Sample Images

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Make PENTAX Corporation Model PENTAX K10D ISO Speed 100 Focal Length 21.0mm Exposure Data: f/3.2 @ 1/200s Size 2592x3872	Make PENTAX Corporation Model PENTAX K10D ISO Speed 100 Focal Length 21.0mm Exposure Data: f/4.5 @ 1/30s Size 2592x3872
Make PENTAX Corporation Model PENTAX K10D ISO Speed 100 Focal Length 21.0mm Exposure Data: f/5.6 @ 1/250s Size 3872x2592	Make PENTAX Corporation Model PENTAX K10D ISO Speed 100 Focal Length 21.0mm Exposure Data: f/8.0 @ 1/250s Size 3872x2592

Verdict

The Pentax SMC-DA 21mm f/3.2 AL Limited is a very good lens but it is not as special as its longer cousins (specifically the Pentax FA 31mm f/1.8 Limited) nor is this really possible because of the increasing design problems when pushing things towards wide and ultra-wide angles. The center performance is exceptionally high whereas the borders require f/5.6 to achieve very good levels. The amount of barrel distortions and vignetting are Ok but nothing to rave about for a new fix-focal lens. CAs are quite well controlled. The coolest aspects of the lens are naturally the extremely small size, the very low weight and a relatively moderate price tag of around 450€/US$. Combined with the "longer" pancakes lenses, the DA 40mm f/2.8 Limited and DA 70mm f/2.4 Limited, you'd have a complete yet very unobtrusive fix-focal lens setup for street photography. Optical Quality: Mechanical Quality: Price/Performance: