Large-aperture, optical 4X zoom lens

The PENTAX MX-1 features an optical four-times zoom lens offering a large maximum aperture of F1.8 to F2.5 and a 28mm wide-angle coverage (in the 35mm format). Because the camera's high performance assures sharp, well-defined images even when the zoom lens is set at maximum aperture and the widest angle of view, the photographer can use faster shutter speeds in dimly lit locations and take advantage of a beautiful bokeh (out-of-focus) effect in the background. The MX-1 also provides a 1cm Macro mode to capture dramatic close-up images of a subject from just one centimetre away, and an Intelligent Zoom function to extend the zoom coverage up to approximately 7.8 times (for a focal length of approximately 218mm in the 35mm format) without compromising image quality.

Back-illuminated CMOS image sensor

The MX-1 incorporates a newly designed back-illuminated CMOS image sensor. With a top sensitivity of ISO 12800 and approximately 12.0 effective megapixels, it boasts remarkable high-sensitivity, low-noise characteristics and assures high-speed image data readout to deliver super-high-resolution images. The MX-1 also features a state-of-the-art imaging engine. Supported by the latest Super Resolution technology, this engine offers outstanding image-processing performance to produce clear, high-quality images with well-defined details. In addition, its unique Handheld Night snap mode helps the photographer capture blur-free night-time images by taking multiple images at one time, then synthesizing them into a single composite picture.

Classic design reminiscent of film cameras

With its textured-rubber grip, and brass top and bottom panels that develop a distinctive appearance after years of use, the MX-1 offers a classic design reminiscent of traditional film cameras. It also features a number of metallic parts, including the lens ring, to complete the tasteful, high-class finish.

In-body RAW data development & dedicated exposure compensation dial

Thanks to a dedicated exposure compensation dial, the MX-1 assures user-friendly, direct-access shift of the exposure compensation setting without the need to recall the menu screen. It also features a mode dial for swift, effortless setting of 10 different shooting modes — ranging from the hands-off Auto Picture and the all-purpose Programmed AE, to the more creative Aperture-priority AE, Shutter-priority AE and Metered Manual. As the result, the photographer is assured of outstanding creative freedom to choose the most appropriate shooting mode for a particular scene or subject without delay. What's more, the MX-1 comes equipped with a host of SLR-standard features to optimize its operability, including advanced UI (user interface) functions, easy-to-access controls and in-body RAW data development.

Dual shake-reduction system to assure sharp, blur-free images

The MX-1's dual shake-reduction system couples the PENTAX-developed sensor-shift-type SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism with a digital SR mode to more effectively compensate for annoying camera shake. This hybrid system assures the photographer of sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting conditions prone to camera shake, such as when using a telephoto lens, shooting with incidental light only in poorly lit locations, or photographing sunset scenes.

Large, tilt-able LCD monitor

The MX-1 comes equipped with a large 3.0-inch, high-definition LCD monitor with approximately 920,000 dots. Its tilt-able design allows the photographer to adjust the monitor up and down and set it at the angle easiest for viewing. It also provides a clear view of images and menus displayed on the screen to assure a quick, effortless check of recorded images and swift, error-free setting changes.

Full HD-standard movie recording

Since the MX-1 features the Full HD movie recording function employing the H.264 recording format, the user can capture high-quality, extended movie clips (with 1920 x 1080 pixels, at a 16:9 aspect ratio, and at a frame rate of 30 frames per second). It provides a dedicated movie recording button on its top panel to instantly start recording a movie from any shooting mode. It even offers creative movie capture mode — including a High-speed Movie mode* for slow-motion playback and a Time-lapse Movie mode* for fast-forward playback — to make movie viewing more fun and exciting. A micro-HDMI terminal (Type D) is also provided on the camera body for the output of recorded movies and sound to external devices.
* In these modes, the recorded size is fixed at VGA dimensions (640 x 480 pixels).

Other features

1. Pop-up auto flash
2. Remote control sensors on front and back panels
3. Dual-axial digital level for accurate horizontal and vertical alignment
4. 15 digital filters, including Miniature and Toy Camera, to add creative touches to captured images
5. A range of creative image-processing tools including Stretch and Small Face filters and Collage function
6. A choice of four aspect ratios (4:3, 16:9. 3:2, 1:1) to accommodate specific applications
7. SILKYPIX Developer Studio 3.0 LE for PENTAX RICOH IMAGING RAW data development software (designed by Ichikawa Soft Laboratory) included, in addition to in-body RAW data development
8. Compatibility with Eye-Fi wireless LAN SD memory cards

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♦This product supports PRINT Image Matching III. PRINT Image Matching enabled digital still cameras, printers and software help photographers to produce images more faithful to their intentions. Some functions are not available on printers that are not PRINT Image Matching III compliant.
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♦Design and Specifications are subject to change without notice.