Pentax K-3 Mark III
Announced April 23, 2021
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Good
The Pentax K-3 Mark III is a robust, weather-sealed DSLR that offers loyal users an improved autofocus system, a high-magnification optical viewfinder, and effective in-body image stabilization. That said, its high price tag and fixed rear screen make it a challenging sell compared to modern mirrorless alternatives.
Weighted from 13 reviewer scores
Pros
- Durable, weather-resistant magnesium alloy body
- Improved autofocus system with wide sensor coverage
- Effective five-axis in-body image stabilization
- Fast 12fps continuous shooting capability
- Large, high-magnification optical viewfinder
Cons
- Fixed rear LCD screen lacks tilt or articulation
- Limited and cropped 4K video functionality
- High price point relative to mirrorless competition
- Small buffer capacity for continuous shooting
- Absence of an external battery charger
- Launch price $1,999.95 (USD)
- Sensor 25.73MP APS-C CMOS
- Video 4K 29.97p
- Stabilization In-body IS
- Burst 12 fps electronic 12 fps mechanical
What the Reviewers Say
All 13 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
Is this product missing a reputable review? Share a link to a review article or YouTube video for consideration.
- PetaPixel 7/10
If you already own Pentax cameras and lenses, then the update to the K-3 Mark III is worth it despite the premium price for an APS-C DSLR.
-
If you’re a hard-core Pentaxian, then this one is for you. And it’s a good one.
-
For those looking for a DSLR, then the Pentax K-3 III is one of the best APS-C DSLRs available, with a 25.7mp APS-C BSI CMOS sensor and Shake Reduction (SR) system, giving great image quality, with low levels of noise, and excellent colour reproduction.
-
The Pentax K-3 Mark III is a good, solid, powerful DSLR, but one with a design that’s rooted in the past and a price tag that just adds insult to injury.
-
The Pentax K-3 Mark III includes the company's best-yet autofocus system and a sturdy, all-weather build. It's a worthwhile upgrade for devoted Pentax users, but others should look elsewhere.
-
Pentax fans and DSLR enthusiasts will find lots to love about the K-3 III, but its combination of high price and some outdated features prevent it challenging the best mirrorless cameras.
- Pentax Forums 8.8/10
It's a worthy upgrade path for Pentax DSLR users and a true flagship camera.
- Photo Review 8.6/10
The Pentax K-3 III is compact, robustly-built, weather-resistant, and boasts an impressive array of controls.
-
Faster, more advanced and tougher than ever before, this is Pentax’s speediest camera to date and the K-3 Mark III offers a genuine alternative to wildlife photographers who want to stay with DSLRs rather than move over to the mirrorless movement.
-
With its thoughtful controls, the Pentax K-3 III is among the most efficient digital cameras on the market and it manages this while staying quite compact for a DSLR.
-
For those looking for a DSLR, then the Pentax K-3 III is one of the best APS-C DSLRs available, with a 25.7mp APS-C BSI CMOS sensor and Shake Reduction (SR) system, giving great image quality, with low levels of noise, and excellent colour reproduction.
-
As much as I want to really love the Pentax K-3 Mark III for the build quality, the colors, the features, and a lot of things about this camera that I like, when it comes down to the performance, it's not quite there yet in my personal opinion.
-
It's a Pentax through and through, and I couldn't be happier with it.
