Digital Cameras Ratings: Pentax DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED Lens for Pentax and Samsung Digital SLR Cameras Review

Average Reviews:
4.6 out of 5 stars

(More customer reviews)I got this in the hopes of replacing both a Pentax 50-200 and a Sigma 70-300. Luckily, the image quality seems to be an improvement over both, though they were acceptable on their own. This lens is just a bit smaller than the Sigma, though not close to the small size of the 50-200.

The Pentax 55-300 does not have a quasi "macro" mode as do some other xx-300's including the Sigma, and the closest focusing distance is 4.67ft (1.4m) which is not particularly close, either.

As seems standard with Pentax, the lens hood has a hatch to allow turning a polarizer filter, and the "Quick Focus" ring allows manual focus to fine-tune the auto-focus when the shutter is still half-pressed.

Not particularly a fast focuser, it can hunt in low-contrast situations and when going from very close to very far, or occasionally lock up. The variable f4-5.8 speed is not great for low light but is is OK in most daylight circumstances and helps to keep the cost and size down.

Comes with front and rear caps, a black nylon pouch with no strap or loop, and a manual.

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Product Description:
The versatile Pentax DA 55-300mm zoom lens offers a focal length equivalent of 82.5 to 450mm in the 35mm format, making it ideal for moderate to long sports and wildlife shots. The lens is outfitted with multiple ED glass elements, which are designed to minimize chromatic aberration and makes images look crisper and sharper than ever before. The Pentax Super Protective coating, meanwhile, protects the exposed lens elements against dirt and contamination. Other features include a focusing ring that permits easy manual focusing, a 4.6-foot close focusing distance, and a 58mm filter diameter. Specially adapted for high-quality Pentax and Samsung digital SLR cameras, the lens carries a one-year warranty.
Specifications