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    DA 55-300mm f/4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE 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. Can I use the lenses from my K-5 on the K-3?

A: Yes the lenses from your K-5 will work perfectly on the K-3.

Q: 2. Is this lens compatible with the full frame K1?

A: Yes, image coverage varies from APS to almost full frame depending on zoom setting. Very sharp, fast enough auto focus for a fair amount of keepers for birds in flight. Easy to crop final image in printing. I like it.

Q: 3. Will this work with the 1.4 tele extender?

A: No, that lens is not compatible with a teleconverter.

Q: 4. Does the lens hood reverse-mount for storage ?

A: Yes the hood can be mounted in reverse for storage.

Q: 5. Is this lens compatible with a K-S2 body?

A: Yes! Works very well.

Q: 6. Will it produce 25mp with the Pentax 150-450 zoom?

A: Yes. This produces 25.7MP images regardless of the lens used. It is fully compatible with the Pentax 150-450mm lens.

Q: 7. Built in Flash ??? NO !?! What a design oversight !!!

A: No, the Pentax K-3 Mark III DSLR Camera does not have a built-in flash. While I do not speak for Pentax, typically, built-in flashes are only found on entry-level DSLR cameras (and select advanced amateur DSLR cameras). However, professional photographers typically prefer weather sealing in their everyday-use camera rather than a built-in flash which usually have a minimum output range, whereas external flashes and studio strobes have greater flash output and flexibility, and as such, are preferred by professional photographers. If you need a Pentax DSLR camera with a built-in flash, the Pentax K-70 DSLR Camera would be recommended for your usage needs, though do note the Pentax K-3 Mark III DSLR Camera does have both a hot shoe on the top of the camera and a PC sync terminal on the side of the camera for flash usage needs.

Q: 8. Will this lens work with a K200D?

A: I have a K5 so I don't know. David

Q: 9. What does plm mean?

A: Some lenses include SDM (supersonic direct-drive motor), DC (direct current motor) and PLM (pulse motor) in their lens names. These lenses perform the AF operation using the motor drive in the lens barrel. This enables a quieter and smoother AF operation than body AF operation driven by the focusing mechanism motor inside the camera body, and enables an easy, comfortable focusing operation. The SDM supersonic motor includes a brake mechanism for allowing high-accuracy speed control and position control. Lenses that employ a drive mechanism which directly links the PLM and lead screw are not only silent, but offer high-speed, high-precision AF operation.

Q: 10. Is it true that it does not come with a printed manual, as stated in "not included?

A: No, the Pentax K-3 Mark III DSLR Camera currently comes with the printed manual.