CameraReview
Pentax K-3 Mark III
83
SCORE
Pentax · DSLR · 26 MP · APS-C · 4K video

Pentax K-3 Mark III

General 83Optics 82Video Performance 83Features and Benefits 87Storage and Battery 81
From $1,696.95 — 9 offers
KEY FACTS
BrandPentax
ModelK-3 Mark III
Released2021
Announcement date30/03/2021
Camera typeDSLR
What We Like
Not yet summarised.
Worth Knowing
Expensive for an APS-C DSLR
Only 25 shots in buffer
Only accepts slower SD cards
Fixed LCD and joystick can't be used in menu system
Heavy 4K crop, only 8-bit video

General 83

Brand
Pentax
Model
K-3 Mark III
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2021
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
30/03/2021
Camera type
DSLR
Camera size
135 x 104 x 74 mm
Camera weight
820 g

Optics 82

Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
26 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
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
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
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
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.
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 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
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
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
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.
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
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.
16000003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
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
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.
1010300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Yes
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)
Viewfinder dots
N/A
Read our notes on optics

The Pentax K-3 Mark III earns a solid score of 83, showcasing its impressive specifications. Announced on March 30, 2021, and released the same year, this DSLR camera has dimensions of 135 x 104 x 74mm and a weight of 820g (1.81lbs). The K-3 Mark III is a solid DSLR and a competitive option in today’s market.

These specifications highlight the camera’s strong performance and user-friendly design. The Pentax K-3 Mark III is a reliable choice for photographers seeking a high-quality DSLR experience.

Pentax K-3 Mark III Overview and Optics

The optics of the Pentax K-3 Mark III receive a score of 82/100. This camera features a 26-megapixel CMOS sensor with a Prime IV processor, ensuring high-quality images. The shooting speed is 12 frames per second, making it suitable for capturing fast-paced action.

The Pentax KAF2 lens mount allows for a wide range of compatible lenses, providing versatility for photographers. Image stabilization is present, which reduces camera shake and blurring in photos. The aspect ratio of 3:2 is standard for DSLR cameras, ensuring compatibility with common print sizes.

The Pentax K-3 Mark III stands strong in today’s market, offering reliable optics and features for various photography needs. Its high score reflects its competitive capabilities, making it a solid choice for photographers seeking quality and versatility.

Pentax K-3 Mark III Video Performance 83

Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Yes
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
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.
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
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.
Yes
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
Read our notes on pentax k-3 mark iii video performance

The Pentax K-3 Mark III has a video score of 83/100. This camera offers a maximum video resolution of 4K, with dimensions of 3840 x 2160. The maximum video frame rate is 60fps, providing smooth footage for various shooting scenarios. Additionally, the camera has built-in time-lapse functionality, allowing for creative video capturing options.

In the current market, the Pentax K-3 Mark III’s video specifications are competitive. The 4K resolution and 60fps frame rate are standard features in modern cameras, providing high-quality video results. The built-in time-lapse feature adds versatility to the camera’s video capabilities.

The Pentax K-3 Mark III is a solid choice for video recording, with its competitive specifications and additional features. The camera’s video score reflects its capabilities and performance in the market.

Pentax K-3 Mark III Features and Benefits 87

Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
No
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.
Yes
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
No
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Yes
Screen type
TFT LCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Yes
Screen size
3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
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.
No
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Yes
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Yes
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Yes
Read our notes on pentax k-3 mark iii features and benefits

The Pentax K-3 Mark III boasts a feature score of 87/100, reflecting its competitive position in the current camera market. This camera’s 3.2-inch screen offers a high resolution of 1,620,000 dots, providing clear and detailed image previews. The touchscreen functionality enhances user experience, allowing for easy navigation and control.

However, the absence of a flip screen and GPS may limit its versatility for some users. Despite these limitations, the Pentax K-3 Mark III still offers modern connectivity options, such as WIFI and Bluetooth, enabling users to transfer images and remotely control the camera with ease.

Taking these features into account, the Pentax K-3 Mark III remains a strong contender in today’s market, providing users with a high-quality camera that integrates advanced technology and user-friendly features.

Pentax K-3 Mark III Storage and Battery 81

Memory card
SD / SDHC / SDXC (1 slot is UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Yes
Battery type
D-LI90
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
800 shots1505000
USB charging
Yes
Read our notes on pentax k-3 mark iii storage and battery

The Pentax K-3 Mark III receives a storage and battery score of 81/100. The camera is equipped with two memory card slots, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. One of these slots is UHS-II compatible, providing faster transfer speeds. This feature is competitive in the current market, as it caters to the increasing demand for high-speed storage options.

The K-3 Mark III offers a battery life of 800 shots, utilizing the D-LI90 battery type. This battery life is impressive and allows photographers to capture more images without needing frequent battery changes. Additionally, the camera supports USB charging, which is a convenient option for on-the-go charging.

Taking these specifications into account, the Pentax K-3 Mark III offers reliable storage and battery performance. Its competitive features cater to the needs of photographers in today’s fast-paced market.