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Pentax

Pentax smc DA★ 16-50mm f/2.8 ED AL [IF] SDM

The original Star-series constant-f/2.8 standard zoom for APS-C (24-76mm equivalent), with SDM ultrasonic focusing and weather sealing. Replaced by the PLM version in 2021 and known for SDM motor wear with age.

Starting from
£999 new
Available at 2 retailers
Check price at Clifton Cameras
✓ Available at 2 retailers 🔒 No signup needed 📦 UK stock only
RetailerPrice
Clifton Cameras
Clifton Cameras
£999
Check on Clifton Cameras →
Amazon
Amazon
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Prices are synced live from UK retailers. Not every product will be stocked by every retailer; older models may only be available second hand.
Core
Released
2007
Focal Length
16–50mm
Aperture
f/2.8
Compatible Mount
Pentax K-mount
Filter Size
77mm
Dimensions
84mm diameter × 98.5mm length
Weight
565g
Weather Sealed
Yes
Optics & Focus
AF Motor
SDM ultrasonic motor
Optical IS
None (relies on body IS if available)
Aperture Blades
9
Magnification
0.21x
Min. Focus Distance
0.3m

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GearScore™ — Suitability by Genre

Base score — computed from verified specs for an enthusiast shooting photo and video. Camera Match adjusts it for your skill level and priorities.

Portrait
6.6
Street
6.1
Travel
6.7
Wedding & Events
7.8
Vlogging & Video
5.2
Filmmaking
5.7
Documentary
6.2
Landscape
8.0
Casual
6.4
Food
5.5
Architecture
7.6
Astrophotography
7.0
Underwater
6.9
✅ Great For
🌄
Landscape 8.0 Strong on optical quality, focal length and weather sealing.
💍
Wedding & Events 7.8 Strong on focal length, optical quality and weather sealing.
🏛️
Architecture 7.6 Strong on optical quality, focal length and filter compatibility.
⚠️ Not Ideal For
📱
Vlogging & Video 5.2 Held back by video handling and optical stabilisation.
📝 How suitability scores are calculated GearScore™ genre scores are calculated from this camera's verified specifications — autofocus, sensor, weight, weather sealing and more — weighted by what matters for each type of photography. Where a spec sheet misses something (e.g. a manual-focus rangefinder for street), we apply a documented editorial adjustment. Scores are not based on customer reviews. See our full methodology →
Price History — smc DA★ 16-50mm f/2.8 ED AL [IF] SDM