gvarner Loc: Central Oregon Coast

Wireless is handier by far.

Haydon

You will likely have to perform a little searching to find a tethering software package. Very little support is offered to Pentax when it comes to tethering. Neither Lightroom or Capture One natively support the K-5. Apparently there is a plugin from DNA Software for Lightroom. Other programs listed with support are PK_Tether and pkTriggerCord. Choose one that will suit your needs.

I use 15 foot usb cable wired connection and it suit me just fine. TetheringTools has a cable at a premium price ($36.95 15 foot).

I chose this one from Amazon and trust Monoprice 15 foot @ $5.29. I've bought from them before. I don't have any drop outs with this cable.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002KL8N6A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Others love wireless but it comes at a cost like CamRanger at $300.00.

Here's a link that should get you started with compatibility.

https://www.tethertools.com/camera/pentax-k-5/#wiredtethering

Bill_de Loc: US

Wireless comes in different forms. My recent experience has been with WiFi and a Panasonic camera. I use it to control the camera from a tablet. The system gives you two choices, connect both to your home network or use the cameras built in signal. The built in signal (not sure if that is the right term) gives instantaneous results, but limited range. Using my home network through Comcast gives more range, but with a delay.

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rfmaude41 Loc: Lancaster, Texas (DFW area)

That's only with the IR (release) models. The RF models do, for the most part, also need some sort of receiver, although several of the more advanced cameras have that built into them.

canon Lee

http://camranger.com
used on a large screen iPAD with 150' range. wonderful for wild life.

jeep_daddy Loc: Prescott AZ

If I had it to do again, I'd just get a wired remote. The last time I went to use my wireless remote the battery was dead. This is why most pro's use the wired remotes. Now I bought some extra batteries that I keep in my bag, but it's still a bit of a pain in the ass when you want to use it and the batteries are dead. That said, if you want some of the bells and whistles that some wireless remotes have like timed images that go more than 30 seconds etc, it's nice to have. Although my new Canon 5D Mark IV has that feature built in and that's how I used it last time I found my remotes battery dead.

Retired fat guy with a camera Loc: Colorado

I bought a Vello Freewave, wireless off of amazon. It works great. I keep spare batteries for it in my bag. I have not had one problem with it.

amfoto1 Loc: San Jose, Calif. USA

A wired remote is generally the most reliable. Some of them also have other functions, such as an intervalometer that can be use to make time-lapses. Obviously you will need to be close to the camera to use this type of remote, limited by the length of the cable.

Tethering more often implies wired connectivity with a laptop or tablet computer to be able to preview the image on-screen, more fully control the camera, and even transfer the image files to the computer as they are taken.

Radio remotes also are pretty reliable, though it can vary depending upon manufacturer. Most can be used from a greater distance and don't rely upon line-of-sight. Quality radio remotes also tend to be the most expensive. Radio remotes range in type from simple triggers to much fancier that allow remote viewing, control of the camera, and to some extent transfer of image files.

IR remotes are the cheapest and typically the simplest, generally have very limited range and have to be line-of-sight with a sensor somewhere on the camera. Often a built-in IR sensor is placed on the front of the camera. That's great if you are using the remote for self-portraits, but may not be ideal if you're using it for wide angle scenic shots or macro work. The distance possible with an IR remote will depend a lot upon ambient light conditions, but probably won't be much more than 15 or 25 feet even under the most ideal lighting and most direct line-of-sight placement.

RPSteiner

Thanks for the input, Jerry. Sounds like a case for having both wireless and wired remotes.

RPSteiner

Thanks again to everyone who responded. I very much appreciate the information, advice, and experiences shared.

When I mentioned "tethered" I meant just a wired remote shutter release, but I've learned that term can refer to a connection to control the camera from a tablet or laptop. Now I have another option to investigate. Thanks for the links to those who provided them.

Best wishes to all,
Richard

Los-Angeles-Shooter Loc: Los Angeles

I've used pocket wizards w/ nikon d300. worked perfectly.

LFingar Loc: Claverack, NY

I use both a wired remote and a wireless radio remote. The wired remote is handy (and inexpensive) if I am working close to the tripod. It's a Canon model and the wire is only about 4' long, so, no chance of anyone tripping on it. Easy to stow, quick to set up, and no batteries to worry about. If I am further away I use my Vello Shutterboss radio remote. More expensive, of course, but you can use it up to something like 300' away. To be honest though, there aren't many places where I would allow myself to get 300' away from my camera!
Have you checked out smart phone apps? I believe that a number of cameras with wi-fi can now be controlled by your smart phone. Never checked. Gave my smart phone back to the company when I retired a few years ago. My dumb phone does everything I need it to. When I turn it on.

dsmeltz Loc: Philadelphia

Depends on the wireless trigger. IR remotes need line of site, but I don't use them. I use on that works on 2.4 GH frequency. Never had a problem. They run a round $50.00.