PENTAX Q 06 TELEPHOTO ZOOM(3x zoom)
A review and sample photos using the “06 Telephoto Zoom” with the PENTAX Q7.
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Table of contents
Gallery
The example photos were taken with a Pentax Q7.
Review
1．Overview
The 06 Telephoto Zoom Lens for the Pentax Q has a focal length of 15-45mm, which translates to 83-248mm in 35mm format equivalents for the Q and Q10, and 69-207mm for the Q7 and Q-S1.
Because the Pentax Q series does not have a mechanical shutter on the camera itself, the four AF-compatible lenses, including this one, are equipped with a leaf shutter inside the small lens housing.
The maximum aperture is a respectable f/2.8 throughout the zoom range. Given the actual focal length of 15-45mm, it would be nice if this level of brightness could be maintained. Considering that the maximum aperture of the 02 Standard Zoom at 15mm is f/4.5, this lens is a great choice for telephoto shooters.
This lens has an ingenious design: a retractable barrel that shortens its overall length when retracted. When set to the minimum focal length of 15mm, the overall length extends by approximately 15mm. At this point, the lens locks in place with a slight resistance, and it transforms into an inner zoom lens whose overall length remains constant between 15mm and 45mm. Considering its low price, it uses a somewhat complicated mechanism, and I feel that it is a product that has been carefully designed.
2．Usability
The focus ring on the 06 telephoto zoom lens for the Pentax Q is narrower than the zoom ring, and the rotation feel is a bit stiff, but since this lens is designed for autofocus, this shouldn’t be a problem.
There’s not much difference in distortion between Raw and JPG, and the lens itself seems to correct it well. DNG seems to produce deeper colors, but JPG may be able to achieve the same with certain settings.
The minimum focusing distance is 1m throughout, which is quite poor for a lens with a maximum focal length of 45mm. I would have liked it to be able to focus up to around 0.5m.
Looking at my experience using this lens, as with any lens, the graininess typical of compact digital cameras can be noticeable at 1:1 magnification, but at around 1/2 reduction, the image appears to be fine. Regarding backlighting, even with the hood attached, noticeable ghosting occurs in harsh conditions where the sun is directly in front. Even when used with the Q7, which has a slightly larger sensor than the Q10, there is no light falloff in the corners, making this a lens that can be used with confidence.
The following lens options are available:
- PH-RBA40.5: Lens hood (compatible with Q7 and Q10)
- O-LC40.5: Front lens cap (40.5mm)
3．Summary
In conclusion, to sum up the 06 telephoto zoom lens for Pentax Q, this lens is also widely available and can be purchased inexpensively, and its intricate inner focusing gimmick makes it an interesting tool.
With a built-in leaf shutter and no rolling distortion, this is a lens that we recommend having in your arsenal along with the 02 standard zoom.
Specification
| Items | 01 | 02 | 06 | 08 |
| Focal length(mm) | 8.5 | 5〜15 | 15〜45 | 3.8～5.9 |
| Q10 35mm equivalent focal length | 47 | 27.5〜82.5 | 82.5〜247.5 | 21〜33 |
| Q7 35mm equivalent focal length | 39 | 23〜69 | 69〜207 | 17〜27 |
| Max aperture | 1.9 | 2.8〜4.5 | 2.8 | 3.7〜4 |
| Leaf blade | 5 | ← | ← | ← |
| Lens Construction | 8 elements in 5 groups | 8 elements in 7 groups | 14 elements in 10 groups | 8 elements in 7 groups |
| Min distance(m) | 0.2 | 0.3 | 1.0 | 0.25 |
| Lens length(mm) | 23 | 48 | 56 | 38 |
| Max diameter(mm) | 45.5 | 48.5 | 50 | 54 |
| Filter Size(mm) | 40.5 | ← | ← | 49 |
| Weight(g) | 37 | 96 | 90 | 75 |
| Release date | 2011.8.31 | ← | ← | 2013.12 |
Reference links
- 01 STANDARD PRIME Official page
- 02 STANDARD ZOOM Official page
- 06 TELEPHOTO ZOOM Official page
- 08 WIDE ZOOM Official page
Affiliate link
Update history
- 2025.8.24
- 2024.07.28