Pentax K-3 vs K-70 Comparison

The Pentax K-3 and the Pentax K-70 each scored 69/100 in our evaluation, making them equal contenders in the DSLR camera market. Both cameras share the same type and score, were released in the 2010s, and are similar in size and weight. The K-3 measures 131 x 100 x 77mm and weighs 800g, while the K-70 is slightly smaller at 126 x 93 x 74mm and lighter at 688g.

The Pentax K-3 has an advantage with its launch price of $1300, offering a premium feel and higher-end features. On the other hand, the Pentax K-70 is more affordable with a launch price of $650, making it a more accessible choice for budget-conscious photographers.

Taking into account the similar scores, shared specifications, and differences in price, both cameras offer unique advantages for different consumers. The Pentax K-3 caters to those seeking a higher-end camera, while the Pentax K-70 provides a budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing quality.

Pentax K-3 vs K-70 Overview and Optics

The Pentax K-3 and the Pentax K-70 both receive a score of 74/100 for their optics, showing that they have similar optical capabilities. Both cameras share many specifications, such as 24 megapixels, a CMOS sensor, an APS-C sensor size, a Pentax KAF lens mount, and image stabilization.

The K-3 has some advantages over the K-70. With a shooting speed of 8.3 frames per second, the K-3 is faster than the K-70, which has a shooting speed of 6 frames per second. This means the K-3 is better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the K-3 has a Prime III processor, which is more advanced than the K-70’s Prime MII processor. This results in faster image processing and potentially better overall performance.

On the other hand, the K-70 has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, at 88 compared to the K-3’s 80. This suggests that the K-70’s sensor has better overall image quality than the K-3’s sensor. Furthermore, the K-70 has a Pentax KAF2 lens mount, which is an updated version of the KAF mount found on the K-3. This allows the K-70 to use a wider range of lenses, providing more versatility and options for photographers.

Taking these factors into account, it is clear that both the Pentax K-3 and the Pentax K-70 have their strengths and weaknesses in terms of optics. The K-3’s faster shooting speed and more advanced processor make it a better choice for action photography, while the K-70’s higher sensor score and updated lens mount give it an edge in image quality and lens compatibility. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

The Pentax K-3 and the Pentax K-70 both have a video score of 70/100, which means they share similar video capabilities. They both offer Full HD video recording with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080 and a maximum video frame rate of 60fps. Additionally, both cameras have time-lapse functionality built in.

The similarities between the two cameras make it difficult to determine a clear winner in terms of video capabilities. As both cameras have the same video score, this means neither camera is better than the other in this aspect. Since they share the same maximum video resolution, dimensions, frame rate, and time-lapse functionality, users can expect similar video performance from both models.

However, there may be other factors not listed in the specifications that could influence video performance, such as autofocus and image stabilization. It is important to consider these factors when comparing the two cameras, as they could affect the overall video quality and user experience. In this case, it would be necessary to research and test both cameras further in order to determine any potential differences in video performance.

In the end, the Pentax K-3 and the Pentax K-70 are evenly matched in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras offer Full HD video recording, 60fps frame rate, and time-lapse functionality. Users can expect similar video performance from both models, making it a matter of personal preference when choosing between these two cameras for their video recording needs.

The Pentax K-70 emerges as the winner with a feature score of 68/100, compared to the Pentax K-3’s score of 59/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size and the absence of a touchscreen. However, the Pentax K-70 excels in several aspects, making it a more versatile camera compared to the Pentax K-3.

The winning camera, the Pentax K-70, has a flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities, which are all absent in the Pentax K-3. These features enable the K-70 to offer more flexibility and convenience in various shooting scenarios. The flip screen allows for easier composition of shots from different angles, while GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity provide quick and seamless sharing of images and remote control of the camera.

On the other hand, the Pentax K-3 has a slightly larger screen size of 3.2 inches and a higher screen resolution of 1,037,000 dots in comparison to the K-70’s 3-inch screen and 921,000 dots resolution. This difference contributes to a better image preview and review experience on the K-3.

Considering the feature set of both cameras, the Pentax K-70 stands out as the better choice due to its flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities. These features enhance the camera’s usability and adaptability to a wider range of shooting situations. Although the Pentax K-3 offers a marginally larger screen and higher resolution, these advantages are not significant enough to outweigh the benefits provided by the K-70’s additional features.

The Pentax K-3 outperforms the Pentax K-70 in storage and battery, scoring 63/100 compared to the K-70’s 24/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, but the K-3 offers two memory card slots, doubling its storage capabilities. Additionally, the K-3 has a longer battery life, providing 560 shots per charge with its D-LI90 battery, while the K-70 only manages 410 shots with its D-LI109 battery. Neither camera supports USB charging.

Despite the K-3’s superior score and performance, the K-70 has a slight advantage in memory card compatibility, supporting UHS-I cards, which allows for faster transfer speeds. However, this advantage is minimal compared to the K-3’s greater storage capacity and battery life.

Ultimately, the Pentax K-3 is the clear winner in storage and battery performance, offering more memory card slots and a longer battery life. The K-70’s compatibility with UHS-I cards is a small consolation, but it does not outweigh the K-3’s advantages.

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

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