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Nikon D3400 vs Pentax K-3 Mark III Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Nikon D3400

Nikon D3400 Camera image
61%

Pentax K-3 Mark III

pentax k3 mark iii
Winner!
83%
Nikon D3400
vs
Pentax K-3 Mark III
Price
Brand
Nikon
Pentax
Model
D3400
K-3 Mark III
Released
2016
2021
Announcement Date
August 17, 2016
March 30, 2021
Camera Type
DSLR
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Nikon D3400 with a score of 83/100 compared to 61/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, released in 2021 and 2016, respectively. They share similarities in size, with the Nikon measuring 124 x 98 x 76mm and the Pentax at 135 x 104 x 74mm.

The Pentax K-3 Mark III excels with its higher score, reflecting its superior performance and features. However, the Nikon D3400 has its advantages, such as a lighter weight of 445g compared to the Pentax’s 820g, making it easier to carry around.

Considering the price difference, the Nikon D3400 launched at $650, while the Pentax K-3 Mark III has a higher launch price of $1999. This reveals that the Pentax K-3 Mark III offers more advanced features and better performance, but at a higher cost. The Nikon D3400 is a more budget-friendly option with decent performance for casual photographers.

Nikon D3400 vs Pentax K-3 Mark III Overview and Optics

The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Nikon D3400 in optics, with a score of 82/100 compared to the Nikon’s 65/100. Both cameras feature a CMOS sensor and an APS-C sensor size. They also share similarities in their lens mounts, with the Nikon utilizing an F DX mount and the Pentax using a KAF2 mount.

The Pentax K-3 Mark III has several advantages over the Nikon D3400. It boasts a higher megapixel count at 26 compared to the Nikon’s 24.2, which allows for greater detail in images. The Pentax also has a faster shooting speed of 12 frames per second, doubling the Nikon’s 5 frames per second. Additionally, the Pentax K-3 Mark III has a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 96, while the Nikon D3400 scores 86. The Pentax camera also offers image stabilization, a feature absent in the Nikon D3400.

On the other hand, the Nikon D3400 has a slightly faster processor, the Expeed 4, compared to the Pentax’s Prime IV processor. However, this advantage does not significantly impact the overall performance of the camera in terms of optics.

Taking these factors into consideration, it is evident that the Pentax K-3 Mark III provides superior optics compared to the Nikon D3400. With a higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, better DXOMARK sensor score, and image stabilization, the Pentax camera is a better choice for those prioritizing image quality. Although the Nikon D3400 has a faster processor, this advantage does not outweigh the benefits offered by the Pentax K-3 Mark III.

Optics
Optics
65%
82%
Megapixels
24.2 MP
26 MP
Image Resolution
6000 x 4000 px
6192 x 4128 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
15.6 x 23.5 mm
23 x 15.5 mm
Sensor Format
APS-C
APS-C
Frame Rate
5 fps
12 fps
Lens Mount
Nikon F DX
Pentax KAF2
Image Processor
Expeed 4
Prime IV
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600
1,600,000
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
25600
1600000
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 4000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
11
101
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentamirror)
Optical (pentaprism)

Nikon D3400 vs Pentax K-3 Mark III Video Performance

The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Nikon D3400 in video capabilities, scoring 83/100 compared to the D3400’s 56/100. This significant 27-point difference highlights the superior features of the K-3 Mark III in video recording.

Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as the maximum video frame rate of 60fps. This allows for smooth video playback and the ability to create slow-motion footage. However, the similarities end there, as the K-3 Mark III boasts superior specs in other aspects.

The Pentax K-3 Mark III has a maximum video resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160), which is much higher than the Nikon D3400’s Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. This higher resolution offers increased detail and clarity in the recorded footage, making the K-3 Mark III a better choice for those seeking professional-quality videos. Additionally, the K-3 Mark III has built-in time-lapse functionality, allowing for creative time-lapse videos without the need for external accessories or software.

The Nikon D3400, on the other hand, does not have any clear advantages in video capabilities compared to the Pentax K-3 Mark III. Its lower resolution and lack of time-lapse functionality make it a less competitive option for videography.

Comparing the video capabilities of these two cameras, the Pentax K-3 Mark III stands out as the clear winner with its 4K resolution and built-in time-lapse feature. The Nikon D3400 falls short in this aspect, making it a less suitable choice for those prioritizing video performance.

Video
Video
56%
83%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
4K
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
3840 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
60 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
MPEG-4, MOV

Nikon D3400 vs Pentax K-3 Mark III Features and Benefits

The Pentax K-3 Mark III wins the features comparison with a score of 87/100, while the Nikon D3400 scores 54/100. Both cameras share some specifications, including a lack of GPS and flip screen. However, the Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Nikon D3400 in several aspects.

The Pentax K-3 Mark III has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the Nikon D3400’s 3 inches. Additionally, the screen resolution is significantly higher at 1,620,000 dots, as opposed to the Nikon D3400’s 921,000 dots. This results in a clearer and more detailed display on the Pentax K-3 Mark III. The winning camera also features a touchscreen, which the Nikon D3400 lacks. The touchscreen allows for more intuitive navigation and control.

Connectivity is another area where the Pentax K-3 Mark III excels. It has both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, while the Nikon D3400 only has Bluetooth. The presence of Wi-Fi enables easier file transfers and remote control of the camera.

The Nikon D3400 does not have any significant advantages over the Pentax K-3 Mark III in terms of features. Its lower score reflects the lack of advanced features compared to the winning camera.

To conclude, the Pentax K-3 Mark III is a superior camera in terms of features, with a higher score, larger and higher-resolution screen, touchscreen capability, and Wi-Fi connectivity. The Nikon D3400 falls short in these aspects, making the Pentax K-3 Mark III the better choice for photographers seeking advanced features.

Features
Features
54%
87%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
LCD
TFT LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3"
3.2"
Screen Resolution
921,000 dots
1,620,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Nikon D3400 vs Pentax K-3 Mark III Storage and Battery

The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Nikon D3400 in storage and battery, scoring 81/100 compared to the D3400’s 45/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, but the K-3 Mark III has an advantage with two memory card slots, one of which is UHS-II compatible, offering faster data transfer.

The Nikon D3400 has a longer battery life, providing 1200 shots per charge with its EN-EL14a battery, while the Pentax K-3 Mark III offers 800 shots with its D-LI90 battery. However, the K-3 Mark III compensates for shorter battery life by supporting USB charging, a feature absent in the D3400.

In terms of storage and battery, the Pentax K-3 Mark III holds an edge with dual memory card slots and USB charging capabilities. On the other hand, the Nikon D3400 offers longer battery life. Ultimately, the K-3 Mark III is the superior choice for those prioritizing storage flexibility and convenient charging, while the D3400 is more suitable for users seeking longer battery life.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
45%
81%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC
SD / SDHC / SDXC (1 slot is UHS-II compatible)
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
EN-EL14a
D-LI90
Battery Life
1,200 shots
800 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
86%
N/A
Portrait (Color Depth)
24.8 bits
N/A
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
13.9 EVs
N/A
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
1192
N/A
Scores

Nikon D3400 vs Pentax K-3 Mark III – Our Verdict

Nikon D3400 vs Pentax K-3 Mark III Comparison image.

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