Pentax K-3
Announced October 7, 2013
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
Strong
The Pentax K-3 is a robust, weather-sealed enthusiast DSLR that delivers excellent image quality and a comprehensive feature set in a compact body. While it stands out for its in-body stabilization and high-resolution performance, some users find its autofocus speed and video capabilities fall short of modern standards.
Weighted from 17 reviewer scores
Pros
- Rugged, weather-sealed build quality
- Excellent image quality and detail
- Versatile feature set including AA filter simulation
- Responsive handling and ergonomic design
- Effective in-body image stabilization
Cons
- Limited and dated video functionality
- Inconsistent or slow autofocus performance
- Lack of integrated Wi-Fi or GPS
- Fixed rear display without touchscreen
- Smaller lens ecosystem compared to competitors
- Launch price $1,299 (USD)
- Sensor 23.35MP APS-C CMOS
- Video 1080p
What the Reviewers Say
All 17 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.
- DPReview 83/100
The K-3 is the latest and best in a well-established line of high-end APS-C DSLRs.
-
The Pentax K-3 is a true, no-excuses premium DSLR, that stands toe-to-toe with anything on the market, while besting many on features and capability.
-
Based on image quality alone, the Pentax K-3 is one of the best enthusiast DSLRs we have tested.
-
Even if Pentax did create a whole new full-frame system in the near future, I would still consider the K-3 to be a very wise choice for anyone who is looking to keep their gear portable and light yet robust and powerful!
-
The camera just works and feels fantastic. I can't say it enough.
-
Pentax have been consistently producing outstanding DSLRs, well specified and rugged.
-
The Pentax K-3 is the most full-featured prosumer DSLR camera on the market, but not only that, it also delivers great performance, weather-resistant build quality, slick handling and excellent image quality too.
-
The Pentax K-3 is a great DSLR that offers a lot of value for money. It’s a shame that Wi-Fi functionality isn’t included as standard, but the addition of the new sensor and in-body image stabilisation should be enough to make the K-3 a great choice for many photographers.
-
The Pentax K-3 is the most refined K-mount SLR to date, offering fast autofocus and superb image quality.
-
For low-budget professional videographers and amateur filmmakers looking to advance to the professional level, the K-3 is simply a great camera that shouldn’t be overlooked.
- Digital Trends 8.5/10
The Pentax K-3 is an Editor’s Choice winner – it’s really a top-notch 2014 enthusiast DSLR – even with the negatives detailed. If you’re in the market for a Canon EOS 70D or a Nikon D7100, give this outfit a very close look.
-
As many online reviewers have noted, the Pentax K3 Digital SLR is truly very capable and with little embellishment one of the best, and in my opinion, perhaps the best APS-C camera currently on the market today.
-
To start, this camera delivers great image quality and impressive 23.35 megapixel images, making it one of the best APS-C sensor equipped cameras on the market today.
-
The Pentax K-3 leaps forwards as the first Ricoh DSLR, bring a unique Anti-Alias Filter Simulator and Time-Lapse video up to Ultra HD (4K).
-
I've been out this afternoon taking some photographs with the K-3 and I'm absolutely delighted with them.
-
Bottom line, if you are looking for a top-of-the-line crop sensor DSLR the K-3 needs to be at the top of your list.
-
I think this is a real good camera, as I said before, for professionals who know what to do because it's downgraded to the most important things you need, but the camera does very professional and very direct.
