Pentax K-3 Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£360
  • Avg. price in US: ~$400
  • Sensor size: APS-C
  • Lens mount: Pentax KAF2
  • Main camera pixel size: 3.91 µm
  • Weight: 800 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 560 shots

Pentax K-3 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

6.3

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

6.3

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Good
6.3

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

7.4

Sensor & Image

25.0%

6.5

Photo Features

18.0%

4.8

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.6

Display & Design

8.0%

8.9

Battery & Power

7.0%

4.3

Connectivity & Storage

Good
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 8.0
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    7.5

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    10

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    2.0

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    10

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 6.2
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    2.9

    Weight

    30.0%

    10

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 7.3
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.6

    Price

    20.0%

    2.9

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    10

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 8.4
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.5

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    7.2

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

  • 5.1
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    2.9

    Weight

    25.0%

    4.3

    Thickness

    20.0%

    7.7

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 6.8
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    7.2

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    7.5

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 6.2
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    2.9

    Weight

    25.0%

    10

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    6.4

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £360

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Pentax K-3 is a high-performance APS-C DSLR featuring a 24.4-megapixel CMOS sensor and an innovative selectable anti-aliasing simulator that uses sensor-shift technology to prevent moiré on demand. Its main characteristics include a rugged, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, a SAFOX 11 autofocus system with 27 points (25 cross-type), and dual SD card slots for versatile storage management. Pros include excellent image quality with high detail, 8.3 fps continuous shooting, and a large 100% coverage optical viewfinder with 0.95x magnification. However, cons include a relatively slow flash sync speed of 1/180s, subpar video autofocus performance, and potential camera lock-ups when writing large RAW files to memory cards.

Technical Specifications of Pentax K-3

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

?

Sensor & Image

25.0%

?

Photo Features

18.0%

?

Video & Audio

14.0%

?

Display & Design

8.0%

?

Battery & Power

7.0%

?

Connectivity & Storage

6.3
Pentax K-3 has a technical score of 6.34 points, which is higher than 78.2% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
1.0
Pentax K-3 has a popularity of 1 points, which is higher than 0% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.3

Overall score

40.0%

8.6

Price

7.0
Pentax K-3 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7 points, which is higher than 88.6% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

APS-C
Pentax K-3 uses a sensor classified as APS-C; it is larger than the sensor in 57.4% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 25.7% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

24.35 MP
Pentax K-3 has a main camera resolution of 24.35 MP, which is higher than that of 87% of cameras and equal to that of 0.1% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

3.91 µm
Pentax K-3 has a main camera pixel size of 3.91 µm which is larger than in 62.8% of cameras and equal to the size in 2.8% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

100
Pentax K-3 has a base ISO of 100 which is higher than that of 20.3% of cameras and equal to that of 52% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

51,200
Pentax K-3 reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 51,200, which is higher than that of 91.9% of cameras and equal to that of 4.4% of cameras.
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Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Pentax KAF2
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

yes
Pentax K-3 has a built-in focus motor. 10.9% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

27
Pentax K-3 has 27 focus points, more than the number offered by 55.1% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 0.4% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Pentax K-3 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.3% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Pentax K-3 supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
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Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

1920 px
Pentax K-3 supports 1920 px video recording which is higher quality than that of 28.7% of cameras and equal to that of 47.1% of cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

28 Mbps
Pentax K-3 has a video bitrate of 28 Mbps which is lower than that of 51.9% of cameras and equal to that of 8.7% of cameras.
approximate value
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

8 bit
Pentax K-3 supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

4:2:0
Pentax K-3 supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264
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Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

dslr
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

800 g
Pentax K-3 weighs 800 g which is heavier than 89.5% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.1% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

131 mm
Pentax K-3 has a width of 131 mm which is wider than 74.4% of cameras and equal to that of 1% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

100 mm
Pentax K-3 has a height of 100 mm which is taller than 83.3% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

77.5 mm
Pentax K-3 has a thickness of 77.5 mm which is thicker than 72.9% of cameras and equal to that of 0.3% of cameras.
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Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

560 shots
Pentax K-3 has a CIPA-rated battery life of 560 shots, which is longer than that of 85.6% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

1,860 mAh
Pentax K-3 has a battery capacity of 1,860 mAh which is larger than the batteries in 82.6% of cameras and equal to those in 2.6% of cameras.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Pentax K-3 has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Pentax K-3 does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

no
Pentax K-3 does not support Wi-Fi. 47.9% of cameras include this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Pentax K-3 does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Pentax K-3 does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
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Pentax K-3 vs the average camera

  • In-body stabilization
    Pentax K-3 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
    What it is: A stabilization system that physically moves the image sensor to reduce shake during handheld shooting.
    When it matters: When you often shoot handheld and want sharper results at slower shutter speeds without relying only on lens stabilization.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Pentax K-3 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
  • Phase-detect AF for photos
    Pentax K-3 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
    When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

    Importance: HIGH

    Pentax K-3 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
  • 44,800 higher max ISO
    Pentax K-3 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (51,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
    What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least ISO 25,600

    Pentax K-3 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (51,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.51,200 vs 6,400
  • Dual card slots
    Pentax K-3 offers dual card slots, the average camera does not. 13.3% of cameras offer them.
    What it is: Indicates whether the camera offers two memory card slots for backup, overflow, or file separation.
    When it matters: When you want backup recording, overflow capacity, or separate file handling for more demanding shoots.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax K-3 offers dual card slots, the average camera does not. 13.3% of cameras offer them.
  • Includes headphone output
    Pentax K-3 includes a headphone output, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the camera has a headphone output for direct audio monitoring.
    When it matters: When you record video and want to monitor audio live while shooting.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax K-3 includes a headphone output, the average camera does not.
  • 8.15 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Pentax K-3 has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (24.4 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
    What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
    When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 20 MP

    Pentax K-3 has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (24.4 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.24.35 MP vs 16.2 MP
  • Has microphone input
    Pentax K-3 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the camera has a microphone input for connecting an external mic.
    When it matters: When you record video and want better audio than the built-in microphones can provide.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax K-3 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
  • 230 shots longer battery life
    Pentax K-3 has longer battery life than the average camera (560 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
    What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
    When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 400 shots

    Pentax K-3 has longer battery life than the average camera (560 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.560 shots vs 330 shots
  • 0.2 in larger screen
    Pentax K-3 has a larger screen than the average camera (3.2 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.
  • Better viewfinder type
    Pentax K-3 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).
  • 21.8% higher magnification
    Pentax K-3 has a higher viewfinder magnification than the average camera (1x vs 0.78x). The average camera has a viewfinder magnification of 0.78x.
  • 44,800 higher max ISO
    Pentax K-3 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (51,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • 8.15 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Pentax K-3 has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (24.4 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • Sensor cleaning system
    Pentax K-3 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
  • Higher DxOMark landscape score
    Pentax K-3 has a higher DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (13.4 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.
  • 0.57 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Pentax K-3 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (3.9 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • 374 points higher DxOMark Sports score
    Pentax K-3 has a higher DxOMark sports score than the average camera (1,216 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
  • 7 points higher DxOMark sensor score
    Pentax K-3 has a higher DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (80 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.
  • Higher DxOMark portrait score
    Pentax K-3 has a higher DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (23.7 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.
  • In-body stabilization
    Pentax K-3 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
  • Phase-detect AF for photos
    Pentax K-3 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
  • 2.6 fps faster mechanical burst
    Pentax K-3 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (8.3 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • Built-in AF motor
    Pentax K-3 has a built-in focus motor, the average camera does not.
  • Lossless compressed RAW
    Pentax K-3 supports lossless compressed RAW, while the average camera does not.
  • 100,000 more shutter cycles
    Pentax K-3 has a higher shutter durability than the average camera (200,000 vs 100,000). The average camera is rated for 100,000 shutter cycles.
  • Includes headphone output
    Pentax K-3 includes a headphone output, the average camera does not.
  • Has microphone input
    Pentax K-3 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
  • Built-in timelapse
    Pentax K-3 includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
  • Supports 24p cinema mode
    Pentax K-3 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
  • 230 shots longer battery life
    Pentax K-3 has longer battery life than the average camera (560 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
  • 740 mAh larger battery capacity
    Pentax K-3 has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,860 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
  • Dual card slots
    Pentax K-3 offers dual card slots, the average camera does not. 13.3% of cameras offer them.
  • Newer USB version
    Pentax K-3 supports a newer USB version than the average camera (USB 3.2 Gen 1 vs USB 2.0). The average camera uses USB 2.0.
  • 2.03x heavier
    Pentax K-3 is heavier than the average camera (800 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 26.1 mm taller body
    Pentax K-3 is taller than the average camera (100 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • 31.5 mm thicker
    Pentax K-3 is thicker than the average camera (77.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • 11.1 mm wider
    Pentax K-3 is wider than the average camera (131 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • 0.5 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
    Pentax K-3 has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (3.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Pentax K-3 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (-3 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
  • No continuous video AF
    Pentax K-3 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Pentax K-3 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
  • 2.03x heavier
    Pentax K-3 is heavier than the average camera (800 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
    When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: 500 g or less

    Pentax K-3 is heavier than the average camera (800 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.800 g vs 395 g
  • No continuous video AF
    Pentax K-3 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
    What it is: The ability of the camera to keep adjusting focus automatically while video recording is in progress.
    When it matters: When you film while subjects or camera distance keep changing and manual refocusing is impractical.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax K-3 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Pentax K-3 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
    What it is: The number of built-in microphones used to capture audio while recording video.
    When it matters: More built-in microphones can capture broader, clearer sound when you record without an external microphone.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: At least 2 microphones

    Pentax K-3 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.1 vs 2
  • 0.5 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
    Pentax K-3 has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (3.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.
    What it is: The official stabilization effectiveness rating measured under CIPA standards, usually expressed in stops.
    When it matters: When you compare how effective stabilization really is for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 5 stops

    Pentax K-3 has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (3.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.3.5 stops vs 4 stops
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Pentax K-3 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (-3 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
    What it is: The lowest light level at which the autofocus system is rated to work reliably.
    When it matters: When you shoot in dim environments and need autofocus that still locks confidently after dark.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Pentax K-3 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (-3 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.-3 vs -4
  • 26.1 mm taller body
    Pentax K-3 is taller than the average camera (100 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
    What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
    When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax K-3 is taller than the average camera (100 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.100 mm vs 73.9 mm
  • 31.5 mm thicker
    Pentax K-3 is thicker than the average camera (77.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
    What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
    When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax K-3 is thicker than the average camera (77.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.77.5 mm vs 46 mm
  • 11.1 mm wider
    Pentax K-3 is wider than the average camera (131 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
    What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
    When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax K-3 is wider than the average camera (131 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.131 mm vs 119.9 mm

Graphic comparison of Pentax K-3 and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Pentax K-3?

  • Extremely solid, durable, and weather-sealed build quality
  • Excellent, high-resolution image quality with competitive dynamic range
  • Excellent ergonomics and comfortable handling
  • In-body image stabilization (IBIS) works with all lenses
  • Large and bright optical viewfinder with 100% coverage
  • Fast continuous shooting with a good buffer depth

What customers dislike about Pentax K-3?

  • Disappointing JPEG color response and sharpening
  • Poor video quality and weak video autofocus
  • Autofocus can be limited by older screwdriver-type lenses
  • Slower performance when writing large RAW files to memory cards
  • Less impressive high ISO noise performance compared to 16MP predecessors
  • Live view does not offer real-time exposure preview

Expert reviews

D
dpreview.com
10/04/2014

The DPReview analysis of the Pentax K-3 highlights the APS-C DSLR as a rugged, weather-sealed, and highly capable stills camera featuring exceptional raw image quality with high dynamic range and noise performance, alongside an innovative "Anti-Aliasing Filter Simulator". Key advantages include an 8.3 fps burst rate, a 100% coverage viewfinder, and a robust magnesium alloy body,...Read more

P
pentaxforums.com
20/12/2013

The Pentax K-3 is identified as a top-tier, value-driven APS-C DSLR featuring a 24-megapixel AA-filterless sensor that delivers exceptional image clarity, detailed 8.3 fps shooting, and an innovative, hardware-driven anti-aliasing simulator. Key strengths include improved, class-leading contrast-detection autofocus (CDAF) in Live View, rugged weather-sealed ergonomics, and dual SD...Read more

A
amateurphotographer.com
14/12/2013

The Amateur Photographer review highlights the Pentax K-3 as a robust, weather-sealed APS-C DSLR designed for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring a 24-megapixel sensor without an anti-aliasing filter for maximum sharpness. Key strengths include a durable, magnesium alloy body with 92 seals, an 8.3 fps burst rate, built-in sensor-shift stabilization, and a 100% field-of-view viewfinder,...Read more

D
dxomark.com
25/11/2013

The ⁠DXOMARK review of the Pentax K-3 highlights its unique stabilized 24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and professional-grade features, awarding it an overall sensor score of 80 points. The review praises several major pros, including a weather-sealed magnesium-alloy body, a fast 8.3 fps continuous shooting speed, an advanced 27-point autofocus system capable of focusing down to...Read more

S
slrlounge.com
14/02/2014

Pentax K-3 Review Summary The Pentax K-3 is a flagship crop-sensor DSLR built specifically for adventure, extreme weather, and astro-landscape photography. It boasts exceptional build quality with a magnesium body and extensive weather sealing that makes it a champion in harsh conditions. Performance-wise, the camera features a 24-megapixel sensor with no anti-aliasing filter,...Read more

E
ephotozine.com
14/11/2013

The 24-megapixel Pentax K-3 is a robust, weather-sealed flagship DSLR praised for its exceptional 8.3 fps continuous shooting speed and quiet, vibration-free shutter mechanism. Enhanced by the SAFOX 11 autofocus system, it offers reliable performance in low-light conditions. While the camera delivers excellent image quality, the review notes potential slowdowns when clearing large...Read more

U
uk-wildlife.co.uk
14/09/2014

Here is a detailed summary of the Pentax K-3 review, focused primarily on its performance for wildlife photography. Review Summary The Pentax K-3 introduces substantial upgrades over its predecessor, the K-5, making it a highly capable body for capturing wildlife and birds in flight. On the positive side, its autofocus system excels at tracking fast-moving subjects—such as...Read more

D
dkamera.de
12/02/2014

The Pentax K-3 is an excellently equipped outdoor APS-C DSLR featuring a 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor designed without an anti-aliasing filter to maximize detail resolution. To counteract potential moiré, it introduces a unique AA-filter simulation that vibrates the sensor, which also provides up to three stops of built-in Shake Reduction image stabilization for any attached lens. The...Read more

C
computerbild.de
18/03/2014

The COMPUTER BILD review praises the Pentax K-3 as a highly capable and robust DSLR designed for demanding photographers. The camera stands out for its exceptional build quality, featuring an extensively weather-sealed body that allows users to shoot in heavy mist and rain without a protective bag. Performance is another strong suit, with the camera boasting near-instantaneous...Read more

C
connect-living.de
25/03/2014

The Connect Living review rates the Pentax K-3 as a robust, weather-sealed APS-C DSLR offering high value, driven by a 24-megapixel sensor without an optical low-pass filter for sharp images, paired with an innovative sensor-shift anti-aliasing simulator. Key advantages include the advanced SAFOX 11 autofocus system, a fast 8.3 fps burst rate, and a durable magnesium-alloy body with...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
03/12/2013

The Pentax K-3 is a robust, weather-sealed DSLR camera that earned a 4 out of 5 rating from Les Numériques for its solid traditional performance. Its standout features include a high-resolution 24-megapixel stabilized APS-C sensor that delivers exceptional detail at lower ISO speeds, an innovative mechanical anti-aliasing filter simulator, and dual SD card slots. The camera boasts...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
07/01/2014

The Les Numériques review concludes that the Pentax K-3 serves as a highly capable flagship APS-C DSLR. It stands out with its 24-megapixel sensor that lacks a low-pass filter, resulting in incredibly detailed images at low ISO levels. The camera's core strengths lie in its highly rugged, fully weather-sealed body, an expansive 100% optical viewfinder, a fast 8 frames-per-second...Read more

C
cachem.fr
25/05/2014

The Cachem review of the Pentax K-3 highlights it as a highly successful expert DSLR camera that earned the TIPA 2014 award for best camera in its category. Structurally, it maintains a design similar to its predecessor but improves its weather-sealing with 92 protective joints, making it excellent for outdoor adventurers. Key operational strengths include a significantly faster...Read more

D
dxomark.fr
11/11/2013

The DXOMARK review of the Pentax K-3 highlights the camera's high-performing sensor, awarding it an overall sensor score of 80 points. The review notes several pros, specifically emphasizing the camera's strong portrait capabilities with a 23.7-bit colour depth and its exceptional landscape performance with a wide 13.4-stop dynamic range. This provides rich colour discrimination and...Read more

C
camerarace.com
23/07/2026

The Pentax K-3 is a competitive 24.3-megapixel APS-C DSLR with a high versatility score, featuring a robust, weather-sealed body and an efficient, sensor-shift stabilization system. The review highlights excellent speed, with 8.3 fps shooting and a responsive 27-point autofocus system, making it suitable for action photography. YouTube · Key advantages include the durable...Read more

X
xatakafoto.com
02/01/2014

The Xataka Foto review highlights the Pentax K-3 as a robust, highly innovative APS-C DSLR tailored for advanced amateurs. A major standout feature is its 24-megapixel sensor combined with a unique, sensor-shifting "simulated" anti-aliasing filter, which eliminates the physical low-pass filter to maximize image sharpness while effectively controlling moiré artifacts. True to the...Read more

C
camerarace.com
N/D

The Pentax K-3 earns an overall score of 63/100, placing in the top 25% of DSLRs for versatility with high marks for landscape, street, and sports photography. Key advantages include a compact, lightweight design (800g) and robust build, offering superior portability and performance compared to the category average. While image quality (49) and speed performance (51) are solid, the...Read more

F
fotocamerapro.it
03/07/2015

The Pentax K-3 review highlights this DSLR as a highly customizable and durable machine designed primarily for enthusiasts seeking premium build and top-tier image quality. Built around a rugged, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, the camera is designed to withstand harsh outdoor elements while offering convenient physical handling through standard controls and a top LCD display...Read more

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