Pentax DA* 16-50mm f/2.8ED AL [IF] SDM Lens Review

Pentax DA* 16-50mm f/2.8ED AL [IF] SDM Handling and Features

The build quality of this lens is good with a metal lens bayonet and high quality plastics used for the construction of the lens barrel. A prominent gold ring around the lens barrel signifies this is one of Pentax's premium optics,and it sports a weather and dust resistant construction as a result. The lens isn't overly heavy for an optic with a constant f/2.8 aperture, weighing around 600g and it balances well with the Pentax K-5 IIs body used for testing.

Focusing is performed internally, so the lens barrel doesn't extend during focusing and the filter thread does not rotate. This makes it perfect for use with polarising and graduated filters. A petal-shaped hood is supplied with the lens that attaches to the front of the lens via a bayonet fitting.



The manual focusing ring doesn't rotate during auto-focus and manual adjustments can be applied at any time. Manual focusing action is quite gritty and not particularly well damped on the sample used for testing. This can make applying manual focus adjustments a little tricky, especially as there is quite a bit of play in the focus ring. Auto focus is powered by a silent motor in the lens, which is quick to lock onto subjects. The minimum focus distance of 30cm is fairly close for a lens of this type and it is close enough to pose no issues when shooting in claustrophobic environments.

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