Yes I agree that Pentax is very underrated between Canon and Nikon DSLR cameras. I Like the k-3 and thinking of upgrading my k-200d to the k-3. Good review of the k-3, Spyros. Thanks.
i couldn't agree more. It is hell of a camera and no one beats the K3 unless you are willing to pay twice as much, or even more ;-) So, to all of you in the market (starters or pro's), go for the K3. The Pentax brand might not get you the same street credibility as many of the other brands, but you images will...
Had mine for a while now. It is a few years old, but it does everything I need at the moment. I love the prints it puts out. Had a k20d before it, and still have that one as a backup camera.
I bought the Pentax K-3 and I love it. I took some photos of my sisters family with 50mm 1.8 lens outside on a sunny day the pics turned out beautiful. I love my camera. I love shooting macro and wildlife. It is a great camera.
I am so glad I kept going with the PENTAX line - from my ME SUPER to my current K-3 - with all my Dad's older Pentax lens - this is the Camera of my dreams - at a price point I can afford !!! - Thanks for the great video reviews !!!! went from a ME SUPER to the *ist D to the K-10D to now my awesome K-3
I've had my K-3 for a year and love it. I shoot at the beach everyday in all weather. It takes a beating . . . and I shoot a lot. I also have been hired to shoot video (medical) and it's done a great job. The price has dropped and is now an amazing deal. I've been all over the map with my settings trying to dial in what works best and would love to see a video on the K-3 settings (I realize that is a huge request ; ). Thanks so much Spyros!
I agree. I'd like to see a video on settings as well. Photo AND Video. Specifically, how to make the K-3 perform the best in continuous(speed-wise). Also, In video, should I lock my AE while shooting? When I had a Nikon d90 I ALWAYS locked my AE. Do I zoom in and focus first then zoom out for my composition? When is 1080i necessary? Haha, lot's of questions to be had. Are you up for the task Spyros?! :)
Love the ending! Will most likely be picking up one of these bad boys sometime in April especially since it will most likely be going for under $1000 (body only) by that time. A great value!
I follow him for quite some time and love his videos. For some unknown reason he is just as underrated like the Pentax he is reviewing. If any camera guy on youtube deserves more views and subs, its him.
About the size: This gem is a little gem. It is unbelievably small. Just got mine today and it's seriously portable, I almost guarantee I'll be getting the grip to add some size to this. Even though it's small it fits perfectly in my large hands. Pentax cameras are made by photographers FOR photographers. There is no company that provides as much bang for the buck. And Pentax image quality is fantastic.
Nice vid Spyros and not just because I'm a Pentax shooter! (K5) It's actually refreshing for someone to speak about Pentax so enthusiastically, but also truthfully who doesn't shoot Pentax! I'm tired of Canon and Nikon shooters saying "Why did you buy Pentax? They don't have many lenses!" Most of whom will never own more than a few lenses themselves! Yes, there WERE cons to owning a Pentax, but that gap is narrowing with every new release and in the case of the K3 far surpassing the big two in APSC terms! Thanks again!
***** picked up a K-3 yesterday. Yes, I was going to get one anyway but your review made me want to upgrade even more. It is everything and more that I thought the original K-5 would be when I bought that. The AF is amazing in low light, the metering is perfect and the thing is like a machine gun in continuous mode! If you can find a more solidly built camera than this I would like to see it! Finally, the shutter is like music to the ears! outstanding camera! Thanks again Spyros!
***** Just got my Wasabi batteries and twin 32G SD's...got the firmware loaded and impatiently waiting for the battery to charge. Applied my Expert Shield screen protectors, which by the way are f'ing magical, got my 50mm 1.4 and waiting to rip some shots off. Tick tock tick tock...1st world problems. BTW great review!
Been using this camera for a while now and absolutely LOVE it. My Samsung NX30, and Fuji HS50 are jealous. Once you do some tweaking in the menu, it is an absolutely fantastic camera with great glass available.
Plan on owning one. I am still pretty much a film shooter and probably always will be but I am impressed with the latest Pentax digital. Besides, I have a ton of Pentax manual lenses to use with it. I have a decent number of older FA lenses too.
Great review. Just one point about the IS... It is obvious that you have strong arms and can hold the camera without shaking it. I think that's why the IS does not really look effective in your images. For a person like me, who is not as strong as you, the IS is a fantastic option.
Great review I'm still using the the Pentax K 3 camera, it is such a great camera and is a total steal in 2024 😉 you can pick a body up for under $400!🎉 pair that with all the beautiful Pentax glass and you can take pictures, beautiful pictures for decades to come. I thought about getting the K-3 mkIII but if I'm going to do so, I'm going to wait till it comes down in price below $1,000 so it'll probably be a few years still. Thanks the video great review ❤ Pentax
hi everyone i have had my k3 now for 6 months and i am as happy as a pig in shit lol.i dont think there is a lack of lenses ,i just think they are bloody expensive i have been shooting pentax now for 35 years and its never let me down.i love it
I actually have a beef with my K-3, I got my K-3 from a person who used to take photos for a newspaper and sold me the camera for a decent price. Seeing as how I was in the need for a camera for my filming classes, I jumped at the chance to buy it. Now that I have been using it for the better part of four years I can say something with confidence, "Don't buy this camera if you're looking do do film or if you're wanting to use it for films in general." The filming options are as stated in this video, but when creating a master scene, you tend to use a lot of Gigabites of data... and with this Pentax K-3, you can only record 4GB of said data... and forget about good fluid high quality slow-mo scenes (Best fluid slowmo for DSLRs is 60FPS). When the image goes from Progressive to Interlaced, it becomes jarring and throws the immersion out the window. On the other hand, the photos this camera takes are phenomenal and I haven't had a camera that could take photos on the level that this one can shell out without breaking a sweat. I guess what I'm trying to say is this; Buy the camera for taking photos, NOT for filming/video recording, especially if you are a film maker.
Hello Syros ~ I bought this camera about 2 years ago and cannot seem to get a decent photo out of it? I get better photos out of my K50; the K3 is in my camera bag I do not use it anymore! I do enjoy the videos that you put out! Keep up the videos maybe I will learn something! Respectfully yours, Michael DelRossi
Great review love the K3 . Amongst a number of things I like is how Pentax think of clever innovations like the AA Simulatator and the new Auto White Balance option..I am not normally for using AW, but this is really good.
Very Nice review and I am still thinking about this camera as viable even NOW in 2020. I think you may have skipped over the rear screen info. which I think is important to know about how it articulates, acts in bright conditions, whether or not its touch sensitive and more. thanks.
Spyros, do you have any thoughts on why DP Review has failed to review the K-3? Their link from the K-3 camera model thumbnail doesn't even take you to their K-3 preview, but to an "enthusiast camera roundup." One gets the impression that DPR has felt pressure from other makers to not give the K-3 much exposure because it is so good.
***** Thanks for the reply. I don't meant to put you an a spot, but I think you expressed the case exactly -- The K-3 delivered some real innovations (new AA technology, for one), and real fixes to K-5-series AF and flash issues. Plus, it seems that it is simply smart to recognize a smaller maker that has survived through two takeovers (Hoya and Ricoh), and yet still can produce an innovative, tough, highly capable camera. Disabling the link to DP Review's own preview, apparently replacing it with a shunt to an "enthusiast roundup," was sort of the last straw for me. Thank you for your reviews here, including your recent and instructive Pentax FLU card review.
Spyros I love your reviews ... Your informative , and you just do great reviews... I bought the K 50, and your review helped me in making that choice.. It definitely was the right one...I love that camera.. I'm a newbie, and it was the right one for me.. From what I've seen, Pentax offers so much bang for the buck...I think they just need to stay on the path their on and keep building quality ..But anyways, great review...You the Man ! ;) God bless brother !
Seven years ago I bought the k-20d. no problem yet, made like a tank and weather sealing. Be carefull, pentax color rendition isn't for all (its like old film of fuji, very strong greens.
I have the K-5 and LOVE it! was wondering if you think upgrading to K-3 is worth it? I'm not a pro, but do shhot quite a bit, and am considering a more serious aproach to photography. I'm All about the Pentax/Ricoh Philosophy! and love the review GO PENTAX!!!
Awesome! Thanks, I find the AF adequate on my 5, has a hard time in low light, but when it does lock on, oh yeah! What would you recommend for a long lens? I have the Pentax 50-135. F 2.8, but am considering Pentax 60-250 F4 or Tamron 70-200 F2.8 the Pentax is way more money, but heard good things, anyone have these? Oh and not worried about IS or whatever different manufacturers call it, Pentax is built in the body!
You sure got a lot into that review! Enjoyed it a great deal, reassuring cos I am waiting for the postman to deliver the K-3 II. It would be good to know what you think of the additional (and removed!) features in this version of the K-3, in particular pixel shift technology in the studio and for landscape/architecture, astro trace for the heavenly bodies (I mean stars), improved shake reduction, and geo-tagging. Thanks for a fantastic review. (maybe a comment on pricing too!)
Thanks for the lovely video! Take a breath and have a glass of water now. :-) I have been wondering if I should upgrade from my pentax Kx to K3 and the answer I got from you is- Hell yes!!
I also have a K-x as "my first DSLR" and although a great kit, it feels like I've hit the limits of the body. Contemplated switching to the Fuji X-T1 or the Olympus E-M1, but having invested in Pentax's amazing Limited primes (14mm and especially the incredible 35mm macro), I really want to stay in the Pentax family. Looks like the K-3 is The One. Thank you for this review, I think you've sold me.
Nice review there. The only thing that's killing my adoption of this, and any other Pentax camera presently is their lack of real sensor shift stabilisation during video. The warping their software based approach applies is irreversible in post production, so you're stuck with this forever. What should be a huge point of difference (given Pentax has had sensor shift technology for years, and in video too on the K-5 series) is now turned off during video mode, where Sony and Olympus have this working well now.
***** Agree, although I've just read about some settings one can adjust in the K-3 menu with regards to tracking autofocus, that sound promising and should be on by default really. "AF Hold HIGH and for proper tracking, you need to use AF Expanded Area" Sensor stabilisation during video is a huge oversight, and one Pentax have been ignoring for years now unfortunately. Focus peaking and digital zoom DURING video recording would all be nice. They'd score much better on reviews if they addressed these few items.
Hey Spyros just wanted to say thank you for all your videos, I find they are excellent and very informative. I'm currently a Nikon user, I have a D90 that I love dearly and my daughter has D3100, but I feel it's time for a camera upgrade and been looking at the D7100 but the Pentax k3 has really caught my eye. Now if I had had to make a decision a few years back I would not have given it another thought and would have continued with the Nikon Lineup in a NY minute, but nowadays it seems that the Nikon quality is not what it used to be...for example with the D7000 there was a back focusing problem on some units, then with the D7100 it seems that some units are having problems with dust and/or oil on the camera sensor. They are both great cameras but it seems to me that the reliability is a back lacking and that is important to me since where I live there is no Nikon, or Pentax for that matter, representative so in case of any problems I would have to ship the camera to the states. I already have an investment on Nikon (Lenses, flash units, etc) but I'm planning on staying with the D90 and 3100 so I would still use everything I have. Since you have reviewed both the Pentax k3 and Nikon D7100, my question to you would be what camera would you choose if you had to pick one over the other. I mostly use my DSLR for landscape and low light photography plus the usual family events and about 80 % of the time I shoot Jpeg. Hope you can give me some insight because as of this moment I really don't know what way to go, all I know is that it will be either the K3 or the D7100.
Greetings, I have looked very closely at this camera, but I have heard here in the UK that Tamaron and Sigma are pulling out of Pentax mount. That has somewhat put me off as new lens selection will be limited.
I'm new to photography and have been watching lots of recent DSLR reviews. I really enjoy your videos and wisdom. I was looking at the Nikon D7100 and D750 both are pricey which slowing down my desire to purchase. Your Pentax K3 review has given me something else to consider. Sounds like a great option based on your review. Are there any other elements consider? Is Pentax a solid company and able to provide support for their products in the same fashion as Nikon and Cannon? Thanks.
Have you had an opportunity to shoot using the 35mm f2.8 lens? I was wondering what your thoughts were on that versus the 50 that you used for this review. Thanks for the detail in this, btw..it was super helpful!!:)
thanks for your detail review..it was very helpful i am consider buying between K5 IIs and K3 ...these price is only $200 difference do you think is it worth it to go straight to buy K3 or just save money buy better lens?
Awesome camera and I agree that Pentax is underrated, however I've done some homework on it and its lack of glass options and very poor flash sync speed kinda turned me off. I also would much rather not have the anti alias emulation mechanism, its just asking for something that can go wrong, aliasing has been a none issue on the D7100 so why bother risking it? Unless the Pentax sensor really needs it.. However its buffer speed is definitely best in class which is great for wildlife or spray and pray shooters, if that was my top priority it would be hard to resist. An extra note, not sure about USA or rest of world but here in Canada the K3 will run you an extra $250-$350 plus tax compared to its Nikon/Canon counterparts, that would have to be considered also. Just my take on it.
***** Hi Spyros, I have no idea why, not like I'm selling something nor do a post reckless troll junk. I comment on many other channels and I get prompt responses with no mention of any spam issues. Odd....
Kats... the AA mechanism is just shaking the sensor and as such is part of the shake reduction system. I can't remember any issues with this part of pentax DSLR since inbody shake reduction was adopted way back with the K10D
For anyone reading this in 2017> Yes, it is true that pentax has fewer production lenses at any given time than Nikon or Canon. However, they have not changed their mount since 1975 and do not intend to. Because of this, you can get optically outstanding vintage glass if you simply do a little looking. And because they usually go at very reasonable prices, you'll end up with far more lenses than you need. Not to mention the third party offerings from sigma, tamron and rokinon. Also, their AA filter replacement is simply clever use of the technology that has always been in their dslrs. it is only meant to be used in the rare situations where moire is present.
Any thoughts on the 18-135mm kit lens? I've seen mixed reviews. Obviously, it's not gonna be as good as higher priced, better quality options. Just wondering if it's worth picking up the kit or just the body and adding other lenses. I believe that you have the 50mm 1.8 on the camera in your test shots?
I just got my K-3 and am loving it!! Feels very solid and is quick. Great review by the way Spyros!! At the end though, you shot on continuous mode for almost 15 seconds! How did you get the K-3 to do that? I've been messing around with it and I can only get it to shoot like that for only a few seconds before it needs to buffer. What settings/sd card were you using?
Hey Spyros, I have been considering buying a new DSLR and have been almost sure, that nikon D7000 will be my final choice. But the K-3 comes to my attention recently and I feel like buing the Pentax for a price, that is only around 200 dollars higher is super great value. Am i right, or is there something, that the nikon has over Pentax? P.S. I hope my english isnt much bad. Anyway, have a nice day and thanks for answering.
Pleased to see today that DxoMark or whatever it is found that the K-3 beats the Canon 7DII. Overall score 80 vs. 70 for the Canon. I'm sure the Canon is better though in focussing moving objects due to its dual processors, and one review says the Canon has the best of all weather sealing...
***** When looking at the 7D Mk II most people seem to ignore the new Digic 6 processors. These things are serious low light high ISO monsters and I can't wait to see them paired up with a full frame. Having said that, I've shot the 7D Mk II and the K3 and image wise I have to disagree. In my humble opinion I think the Canon has a superior image up to 10,000 ISO. To be fair though, I shot with L glass. The Pentax although a great value at several hundred less always had a yellow cast to the images using AWB. I will say this, the Pentax film camera I owned ( a lonnnng time ago) MZ-S (their "pro" body at the time) had probably the best metering system I've used. And that's compared to several Nikon film bodies including the F-100. I looked at DxO Mark's review and I think they seriously missed the point of the camera (Canon). In real world shooting it's a monster and very capable. If it were a 35mm equivalent sensor, it would easily take the place of the 1Dx. But, like anything else, this is all meaningless if you lack skill, vision, and most of all, good glass. If I had the $$$ I'd have a camera from almost every mfg. Lately I've really taken to the Olympus OMD E-M1. Talk about creamy and color accurate! WOW! But, again, you need to attach the best lenses. I digress. Now what i'd REALLY like to have is the Pentax 645Z ! :D
I really like this camera. And the video also :) I am searching for a new camera, and all the Nikon fans are talking about the 7100. I have an entry level model now and only 2 af-s F mount lenses. Should I switch to Pentax? You said it was great in the studio, but can I control two nikon speedlights directly?
Hi Spyros, awesome review!! I believe you get more from others than you do from Nikon & Canon. I can't decide between 3 cameras, so can you tell me what you would do if you were in my shoes. K-3, the new Samsung NX30, or the new Sony A6000. Iv'e seen video reviews & image quality of the other 2 & they are great. I'm sure the NX30 will be underrated, but the photos iv'e seen are incredible! I want to do macro of flowers, what do you think? Thanks
wedding and party shoots pentax k3 is better or not and which would i buy for better lense of those shooting kindly help me ????
9 лет назад
Hi! I love your videos, you have a Fan in México, i have a question for you, i have a budget for a camera during this week wach videos about the Pentax K3 and i want that but if YOU have to choose between the Nikon D7200, Canon 70D or this Pentax K3 ? comparing them for have the "same price" thankssss a lot greetings from Chiapas, México :D
How heavy is this camera? I want to make films but also do wildlife photography, which should I choose the k3 or Sony a6000? I was sold on the Sony until I saw how few wildlife images there were online and got a bit discouraged. Is this the best all round camera do you think? Thankyou :)
What lens did you use for taking the pictures? did you have to Fine tune the autofocus of your lent (function C4 in the camera menu or page 45 of the user manual)
I've been considering a full frame camera, particularly the Canon 6D for shooting landscapes, headshots, paintings (I'm an artist), art videos and some fashion. I came upon a couple reviews of the Pentax k-3 and now I'm wondering what I would gain/lose by buying either camera. Clearly I'd save a few $$ buying the Pentax. Any thoughts or suggestions with regards to which camera to buy and why would be very appreciated. Thanks for the video.. it really does sound like a fantastic camera. Cheers!
It's really depends on your budget. For normal landscape, K-3 is far more enough. I shoot landscape with K-3 and very happy with it. Besides the skill, the lens is more important in this case. I use Samyang 10mm f2.8 for ultra-wide angle, and Sigma Art 18-35mm f/1.8 for normal landscape. Both of them are very sharp. The Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 is also a very good lens for video. For portraits, I will recommend Pentax 55mm f/1.4 or Sigma Art 50mm f1.4. And for headshots, I will recommend Sigma 70-200 f/2.8 lens. K-3 is a great body and I feel it's designed for photographer. More feature I discovered, more handy I feel for shooting. Compare to full frame, there are few drawbacks. Although it has great sensor with low light performance, it's still a APS-C sensor, which means the noise level is much higher than full frame, especially if you shooting the milky way during the night. The difference is definitely visible if not significant. Full frame will have better bokeh for same aperture, and if the lens is designed for full frame, such as Sigma 70-200 f/2.8, full frame will have better sharpness than cropped sensor. About Canon, I feel Canon might have better focusing system than Pentax, I got more hit from 5D III than Pentax K-3, but it's very subjective, I never fully tested Canon system, just grab a 5D III from a friend shoot for several minutes for people running around and I got such impression. Just be aware, it's not that fair to compare K-3 with 5D III. Overall, if you are not going to shoot milky way and sports, and you're not that pixel peeping, K-3 is a great camera to shoot everyday.
Very informative (and energetic!) review. I am about to enter the world of DSLRs for the first time, having doused my Fuji X-10 by mistake, and it's the cost that is attracting me to this Pentax. That and the fact that I have K1000 film history and Pentax (though not Ricoh!) is a touchstone for me. (So is Minolta, so I look to Sony as well... also love Olympus OMs) I love the new Canon 7D II, but it's so much more costly. At the moment I can get a nice deal at one of the big shops with a long zoom and another lens all for the price of the body only of that Canon. Question: What would be a wise choice of a lens or two to start? I photograph the odd dark pub and the occasional summer festival stage act, but mostly I do landscapes and would like to get a decent shot of wildlife such as running foxes or flying ravens. Weather-resistance would be good. There's a 55-300 zoom but that's not going to get a closeup of a bird on top of a tree. So perhaps should skip the long reach. Thanks very much.
***** I'm ashamed to say I missed it. I didn't notice the 'live; part of your above comment. I think this camera sounds great. So much to offer. I can't afford the 5DIII or D8** I might have gone with, so this is where I may go. I'm a bit concerned that DPReview finds its jpg colours leave much to be desired, and it's plain in their colour comparison tests that it's a bit ... unsubtle.
Nice video thank you. I'm really undecided if buy a K-3 now or wait a bit and buy a FF one, (or Nikon d610 or canon 6D). I don't really know if buying a FF is and advantage or a disadvantage; but I love the FF picture cause of the brightness and the width, on the other hand I'm not a professional so is really expensive choice. What is your advice? it worth buy a not FF camera for more than 1000€? thank you so much! :)
***** I just gave my K10D to a friend and purcheshed the K3. Iv been waiting a long time for Pentax to come out with a camera that could compete with the big names and full frame DSLR's and this is it .. the K5 K7 AND K5.2s just didn't do it for me and I knew Pentax would come strong, I waited and they did ..This camera is a necessity . K3 with my Tamron 70-200 brought me the clarity depth and contrast that only Film could have . No longer will True Pros get priced out of the Dslr market .
Hi, I have a K-2 SLR which I bought in 1978. I still have the 50mm and 28mm wide angle SMC Pentax lenses. My question is, if I'm going to buy a K-3 DLSR, can I still use these lenses on the K-3? I also have a Tamron AF aspeherical LD 28-300mm lense, can I use it on the K-3 DLSR? As you have said, buy the body and not the kit. Thank you very much for your help.
Simple answer would be: Yes you can. But there is a longer answer. Pentax always try to support very old lens. It can even support M42 via adapter without problem. And it definitely supports those K mounts lens in old days natively. I shot with Asahi Pentax-M 50m f/2 for several times. It's very interesting experience. With focus peaking feature in K-3, manual focus is very enjoyable. And with focus trap feature available in Pentax system since beginning, it add more fun to shoot with vintage lens. And K-3 has more powerful motor than K-5 II, which allow faster auto focus for old screw drive AF lenses. Those above are pros, there are a few cons. First, It's crop sensor camera with 1.5 crop factor, which means 50mm is equivalent to 75mm in full frame, and 28mm will become 42mm, which are not that wide anymore. It's a good news for telephoto lens, but a bad news for those wide-angle ones. And the crop factor is also applied to aperture, which means the bokeh may not be as amazing as in the film era. You may need faster lens for crop sensor camera. Second, all those old lenses are either manual focus or screw drive focusing system, compare to today's super-sonic focusing system, it's slow and noisy. Some of them are very heavy as the material is different these days. Third, those lenses designed for film, which has lower resolution than today's digital sensor. They might be super sharp for film, but they may not that sharp for today's DSLR, especially 24 MP K-3 APS-C sensor. I hardly find any film era lens can reach even 10MP on Pentax in test.
You can use any K mount lens with Perntax DSLR's, but first you need need to go into the 'c' menu and select 'enable' on the 'using aperture ring' setting. If you don't do this, the shutter will not operate. I'm not sure why Pentax don't make 'enable aperture ring' the default setting, even though it only takes seconds to change.
Hey spyros, I have been thinking of upgrading from my K30 possibly by the end of the summer maybe. I have been doing a lot of research on the K5iis and K3..I wanted to know what are your thoughts on these..because one hand I here the k3 has all these great features with 2 memory cards slot etc but I also read the k5iis IQ is much better and is also much better in low light with Iso 80...now I am a the type to usually shot in low light a lot but I'm not sure on getting the k5iis because its kinda old but I'm also not sure if the extra 400 or so for the k3 is really worth it..anyway my question is do you think that the k3 is worth the money or should I just get the k5iis and/or wait until until Pentax releases something that's more advanced than the k5iis in terms of IQ and performance? Other than just get the k3 and pay more just for a few feature I can live with out(like the better video mode which I don't use at all)..thanks
***** Thanks for the reply...i will def be saving it into my amazon wishlist haha hopefully i can step my camera game up a bit by august...thanks again ,spyros. i appreciate the advice and help.
If I couldn't see you, I'd swear you were Bill Gates! Tone and manner of speaking, local subtleties of accent, etc. Are you and him from the same neck of the woods??
Seven years ago I bought the k-20d. no problem yet, made like a tank and weather sealing. Be carefull, pentax color rendition isn't for all (its like old film of fuji, very strong greens.
K3 is a great camera I’ll be hanging on to mine. Great value and a solid build.
Yes I agree that Pentax is very underrated between Canon and Nikon DSLR cameras. I Like the k-3 and thinking of upgrading my k-200d to the k-3. Good review of the k-3, Spyros. Thanks.
i couldn't agree more. It is hell of a camera and no one beats the K3 unless you are willing to pay twice as much, or even more ;-) So, to all of you in the market (starters or pro's), go for the K3. The Pentax brand might not get you the same street credibility as many of the other brands, but you images will...
Had mine for a while now. It is a few years old, but it does everything I need at the moment. I love the prints it puts out. Had a k20d before it, and still have that one as a backup camera.
Pentax really does make excellent cameras!
I bought the Pentax K-3 and I love it. I took some photos of my sisters family with 50mm 1.8 lens outside on a sunny day the pics turned out beautiful. I love my camera. I love shooting macro and wildlife. It is a great camera.
Awesome review Spyros! What a brisk performance :) You couldn't praise this camera any better. K-3 is a must-have!
I am so glad I kept going with the PENTAX line - from my ME SUPER to my current K-3 - with all my Dad's older Pentax lens - this is the Camera of my dreams - at a price point I can afford !!! - Thanks for the great video reviews !!!!
went from a ME SUPER to the *ist D to the K-10D to now my awesome K-3
thank you !
I've had my K-3 for a year and love it. I shoot at the beach everyday in all weather. It takes a beating . . . and I shoot a lot. I also have been hired to shoot video (medical) and it's done a great job. The price has dropped and is now an amazing deal. I've been all over the map with my settings trying to dial in what works best and would love to see a video on the K-3 settings (I realize that is a huge request ; ). Thanks so much Spyros!
I agree. I'd like to see a video on settings as well. Photo AND Video. Specifically, how to make the K-3 perform the best in continuous(speed-wise). Also, In video, should I lock my AE while shooting? When I had a Nikon d90 I ALWAYS locked my AE. Do I zoom in and focus first then zoom out for my composition? When is 1080i necessary? Haha, lot's of questions to be had. Are you up for the task Spyros?! :)
Love the ending! Will most likely be picking up one of these bad boys sometime in April especially since it will most likely be going for under $1000 (body only) by that time. A great value!
***** Already down to $1063 from Amazon directly so not much luck needed.
Wish UK Prices were so good!!
It is always a pleasure watching this cool guy Spyros Heniadis review a camera, especially a Pentax! Great job and thank you very much!
Always used Pentax. You are right, they are "workhorses". Should get my K3 today. Am excited after your review.
I've never seen this guy's videos before. Love the shirt! Says it all.
I follow him for quite some time and love his videos. For some unknown reason he is just as underrated like the Pentax he is reviewing. If any camera guy on youtube deserves more views and subs, its him.
About the size: This gem is a little gem. It is unbelievably small. Just got mine today and it's seriously portable, I almost guarantee I'll be getting the grip to add some size to this. Even though it's small it fits perfectly in my large hands. Pentax cameras are made by photographers FOR photographers. There is no company that provides as much bang for the buck. And Pentax image quality is fantastic.
Nice vid Spyros and not just because I'm a Pentax shooter! (K5) It's actually refreshing for someone to speak about Pentax so enthusiastically, but also truthfully who doesn't shoot Pentax! I'm tired of Canon and Nikon shooters saying "Why did you buy Pentax? They don't have many lenses!" Most of whom will never own more than a few lenses themselves! Yes, there WERE cons to owning a Pentax, but that gap is narrowing with every new release and in the case of the K3 far surpassing the big two in APSC terms! Thanks again!
***** picked up a K-3 yesterday. Yes, I was going to get one anyway but your review made me want to upgrade even more. It is everything and more that I thought the original K-5 would be when I bought that. The AF is amazing in low light, the metering is perfect and the thing is like a machine gun in continuous mode! If you can find a more solidly built camera than this I would like to see it! Finally, the shutter is like music to the ears! outstanding camera!
Thanks again Spyros!
Impatiently waiting for the mailman to deliver mine today...Pentax FTW!
***** Just got my Wasabi batteries and twin 32G SD's...got the firmware loaded and impatiently waiting for the battery to charge. Applied my Expert Shield screen protectors, which by the way are f'ing magical, got my 50mm 1.4 and waiting to rip some shots off. Tick tock tick tock...1st world problems. BTW great review!
***** Oh and just an FYI to all a K3 on Amazon is just over $600...
Been using this camera for a while now and absolutely LOVE it. My Samsung NX30, and Fuji HS50 are jealous. Once you do some tweaking in the menu, it is an absolutely fantastic camera with great glass available.
I have the K-20 and the stabilization is superb.
The view was awesome. After seeing this review I am interested to buy this camera.
Plan on owning one. I am still pretty much a film shooter and probably always will be but I am impressed with the latest Pentax digital. Besides, I have a ton
of Pentax manual lenses to use with it. I have a decent number of older FA lenses too.
Great review. Just one point about the IS... It is obvious that you have strong arms and can hold the camera without shaking it. I think that's why the IS does not really look effective in your images. For a person like me, who is not as strong as you, the IS is a fantastic option.
Great review I'm still using the the Pentax K 3 camera, it is such a great camera and is a total steal in 2024 😉 you can pick a body up for under $400!🎉 pair that with all the beautiful Pentax glass and you can take pictures, beautiful pictures for decades to come.
I thought about getting the K-3 mkIII but if I'm going to do so, I'm going to wait till it comes down in price below $1,000 so it'll probably be a few years still.
Thanks the video great review ❤ Pentax
hi everyone i have had my k3 now for 6 months and i am as happy as a pig in shit lol.i dont think there is a lack of lenses ,i just think they are bloody expensive i have been shooting pentax now for 35 years and its never let me down.i love it
Awesome review
Awesome review Σπύρο !!!! Love the ending!!
I actually have a beef with my K-3, I got my K-3 from a person who used to take photos for a newspaper and sold me the camera for a decent price. Seeing as how I was in the need for a camera for my filming classes, I jumped at the chance to buy it.
Now that I have been using it for the better part of four years I can say something with confidence, "Don't buy this camera if you're looking do do film or if you're wanting to use it for films in general."
The filming options are as stated in this video, but when creating a master scene, you tend to use a lot of Gigabites of data... and with this Pentax K-3, you can only record 4GB of said data... and forget about good fluid high quality slow-mo scenes (Best fluid slowmo for DSLRs is 60FPS). When the image goes from Progressive to Interlaced, it becomes jarring and throws the immersion out the window.
On the other hand, the photos this camera takes are phenomenal and I haven't had a camera that could take photos on the level that this one can shell out without breaking a sweat.
I guess what I'm trying to say is this; Buy the camera for taking photos, NOT for filming/video recording, especially if you are a film maker.
Don't blame the camera. The fault lies with your ignorance.
Hello Syros ~ I bought this camera about 2 years ago and cannot seem to get a decent photo out of it? I get better photos out of my K50; the K3 is in my camera bag I do not use it anymore!
I do enjoy the videos that you put out! Keep up the videos maybe I will learn something!
Respectfully yours, Michael DelRossi
K3 is far superior.
Interchange the lenses. Maybe it's a problem in your lens.
And read the manual.
Thank you for the review.
Awesome review man. Can't wait to see your channel grow.
Thanks for this review! Been waiting for someone to do another review on the k3.
Great review love the K3 . Amongst a number of things I like is how Pentax think of clever innovations like the AA Simulatator and the new Auto White Balance option..I am not normally for using AW, but this is really good.
1080i is not 60 frames a second. Interlace frames are half frames. This is a really good video to get a better idea.
720p vs 1080i HD Explained (HQ)
No problem glad I could help.
Very Nice review and I am still thinking about this camera as viable even NOW in 2020. I think you may have skipped over the rear screen info. which I think is important to know about how it articulates, acts in bright conditions, whether or not its touch sensitive and more. thanks.
Spyros, do you have any thoughts on why DP Review has failed to review the K-3? Their link from the K-3 camera model thumbnail doesn't even take you to their K-3 preview, but to an "enthusiast camera roundup." One gets the impression that DPR has felt pressure from other makers to not give the K-3 much exposure because it is so good.
***** Thanks for the reply. I don't meant to put you an a spot, but I think you expressed the case exactly -- The K-3 delivered some real innovations (new AA technology, for one), and real fixes to K-5-series AF and flash issues. Plus, it seems that it is simply smart to recognize a smaller maker that has survived through two takeovers (Hoya and Ricoh), and yet still can produce an innovative, tough, highly capable camera. Disabling the link to DP Review's own preview, apparently replacing it with a shunt to an "enthusiast roundup," was sort of the last straw for me.
Thank you for your reviews here, including your recent and instructive Pentax FLU card review.
Spyros I love your reviews ... Your informative , and you just do great reviews...
I bought the K 50, and your review helped me in making that choice.. It definitely was the right one...I love that camera.. I'm a newbie, and it was the right one for me.. From what I've seen, Pentax offers so much bang for the buck...I think they just need to stay on the path their on and keep building quality ..But anyways, great review...You the Man ! ;) God bless brother !
Seven years ago I bought the k-20d. no problem yet, made like a tank and weather sealing. Be carefull, pentax color rendition isn't for all (its like old film of fuji, very strong greens.
This is a pro APS-C camera. There is no hand holding with this baby. Be prepared to study, learn, and relearn. It's amazing though.
I have the K-5 and LOVE it! was wondering if you think upgrading to K-3 is worth it?
I'm not a pro, but do shhot quite a bit, and am considering a more serious aproach to photography. I'm All about the Pentax/Ricoh Philosophy! and love the review
GO PENTAX!!!
Awesome! Thanks, I find the AF adequate on my 5, has a hard time in low light, but when it does lock on, oh yeah!
What would you recommend for a long lens? I have the Pentax 50-135. F 2.8, but am considering Pentax 60-250 F4 or Tamron 70-200 F2.8 the Pentax is way more money, but heard good things, anyone have these? Oh and not worried about IS or whatever different manufacturers call it, Pentax is built in the body!
You sure got a lot into that review! Enjoyed it a great deal, reassuring cos I am waiting for the postman to deliver the K-3 II. It would be good to know what you think of the additional (and removed!) features in this version of the K-3, in particular pixel shift technology in the studio and for landscape/architecture, astro trace for the heavenly bodies (I mean stars), improved shake reduction, and geo-tagging.
Thanks for a fantastic review. (maybe a comment on pricing too!)
Can you make a comparison review for the K-3 Pentax with the cameras nowadays?
Thanks for the lovely video! Take a breath and have a glass of water now. :-) I have been wondering if I should upgrade from my pentax Kx to K3 and the answer I got from you is- Hell yes!!
I also have a K-x as "my first DSLR" and although a great kit, it feels like I've hit the limits of the body. Contemplated switching to the Fuji X-T1 or the Olympus E-M1, but having invested in Pentax's amazing Limited primes (14mm and especially the incredible 35mm macro), I really want to stay in the Pentax family.
Looks like the K-3 is The One. Thank you for this review, I think you've sold me.
Nice review there.
The only thing that's killing my adoption of this, and any other Pentax camera presently is their lack of real sensor shift stabilisation during video. The warping their software based approach applies is irreversible in post production, so you're stuck with this forever.
What should be a huge point of difference (given Pentax has had sensor shift technology for years, and in video too on the K-5 series) is now turned off during video mode, where Sony and Olympus have this working well now.
*****
Agree, although I've just read about some settings one can adjust in the K-3 menu with regards to tracking autofocus, that sound promising and should be on by default really.
"AF Hold HIGH and for proper tracking, you need to use AF Expanded Area"
Sensor stabilisation during video is a huge oversight, and one Pentax have been ignoring for years now unfortunately. Focus peaking and digital zoom DURING video recording would all be nice. They'd score much better on reviews if they addressed these few items.
Hey Spyros just wanted to say thank you for all your videos, I find they are excellent and very informative.
I'm currently a Nikon user, I have a D90 that I love dearly and my daughter has D3100, but I feel it's time for a camera upgrade and been looking at the D7100 but the Pentax k3 has really caught my eye.
Now if I had had to make a decision a few years back I would not have given it another thought and would have continued with the Nikon Lineup in a NY minute, but nowadays it seems that the Nikon quality is not what it used to be...for example with the D7000 there was a back focusing problem on some units, then with the D7100 it seems that some units are having problems with dust and/or oil on the camera sensor. They are both great cameras but it seems to me that the reliability is a back lacking and that is important to me since where I live there is no Nikon, or Pentax for that matter, representative so in case of any problems I would have to ship the camera to the states.
I already have an investment on Nikon (Lenses, flash units, etc) but I'm planning on staying with the D90 and 3100 so I would still use everything I have.
Since you have reviewed both the Pentax k3 and Nikon D7100, my question to you would be what camera would you choose if you had to pick one over the other. I mostly use my DSLR for landscape and low light photography plus the usual family events and about 80 % of the time I shoot Jpeg.
Hope you can give me some insight because as of this moment I really don't know what way to go, all I know is that it will be either the K3 or the D7100.
***** Excellent, thank you so much for your reply and keep on making those great videos.
Cheers !
I love Pentax
Greetings, I have looked very closely at this camera, but I have heard here in the UK that Tamaron and Sigma are pulling out of Pentax mount. That has somewhat put me off as new lens selection will be limited.
I'm new to photography and have been watching lots of recent DSLR reviews. I really enjoy your videos and wisdom.
I was looking at the Nikon D7100 and D750 both are pricey which slowing down my desire to purchase. Your Pentax K3 review has given me something else to consider. Sounds like a great option based on your review. Are there any other elements consider? Is Pentax a solid company and able to provide support for their products in the same fashion as Nikon and Cannon? Thanks.
Have you had an opportunity to shoot using the 35mm f2.8 lens? I was wondering what your thoughts were on that versus the 50 that you used for this review. Thanks for the detail in this, btw..it was super helpful!!:)
thanks for your detail review..it was very helpful
i am consider buying between K5 IIs and K3 ...these price is only $200 difference
do you think is it worth it to go straight to buy K3 or just save money buy better lens?
Awesome camera and I agree that Pentax is underrated, however I've done some homework on it and its lack of glass options and very poor flash sync speed kinda turned me off. I also would much rather not have the anti alias emulation mechanism, its just asking for something that can go wrong, aliasing has been a none issue on the D7100 so why bother risking it? Unless the Pentax sensor really needs it.. However its buffer speed is definitely best in class which is great for wildlife or spray and pray shooters, if that was my top priority it would be hard to resist. An extra note, not sure about USA or rest of world but here in Canada the K3 will run you an extra $250-$350 plus tax compared to its Nikon/Canon counterparts, that would have to be considered also. Just my take on it.
***** Hi Spyros, I have no idea why, not like I'm selling something nor do a post reckless troll junk. I comment on many other channels and I get prompt responses with no mention of any spam issues. Odd....
Kats...
the AA mechanism is just shaking the sensor and as such is part of the shake reduction system. I can't remember any issues with this part of pentax DSLR since inbody shake reduction was adopted way back with the K10D
For anyone reading this in 2017>
Yes, it is true that pentax has fewer production lenses at any given time than Nikon or Canon. However, they have not changed their mount since 1975 and do not intend to. Because of this, you can get optically outstanding vintage glass if you simply do a little looking. And because they usually go at very reasonable prices, you'll end up with far more lenses than you need. Not to mention the third party offerings from sigma, tamron and rokinon.
Also, their AA filter replacement is simply clever use of the technology that has always been in their dslrs. it is only meant to be used in the rare situations where moire is present.
Excellent review, love it. How is the lag time if any.
Hi, great review! At this day would you recommend the k-3 over the ks2 for photos quality and sharpness?
Any thoughts on the 18-135mm kit lens? I've seen mixed reviews. Obviously, it's not gonna be as good as higher priced, better quality options. Just wondering if it's worth picking up the kit or just the body and adding other lenses. I believe that you have the 50mm 1.8 on the camera in your test shots?
I just got my K-3 and am loving it!! Feels very solid and is quick. Great review by the way Spyros!! At the end though, you shot on continuous mode for almost 15 seconds! How did you get the K-3 to do that? I've been messing around with it and I can only get it to shoot like that for only a few seconds before it needs to buffer. What settings/sd card were you using?
***** Yes, I did that. But I still only get about 25 shots in JPEG before buffering. I am using a lexar 600x 32gb card.
Hey Spyros,
I have been considering buying a new DSLR and have been almost sure, that nikon D7000 will be my final choice. But the K-3 comes to my attention recently and I feel like buing the Pentax for a price, that is only around 200 dollars higher is super great value. Am i right, or is there something, that the nikon has over Pentax?
P.S. I hope my english isnt much bad.
Anyway, have a nice day and thanks for answering.
Never seen this one before. I shoot as a pro with my K-3's..not shure how many others do..hehe
*****
It shure is. I switched from Nikon FX..I work as an ambassador for Pentax now :)
*****
They asked me..hehe!
I seriously thinking getting this instead of Nikon d7000
hey Spyros, I'm torn between the k-3, d7100 and d70, which do you think is best for a entry level dlsr?
Pleased to see today that DxoMark or whatever it is found that the K-3 beats the Canon 7DII. Overall score 80 vs. 70 for the Canon. I'm sure the Canon is better though in focussing moving objects due to its dual processors, and one review says the Canon has the best of all weather sealing...
***** When looking at the 7D Mk II most people seem to ignore the new Digic 6 processors. These things are serious low light high ISO monsters and I can't wait to see them paired up with a full frame. Having said that, I've shot the 7D Mk II and the K3 and image wise I have to disagree. In my humble opinion I think the Canon has a superior image up to 10,000 ISO. To be fair though, I shot with L glass. The Pentax although a great value at several hundred less always had a yellow cast to the images using AWB. I will say this, the Pentax film camera I owned ( a lonnnng time ago) MZ-S (their "pro" body at the time) had probably the best metering system I've used. And that's compared to several Nikon film bodies including the F-100. I looked at DxO Mark's review and I think they seriously missed the point of the camera (Canon). In real world shooting it's a monster and very capable. If it were a 35mm equivalent sensor, it would easily take the place of the 1Dx. But, like anything else, this is all meaningless if you lack skill, vision, and most of all, good glass. If I had the $$$ I'd have a camera from almost every mfg. Lately I've really taken to the Olympus OMD E-M1. Talk about creamy and color accurate! WOW! But, again, you need to attach the best lenses. I digress. Now what i'd REALLY like to have is the Pentax 645Z ! :D
I really like this camera. And the video also :) I am searching for a new camera, and all the Nikon fans are talking about the 7100. I have an entry level model now and only 2 af-s F mount lenses.
Should I switch to Pentax? You said it was great in the studio, but can I control two nikon speedlights directly?
Hi Spyros, awesome review!! I believe you get more from others than you do from Nikon & Canon. I can't decide between 3 cameras, so can you tell me what you would do if you were in my shoes. K-3, the new Samsung NX30, or the new Sony A6000. Iv'e seen video reviews & image quality of the other 2 & they are great. I'm sure the NX30 will be underrated, but the photos iv'e seen are incredible! I want to do macro of flowers, what do you think? Thanks
What would you suggest, pentax k-3,canon 70d or Canon 7d? Need help!
wedding and party shoots pentax k3 is better or not and which would i buy for better lense of those shooting kindly help me ????
Hi! I love your videos, you have a Fan in México, i have a question for you, i have a budget for a camera during this week wach videos about the Pentax K3 and i want that but if YOU have to choose between the Nikon D7200, Canon 70D or this Pentax K3 ? comparing them for have the "same price" thankssss a lot greetings from Chiapas, México :D
don't forget about focus peaking in live view ;)
this obviously isn't a deal breaker but how is the grip with big hands?
How heavy is this camera? I want to make films but also do wildlife photography, which should I choose the k3 or Sony a6000? I was sold on the Sony until I saw how few wildlife images there were online and got a bit discouraged. Is this the best all round camera do you think? Thankyou :)
6:40 is just lol ... how is that patent coming on the bar band test, Spyros Heniadis?
What lens did you use for taking the pictures? did you have to Fine tune the autofocus of your lent (function C4 in the camera menu or page 45 of the user manual)
How many cameras do you own and what is your week workflow like?
I've been considering a full frame camera, particularly the Canon 6D for shooting landscapes, headshots, paintings (I'm an artist), art videos and some fashion. I came upon a couple reviews of the Pentax k-3 and now I'm wondering what I would gain/lose by buying either camera. Clearly I'd save a few $$ buying the Pentax. Any thoughts or suggestions with regards to which camera to buy and why would be very appreciated. Thanks for the video.. it really does sound like a fantastic camera. Cheers!
It's really depends on your budget. For normal landscape, K-3 is far more enough. I shoot landscape with K-3 and very happy with it. Besides the skill, the lens is more important in this case. I use Samyang 10mm f2.8 for ultra-wide angle, and Sigma Art 18-35mm f/1.8 for normal landscape. Both of them are very sharp. The Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 is also a very good lens for video. For portraits, I will recommend Pentax 55mm f/1.4 or Sigma Art 50mm f1.4. And for headshots, I will recommend Sigma 70-200 f/2.8 lens. K-3 is a great body and I feel it's designed for photographer. More feature I discovered, more handy I feel for shooting.
Compare to full frame, there are few drawbacks. Although it has great sensor with low light performance, it's still a APS-C sensor, which means the noise level is much higher than full frame, especially if you shooting the milky way during the night. The difference is definitely visible if not significant. Full frame will have better bokeh for same aperture, and if the lens is designed for full frame, such as Sigma 70-200 f/2.8, full frame will have better sharpness than cropped sensor.
About Canon, I feel Canon might have better focusing system than Pentax, I got more hit from 5D III than Pentax K-3, but it's very subjective, I never fully tested Canon system, just grab a 5D III from a friend shoot for several minutes for people running around and I got such impression. Just be aware, it's not that fair to compare K-3 with 5D III.
Overall, if you are not going to shoot milky way and sports, and you're not that pixel peeping, K-3 is a great camera to shoot everyday.
Very informative (and energetic!) review. I am about to enter the world of DSLRs for the first time, having doused my Fuji X-10 by mistake, and it's the cost that is attracting me to this Pentax. That and the fact that I have K1000 film history and Pentax (though not Ricoh!) is a touchstone for me. (So is Minolta, so I look to Sony as well... also love Olympus OMs) I love the new Canon 7D II, but it's so much more costly. At the moment I can get a nice deal at one of the big shops with a long zoom and another lens all for the price of the body only of that Canon. Question: What would be a wise choice of a lens or two to start? I photograph the odd dark pub and the occasional summer festival stage act, but mostly I do landscapes and would like to get a decent shot of wildlife such as running foxes or flying ravens. Weather-resistance would be good. There's a 55-300 zoom but that's not going to get a closeup of a bird on top of a tree. So perhaps should skip the long reach. Thanks very much.
***** I'm ashamed to say I missed it. I didn't notice the 'live; part of your above comment. I think this camera sounds great. So much to offer. I can't afford the 5DIII or D8** I might have gone with, so this is where I may go. I'm a bit concerned that DPReview finds its jpg colours leave much to be desired, and it's plain in their colour comparison tests that it's a bit ... unsubtle.
thanks alote spyros heniadis
Pentax. ABOVE AND BEYOND!
Were the sample images shot using the kit lens?
Gee, you must be a huge guy! The K-3 looks miniature in your hands. I know it isn't miniature because I've got the K-5 and they are similar sizewise.
Nice video thank you. I'm really undecided if buy a K-3 now or wait a bit and buy a FF one, (or Nikon d610 or canon 6D). I don't really know if buying a FF is and advantage or a disadvantage; but I love the FF picture cause of the brightness and the width, on the other hand I'm not a professional so is really expensive choice. What is your advice? it worth buy a not FF camera for more than 1000€? thank you so much! :)
***** thank you so much, I'm really considering to buy a K-3 right now, since I also have a K-10d and some lenses! thank you again, regards
***** I just gave my K10D to a friend and purcheshed the K3. Iv been waiting a long time for Pentax to come out with a camera that could compete with the big names and full frame DSLR's and this is it .. the K5 K7 AND K5.2s just didn't do it for me and I knew Pentax would come strong, I waited and they did ..This camera is a necessity . K3 with my Tamron 70-200 brought me the clarity depth and contrast that only Film could have . No longer will True Pros get priced out of the Dslr market .
What is the price of K-3 ?
best lense wedding shoot or party shoot for pentax k3 please recommend best lense
+Spyros Heniadis thanks alot
I think there is nothing better for studio than OM-D M-1 with Zuiko 75mm.
Sold.
Hi, I have a K-2 SLR which I bought in 1978. I still have the 50mm and 28mm wide angle SMC Pentax lenses. My question is, if I'm going to buy a K-3 DLSR, can I still use these lenses on the K-3? I also have a Tamron AF aspeherical LD 28-300mm lense, can I use it on the K-3 DLSR? As you have said, buy the body and not the kit. Thank you very much for your help.
Yes. You can use them all with the K3.
Simple answer would be: Yes you can. But there is a longer answer.
Pentax always try to support very old lens. It can even support M42 via adapter without problem. And it definitely supports those K mounts lens in old days natively.
I shot with Asahi Pentax-M 50m f/2 for several times. It's very interesting experience. With focus peaking feature in K-3, manual focus is very enjoyable. And with focus trap feature available in Pentax system since beginning, it add more fun to shoot with vintage lens. And K-3 has more powerful motor than K-5 II, which allow faster auto focus for old screw drive AF lenses.
Those above are pros, there are a few cons.
First, It's crop sensor camera with 1.5 crop factor, which means 50mm is equivalent to 75mm in full frame, and 28mm will become 42mm, which are not that wide anymore. It's a good news for telephoto lens, but a bad news for those wide-angle ones. And the crop factor is also applied to aperture, which means the bokeh may not be as amazing as in the film era. You may need faster lens for crop sensor camera.
Second, all those old lenses are either manual focus or screw drive focusing system, compare to today's super-sonic focusing system, it's slow and noisy. Some of them are very heavy as the material is different these days.
Third, those lenses designed for film, which has lower resolution than today's digital sensor. They might be super sharp for film, but they may not that sharp for today's DSLR, especially 24 MP K-3 APS-C sensor. I hardly find any film era lens can reach even 10MP on Pentax in test.
You can use any K mount lens with Perntax DSLR's, but first you need need to go into the 'c' menu and select 'enable' on the 'using aperture ring' setting.
If you don't do this, the shutter will not operate. I'm not sure why Pentax don't make 'enable aperture ring' the default setting, even though it only takes seconds to change.
Hey spyros, I have been thinking of upgrading from my K30 possibly by the end of the summer maybe. I have been doing a lot of research on the K5iis and K3..I wanted to know what are your thoughts on these..because one hand I here the k3 has all these great features with 2 memory cards slot etc but I also read the k5iis IQ is much better and is also much better in low light with Iso 80...now I am a the type to usually shot in low light a lot but I'm not sure on getting the k5iis because its kinda old but I'm also not sure if the extra 400 or so for the k3 is really worth it..anyway my question is do you think that the k3 is worth the money or should I just get the k5iis and/or wait until until Pentax releases something that's more advanced than the k5iis in terms of IQ and performance? Other than just get the k3 and pay more just for a few feature I can live with out(like the better video mode which I don't use at all)..thanks
***** Thanks for the reply...i will def be saving it into my amazon wishlist haha hopefully i can step my camera game up a bit by august...thanks again ,spyros. i appreciate the advice and help.
Wow! That's machine gun fast
so it seems this is the pentax d400 :)
Are you shooting with one eye closed? How's that??
Should have started with great review!!! Your enthusiasm made me buy the greatly reduced K-3....
button button, whose got the button
Too bad the one thing missing is a full frame, it would then be THE ultimate dslr.
when your wright your wright.
If I couldn't see you, I'd swear you were Bill Gates! Tone and manner of speaking, local subtleties of accent, etc. Are you and him from the same neck of the woods??
K-3 look so small on his hand. Dude must be huge.
He sounds like bill gates.. kinda
Seven years ago I bought the k-20d. no problem yet, made like a tank and weather sealing. Be carefull, pentax color rendition isn't for all (its like old film of fuji, very strong greens.