As the flagship model of the Pentax K-mount system, it includes several new and improved features, including a five-axis SR II in-body image stabilization system, newly designed flexible tilt articulating screen mounted on four metal struts allowing for rotation about the optical axis in addition to upward and downward tilt, and improved autofocus and metering systems.

[4] A Silver Limited Edition was announced on 24 August 2017, with 2000 units available worldwide.

[5] On 22 February 2018, Ricoh announced the Pentax K-1 Mark II with availability from the end of April 2018.

[6] Changes and improvements are the use of the newer imaging processing unit from the KP model as well as faster and more accurate autofocus.

[7] In 2018, Pentax offered an upgrade for owners of the K-1 which replaces the mainboard and includes the Image Processing Unit of the K-1 II.