CameraReview

Nikon D7200 vs Pentax K-3 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Nikon D7200
Nikon
Nikon D7200
DSLR · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
68
SCORE
$467.99
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✓ WINNER
Pentax K-3
Pentax
Pentax K-3
DSLR · 24 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
69
SCORE
$398
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General
Brand NikonPentax
Model D7200K-3
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20152013
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
02/03/201508/10/2013
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 136 x 107 x 76 mm131 x 100 x 77 mm
Camera weight 765 g800 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05024 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40006016 x 4000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
15.6 x 23.515.6 x 23.5
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
6 fps0458.3 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Nikon F DXPentax KAF
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Expeed 4Prime III
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
1024003003280000512003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
1003020010030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
1024003003280000512003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
800080032000800080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
510300270300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentaprism)Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HDFull HD
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
1920 x 10801920 x 1080
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
60 fps60 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MOVMPEG-4
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3.2"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1228800115000150000010370001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL15D-LI90
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
1110 shots1505000560 shots1505000
USB charging

The Pentax K-3 narrowly outperforms the Nikon D7200 with a score of 69/100 to 68/100. Both DSLR cameras share similarities in their 2015 and 2013 release years, $1200 and $1300 launch prices, and similar camera sizes. However, the Nikon D7200 has a slight advantage in weight, being 35g lighter than the Pentax K-3.

On the other hand, the Pentax K-3 has a marginally better score, suggesting it may have some superior features. Despite the minor differences in scores, both cameras offer quality performance for their respective price points. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras will depend on personal preferences and specific photography needs.

Nikon D7200 vs Pentax K-3 Overview and Optics

The Pentax K-3 emerges as the winner in the optics comparison with a score of 74/100, a 3-point lead over the Nikon D7200, which scored 71/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 24-megapixel CMOS sensor, APS-C sensor size, and lens mounts specific to their respective brands (Nikon F DX for the D7200 and Pentax KAF for the K-3).

The Pentax K-3 outperforms the Nikon D7200 in shooting speed and image stabilization. With a shooting speed of 8.3 frames per second, the K-3 is faster than the D7200’s 6 frames per second. This difference enables the K-3 to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. Additionally, the K-3 has built-in image stabilization, a feature absent in the D7200. This helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images, particularly in low-light situations or when using longer focal length lenses.

On the other hand, the Nikon D7200 has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor (87) compared to the Pentax K-3 (80). This indicates that the D7200’s sensor performs better in terms of color depth, dynamic range, and low-light ISO performance, resulting in higher image quality.

Weighing the advantages of both cameras, the Pentax K-3’s faster shooting speed and image stabilization make it a better option for action photography and situations where camera shake might be an issue. However, the Nikon D7200’s superior sensor performance may appeal to photographers seeking better image quality and enhanced low-light capabilities.

Nikon D7200 vs Pentax K-3 Video Performance

The Nikon D7200 and the Pentax K-3 both have a video score of 70/100, indicating that their video capabilities are equal in terms of quality. Both cameras offer Full HD video resolution with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels, allowing users to capture high-quality videos with crisp and clear details. Additionally, each camera has a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, ensuring smooth and seamless motion capture during video recording.

The time-lapse functionality is another feature that these cameras share, enabling users to create stunning time-lapse videos with ease. This feature is especially useful for capturing events and scenes that take place over an extended period, such as the movement of clouds or the growth of plants.

Despite their equal video scores, the Nikon D7200 has a slight edge over the Pentax K-3 in terms of autofocus performance during video recording. The D7200 features a more advanced autofocus system, which allows for faster and more accurate focusing while recording videos. This advantage can be beneficial for users who need to track moving subjects or quickly switch between focus points during video capture.

On the other hand, the Pentax K-3 possesses a unique advantage in the form of its in-body image stabilization system. This feature helps to reduce camera shake during video recording, resulting in steadier and more stable footage, especially when shooting handheld or in challenging conditions.

Considering the similarities and differences in video capabilities, both the Nikon D7200 and Pentax K-3 are suitable choices for users seeking high-quality video recording. The D7200’s superior autofocus performance may appeal to those who require fast and precise focusing, while the K-3’s in-body image stabilization offers an advantage for those prioritizing steady and stable footage.

Nikon D7200 vs Pentax K-3 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D7200 and the Pentax K-3 both have a feature score of 59/100. They share several specifications, such as screen size, which is 3.2 inches for both cameras. Neither camera has a touchscreen, flip screen, or GPS.

The Nikon D7200 has certain advantages over the Pentax K-3. It has a higher screen resolution at 1,228,800 dots, compared to the K-3’s 1,037,000 dots. This means that the D7200’s screen displays images with more clarity and detail. Additionally, the D7200 has built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for easy sharing and transfer of photos. The K-3 does not have this feature.

On the other hand, the Pentax K-3 does not have any clear advantages over the Nikon D7200 in terms of features, since they share many specifications and the D7200 has some additional benefits.

Considering the similarities and differences in their features, the Nikon D7200 proves to be a better option due to its higher screen resolution and Wi-Fi capabilities. The Pentax K-3 does not offer any unique features that would make it a better choice in comparison. Both cameras have the same feature score, but the D7200’s additional benefits make it a more attractive option for potential buyers.

Nikon D7200 vs Pentax K-3 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D7200 outperforms the Pentax K-3 in storage and battery, scoring 79/100 compared to the K-3’s 63/100. Both cameras share common specifications, including two memory card slots and compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. Neither camera supports USB charging.

The D7200 excels in battery life, offering 1110 shots per charge with its EN-EL15 battery, while the K-3 only provides 560 shots using the D-LI90 battery. This significant difference makes the D7200 a better choice for extended shooting sessions.

However, the Pentax K-3 does not surpass the Nikon D7200 in any specific storage or battery aspects. Despite this, the K-3 still offers adequate battery life and storage options for most photography needs.

Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Nikon D7200 is the superior choice due to its longer battery life, allowing for more shots per charge. The Pentax K-3 remains a viable option, but the D7200 holds a clear advantage in this comparison.

Nikon D7200 vs Pentax K-3 – Our Verdict

Nikon D7200 vs Pentax K-3 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D7200 or the Pentax K-3: