Lens guide · updated 5 November 2026

Best lenses for the Pentax K-70

The K-70 uses the Pentax K mount with an APS-C sensor (1.5× crop). We picked the best lens in each category from 13 native lenses, plus a cheaper alternative where one is worth having.

K-70 specs
Where to start

Pair the K-70 with the Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM and add the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art for low light and portraits. When you need reach, the Pentax HD DA 55-300mm f/4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE.

CategoryBestBudget pick
Standard zoom
Your everyday lens, from wide to short telephoto.
Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM (26-75mm eq · £349 new)—
Telephoto zoom
For sport, events, wildlife at a distance and compressed portraits.
Pentax HD D FA 70-210mm f/4 ED SDM WR (105-315mm eq · £1,099 new)Pentax HD DA 55-300mm f/4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE (83-450mm eq · £210 used)
Wide-angle
For landscapes, architecture, interiors and the night sky.
Pentax HD DA 11-18mm f/2.8 ED DC AW (17-27mm eq · £660 used)—
Portrait prime
Flattering perspective and blurred backgrounds.
Pentax HD D FA* 50mm f/1.4 SDM AW (75mm eq · £400 used)Pentax HD FA 50mm f/1.8 (75mm eq · £199 new)
Fast standard prime
Small, bright and cheap: the best first upgrade from a kit zoom.
Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art (53mm eq · £410 used)—
All-in-one travel zoom
One lens for everything when you don't want to swap.
Pentax HD DA 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6 ED DC WR (24-128mm eq · £290 used)—
Super-telephoto
For birds, wildlife and motorsport.
Pentax HD D FA 150-450mm f/4.5-5.6 ED DC AW (225-675mm eq · £1,110 used)—

Prices: MPB used where listed for Pentax K, otherwise typical new UK price (5 November 2026). Equivalent focal lengths account for the sensor size.

More for the K-70

Frequently asked questions

What is the best lens for the Pentax K-70?

For most people, a standard zoom such as the Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM, plus a fast prime like the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art.

What lenses fit the Pentax K-70?

The K-70 uses the Pentax K mount. Our database lists 13 lenses that fit natively. Because of the 1.5× crop factor, a 50mm lens frames like a 75mm lens on full frame.

Is the kit lens good enough for the K-70?

Kit zooms are fine to start with. The biggest improvement usually comes from a brighter prime for low light and portraits, or a better standard zoom.

What telephoto lens should I get for the K-70?

The Pentax HD D FA 70-210mm f/4 ED SDM WR is our top telephoto pick; the Pentax HD DA 55-300mm f/4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE is the budget choice.