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HD Pentax-DA* 16-50mm F2.8 ED PLM AW

  • 16-50mm
  • f/2.8
  • Zoom
  • 712 g
  • Min focus 0.3 m
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Quick answer

A constant f/2.8 standard zoom for Pentax APS-C bodies, with a PLM motor and all-weather construction. It weighs about 712 g and takes 77mm filters.

Pros

  • Constant f/2.8
  • PLM autofocus
  • All-weather build
  • 77mm filters

Cons

  • APS-C only
  • Heavier than the older DA* 16-50
  • No lens stabilization

Verdict

A premium standard zoom for Pentax crop bodies.

About this lens

Pentax HD Pentax-DA* 16-50mm F2.8 ED PLM AW: a fast standard zoom lens with a 16-50mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/2.8, made for Pentax K mount cameras, with extra-low dispersion glass. A premium weather-resistant "Star" series lens for Pentax K-mount cameras.

Pentax HD Pentax-DA* 16-50mm F2.8 ED PLM AW specifications

Brand
Pentax
Mount
Pentax K
Focal length
16-50mm
Maximum aperture
f/2.8
Lens type
Zoom
Format coverage
aps-c
Minimum focus distance
0.3 m
Filter thread
77 mm
Weight
712 g
Length
117 mm
Diameter
84 mm

Specification source: wikidata.org

What can you shoot with the Pentax HD Pentax-DA* 16-50mm F2.8 ED PLM AW?

  • Events and weddings on APS-C
  • General professional work
  • Outdoor shooting

Its bright maximum aperture handles indoor and evening light reasonably well.

Full-frame equivalent and field of view

Calculated from the focal length and crop factor. Not measured.

Sensor Crop Equivalent Horizontal FOV Diagonal FOV
APS-C 1.5x 24–75mm 27–73.7° 32.2–84.1°

Try the field-of-view calculator

Frequently asked questions

What changed from the older smc DA* 16-50mm f/2.8?

The new version has a quieter PLM motor and updated coatings, and replaces the SDM motor that was prone to failure.

What filter size does it use?

It takes 77mm filters. Buy that size and they mount directly with no step ring.

How close can it focus?

Minimum focus is 0.3 m. That is close enough to place a foreground subject against a wide background.

Alternatives for Pentax K from other brands

All Pentax K lenses

Same mount, overlapping focal range, closest maximum aperture first.

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Cameras that fit the Pentax K mount

All Pentax K cameras (20)