Best lenses for the Pentax KP
The KP 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.
Pair the KP 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.
| Category | Best | Budget 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 KP
Frequently asked questions
What is the best lens for the Pentax KP?
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 KP?
The KP 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 KP?
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 KP?
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.