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Pentax K-3 Mark III vs K-70 Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Pentax K-3 Mark III

pentax k3 mark iii
Winner!
83%

Pentax K-70

pentax k70
69%
Pentax K-3 Mark III
vs
Pentax K-70
Price
Brand
Pentax
Pentax
Model
K-3 Mark III
K-70
Released
2021
2016
Announcement Date
March 30, 2021
June 08, 2016
Camera Type
DSLR
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Pentax K-70 with a score of 83/100 compared to 69/100. Both cameras share the DSLR type, and their sizes are quite similar, with the K-3 Mark III measuring 135 x 104 x 74mm and the K-70 at 126 x 93 x 74mm.

The K-3 Mark III excels with its 2021 release year and higher launch price of $1999, indicating more advanced features and technology. It weighs slightly more at 820g, which can be a sign of a more robust build. On the other hand, the K-70 has a lower launch price of $650 and is lighter at 688g, making it a more budget-friendly and portable option.

Considering these specifications, the Pentax K-3 Mark III is a superior camera with a higher score, while the Pentax K-70 offers a more affordable and lightweight alternative for those with a tighter budget.

Pentax K-3 Mark III vs K-70 Overview and Optics

The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Pentax K-70 in optics, scoring 82 out of 100, while the K-70 scores 74. Both cameras share several specifications, including the CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, Pentax KAF2 lens mount, and image stabilization. These common features provide a solid foundation for both cameras, ensuring quality performance in various shooting conditions.

The K-3 Mark III has several advantages over the K-70. With 26 megapixels, it provides higher resolution images than the K-70, which has 24 megapixels. The K-3 Mark III also boasts a faster shooting speed of 12 frames per second, doubling the K-70’s 6 frames per second. This difference enables the K-3 Mark III to capture fast-paced action more effectively. Furthermore, the K-3 Mark III’s Prime IV processor and DXOMARK sensor score of 96 contribute to its superior image quality and processing capabilities compared to the K-70’s Prime MII processor and DXOMARK sensor score of 88.

On the other hand, the K-70 offers a few advantages, but they are limited in comparison to the K-3 Mark III’s superiority. The K-70’s lower score does not necessarily mean it is a bad camera; it simply lacks the enhanced features that the K-3 Mark III possesses.

Given the differences and similarities between the Pentax K-3 Mark III and the Pentax K-70, the K-3 Mark III emerges as the better camera in terms of optics. Its higher resolution, faster shooting speed, and superior processor and sensor performance make it a more capable and versatile option for photographers. Although the K-70 still offers quality performance with its shared features, the K-3 Mark III is the clear winner in this comparison.

Optics
Optics
82%
74%
Megapixels
26 MP
24 MP
Image Resolution
6192 x 4128 px
6000 x 4000 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
23 x 15.5 mm
23.5 x 15.6 mm
Sensor Format
APS-C
APS-C
Frame Rate
12 fps
6 fps
Lens Mount
Pentax KAF2
Pentax KAF2
Image Processor
Prime IV
Prime MII
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
1,600,000
102,400
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
1600000
102400
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 6000 s
Autofocus Points
101
11
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentaprism)
Optical (pentaprism)

Pentax K-3 Mark III vs K-70 Video Performance

The Pentax K-3 Mark III emerges as the winner in video capabilities with a score of 83/100, while the Pentax K-70 scores 70/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as a maximum video frame rate of 60fps and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, there are key differences between the two models that set them apart.

The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the K-70 with a maximum video resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160), significantly higher than the K-70’s Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. This means that the K-3 Mark III can capture videos with greater detail and clarity, making it more suitable for professional video recording and content creation.

On the other hand, the Pentax K-70 still has its merits, particularly for users who prioritize simplicity and cost-effectiveness. With a Full HD video resolution, the K-70 offers satisfactory video quality for casual users and hobbyists. It may not be as advanced as the K-3 Mark III, but it still provides a decent video recording experience.

Taking all the factors into account, the Pentax K-3 Mark III is the superior choice for video capabilities, offering 4K resolution and maintaining the same frame rate and time-lapse features as the K-70. It caters to professionals and content creators seeking high-quality video output. Meanwhile, the Pentax K-70 remains a viable option for those who prefer a more straightforward and budget-friendly camera without compromising too much on video quality.

Video
Video
83%
70%
Video
Max Video Resolution
4K
Full HD
Max Video Dimensions
3840 x 2160 px
1920 x 1080 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
60 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MPEG-4, MOV
MPEG-4, MOV

Pentax K-3 Mark III vs K-70 Features and Benefits

The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Pentax K-70 in features with a score of 87/100, compared to the K-70’s 68/100. Both cameras share some specifications, including WIFI and Bluetooth capabilities. However, there are distinct differences that set them apart.

The K-3 Mark III boasts a larger screen size of 3.2 inches and a higher screen resolution of 1,620,000 dots, providing clearer and more detailed image previews. Additionally, the K-3 Mark III has a touchscreen, making it easier to navigate menus and adjust settings quickly.

On the other hand, the Pentax K-70 has a flip screen and GPS functionality, which the K-3 Mark III lacks. The flip screen allows for more versatile shooting angles, while the GPS feature is useful for geotagging images. Despite these advantages, the K-70 has a smaller screen size of 3 inches and a lower screen resolution of 921,000 dots.

Considering the differences in features, the Pentax K-3 Mark III stands out as the superior camera due to its larger screen size, higher screen resolution, and touchscreen capability. These attributes contribute to a more convenient and enjoyable user experience. While the Pentax K-70 offers a flip screen and GPS, these features do not outweigh the benefits provided by the K-3 Mark III’s higher feature score.

Ultimately, the Pentax K-3 Mark III is the better camera in terms of features. Photographers who prioritize screen size, resolution, and touchscreen functionality should choose the K-3 Mark III. Meanwhile, those who value a flip screen and GPS capabilities may still find the Pentax K-70 to be a suitable option.

Features
Features
87%
68%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
TFT LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3.2"
3"
Screen Resolution
1,620,000 dots
921,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Pentax K-3 Mark III vs K-70 Storage and Battery

The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Pentax K-70 in storage and battery with a score of 81/100, compared to the K-70’s 24/100. Both cameras share compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. However, the K-3 Mark III has two memory card slots, with one being UHS-II compatible, while the K-70 only has one slot, which is UHS-I compatible.

The K-3 Mark III excels in battery life, providing 800 shots per charge using the D-LI90 battery type. Additionally, it supports USB charging. On the other hand, the K-70 offers 410 shots per charge with its D-LI109 battery and lacks USB charging capabilities.

While the K-70 falls short in storage and battery performance, it may still be a suitable option for casual photographers or those prioritizing other features. However, for professionals and enthusiasts seeking longer battery life, more storage options, and USB charging, the K-3 Mark III is the superior choice in this comparison.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
81%
24%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC (1 slot is UHS-II compatible)
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
D-LI90
D-LI109
Battery Life
800 shots
410 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Scores

Alternatives to the Pentax K-3 Mark III and K-70

Pentax K-3 Mark III vs K-70 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Pentax K-3 Mark III or the Pentax K-70:

User Scores
B&H photo video
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