Proving the DSLR is still a highly capable tool, the Pentax K-3 Mark III marries contemporary imaging capabilities with the trusty and familiar design of an SLR. Taking the flagship spot in Pentax's APS-C lineup, the K-3 Mark III is characterized by a new 25.7MP BSI CMOS sensor, a high-density 101-point AF system, a revised pentaprism optical viewfinder, and an advanced SR II Shake Reduction System. As a Pentax, too, the K-3 Mark III is also distinguished by its robust physical construction and extensive weather sealing for working in harsh weather conditions and climates.

The K-3 Mark III's updated sensor and processing capabilities offer a blend of high-resolution stills performance with apt speed to suit a variety of shooting scenarios. Up to 12 fps continuous shooting is possible along with UHD 4K video recording. For stills, a new SAFOX 13 AF system features 101 phase-detection points for quick and accurate focusing performance with apt subject tracking capabilities.

Complementing the imaging, this camera relies on Pentax's attention to details and how cameras are handled and used, and as such features a tough and robust physical construction with an ergonomic design and intuitive controls. The improved optical viewfinder provides realistic and detailed eye-level viewing while the rear 3.2" 1.62m-dot touchscreen LCD offers easy control over settings and image review. The K-3 Mark III is also benefitted by dual SD memory card slots, both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless interfaces, and a revised button design for more direct access to exposure and AF point control.

25.7MP APS-C BSI CMOS Sensor    SAFOX 13 101-Point Phase-Detection AF    1.05x-Mag. Pentaprism Optical Viewfinder    3.2" 1.62m-Dot Touchscreen LCD    Up to 12 fps Continuous Shooting    5-Axis SR II In-Body Shake Reduction    UHD 4K30p Video Recording    Pixel Shift Res., AA Filter Simulator    Wi-Fi & Bluetooth; Dual SD Card Slots    HD-DA 16-50mm f/2.8ED PLM AW Lens

Featuring a revised APS-C-format 25.7MP CMOS sensor, the K-3 Mark III's sensor sports a BSI design that promotes low noise, smooth tones, and accurate color rendering throughout the sensitivity range, from ISO 100-1600000, to suit working in a variety of lighting conditions. The sensor is paired with an updated PRIME V image processor, too, which achieves quick performance and processing to benefit both stills and video recording. Full-resolution continuous shooting up to 12 fps is also possible, along with UHD 4K video recording at 30p.

Distinct among DSLRs, an advanced 5-axis SR II Shake Reduction system provides 5.5 stop-effective image stabilization performance with select lenses. This in-body IS system helps to greatly reduce the appearance of camera shake when shooting handheld with slower shutter speeds, making it easier to work in more difficult lighting conditions.

Beyond controlling camera shake, the SR II mechanism also benefits stills applications by enabling a Pixel Shift Resolution feature and an AA Filter Simulator function. Pixel Shift Resolution shifts the sensor in small increments in sequential shots in order to capture full color information at each pixel site, then composites these sequential frames to produce a single image with richer detail and resolution. The AA Filter Simulator, on the other hand, utilizes microscopic vibrations during the capture process to help mitigate moiré in order to produce clean renderings of fabrics and other high-frequency materials. This system works in conjunction with the sensor that lacks an AA filter, so you have the choice between gaining the most resolution or reducing moiré under specific scenarios.

Updated with more points and improved coverage, the SAFOX 13 autofocus sensor is a phase-detection focusing system that uses 101 individual points, including 25 cross-type sensors in the middle of the image frame. This array benefits focusing speed and accuracy in a variety of lighting conditions, down to -4 EV. Additionally, a new 307000-pixel RGBIr sensor and new tracking algorithm also promote more accurate tracking of subjects, even when moving at varying speeds or in irregular directions.

• Large and bright optical pentaprism viewfinder provides an impressive 1.05x magnification and covers 100% of the image frame for clear and accurate eye-level viewing. The pentaprism's design has also been updated to use high-refraction glass, optimized coatings, and a distortion-correcting element to reduce aberrations and promote high clarity and color fidelity.
• Rear 3.2" 1.62m-dot touchscreen LCD is a large and bright means for image review, menu navigation, and live view shooting. This screen is also benefitted by a Night Vision function that adjusts the screen's brightness depending on the shooting conditions.
• Typical of Pentax's designs, a sturdy and weather-resistant construction is featured for use in trying weather conditions. The chassis is built from lightweight-yet-durable magnesium alloy and is fitted with a series of dust- and moisture-resistant seals to protect against various weather conditions. The camera is also freezeproof down to 14°F and the durability is carried over to the shutter unit as well, which is rated for 300,000 shutter actuations.
• Both 3.5mm microphone and headphone ports are featured to benefit audio performance while recording video.
• Updated control scheme includes a new AF point selector lever for intuitive point selection; a Hyper Operation system with a new Advanced mode for more intuitive exposure mode control; an Operation Control Lock function to prevent accidental settings changes; and a new Smart Function mode and dedicated button for quick selection of settings and functions.
• Included D-LI90 rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides approximately 800 shots per charge and the camera's USB Type-C port can be used for in-body battery charging.
• Dual SD memory card slots offer flexible storage capabilities and the first card slot is compatible with the UHS-II standard for faster transfer speeds.
• Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity can be used to wirelessly share imagery or remotely control the camera via the Image Sync mobile app.

Using the high-density RGBIr sensor and the PRIME V image processor, the K-3 Mark III can use the Real-time Scene Analysis System to optimize exposure and AF accuracy by detecting subjects' faces and eyes with image recognition technology. This system relies on Deep Learning, an AI-based technology, for more accurate subject detection and scene judgement.

Firmware version 1.41 allows this camera to be used as an astro tracer without the optional Pentax O-GPS1 GPS Module. The camera enables astro tracing without GPS, direction, or other data, so there is no need for GPS positioning or to perform precision calibration. In addition, astro tracing can operate in areas affected by magnetic fields. Before starting, a preliminary shot is taken to track the object based on the movement of stars. (It is, however, recommended to use the O-GPS1 for star photography when shooting with a wide-angle lens.)

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Does the battery grip for a K-5 fit on the K-3?

A: Unfortunately not. The correct grip for the Pentax K-3 Mark III is the Pentax D-BG8 linked here. https://bhpho.to/31YMpj2

Q: 2. Does the K3iii come with a battery charger?

A: Yes. As indicated under the "In The Box" section under the Overview tab on our website, the Pentax AC-U2 USB Power Adapter and Power Plug and the I-USB166 USB Cable are included with the camera's purchase. You would charge the battery inside the camera. To charge the battery, you would insert the battery into the camera, insert the power plug into the USB power adapter until it clicks, then connect the USB cable to the USB power adapter while making sure the camera's power switch is set to [OFF]. It would take a maximum of 4.5 hours to charge the camera battery. If you need an external battery charger to charge the battery outside the camera, the Pentax D-BC177 Travel Charger, B&H # PEDBC177, or the Pentax K-BC90 Battery Charger Kit for K7 Digital SLR Camera, B&H # PEKBC90, would work for your usage needs.

Q: 3. The subject recognition feature works still working through the viewfinder?

A: Yes this feature would still work through the viewfinder.

Q: 4. Does the Image Sync app work on the iPhone and iPad?

A: Yes Image Sync app is compatible with both iPhone and iPad.

Q: 5. Does this come with one battery or two (i.e. one for the camera and the other for the grip)?

A: The Pentax K-3 Mark III DSLR Camera with 70-210mm Lens and Battery Grip Kit (Black) includes one battery--there are no batteries included with the battery grip.

Q: 6. Are my lenses from my K-5 compatible with the K-3?

A: Yes lenses originally used on the Pentax K5 can also work on the K3 Mark III.

Q: 7. Which memory card is best to use in the Pentax K3 iii

A: We recommend the SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC Memory Card, BH # SAEPSD128GB for use with the Pentax K3 III. https://bhpho.to/2XnTeuA

Q: 8. I own (4) of the original Ltd Lenses-DA15, 21,40, &70. How is the autofocus performance using these older screw type lenses?

A: Those lenses are all fully compatible with the Pentax K-3 Mark III DSLR Camera.

Q: 9. In what country is the k-3 mark iii made??

A: It is manufactured in the Philippines.

Q: 10. Looking through the specs, I see that under Interface, it indicates no GPS. Does the K3 III lack an internal GPS receiver? And if it is lacking, will the GPS1 receiver work?

A: It does not have a built-in GPS receiver/antenna, but according to Pentax, the O-GPS1 unit is compatible with the K3 Mk III. http://www.ricoh-imaging.co.jp/english/products/o-gps1/