Upgrade Guide

Pentax K-S1→Pentax K-70

Is it worth upgrading? Spec analysis, key improvements, and our verdict.

You own

Pentax

K-S1

£72 used

2014

→

Upgrade to

Pentax

K-70

£161 used (+£89)

2016

✅

Strong upgrade

The K-70 improves across 3 key areas at a reasonable price gap. Most K-S1 owners will notice the difference.

What's new in the K-70

Suitability by genre

Base scores — computed from verified specs for an enthusiast shooting photo and video. The Upgrade Checker adjusts them for your skill level.

Full spec comparison

Spec	K-S1	K-70
Price	£72 used	£161 used
Released	2014	2016	↑
Sensor	20.12MP APS-C CMOS	24.24MP APS-C CMOS
Resolution	20MP	24MP	↑
Video	Full HD 1080p/30	Full HD 1080/60i, 30p
Autofocus	SAFOX IX i+ phase-detect AF, 11 points (9 cross-type)	SAFOX X phase-detect AF, 11 points (9 cross-type); hybrid AF in live view
Stabilisation	Sensor-shift Shake Reduction	Sensor-shift Shake Reduction, 4.5 stops
Burst Rate	5.4fps	6fps	↑
Battery Life	~410 shots (CIPA)	~410 shots (CIPA)
Weight	558g (with battery)	688g (with battery)	↓
Weather Sealed	Not weather sealed	Yes	↑
Viewfinder	Pentaprism, ~100%, 0.95x	Pentaprism, ~100%, 0.95x
Screen	3.0" fixed LCD, 921k dots	3.0" vari-angle LCD, 921k dots
Mount	Pentax KAF2 (K-mount)	Pentax KAF2 (K-mount)
Memory Cards	Single SD slot	Single SD slot

Compare side-by-side

See K-S1 and K-70 next to each other with our interactive comparison tool.

Get a personalised upgrade score

Tell us what you shoot and we'll score the K-70 against your specific genres — not just specs.

Other upgrades from the K-S1

Related buying guides

Camera family history