The P70’s plastic ultracompact shell is less robust but excellent for careful travel or casual use.

Connectivity, Storage, and Power

Feature Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Wireless Connectivity None None
Bluetooth/NFC No No
HDMI Yes No
USB USB 2.0 USB 1.0
Storage SD/SDHC + Internal SD/MMC
Battery Model unspecified 4 x AA batteries

The P70 edges out slightly in modern interface with HDMI and faster USB. Use of AA batteries by ist DS2, while bulkier, provides convenient worldwide replacements. Lack of wireless options in both limits remote control and instant sharing.

Summing It Up: Scores and Value Assessment

Category Pentax P70 Pentax ist DS2
Image Quality Basic Advanced
Handling & Ergonomics Excellent portability Comfortable DSLR grip
Autofocus Basic Superior
Lens Flexibility Fixed lens Wide mount options
Features Limited Comprehensive
Value Affordable ~$200 Discontinued used purchases may vary

The data above echoes the narrative: the ist DS2 dominates in technically demanding genres like portrait, landscape, macro, and night photography. The P70 shines in street and travel photography where portability, ease, and quick snaps matter most.

Final Recommendations: Who Should Choose Which?

  • Choose the Pentax P70 if:

    • You want a simple, pocketable camera for everyday snapshots.
    • Video recording (basic HD) is required.
    • You prioritize lightweight travel gear.
    • You are a beginner or casual user seeking quick results.
    • Budget is limited (~$200 new or used).
  • Choose the Pentax ist DS2 if:

    • You want a solid entry-level DSLR for learning classic photography.
    • Image quality and camera control are non-negotiable.
    • You plan to invest in interchangeable lenses.
    • Professional or semi-professional work with RAW workflow appeals.
    • You shoot portraits, landscapes, macros, or night scenes regularly.

Getting Started and Finding Accessories

For the Pentax P70, consider good quality SD cards and a compact camera pouch. Getting familiar with its menu settings will improve your shooting in auto modes.

For the Pentax ist DS2, invest time in understanding exposure modes, and explore Pentax’s K mount lens range. A sturdy camera bag, spare AA batteries, and a lens cleaning kit will support your growing photography ambitions.

Closing Thoughts: Let Your Creativity Lead

Both cameras serve photography enthusiasts but offer fundamentally different experiences. The Pentax P70 liberates you from complexity with instant usability, while the Pentax ist DS2 rewards your engagement with superior image quality and creative control.

When selecting your tool, consider your photographic goals, desired learning curve, and where you envision your photography journey going. Test both in-person if possible, and remember: the best camera is the one that inspires you to pick it up and create.

Happy shooting!

Pentax P70 vs Pentax ist DS2 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Pentax P70 and Pentax ist DS2
 Pentax Optio P70Pentax ist DS2
General Information
Make Pentax Pentax
Model type Pentax Optio P70 Pentax ist DS2
Category Ultracompact Advanced DSLR
Revealed 2009-03-02 2005-08-22
Body design Ultracompact Mid-size SLR
Sensor Information
Sensor type CCD CCD
Sensor size 1/2.3" APS-C
Sensor dimensions 6.17 x 4.55mm 23.5 x 15.7mm
Sensor area 28.1mm² 369.0mm²
Sensor resolution 12 megapixel 6 megapixel
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio - 3:2
Max resolution 4000 x 3000 3008 x 2008
Max native ISO 6400 3200
Lowest native ISO 64 200
RAW files
Autofocusing
Focus manually
AF touch
Continuous AF
AF single
AF tracking
Selective AF
Center weighted AF
AF multi area
AF live view
Face detection AF
Contract detection AF
Phase detection AF
Total focus points 9 11
Lens
Lens mount type fixed lens Pentax KAF
Lens zoom range 28-110mm (3.9x) -
Maximum aperture f/2.8-5.0 -
Macro focusing range 10cm -
Number of lenses - 151
Focal length multiplier 5.8 1.5
Screen
Screen type Fixed Type Fixed Type
Screen diagonal 2.7 inch 2.5 inch
Screen resolution 230 thousand dot 210 thousand dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch screen
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type None Optical
Viewfinder coverage - 95%
Viewfinder magnification - 0.64x
Features
Minimum shutter speed 4 seconds 30 seconds
Fastest shutter speed 1/1000 seconds 1/4000 seconds
Continuous shutter speed - 3.0 frames/s
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation - Yes
Change WB
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash distance 4.60 m -
Flash modes - Auto, On, Off, Red-eye reduction
Hot shoe
Auto exposure bracketing
White balance bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Video resolutions 1280 x 720 (15 fps), 848 x 480 (15 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps) -
Max video resolution 1280x720 -
Video file format Motion JPEG -
Mic jack
Headphone jack
Connectivity
Wireless None No
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 1.0 (1.5 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environmental seal
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 155 gr (0.34 lbs) 605 gr (1.33 lbs)
Physical dimensions 97 x 54 x 22mm (3.8" x 2.1" x 0.9") 125 x 93 x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6")
DXO scores
DXO Overall rating not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth rating not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested not tested
DXO Low light rating not tested not tested
Other
Battery ID - 4 x AA
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 sec) Yes (2 or 12 sec)
Time lapse feature
Type of storage SD/SDHC, Internal SD/MMC card
Storage slots One One
Launch price $200 -