Joseph
The Pentax K-3 Mark III is the most recent model in a long series of DSLRs produced by Pentax, and we are excited to see any new model created by Pentax. It serves as a timely reminder that digital single-lens reflex cameras (DSLRs) are not extinct and that Canon and Nikon are not the only manufacturers of such cameras.
However, the Pentax DSLR lineup is notoriously tricky to understand. The full-frame Pentax K-1 and its sequel, the K-1 Mark II, are simple enough to understand, but Pentax’s APS-C DSLRs have been produced in various form factors, including series and series within series. Before the release of the K-3 Mark III, we considered the Pentax K-P, which has since been discontinued, to be the flagship model.
Pentax K-3 Mark III Flagship APS-C Black Camera Body - 12fps, Touch...
- Based on core principles of passion for photography, The All New Flagship APS-C model K-3 III continues a heritage of craftsmanship combined with todays new technologies.
- The newly designed optical veiwfinder provides a 100% field of view and 1.05x image magnification. The veiwfinder offers a wide viewing angle comparable to full frame cameras with increased image brightness due to the improved reflectance of the pentaprism.
- Based on core principles of passion for photography, The All New Flagship APS-C model K-3 III continues a heritage of craftsmanship combined with todays new technologies.
- The newly designed optical veiwfinder provides a 100% field of view and 1.05x image magnification. The veiwfinder offers a wide viewing angle comparable to full frame cameras with increased image brightness due to the improved reflectance of the pentaprism.
- Top ISO sensitivity of 1.6 million provides image capture in low light situations and achieves excellent descriptive power in the entire sensitivity range. Multi-dimensional image space filtering reduces noise while leaving fine contours. It maximizes the resolution performance and reproduces the texture and details of the subject.
- PENTAX SHAKE REDUCTION MECHANISM - Equipped with the PENTAX SR II, the K-3 Mark III provides up-to 5.5-Shutter-Step image stabilization on 5-Axis' for blur-free images when using telephoto lenses or challenging low-light. The Pentax Shake Ruduction Mechanism is comptible with every Pentax lens ever manufactured and is also used for other photo applications such as [ Pixel Shift Resolution, AstroTracer, HDR, Image Composistion, AA-Filter Simulator ]
- PENTAX RENOWED CONSTRUCTION - To start the entire chassis of the K-3 Mark III is built with High-Strengh, Lightweight Magnesium Alloy. 95 Seals are then applied to the body to prevent the intrusion of dust and watter. The End Result: A rugged, durrable, dependable camera which can be used in the harshest environments.
- The newly developed mirror, shutter drive mechanisim and images procesing engine produces 12 FPS image capture, perfect for fast action and movment.
- Newly enhanced SAFOX13 Af sytem expands the AF points to 101, aloowing for an increased AF area, faster response and highly accureate subject capture.
- Dual SD card slots allow for similtaneous capture as well as customized image placement. Slot 1 is compatible with UHS-II cards for high speed read/write and image copying.
- The High reolution touch scren LCD allows for allows for faster engagment to the cameras menu system for image and operational customization. The touch LCD also provides imroved image review capbilites as well as swipe and pinch between and withing images.
- [What's in the box] Strap O-ST162, ME finder cap, battery D-LI90P, USB power adapter, power plug, USB cable I-USB166, (the following are shipped attached to the camera) Eye cup FU, hot shoe cover FK, Synchro Socket 2P Cap, Body Mount Cap KII, Battery Grip Contact Cover; Mounting type: Bayonet
Further down the scale, we have the five-year-old Pentax K-70, which is still available and still, weirdly enough, more modern-looking than the K-3 III (on-sensor phase-detect AF, vari-angle LCD), in addition to fascinating but short-lived cameras like as the lighted Pentax K-S1. It appears that many people have forgotten that Pentax used to produce an APS-C mirrorless camera as well, which was called the K-01 in 2012.
Pentax K-3 Mark III Features
Pentax’s APS-C camera lineup has utilized a 24-megapixel sensor for a significant amount of time; however, the Pentax K-3 Mark III incorporates a brand-new back-illuminated CMOS sensor with a resolution of 25.7 megapixels. This sensor is paired with a PRIME V processing engine with a second-generation’ accelerator unit.
Although this sensor does not include an anti-aliasing filter, the K-3 III may provide ‘AA simulation’ through its in-body sensor shift technology. This can be useful in some situations.
This sensor-shift system is also capable of doing a significant number of additional tasks. It also powers Pentax’s ASTRO TRACER system when an optional O-GPS1 GPS Unit is mounted, the anti-aliasing filter simulation that was mentioned above, automatic horizon straightening if the camera is not relatively level, and a Pixel Shift High-Resolution mode that uses tiny 1-pixel sensor shifts to gather complete RGB color data for each photosite. However, to use this mode, you will need a tripod.
Everything revolves around a brand-new SRII five-axis system that provides up to 5.5 stops of shaking compensation and has a panning mode for subjects that are always on the move.
In addition, the Pentax K-3 Mark III features a brand-new 101-point SAFOX 13 autofocus system centered around 25 cross-type points. Because the whole focus region does not stretch over the full width and height of the frame, even though there are a significant number of AF points, they can only cover a portion of the scene. This is a characteristic of DSLR cameras in general.
Pentax K-3 Mark III Build Quality
The Pentax K-3 Mark III has a rough appearance and feels to it. It features a magnesium alloy body that is dustproof and waterproof, in addition to having an “all surface” design.
Pentax claims that the grip and controls have been designed to accommodate users with various hand sizes. Despite having a tiny body, the camera nonetheless provides a good grip. There is a D-GB8 Battery Grip available as an accessory for more extended usage and shooting in a vertical orientation.
A ‘new-generation’ Hyper Operation system integrates Pentax’s TAv mode alongside the Tv, Av, and P modes for quick shutter speed and aperture changes in P mode. This is comparable to having the ability to control shutter speed and aperture directly without having to change ways, and a green button resets the camera to its default P (program) settings.
Although it is a sophisticated concept, using the program shift mode on other cameras is not that dissimilar to using this one. In TAv mode, you can specify the shutter speed and aperture, and the camera will automatically adjust the ISO for you. Although this may seem similar to auto ISO in manual mode on other cameras, it is very different.
The viewfinder is bright, clear, and has excellent magnification (Pentax claims it has improved the pentaprism reflectivity by 10% since the previous model). It has an eye sensor that turns off the back LCD when the camera is brought to the user’s eye.
This camera gives you a lot of leeways to configure it the way you want it thanks to the fact that it has no less than ten buttons that can be customized, dials on both the front and the back that can be customized, and an expanded SFn (particular function) control dial on the top.
The new three-tier menu design makes navigating relatively simple, but you’ll still need to learn where to locate the settings you need. Additionally, the battery life of 800 shots is sufficient for a DSLR, albeit not the greatest. However, the Pentax K-3 Mark III can be charged using a USB connection.
Pentax K-3 Mark III Performance
The physical performance and responsiveness of the Pentax K-3 Mark III are competent rather than exceptional. This is particularly true of the camera’s autofocus system.
Because the sensor and not the viewfinder picture are stabilized, it is not as simple to keep fast-moving subjects centered on the AF points. This is where mirrorless cameras with IBIS or even stabilized DSLR lenses have the edge over the SAFOX 13 AF system of the camera.
Worse, the buffer depth of the K-3 III is so little, even for JPEGs, that the focus tracking is primarily academic.
Pentax K-3 Mark III Specs
| Body type | Mid-size SLR |
|---|---|
| Body material | Magnesium alloy |
| Sensor | |
| Max resolution | 6192 x 4128 |
| Image ratio w:h | 3:2 |
| Effective pixels | 26 megapixels |
| Sensor photo detectors | 27 megapixels |
| Sensor size | APS-C (23 x 15.5 mm) |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| Processor | PRIME V |
| Color space | sRGB, Adobe RGB |
| Color filter array | Primary color filter |
| Image | |
| ISO | Auto (100-1600000) |
| White balance presets | 8 |
| Custom white balance | Yes (3 slots) |
| Image stabilization | Sensor-shift |
| CIPA image stabilization rating | 5.5 stop(s) |
| Uncompressed format | RAW |
| JPEG quality levels | Best, better, good |
| File format | JPEG (Exif 2.3)Raw (PEF/DNG) |
| Optics & Focus | |
| Autofocus | Contrast Detect (sensor)Phase DetectMulti-areaCenterSelective single-pointTrackingSingleContinuousTouchFace DetectionLive View |
| Autofocus assist lamp | Yes |
| Digital zoom | Yes |
| Manual focus | Yes |
| Number of focus points | 101 |
| Number of cross-type focus points | 25 |
| Lens mount | Pentax KAF2 |
| Focal length multiplier | 1.5× |
| Screen / viewfinder | |
| Articulated LCD | Fixed |
| Screen size | 3.2″ |
| Screen dots | 1,620,000 |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| Screen type | TFT LCD |
| Live view | Yes |
| Viewfinder type | Optical (pentaprism) |
| Viewfinder coverage | 100% |
| Viewfinder magnification | 1.05× (0.7× 35mm equiv.) |
| Photography features | |
| Minimum shutter speed | 30 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed | 1/8000 sec |
| Exposure modes | ProgramSensitivity priorityShutter priorityAperture priorityShutter & aperture priorityManual |
| Built-in flash | No |
| External flash | Yes (via hot shoe or flash sync port) |
| Flash modes | Auto, Auto + Red-eye Reduction, Flash On, Flash On + Red-eye Reduction, Slow- speed Sync, Slow-speed Sync + Red-eye, P-TTL, Contrast-control-sync, High-speed sync, Wireless sync |
| Flash X sync speed | 1/200 sec |
| Drive modes | SingleContinuousBracketing (AE, DoF, motion)Mirror-upMulti-exposureInterval |
| Continuous drive | 12.0 fps |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Metering modes | MultiCenter-weightedHighlight-weightedSpot |
| Exposure compensation | ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps) |
| AE Bracketing | ±5 (2, 3, 5 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps) |
| WB Bracketing | Yes |
| Videography features | |
| Format | MPEG-4, H.264 |
| Modes | 3840 x 2160 @ 30p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 24p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 60p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 30p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 24p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM |
| Microphone | Stereo |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | |
| Storage types | Dual SD/SDHC/SDXC slots (UHS-II supported in slot 1) |
| Connectivity | |
| USB | USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec) |
| USB charging | Yes |
| HDMI | Yes (micro HDMI) |
| Microphone port | Yes |
| Headphone port | Yes |
| Wireless | Built-In |
| Wireless notes | 802.11b/g/n + Bluetooth |
| Remote control | Yes (via wireless) |
| Physical | |
| Environmentally sealed | Yes |
| Battery | Battery Pack |
| Battery description | D-LI90 |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 800 |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 820 g (1.81 lb / 28.92 oz) |
| Dimensions | 135 x 104 x 74 mm (5.31 x 4.09 x 2.91″) |
| Other features | |
| Orientation sensor | Yes |
| Timelapse recording | Yes |
| GPS | None |
Pentax K-3 Mark III Verdict
Pentax K-3 Mark III Flagship APS-C Black Camera Body - 12fps, Touch...
- Based on core principles of passion for photography, The All New Flagship APS-C model K-3 III continues a heritage of craftsmanship combined with todays new technologies.
- The newly designed optical veiwfinder provides a 100% field of view and 1.05x image magnification. The veiwfinder offers a wide viewing angle comparable to full frame cameras with increased image brightness due to the improved reflectance of the pentaprism.
- Based on core principles of passion for photography, The All New Flagship APS-C model K-3 III continues a heritage of craftsmanship combined with todays new technologies.
- The newly designed optical veiwfinder provides a 100% field of view and 1.05x image magnification. The veiwfinder offers a wide viewing angle comparable to full frame cameras with increased image brightness due to the improved reflectance of the pentaprism.
- Top ISO sensitivity of 1.6 million provides image capture in low light situations and achieves excellent descriptive power in the entire sensitivity range. Multi-dimensional image space filtering reduces noise while leaving fine contours. It maximizes the resolution performance and reproduces the texture and details of the subject.
- PENTAX SHAKE REDUCTION MECHANISM - Equipped with the PENTAX SR II, the K-3 Mark III provides up-to 5.5-Shutter-Step image stabilization on 5-Axis' for blur-free images when using telephoto lenses or challenging low-light. The Pentax Shake Ruduction Mechanism is comptible with every Pentax lens ever manufactured and is also used for other photo applications such as [ Pixel Shift Resolution, AstroTracer, HDR, Image Composistion, AA-Filter Simulator ]
- PENTAX RENOWED CONSTRUCTION - To start the entire chassis of the K-3 Mark III is built with High-Strengh, Lightweight Magnesium Alloy. 95 Seals are then applied to the body to prevent the intrusion of dust and watter. The End Result: A rugged, durrable, dependable camera which can be used in the harshest environments.
- The newly developed mirror, shutter drive mechanisim and images procesing engine produces 12 FPS image capture, perfect for fast action and movment.
- Newly enhanced SAFOX13 Af sytem expands the AF points to 101, aloowing for an increased AF area, faster response and highly accureate subject capture.
- Dual SD card slots allow for similtaneous capture as well as customized image placement. Slot 1 is compatible with UHS-II cards for high speed read/write and image copying.
- The High reolution touch scren LCD allows for allows for faster engagment to the cameras menu system for image and operational customization. The touch LCD also provides imroved image review capbilites as well as swipe and pinch between and withing images.
- [What's in the box] Strap O-ST162, ME finder cap, battery D-LI90P, USB power adapter, power plug, USB cable I-USB166, (the following are shipped attached to the camera) Eye cup FU, hot shoe cover FK, Synchro Socket 2P Cap, Body Mount Cap KII, Battery Grip Contact Cover; Mounting type: Bayonet
At least insofar as the overall ratings are concerned, we try not to place an excessive amount of emphasis on the price while writing about cameras. Given the circumstances, we are forced to. The initial purchase price of $2,000 or £1,900 for the Pentax K-3 Mark III appears unreasonable.
Despite having a continuous shooting rate of 12 frames per second, the K-3 III does not seem like it is worth anything like that. It costs more than comparable models, such as the full-frame Pentax K-1 II, and far more than any APS-C competitors.
