Pentax K200D Digital Camera - Design continued
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First time users may find the K200D bulky or particularly heavy. The camera, which weighs 1.5 pounds once the batteries and card are installed, is heavier than most, as it outweighs the Canon XSi by almost half a pound and weighs nearly twice as much as the Olympus E420. Much of the weight can be attributed to AA power, but even without the cells installed, the new Pentax is still quite hefty. It's a robust camera meant for those serious about their craft, but it should be pointed out that if you're looking for something a little more compact or sleek, the K200D is probably not the best option.
The K200D is obviously borrowing many of its qualities from earlier versions of the model, like theK10Dfor example, which featured imaging technology, and theK100D, which featured an 11-point AF and in-camera image stabilization. The new Pentax K200D has those features, but there are also some very desirable design changes, like the addition of its rugged, stable and sealed body and larger LCD. The new design of the K200D is definitely a sizable leap for Pentax, but consumers will surely find it a leap in the right direction.
The control layout of the new Pentax K200D is exactly the same as the previously-mentioned Pentax models. A four-way controller setup allows users to access most functions, though the K200D keeps dedicated controls to a minimum, which means adjustments to parameters like AF and metering modes must be made via the main menu.
It also appears as if Pentax was looking to simplify the design of the new K200D. Gone is the front-side control wheel that was present on the K10. The new K200D requires all scroll adjustments to be made via the single wheel on the back of the body. If you use the camera in manual mode, the exposure compensation button must be made via the single wheel as well.
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