Pentax K-3 Mark III Review

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Article: description: With 2024 just around the corner, you might be thinking about investing in a new camera. The question is, what should you get? There’s a good argument it should be the Pentax K-3 Mark III!
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DSLR cameras have become a dying breed in 2024, but the Pentax K-3 Mark III bucks that trend. It is less than three years old, is still in production, and has specs and features that rival many new mirrorless cameras. So, if you are a die-hard DSLR fan looking to upgrade to a more modern camera, you 100% have to consider investing in the K-3 Mark III.

In this Pentax K-3 Mark III review, we’ll share a basic camera overview, break down its photo and video specs, recommend our favorite Pentax lenses to shoot with, and more. Additionally, thanks to innovative websites like MPB, buying a used Pentax DSLR has never been cheaper and easier.

Who is MPB? It is a trustworthy and reliable online platform selling pre-owned photography and videography gear at unbeatable prices. Better yet, all of its cameras and lenses are hand-inspected by expert product specialists with years of experience and backed by six-month warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.

We love MPB because, over the years, we have saved thousands of dollars buying, selling, and trading in photography equipment on their one-of-a-kind online marketplace. You can start saving, too, by visiting their website today. Now, join us as we uncover everything there is to know about the Pentax K-3 Mark III! 

Check out the video above by digiDirect for a hands-on review of the Pentax K-3 III and to learn why it’s one of the most popular DSLRs in 2024. 

Table of Contents

Pentax K-3 Mark III: Overview

The Pentax K-3 Mark III is a high-end DSLR released in 2021, replacing the Pentax K-1 Mark II as the company's newest digital camera. It looks extremely similar to the previous K-3 Mark II from the outside, but it’s a whole new camera internally. For example, its robust, weather-sealed body now houses a 25.7-megapixel APS-C sensor and a Prime V image processor. 

The sensor and processor work together to make the K-3 III the fastest, most advanced Pentax DSLR ever released. Other new features include the largest-ever optical viewfinder found on an APS-C DSLR, a redesigned shutter mechanism, and a new autofocus (AF) system. 

The AF, in particular, is a game-changer as it uses machine-learning algorithms to seamlessly identify and follow moving subjects. It works wonders in photo and video modes, making it easy for everyone, from professional photographers to total beginners, to capture detailed, in-focus content.

More design features we love are the easy-to-read top LCD, three control dials, and multi-directional AF joystick. They all help enhance the camera’s handling and improve workflow speeds. Now, here’s an in-depth look at the Pentax K-3 Mark III specs and key features:

  • Camera Type: DSLR
  • Sensor: 25.7MP APS-C BSI CMOS Sensor
  • ISO: 100 - 1,600,000
  • Lens Mount: Pentax K Mount
  • Speed: 12.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 101 focus points
  • Video: 4K/30p, & 1080p/60p
  • Size/Weight: 135 x 104 x 74 mm / 820 grams
  • Battery Life: 800 shots
  • Stabilization: Yes
  • Touchscreen: Yes
  • Weather-Sealed: Yes
  • Used Pentax K-3 Mark III Price: $1,199 - $1,219

Pentax K-3 Mark III: Imaging Capabilities

The Pentax K-3 Mark III’s high-resolution 25.7MP sensor is a welcome addition for still photographers. For reference, its max resolution is higher than the 24MP found on most Sony APS-C mirrorless cameras. Furthermore, the sensor's BSI (back-side illuminated) technology and wide ISO range significantly boost the camera’s low-light performance. 

Another spec this camera has going for it is its relatively fast burst shooting. While it can’t match the speeds of mirrorless cameras and their electronic shutters, it can shoot continuously at speeds up to 12.0 frames per second (fps). This trumps most DSLRs and makes the K-3 Mark III a good DSLR for action and sports photography.

The Pixel Shift Resolution mode and the AA Filter Simulator are two more nifty features. The Pixel Shifting mode captures multiple sequential frames and stitches them together into one image with enhanced detail and brighter colors. Meanwhile, the AA Filter Simulator reduces moiré for sharper and clearer images.

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Pentax K-3 Mark III: Video Capabilities

Long-time Pentax users and hybrid photographers will be thrilled to discover that the Pentax K-3 Mark III boasts 4K video capabilities. It’s the first Pentax K Mount camera capable of capturing 4K video, which it does at 24 and 30 fps. This makes it a viable option for event and wedding photographers, YouTubers, and vloggers. 

On top of that, it records 1080p Full HD video at 24, 30, and 60 fps. Also, a built-in stereo microphone and two microphone/headphone jacks make it easy to control and monitor audio levels while filming. The better the audio quality of your original footage, the less time you will have to spend fixing it in post-production. 

Other impressive video features include SR II In-Body Shake Reduction and dual UHS-II SD card slots. The Shake Reduction technology elevates low-light performance and reduces camera shake by adding up to 5.5 stops of exposure to photos and videos. At the same time, having two memory card slots lets you record for longer periods.

Our only complaint about the K-3 Mark III is its fixed rear screen, which makes it harder to create selfie content. Unfortunately, this might be a deal-breaker for vloggers and social media influencers.

Recommended Lenses for the Pentax K-3 Mark III

Here’s a quick list of some of the best Pentax K mount lenses for photo and video to pair with the Pentax K-3 Mark III.

Final Thoughts on the Pentax K-3 Mark III

As one of the few DSLRs that remains in production in 2024, buying the Pentax K-3 Mark III used is a great way to get even better value than you normally would if you were buying one new. With that said, remember to always buy used camera equipment from a dependable source like MPB. 

If you have your heart set on a DSLR but aren’t sure this Pentax camera is the perfect fit, check out the list below of other highly-rated DSLR cameras in 2024.

A quick heads-up: If you snag something through our affiliate links or check out our sponsored content, we might earn a commission at no extra cost to you. But fear not, we're all about recommending stuff we're truly stoked about!

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