The Pentax *ist DS is a consumer version of the *ist D, Pentax’s first digital SLR, introduced in late 2003. While the *ist DS is a competitor to Canon’s Digital Rebel/EOS300D and Nikon’s D70, it is a much more compact and lighter dSLR than either of these. Weighing in at 605g (21.3oz.) with the kit lens, the *ist DS is the lightest DSLR currently on the market and still offers compatibility with a wide selection of lenses, and the comfortable ergonomic design of an SLR body.