Skip to main content
prime35mmvintage

SMC Pentax-A 50mm f/1.7

Pentax · 1984-1989

The A-series standard lens with program mode compatibility. Features 'A' aperture setting for automatic exposure control. Same excellent optics as the M version in a lighter package.

Known for

  • General photography
  • Program mode use
  • Compact kit
  • Beginners

Considerations

  • Some plastic construction
  • 6 aperture blades

Optical Characteristics

Sharpness (wide)
4/5
Sharpness (stopped)
5/5
Contrast
5/5
Flare Resistance
5/5
CA Control
4/5
Vignetting Control
4/5
Distortion Control
5/5

Bokeh: Pleasant rendering

Rendering: Classic Pentax character

Color: Neutral

Common Issues

  • Plastic aperture ring wear
  • Focus ring stiffness

Buying Guide

Very common and affordable. Check aperture ring operation. Good kit lens upgrade.

Specifications

MountPentax K
Focal Length50mm
Max Aperturef/1.7
Min Aperturef/22
Aperture Blades6
Min Focus0.45m
Filter Size49mm
Weight165g

Optical Design

FormulaDouble Gauss
Elements6
Groups5
CoatingSMC (Pentax)

Pricing

£25 - £55

Typical used price

Mint: ~£80

Budget-friendly A-series

Adapts To

Sony EFujifilm XCanon RFMicro Four Thirds

Find This Lens

Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error
Support