K3 vs D7100

tampamiketaylor · 12-24-2014, 06:18 PM

Hey guys,

Seen a decent deal on a d7100 for $750 (may take less) used with a 18-105mm lens. It only has 3k shots and great condition. I was really looking out for a better deal on a k3 due to more rugged body and perceived image quality, but this seems like a great deal. Looking for advice please before I pull the trigger.

What do you guys think?

Mike Taylor

Steve.Ledger · 12-24-2014, 06:38 PM - **1 Like**

D7100 - No IBIS/slower FPS/A lot less cross type focusing points/greater shutter lag/worse egonomics.. etc

dakight · 12-24-2014, 06:41 PM - **1 Like**

Prices of the K-3 are way down; I've seen them as low as $696 and you can find them any day of the week of less than $750. But having said that, don't choose solely on the basis of price. Nikon makes a good camera but is it what you really want? Do you want a Ford or do you want a BMW?

gebco · 12-24-2014, 06:43 PM - **1 Like**

I've been comparing the two online for a while now. Feature wise, the K-3 wins, especially weather sealing and buffer size and the ability to shoot burst mode. Other specs are really close.

I am staying with Pentax and will upgrade my K-x to the K-3 for two reasons: 1) I am already invested in a couple of lenses that I really like, the Tamron 17-50 2.8 and the Sigma 50-150 HSM 2.8 and 2) feature wise I don't think you can beat Pentax.

If you aren't invested too heavily in either system, you can't go wrong with either camera, depending on your shooting style of course.

tampamiketaylor · 12-24-2014, 06:54 PM

Good points man on the advantages on the k3.

Originally posted by Steve.Ledger

D7100 - No IBIS/slower FPS/A lot less cross type focusing points/greater shutter lag/worse egonomics.. etc

---------- Post added 12-24-14 at 08:57 PM ----------

Thanks man, I am not invested in either and really been more tracking the k3 for a couple months. At 750 with a lense it is not that much less than a k3.

Originally posted by gebco

I've been comparing the two online for a while now. Feature wise, the K-3 wins, especially weather sealing and buffer size and the ability to shoot burst mode. Other specs are really close.

I am staying with Pentax and will upgrade my K-x to the K-3 for two reasons: 1) I am already invested in a couple of lenses that I really like, the Tamron 17-50 2.8 and the Sigma 50-150 HSM 2.8 and 2) feature wise I don't think you can beat Pentax.

If you aren't invested too heavily in either system, you can't go wrong with either camera, depending on your shooting style of course.

Adam · 12-24-2014, 07:20 PM - **3 Likes**

Similar products from different brands- both have their pros and cons which you can read about in reviews, but they're minutiae IMO. In a nutshell, the Pentax has better ergonomics and innovative features like the AA filter simulator, while the Nikon has faster AF and better video. If you're not invested in either system you'd probably be happy with both. Of course, if you went with the Pentax you'd be able to talk about it on the best fan site there is

tampamiketaylor · 12-24-2014, 07:32 PM

Thx Alex

Yeah, I would miss this site. Thx

Mike

Originally posted by Adam

Similar

products from different brands- both have their pros and cons which you can read about in reviews, but they're minutiae IMO. In a nutshell, the Pentax has better ergonomics and innovative features like the AA filter simulator, while the Nikon has faster AF and better video. If you're not invested in either system you'd probably be happy with both. Of course, if you went with the Pentax you'd be able to talk about it on the best fan site there is

Wolfeye · 12-24-2014, 07:48 PM

A couple months ago I realized I had joined this site, a year prior, donated to become a full member, and then went away for the rest of the year. When I got interested in the K-3 due to falling prices I revisited this site and rediscovered how nice the folks are. That alone makes up for the shortcomings of the K-3. It's a steal for the price. The D7100 is also nice. I own both. But I shoot the K-3 more because it's fun to chat here, with all these great people.

New York has a lot to offer, but I like Iowa people. Same principle.

aleonx3 · 12-24-2014, 07:54 PM

If you absolutely have to have Nikon AF system, the decision is simple, go with Nikon, otherwise, everything else on the k-3 is just a bit better IMHO. I have the k-3 (bought at $620 during BB sale), it is such a joy to use; keeping in mind that I am not putting the D7100 down at all, still a good camera.

tampamiketaylor · 12-24-2014, 08:26 PM

Originally posted by Wolfeye

A couple months ago I realized I had joined this site, a year prior, donated to become a full member, and then went away for the rest of the year. When I got interested in the K-3 due to falling prices I revisited this site and rediscovered how nice the folks are. That alone makes up for the shortcomings of the K-3. It's a steal for the price. The D7100 is also nice. I own both. But I shoot the K-3 more because it's fun to chat here, with all these great people.

New York has a lot to offer, but I like Iowa people. Same principle.

Wolfeye,

Since you have both, overall in your opinion if you had to choose an overall all around camera would you go with k3 or 7100? Really looking for a strong portrait camera, family pics and outdoor vacation pics.

Thx,
Mike

---------- Post added 12-24-14 at 10:27 PM ----------

Originally posted by aleonx3

If you absolutely have to have Nikon AF system, the decision is simple, go with Nikon, otherwise, everything else on the k-3 is just a bit better IMHO. I have the k-3 (bought at $620 during BB sale), it is such a joy to use; keeping in mind that I am not putting the D7100 down at all, still a good camera.

I wish we could get $620 price now as I would get it in a second.

Thx,
Mike

Docrwm · 12-24-2014, 08:46 PM

Originally posted by aleonx3

If you absolutely have to have Nikon AF system, the decision is simple, go with Nikon, otherwise, everything else on the k-3 is just a bit better IMHO. I have the k-3 (bought at $620 during BB sale), it is such a joy to use; keeping in mind that I am not putting the D7100 down at all, still a good camera.

What he said

Seriously, if you have to have precise AF quickly, like high speed sports, then the Nikon is more your camera. Otherwise, welcome aboard.

gebco · 12-24-2014, 09:39 PM

Re: sports

In everything I read, it seems d7100 has faster af and more focus points, but that the K-3 isn't that bad with the improved focus points and software. It comes down to lens in many cases. Nikon gives more choice there. Where the Nikon falls short for sport shooting is the buffer, which I understand fills up much more quickly than the K-3.

Wolfeye · 12-24-2014, 10:06 PM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by tampamiketaylor

Wolfeye,

Since you have both, overall in your opinion if you had to choose an overall all around camera would you go with k3 or 7100? Really looking for a strong portrait camera, family pics and outdoor vacation pics.

Well, if I had no other system nor lenses, the K-3 and weather sealed 18-135mm lens would be the way I'd go for portraits and vacation pictures. I think the Nikon has better high-ISO performance as well as the AF speed edge, but those aren't advantages relevant in your shooting situations. The K-3 has the biggest advantage in cheap lens selection because every K-mount lens ever made will not only fit, it will be image stabilized. A vast array of older Nikon lenses will fit the D7100 but their very oldest F-mount lenses won't, and in fact if you try and use them unmodified on the D7100 you can damage the camera. Even then, none of the old Nikons will be image stabilized. All in all the image quality is very close, but I give a slight nod to Nikon's, when using equivalent lenses.

One other minor factor is that everybody who sells cameras sells Nikon. Parts, lenses and accessories are far easier to obtain. Third-party lens makers also support Nikon to a greater extent than Pentax, but keep in mind those lenses which ARE available for both Pentax and Nikon mounts, without image stabilization, are suddenly image stabilized on the K-3, and remain non-stabilized on the D7100.

One thing is 100% certain. They are both great cameras and you won't be making a mistake with either one. Canon's 70D is another peach out there, and I own that one too. I love cameras.

danny09 · 12-24-2014, 10:26 PM

To me body based Image stabilization is a huge deal. Companies with Billon dollar R&D budget like Nikon or Canon refuse to put Image Stabilization into their camera bodies. Why? Of course they can. But they dont.
Milking your customers is one thing but ripping them off with every single lens purchase is criminal offense.
You should also look at Sony A58/A77ii cameras also. Not as good image quality wise but amazing video,faster AF more than make up. Lastly PentaxForums is unarguably the best enthusiast Photo site on this planet. You will feel at home here

**Des** · 12-25-2014, 04:17 AM

Originally posted by dakight

Nikon makes a good camera but is it what you really want? Do you want a Ford or do you want a BMW?

Originally posted by Wolfeye

New York has a lot to offer, but I like Iowa people. Same principle.

So is Pentax is a Ford in Iowa and Nikon a BMW in New York? Or is Pentax a BMW in Iowa and Nikon a Ford in New York?

With such an identity crisis it's no wonder they have trouble with marketing.

12-24-2014, 06:18 PM	#1
tampamiketaylor Forum Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 52	K3 vs D7100 Hey guys, Seen a decent deal on a d7100 for $750 (may take less) used with a 18-105mm lens. It only has 3k shots and great condition. I was really looking out for a better deal on a k3 due to more rugged body and perceived image quality, but this seems like a great deal. Looking for advice please before I pull the trigger. What do you guys think? Mike Taylor

12-24-2014, 07:20 PM - 3 Likes	#6
Adam Administrator Site Webmaster Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Arizona Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 51,594	Similar products from different brands- both have their pros and cons which you can read about in reviews, but they're minutiae IMO. In a nutshell, the Pentax has better ergonomics and innovative features like the AA filter simulator, while the Nikon has faster AF and better video. If you're not invested in either system you'd probably be happy with both. Of course, if you went with the Pentax you'd be able to talk about it on the best fan site there is Adam PentaxForums.com Webmaster (Site Usage Guide \| Site Help \| My Photography) PentaxForums.com server and development costs are user-supported. You can help cover these costs by donating or purchasing one of our Pentax eBooks. Or, buy your photo gear from our affiliates, Adorama, B&H Photo, KEH, or Topaz Labs, and get FREE Marketplace access - click here to see how! Trusted Pentax retailers:

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12-24-2014, 06:38 PM - 1 Like	#2
Steve.Ledger Veteran Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Far North Qld Posts: 3,301	D7100 - No IBIS/slower FPS/A lot less cross type focusing points/greater shutter lag/worse egonomics.. etc

12-24-2014, 06:41 PM - 1 Like	#3
dakight Veteran Member Join Date: Sep 2014 Location: Phoenix, AZ Photos: Albums Posts: 1,216	Prices of the K-3 are way down; I've seen them as low as $696 and you can find them any day of the week of less than $750. But having said that, don't choose solely on the basis of price. Nikon makes a good camera but is it what you really want? Do you want a Ford or do you want a BMW?

12-24-2014, 06:43 PM - 1 Like	#4
gebco Veteran Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Winnipeg Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 329	I've been comparing the two online for a while now. Feature wise, the K-3 wins, especially weather sealing and buffer size and the ability to shoot burst mode. Other specs are really close. I am staying with Pentax and will upgrade my K-x to the K-3 for two reasons: 1) I am already invested in a couple of lenses that I really like, the Tamron 17-50 2.8 and the Sigma 50-150 HSM 2.8 and 2) feature wise I don't think you can beat Pentax. If you aren't invested too heavily in either system, you can't go wrong with either camera, depending on your shooting style of course.

12-24-2014, 06:54 PM	#5
tampamiketaylor Forum Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 52 Original Poster	Good points man on the advantages on the k3. Originally posted by Steve.Ledger D7100 - No IBIS/slower FPS/A lot less cross type focusing points/greater shutter lag/worse egonomics.. etc ---------- Post added 12-24-14 at 08:57 PM ---------- Thanks man, I am not invested in either and really been more tracking the k3 for a couple months. At 750 with a lense it is not that much less than a k3. Originally posted by gebco I've been comparing the two online for a while now. Feature wise, the K-3 wins, especially weather sealing and buffer size and the ability to shoot burst mode. Other specs are really close. I am staying with Pentax and will upgrade my K-x to the K-3 for two reasons: 1) I am already invested in a couple of lenses that I really like, the Tamron 17-50 2.8 and the Sigma 50-150 HSM 2.8 and 2) feature wise I don't think you can beat Pentax. If you aren't invested too heavily in either system, you can't go wrong with either camera, depending on your shooting style of course.

12-24-2014, 07:32 PM	#7
tampamiketaylor Forum Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 52 Original Poster	Thx Alex Yeah, I would miss this site. Thx Mike Originally posted by Adam Similar products from different brands- both have their pros and cons which you can read about in reviews, but they're minutiae IMO. In a nutshell, the Pentax has better ergonomics and innovative features like the AA filter simulator, while the Nikon has faster AF and better video. If you're not invested in either system you'd probably be happy with both. Of course, if you went with the Pentax you'd be able to talk about it on the best fan site there is

12-24-2014, 07:48 PM	#8
Wolfeye Veteran Member Join Date: Jul 2013 Photos: Albums Posts: 782	A couple months ago I realized I had joined this site, a year prior, donated to become a full member, and then went away for the rest of the year. When I got interested in the K-3 due to falling prices I revisited this site and rediscovered how nice the folks are. That alone makes up for the shortcomings of the K-3. It's a steal for the price. The D7100 is also nice. I own both. But I shoot the K-3 more because it's fun to chat here, with all these great people. New York has a lot to offer, but I like Iowa people. Same principle.

12-24-2014, 07:54 PM	#9
aleonx3 Veteran Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Brampton, Ontario Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 3,996	If you absolutely have to have Nikon AF system, the decision is simple, go with Nikon, otherwise, everything else on the k-3 is just a bit better IMHO. I have the k-3 (bought at $620 during BB sale), it is such a joy to use; keeping in mind that I am not putting the D7100 down at all, still a good camera.

12-24-2014, 08:26 PM	#10
tampamiketaylor Forum Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 52 Original Poster	Originally posted by Wolfeye A couple months ago I realized I had joined this site, a year prior, donated to become a full member, and then went away for the rest of the year. When I got interested in the K-3 due to falling prices I revisited this site and rediscovered how nice the folks are. That alone makes up for the shortcomings of the K-3. It's a steal for the price. The D7100 is also nice. I own both. But I shoot the K-3 more because it's fun to chat here, with all these great people. New York has a lot to offer, but I like Iowa people. Same principle. Wolfeye, Since you have both, overall in your opinion if you had to choose an overall all around camera would you go with k3 or 7100? Really looking for a strong portrait camera, family pics and outdoor vacation pics. Thx, Mike ---------- Post added 12-24-14 at 10:27 PM ---------- Originally posted by aleonx3 If you absolutely have to have Nikon AF system, the decision is simple, go with Nikon, otherwise, everything else on the k-3 is just a bit better IMHO. I have the k-3 (bought at $620 during BB sale), it is such a joy to use; keeping in mind that I am not putting the D7100 down at all, still a good camera. I wish we could get $620 price now as I would get it in a second. Thx, Mike

12-24-2014, 08:46 PM	#11
Docrwm Veteran Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Somewhere in the Southern US Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 12,285	Originally posted by aleonx3 If you absolutely have to have Nikon AF system, the decision is simple, go with Nikon, otherwise, everything else on the k-3 is just a bit better IMHO. I have the k-3 (bought at $620 during BB sale), it is such a joy to use; keeping in mind that I am not putting the D7100 down at all, still a good camera. What he said Seriously, if you have to have precise AF quickly, like high speed sports, then the Nikon is more your camera. Otherwise, welcome aboard.

12-24-2014, 09:39 PM	#12
gebco Veteran Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Winnipeg Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 329	Re: sports In everything I read, it seems d7100 has faster af and more focus points, but that the K-3 isn't that bad with the improved focus points and software. It comes down to lens in many cases. Nikon gives more choice there. Where the Nikon falls short for sport shooting is the buffer, which I understand fills up much more quickly than the K-3.

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12-24-2014, 10:06 PM - 1 Like	#13
Wolfeye Veteran Member Join Date: Jul 2013 Photos: Albums Posts: 782	Originally posted by tampamiketaylor Wolfeye, Since you have both, overall in your opinion if you had to choose an overall all around camera would you go with k3 or 7100? Really looking for a strong portrait camera, family pics and outdoor vacation pics. Well, if I had no other system nor lenses, the K-3 and weather sealed 18-135mm lens would be the way I'd go for portraits and vacation pictures. I think the Nikon has better high-ISO performance as well as the AF speed edge, but those aren't advantages relevant in your shooting situations. The K-3 has the biggest advantage in cheap lens selection because every K-mount lens ever made will not only fit, it will be image stabilized. A vast array of older Nikon lenses will fit the D7100 but their very oldest F-mount lenses won't, and in fact if you try and use them unmodified on the D7100 you can damage the camera. Even then, none of the old Nikons will be image stabilized. All in all the image quality is very close, but I give a slight nod to Nikon's, when using equivalent lenses. One other minor factor is that everybody who sells cameras sells Nikon. Parts, lenses and accessories are far easier to obtain. Third-party lens makers also support Nikon to a greater extent than Pentax, but keep in mind those lenses which ARE available for both Pentax and Nikon mounts, without image stabilization, are suddenly image stabilized on the K-3, and remain non-stabilized on the D7100. One thing is 100% certain. They are both great cameras and you won't be making a mistake with either one. Canon's 70D is another peach out there, and I own that one too. I love cameras.

12-24-2014, 10:26 PM	#14
danny09 Veteran Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: SF Bay Area Posts: 417	To me body based Image stabilization is a huge deal. Companies with Billon dollar R&D budget like Nikon or Canon refuse to put Image Stabilization into their camera bodies. Why? Of course they can. But they dont. Milking your customers is one thing but ripping them off with every single lens purchase is criminal offense. You should also look at Sony A58/A77ii cameras also. Not as good image quality wise but amazing video,faster AF more than make up. Lastly PentaxForums is unarguably the best enthusiast Photo site on this planet. You will feel at home here

12-25-2014, 04:17 AM	#15
Des Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2014 Location: Victoria Australia Photos: Albums Posts: 6,422	Originally posted by dakight Nikon makes a good camera but is it what you really want? Do you want a Ford or do you want a BMW? Originally posted by Wolfeye New York has a lot to offer, but I like Iowa people. Same principle. So is Pentax is a Ford in Iowa and Nikon a BMW in New York? Or is Pentax a BMW in Iowa and Nikon a Ford in New York? With such an identity crisis it's no wonder they have trouble with marketing.