Pentax K-3 Mark III vs KP Comparison
Pentax K-3 Mark III
Pentax KP
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Brand | Pentax | Pentax | |
Model | K-3 Mark III | KP | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2021 | 2017 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | March 30, 2021 | January 25, 2017 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Pentax KP with a score of 83/100 compared to the KP’s 72/100. Both cameras share the DSLR camera type, but the K-3 Mark III was released in 2021, four years after the KP’s 2017 release. They have similar dimensions, with the K-3 Mark III measuring 135 x 104 x 74mm and the KP at 132 x 101 x 76mm.
The K-3 Mark III’s higher score reflects its superior performance and features as a more recent model. However, the KP has its advantages, such as being lighter at 703g compared to the K-3 Mark III’s 820g. Additionally, the KP’s lower launch price of $1099 makes it more budget-friendly than the K-3 Mark III’s $1999 price tag.
Taking into account the specifications, the Pentax K-3 Mark III proves to be a better camera with its higher score and advanced features. However, the Pentax KP remains a viable option for those seeking a lighter and more affordable DSLR.
Pentax K-3 Mark III vs KP Overview and Optics
The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Pentax KP in optics, scoring 82/100 compared to the KP’s 79/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, Prime IV processor, DXOMARK score of 96 for the sensor, APS-C sensor size, Pentax KAF2 lens mount, and image stabilization.
The K-3 Mark III excels with its 26-megapixel resolution and impressive shooting speed of 12 frames per second. This higher megapixel count allows for more detailed images, while the faster shooting speed enables capturing fast-moving subjects with ease. These factors contribute to the K-3 Mark III’s superior optics score.
On the other hand, the Pentax KP has a slightly lower megapixel count of 24 and a slower shooting speed of 7 frames per second. While these specs are not as impressive as the K-3 Mark III, they still produce quality images and decent performance in various shooting conditions. The KP’s lower score does not necessarily mean it is a bad camera, but rather that the K-3 Mark III has an edge in terms of optics.
Considering the shared specifications and differences in megapixels and shooting speed, the Pentax K-3 Mark III proves to be the better choice for those prioritizing optics performance. However, the Pentax KP remains a viable option for those who may not require the highest resolution or fastest shooting speed. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
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Optics
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Pentax K-3 Mark III
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Pentax KP
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 26 MP | 24 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 6192 x 4128 px | 6016 x 4000 px | |
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. | 23 x 15.5 mm | 23.5 x 15.6 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C | APS-C | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 12 fps | 7 fps | |
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 KAF2 | 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 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) 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. | 1,600,000 | 819,200 | |
Minimum 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. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum 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. | 1600000 | 819200 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum 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. | 1/ 8000 s | 1/ 6000 s | |
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. | 101 | 27 | |
In-body Stabilization 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) |
Pentax K-3 Mark III vs KP Video Performance
The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Pentax KP in video capabilities, scoring 83 out of 100, while the Pentax KP scores only 57. Both cameras share some specifications, such as having time-lapse functionality built in. However, the K-3 Mark III boasts superior video features, contributing to its higher score.
The K-3 Mark III offers 4K video resolution with maximum dimensions of 3840 x 2160, which is significantly higher than the KP’s Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080. This difference in resolution results in clearer, more detailed video footage from the K-3 Mark III. Additionally, the K-3 Mark III supports a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, doubling the KP’s 30fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother video playback and increased versatility in post-production editing, such as slow-motion effects.
On the other hand, the Pentax KP does not outperform the K-3 Mark III in any of the mentioned video specifications. Its lower resolution and frame rate limit its video capabilities compared to the K-3 Mark III. The shared time-lapse functionality is the only common ground between the two cameras in terms of video features.
Considering the substantial differences in video resolution and frame rate, the Pentax K-3 Mark III is the clear winner in video capabilities. Its superior specifications allow for higher quality footage and greater creative freedom in editing. The Pentax KP, while sharing the time-lapse functionality, falls short in delivering the same level of video performance as the K-3 Mark III.
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Video
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Pentax K-3 Mark III
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Pentax KP
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  4K |  Full HD | |
Max Video Dimensions 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. | 3840 x 2160 px | 1920 x 1080 px | |
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 p | 30 p | |
Time-Lapse 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. | MPEG-4, MOV | MPEG-4, MOV |
Pentax K-3 Mark III vs KP Features and Benefits
The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Pentax KP with a feature score of 87/100, compared to the KP’s 68/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as WIFI and Bluetooth capabilities. However, the K-3 Mark III surpasses the KP in several aspects, while the KP also has its advantages.
The Pentax K-3 Mark III and Pentax KP both have WIFI and Bluetooth, allowing for easy connectivity and file sharing. However, the K-3 Mark III has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches and a higher screen resolution of 1,620,000 dots, compared to the KP’s 3-inch screen and 921,000-dot resolution. Additionally, the K-3 Mark III features a touchscreen, making it more user-friendly and easier to navigate.
On the other hand, the Pentax KP has a flip screen and GPS functionality, which the K-3 Mark III lacks. The flip screen provides more flexibility when composing shots from different angles, and the GPS allows for geotagging images, a useful feature for travel photography.
In terms of features, the Pentax K-3 Mark III is the superior camera due to its larger screen size, higher screen resolution, and touchscreen capabilities. These factors contribute to its higher feature score. The Pentax KP, although not as feature-rich, offers a flip screen and GPS functionality that might be appealing to specific users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Pentax K-3 Mark III and Pentax KP depends on individual preferences and priorities. The K-3 Mark III provides a better overall user experience with its enhanced screen and touchscreen, while the KP caters to users who value flexibility in shooting angles and geotagging capabilities.
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Features
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Pentax K-3 Mark III
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Pentax KP
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |   | | |
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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 | TFT LCD | 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" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,620,000 dots | 921,000 dots | |
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 |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Pentax K-3 Mark III vs KP Storage and Battery
The Pentax K-3 Mark III outperforms the Pentax KP in storage and battery with a score of 81/100, compared to the KP’s 21/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, but the K-3 Mark III has two memory card slots, one of which is UHS-II compatible, while the KP has only one slot that is UHS-I compatible.
The K-3 Mark III also boasts a longer battery life with 800 shots per charge using the D-LI90 battery and supports USB charging. In contrast, the KP offers 390 shots per charge with its D-LI109 battery and lacks USB charging capabilities.
Despite the lower score, the Pentax KP is still a reliable camera for casual photographers who may not require extended battery life or additional storage options. However, the K-3 Mark III stands as the superior choice for those prioritizing storage and battery performance.
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Storage and Battery
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Pentax K-3 Mark III
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Pentax KP
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (1 slot is UHS-II compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | D-LI90 | D-LI109 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 800 shots | 390 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Pentax K-3 Mark III
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Pentax KP
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Scores
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Pentax K-3 Mark III
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Pentax KP
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Main Features | N/A | ||
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Extra Features | N/A | ||
Construction and Durability | N/A | ||
Handling and Ergonomics | N/A | ||
Value for Money | N/A | ||
Total Score | N/A |
Pentax K-3 Mark III vs KP – Our Verdict
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 KP:
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User Scores
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Pentax K-3 Mark III
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Pentax KP
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