The Pentax HD DA 40mm F2.8 Limited ($399.95) is an update to one of the standout lenses for the Pentax camera system. It offers an improved lens coating and rounded aperture blades, both missing from the older SMC version, but retains its incredibly compact form factor and top-notch image quality. It's seen a significant price cut since it was first released, which certainly makes it an appealing choice for any Pentax shooter in want of a compact prime lens for an APS-C SLR. If you're a bargain shopper and don't mind a funky design, the Mark Newson Pentax DA 40mm F2.8 XS ($249.95) bundled with the K-01 is no longer in production, but still available at retail. Our Editors' Choice for this focal length is the SMC FA 43mm f/1.9 Limited, which is a full f-stop faster, sharp in its own right, and just a bit larger. DesignThe 40mm($396.95 at Amazon) is really, really small. It measures just 0.6 by 2.5 inches (HD) and weighs a mere 3.1 ounces. The included metal lens hood doesn't add m...
The slim Pentax HD DA 40mm F2.8 Limited is one of the smallest lenses you'll find, and it doesn't skimp on image quality to get there.
Super small; Very sharp; Quick shift focus system
Omits weather sealing; Lens cap is easily lost