PENTAX K-3 DSLR Camera
The Pentax K-3 is a 24MP APS-C DSLR camera — with 1080p video and in-body stabilization. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
PENTAX K-3 DSLR Camera
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Overview — Pentax K-3
Key Features — Pentax K-3
24MP APS-C CMOS Sensor: Delivers 6016x4000 pixel images with a 1.5x crop factor, providing high-resolution files suitable for large prints and significant cropping.
Weather-Sealed Magnesium Alloy Body: Dust and moisture resistant construction with a rigid magnesium alloy chassis makes the K-3 well-suited for outdoor shooting in rain, dust, or cold.
Sensor-Shift IBIS: In-body image stabilization compensates for camera shake with any Pentax K mount lens, including older manual focus optics that lack optical stabilization.
27-Point Phase Detection AF: 25 of the 27 autofocus points are cross-type, providing accurate subject acquisition across a wide area of the frame.
100% Coverage Pentaprism Viewfinder: Optical pentaprism viewfinder shows the full frame at 0.95x magnification, giving accurate composition without cropping or electronic lag.
8.3 fps Burst Shooting: Continuous shooting at 8.3 frames per second at full 24MP resolution supports fast-moving subjects in sports and wildlife photography.
Specifications — Pentax K-3
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Wildlife, Sports, Travel, Studio |
| Type | DSLR |
| Sensor | APS-C |
| Resolution | 24MP |
| Processor | PRIME III |
| ISO Range | 100 – 51200 |
| AF System | Phase Detection |
| AF Points | 27 points (25 cross-type) |
| Max Photo Resolution | 6016x4000 |
| Burst Rate | 8.3 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | 1080p |
| Max Frame Rate | 60fps |
Description — Pentax K-3
The Pentax K-3 is a 24MP APS-C DSLR designed for serious photographers who demand durability and performance. Housed in a magnesium alloy body with weather sealing and dimensions of 131.5 x 100 x 77.5 mm at 800g, it's built to handle real-world conditions. The PRIME III image processor works alongside an ISO range of 100–51200 to deliver broad exposure flexibility.
Framing is done through a 100% coverage optical pentaprism viewfinder at 60Hz, while the 27-point phase-detection autofocus system — with 25 cross-type points — ensures accurate subject acquisition. In-body sensor-shift image stabilization provides shake reduction regardless of which Pentax K mount lens is attached. The camera captures bursts at 8.3 fps and records to SD, SDHC, or SDXC cards. For video, the K-3 shoots up to 1080p at 60fps in 8-bit.
The 3.2-inch fixed LCD resolves at 1,037,000 dots, a built-in pop-up flash is included, and a hot shoe and HDMI output round out key connectivity. The D-LI90 battery is rated for approximately 560 shots per charge.
Pros — Pentax K-3
- ✓Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body offers meaningful environmental protection for outdoor and field use
- ✓27-point autofocus system with 25 cross-type points provides broad and precise phase-detection coverage across the frame
- ✓In-body sensor-shift image stabilization (IBIS) works with any Pentax K mount lens, not just stabilized optics
Cons — Pentax K-3
- ✗No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity limits wireless transfer and remote control options
- ✗Fixed LCD display with no tilt or articulation restricts shooting from low or high angles
- ✗Video is capped at 1080p with only a Standard color profile, limiting cinematic flexibility
Reviews — Pentax K-3
Videos — Pentax K-3
Pentax K-3 Hands-On Field Test — TheCameraStoreTV
Frequently Asked Questions — Pentax K-3
What lenses are compatible with the Pentax K-3?+
The Pentax K-3 uses the Pentax K lens mount. Any lens built for the Pentax K mount system is compatible with this camera.
Does the Pentax K-3 have image stabilization?+
Yes, the K-3 features in-body sensor-shift image stabilization (IBIS). Because stabilization is handled in the camera body rather than the lens, it functions with all compatible Pentax K mount lenses.
What video resolutions and frame rates does the Pentax K-3 support?+
The K-3 records video at up to 1080p at frame rates of 24fps, 30fps, and 60fps. Video is captured in 8-bit depth with a Standard color profile.
Can I connect the Pentax K-3 to a smartphone or use it wirelessly?+
The Pentax K-3 does not include built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Connectivity options are limited to USB and HDMI output for wired connections.
What memory cards does the Pentax K-3 accept?+
The camera accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards.
What is the autofocus system like on the Pentax K-3?+
The K-3 uses a phase-detection autofocus system with 27 focus points, of which 25 are cross-type. Eye tracking and subject tracking are not supported.