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Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Pentax K-3 Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Canon EOS 7D Mark II

canon eos 7d mark ii
60%

Pentax K-3

Pentax K-3 camera
Winner!
69%
Canon EOS 7D Mark II
vs
Pentax K-3
Price
Brand
Canon
Pentax
Model
EOS 7D Mark II
K-3
Released
2014
2013
Announcement Date
September 15, 2014
October 08, 2013
Camera Type
DSLR
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Pentax K-3 outperforms the Canon EOS 7D Mark II with a score of 69 to 60. Both cameras are DSLRs released in 2013 and 2014, respectively. They share similarities in their launch prices, with the Pentax K-3 at $1300 and the Canon EOS 7D Mark II at $1800.

The Pentax K-3 boasts a lighter weight at 800g, compared to the Canon’s 910g. Additionally, it has a smaller size of 131 x 100 x 77mm, making it more compact than the Canon EOS 7D Mark II which measures 149 x 112 x 78mm.

Despite its higher score, the Pentax K-3 is not without its drawbacks. The Canon EOS 7D Mark II offers advantages in certain aspects, which may appeal to some users. However, the combination of a better score, lower price, lighter weight, and smaller size make the Pentax K-3 a more attractive option for many photographers.

Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Pentax K-3 Overview and Optics

The Pentax K-3 outperforms the Canon EOS 7D Mark II in optics with a score of 74/100 compared to the Canon’s 61/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including an APS-C sensor size, a CMOS sensor type, and compatibility with their respective lens mounts (Canon EF-S and Pentax KAF).

The Pentax K-3’s superiority in optics is evident in its higher megapixel count (24 vs. 20.2), faster processor (Prime III), and better DXOMARK sensor score (80 vs. 70). Additionally, the K-3 offers image stabilization, a feature absent in the Canon EOS 7D Mark II. These advantages make the Pentax K-3 more capable of capturing sharper, clearer images, and providing more flexibility in post-processing.

However, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II does have a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second compared to the Pentax K-3’s 8.3 fps. This makes the Canon better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife photography.

Considering the optics, the Pentax K-3 is the better choice for photographers who prioritize image quality and stabilization. The higher megapixel count, better sensor score, and image stabilization give it an edge over the Canon EOS 7D Mark II. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II is more appropriate for those who require a faster shooting speed for action photography. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and priorities of the photographer.

Optics
Optics
61%
74%
Megapixels
20.2 MP
24 MP
Image Resolution
5472 x 3648 px
6016 x 4000 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
15 x 22.4 mm
15.6 x 23.5 mm
Sensor Format
APS-C
APS-C
Frame Rate
10 fps
8.3 fps
Lens Mount
Canon EF-S
Pentax KAF
Image Processor
Dual Digic 6
Prime III
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
16,000
51,200
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
51200
51200
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
65
27
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentaprism)
Optical (pentaprism)

Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Pentax K-3 Video Performance

The Pentax K-3 outperforms the Canon EOS 7D Mark II in video capabilities with a score of 70/100, compared to the Canon’s score of 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications: they have a maximum video resolution of Full HD (1920×1080) and can record at a maximum frame rate of 60fps.

The Pentax K-3, however, has the advantage of built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Canon EOS 7D Mark II lacks. This feature allows for the creation of stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional accessories or software. This makes the Pentax K-3 more versatile and convenient for capturing time-lapse sequences.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II does not offer any specific advantages over the Pentax K-3 in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras share the same maximum video resolution and frame rate, which means they can produce similar quality videos. However, the lack of built-in time-lapse functionality in the Canon EOS 7D Mark II makes it less versatile for video creation compared to the Pentax K-3.

Taking into account the aforementioned points, the Pentax K-3 proves to be the better choice for video capabilities due to its built-in time-lapse functionality. Meanwhile, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II does not offer any unique advantages in this area, making it a less suitable option for those looking to create diverse and dynamic videos.

Video
Video
56%
70%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
Full HD
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
1920 x 1080 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
60 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV, MP4
MPEG-4

Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Pentax K-3 Features and Benefits

The Pentax K-3 outperforms the Canon EOS 7D Mark II in features with a score of 59/100, compared to the Canon’s 57/100. Both cameras share certain specifications, such as a lack of touchscreen and flip screen. However, they differ in other aspects, giving each camera its own strengths and weaknesses.

The Pentax K-3 boasts a larger screen size of 3.2 inches, while the Canon EOS 7D Mark II has a 3-inch screen. Although the difference in screen resolution is minimal (Pentax K-3 has 1,037,000 dots and Canon EOS 7D Mark II has 1,040,000 dots), the slightly larger screen size of the Pentax K-3 provides a better viewing experience.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II is superior in terms of connectivity. It is equipped with GPS and WIFI capabilities, allowing for easier geotagging and sharing of photos. The Pentax K-3 lacks both GPS and WIFI features, making it less convenient in this regard.

Despite the Pentax K-3’s higher feature score, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II’s additional connectivity options make it a strong contender. The lack of GPS and WIFI in the Pentax K-3 may be a deal-breaker for some photographers who prioritize convenience and sharing capabilities.

In comparing the features of these two cameras, the Pentax K-3 offers a larger screen size, while the Canon EOS 7D Mark II provides better connectivity options. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras will depend on the individual photographer’s preferences and priorities.

Features
Features
57%
59%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3"
3.2"
Screen Resolution
1,040,000 dots
1,037,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Pentax K-3 Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 7D Mark II edges out the Pentax K-3 in storage and battery with a score of 65/100 compared to the K-3’s 63/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. The 7D Mark II has an advantage in battery life, providing 670 shots per charge with its LP-E6N battery, while the K-3 offers 560 shots with its D-LI90 battery. Neither camera supports USB charging.

The 7D Mark II’s longer battery life makes it the better choice for extended shooting sessions. Additionally, it accepts Compact Flash cards, providing more storage options for users. On the other hand, the K-3’s performance in this category is not far behind, and its slightly lower battery life may not be a significant drawback for some users.

Considering these factors, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II is the superior camera in terms of storage and battery capabilities, although the Pentax K-3 remains a competitive option.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
65%
63%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash
SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
LP-E6N
D-LI90
Battery Life
670 shots
560 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
70%
80%
Portrait (Color Depth)
22.4 bits
23.7 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
11.8 EVs
13.4 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
1082
1216
Scores

Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Pentax K-3 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Pentax K-3 Comparison image.

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