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

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

This lens has a lot going for it, including the silent focusing, weather and dust resistant construction and the constant f/2.8 maximum aperture. It performs really well when stopped down too. Unfortunately, the sharpness delivered at maximum aperture towards the edges of the frame falls short of what you may expect from a premium lens from a camera manufacturer. If, however, you only tend to place your subject in the centre of the frame, this may not affect your photography, unfortunately, for many, this isn't the case.

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

Very good sharpness when stopped down
Weather and dust resistant construction
Good build quality
Silent focusing
Full time manual focus override
Constant f/2.8 aperture

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

Performance towards edges of the frame at maximum aperture
High CA levels at 16mm
Gritty and poorly damped manual focusing ring

FEATURES
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