To compare noise levels under real-life conditions we shot this scene using the Pentax K10D, Canon 400D / XTi and Nikon D80 at each ISO and their best quality JPEG settings.

To reflect typical usage, each camera was fitted with its most common kit lens option, respectively: the Pentax DA 18-55mm, Canon EF-S 18-55mm and Nikkor DX 18-135mm.

The image above was taken with the Pentax K10D at 26mm f8, with a sensitivity of 100 ISO; the original *** JPEG measured 3.04MB; the Canon 400D / XTi and Nikon D80 images were taken with matching exposures and their 100 ISO samples measured 3.81 and 4.51MB respectively. The crops are taken from an area just below and to the left of the centre.

The Pentax K10D performs very well in this test, delivering detailed results with low noise from 100 to 400 ISO. At 800 ISO, some texture from noise and noise reduction becomes apparent, although the biggest drop is at 1600 ISO - the highest sensitivity of the K10D - which you should only ideally use for smaller prints. Unusually for a camera of its class, the K10D doesn't offer a 3200 ISO option.

Throughout its ISO range, the K10D compares favourably with the Canon EOS 400D / XTi and the Nikon D80, and despite slight variations in the brightness of the images, the K10D's samples contain finer detail in the foliage areas behind the tennis court; this is particularly apparent when compared against the Canon EOS 400D / XTi.

As before, the K10D's default image processing lacks impact compared to rival 10 Megapixel DSLRs, but this can be tweaked if desired; the important point is the detail is being recorded. For more examples throughout the sensitivity range, check our Pentax K10D Gallery.