Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
 77
SCORE
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✓ WINNER
 83
SCORE
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|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Pentax | Pentax |
| Model | K-1 | K-3 Mark III |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2016 | 2021 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
17/02/2016 | 30/03/2021 |
| Camera type | DSLR | DSLR |
| Camera size | 137 x 110 x 86 mm | 135 x 104 x 74 mm |
| Camera weight | 1010 g | 820 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
36.4 MP050 | 26 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
7360 x 4912 | 6192 x 4128 |
Sensor type ⓘThe camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. |
CMOS | CMOS |
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. |
24 x 35.9 | 23 x 15.5 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
Full Frame | APS-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. |
4.4 fps045 | 12 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. |
Pentax KAF | Pentax KAF2 |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. |
Prime IV | Prime IV |
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. |
3:2 | 3:2 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
2048003003280000 | 16000003003280000 |
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. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
2048003003280000 | 16000003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
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. |
800080032000 | 800080032000 |
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. |
330300 | 1010300 |
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/A | N/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 HD | 4K |
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 1080 | 3840 x 2160 |
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 fps | 60 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. |
MOV | MPEG-4, MOV |
| 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 | LCD | TFT LCD |
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. |
10370001150001500000 | 16200001150001500000 |
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 / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC (1 slot is UHS-II compatible) |
| Dual memory card slots | ✓ | ✓ |
| Battery type | D-LI90 | D-LI90 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
760 shots1505000 | 800 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✓ |
The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Pentax K-1 with a score of 83/100 compared to 77/100. Both cameras are DSLR models, with the K-1 being released in 2016 and the K-3 Mark III in 2021. They share similar dimensions, with the K-1 measuring 137 x 110 x 86mm and the K-3 Mark III at 135 x 104 x 74mm.
The K-3 Mark III stands out due to its higher score, reflecting its superior performance. Additionally, it is lighter, weighing 820g compared to the K-1’s 1010g, making it more portable and comfortable to use. However, the K-1 has a lower launch price of $1800, compared to the K-3 Mark III’s $1999, which might make it more appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
After considering each camera’s specifications, it is clear that the Pentax K-3 Mark III offers better performance and portability, while the Pentax K-1 provides a more affordable option.
The Pentax K-1 emerges as the winner in the optics comparison with a score of 85/100, while the Pentax K-3 Mark III scores 82/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, Prime IV processor, Pentax KAF lens mount, and image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras have the same DXOMARK score of 96 for their sensors.
The Pentax K-1 boasts a higher megapixel count of 36.4 compared to the K-3 Mark III’s 26 megapixels. This difference allows the K-1 to capture more detailed and sharper images. Furthermore, the K-1 has a full-frame sensor, which provides better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field, enhancing image quality and creative potential.
On the other hand, the Pentax K-3 Mark III has a faster shooting speed of 12 frames per second, compared to the K-1’s 4.4 frames per second. This advantage makes the K-3 Mark III more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography. However, the K-3 Mark III has an APS-C sensor, which is smaller than the K-1’s full-frame sensor, resulting in a crop factor that affects the field of view.
In terms of optics, the Pentax K-1 performs better due to its higher megapixel count and full-frame sensor, providing superior image quality and low-light performance. The Pentax K-3 Mark III, although not as strong in image quality, excels in capturing fast-moving subjects with its higher shooting speed. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Pentax K-1 in video capabilities with a score of 83/100, a 13-point difference compared to the K-1’s score of 70/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a maximum video frame rate of 60fps and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the K-3 Mark III surpasses the K-1 in terms of video resolution and dimensions.
The K-3 Mark III’s superior video quality is evident in its 4K maximum video resolution and 3840 x 2160 video dimensions. This higher resolution enables users to capture more detailed and sharper footage, resulting in professional-grade video content. In contrast, the K-1 offers a maximum video resolution of Full HD and video dimensions of 1920 x 1080, which, while still providing high-quality footage, is not as impressive as the 4K capabilities of the K-3 Mark III.
The K-1’s video capabilities are not completely overshadowed by the K-3 Mark III, as both cameras offer the same maximum video frame rate and time-lapse functionality. These features ensure smooth video playback and creative options for users of both models. However, the K-1’s lower video resolution and dimensions make it less suitable for those seeking the highest possible video quality.
Considering the differences in video capabilities, the Pentax K-3 Mark III emerges as the superior option for videographers and content creators, thanks to its 4K resolution and larger video dimensions. While the Pentax K-1 maintains some competitive features, such as the 60fps frame rate and time-lapse functionality, its Full HD resolution falls short of the K-3 Mark III’s performance.
The Pentax K-3 Mark III wins the feature comparison with a score of 87/100, while the Pentax K-1 scores 59/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a 3.2-inch screen size and WIFI connectivity. However, the K-3 Mark III outperforms the K-1 in several aspects, making it the superior choice in terms of features.
The K-3 Mark III has a higher screen resolution of 1,620,000 dots compared to the K-1’s 1,037,000 dots. This results in crisper and clearer image previews. Additionally, the K-3 Mark III comes with a touchscreen, allowing users to navigate menus and review images with ease. The K-3 Mark III also offers Bluetooth connectivity, enabling seamless transfer of images to smartphones or other compatible devices.
On the other hand, the K-1 has a flip screen, which is absent in the K-3 Mark III. This feature allows users to shoot from various angles with ease, making it beneficial for photographers who often capture images from unconventional perspectives. Moreover, the K-1 is equipped with GPS functionality, which is useful for geotagging photographs and tracking shooting locations.
To conclude, the Pentax K-3 Mark III’s superior screen resolution, touchscreen, and Bluetooth connectivity make it the better choice in terms of features. However, the Pentax K-1 still holds value with its flip screen and GPS capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the individual photographer’s needs and preferences.
The Pentax K-3 Mark III takes the lead in storage and battery with a score of 81/100, compared to the Pentax K-1’s score of 68/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having two memory card slots and accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. They also use the same D-LI90 battery type.
The K-3 Mark III outperforms the K-1 in battery life, offering 800 shots per charge, while the K-1 provides 760 shots. Additionally, the K-3 Mark III has a significant advantage with USB charging capability, which the K-1 lacks. This feature allows for more convenient charging options.
The K-1 has one minor advantage, as both of its memory card slots are UHS-I compatible, while only one of the K-3 Mark III’s slots supports UHS-II. However, this difference is not significant enough to outweigh the benefits of the K-3 Mark III’s longer battery life and USB charging.
Considering these factors, the Pentax K-3 Mark III proves to be the superior choice in terms of storage and battery capabilities, making it a more practical and versatile option for photographers.
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Pentax K-1 or the Pentax K-3 Mark III:
