Digital Camera World Review - K-3 Mark III

**Kobie** · 08-12-2021, 02:04 PM

..."Is it worth the formidable asking price?"
Well, one thing's for sure...
If you're using the DA 16-85 don't expect to have options for video AF.C Doh!!! I guess that lost credibility.
Anyways, here's the review.
Pentax K-3 Mark III review | Digital Camera World

Lhorn · 08-12-2021, 03:49 PM - **2 Likes**

From their review: “However, there are some clever features, including digital filters, in-camera HDR, multiple exposure, interval shooting and interval composite modes. The K-3 III may look dated in its physical features, but there’s still a lot to experiment with.”

I really have no idea what other manufacturers have going on but found it interesting that they seemed impressed with features that I believe the K-70 has despite some people feeling that the K-70 is getting long in the tooth.

The K-3iii seems like a great camera. My only issue would be the price. On the other hand it makes the K-1 seem more within my reach of I choose to ever step up from the K-70.

**Kobie** · 08-12-2021, 03:55 PM

Originally posted by Lhorn

From their review: “However, there are some clever features, including digital filters, in-camera HDR, multiple exposure, interval shooting and interval composite modes. The K-3 III may look dated in its physical features, but there’s still a lot to experiment with.”

I really have no idea what other manufacturers have going on but found it interesting that they seemed impressed with features that I believe the K-70 has despite some people feeling that the K-70 is getting long in the tooth.

The K-3iii seems like a great camera. My only issue would be the price. On the other hand it makes the K-1 seem more within my reach of I choose to ever step up from the K-70.

My K-30 has those features too.

biz-engineer · 08-12-2021, 04:31 PM - **2 Likes**

Originally posted by Lhorn

I really have no idea what other manufacturers have going on

Leading spec sheet numbers, more cameras more often, quicker obsolescence, more lenses , more accessories, more retail shelf space occupied, and more market share.

Password1234 · 08-12-2021, 05:41 PM - **6 Likes**

I'm a longtime user of Pentax camera and the entry level Pentax since they offered all I wanted, I might have been tempted to go upward because of the lack of grip ( my k70 is slightly too short for me to be comfortable for long period ) but my k70 is having issues with the aperture control. I only have two choice now, k70 again or k3iii. On all honesty I'm glad I don't have a plethora of camera to consider. K70 served me well and is still a really capable camera, but the space between the focus point was sometimes annoying. Long story short my k3iii is on its way and even if expensive, I know that the chances that Pentax put out a new model with minor updates is somewhat reassuring. Can't wait to see through the new viewfinder

Jeff · 08-13-2021, 02:40 AM

Originally posted by Password1234

I'm a longtime user of Pentax camera and the entry level Pentax since they offered all I wanted, I might have been tempted to go upward because of the lack of grip ( my k70 is slightly too short for me to be comfortable for long period ) but my k70 is having issues with the aperture control. I only have two choice now, k70 again or k3iii. On all honesty I'm glad I don't have a plethora of camera to consider. K70 served me well and is still a really capable camera, but the space between the focus point was sometimes annoying. Long story short my k3iii is on its way and even if expensive, I know that the chances that Pentax put out a new model with minor updates is somewhat reassuring. Can't wait to see through the new viewfinder

There is also the KP which has a battery grip available. And cheaper than the K3III...

Password1234 · 08-13-2021, 03:10 AM

It is discontinued and not available new where I live.

**TER-OR** · 08-13-2021, 06:27 AM

The Pentax K-3 Mark III is a good, solid, powerful DSLR, but one with a design that’s rooted in the past and a price tag that just adds insult to injury. If you love the Pentax brand and the DSLR design, you could probably forgive it for all of that, but it’s hard to see how this camera could attract anyone from outside the Pentax fold.

Fair enough. Design consistency within a brand is typically a good thing. Getting people to switch brands with something as expensive as an SLR system isn't likely. Attracting people new to the SLR world is always the holy grail for marketing - and Pentax does lag behind in that range at least in the US.

Kunzite · 08-13-2021, 07:45 AM

"adds insult to injury". I suspect using a Pentax is an insult to the "reviewer".

**c.a.m** · 08-13-2021, 07:55 AM - **2 Likes**

Originally posted by Kunzite

"adds insult to injury". I suspect using a Pentax is an insult to the "reviewer".

Adding "Insult to injury" seems to be the overall tone of the review's subjective assessment.

It's hard to fathom how these reviews treat the K-3 Mark III in relation to other cameras.

Within the past couple of days, Digital Camera World published a glowing review of their new darling, the Nikon Z fc: Nikon Z fc review: old-school style meets cutting-edge tech | Digital Camera World

According to DCW, while the Z fc has numerous positive aspects, it's notably inferior to the K-3 Mark III in key image-quality metrics of resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise characteristics. It has serious compromises in ergonomics and handling, and noise issues start at ISO 3200. It uses a relatively low-resolution, old-design sensor. There is a shortage of DX Z-mount lenses. Conveniently, the review omits some important details, such as its maximum shutter speed of 1/4000s; single UHS-I card; 11 fps is for 12-bit RAW; and a relatively low battery capacity provides only 300 shots per charge. It's certainly hard to find the "cutting-edge tech" that the title proclaims.

Inconsistently, DCW criticizes the Pentax for specifications in which they praise the Z fc, which has equal or worse performance (e.g., burst rate; buffer capacity; high-ISO characteristics). Yet, the "recommended" Z fc is rated 4.5 stars and garners a conclusion that "the Nikon Z fc is a camera oozing with both style as well as substance." The ultimate platitude: "If you dig the retro aesthetic, it’s worth every penny," (despite its serious drawbacks?). Of course, the review doesn't dare to suggest explicitly that it's hard to see how the camera could attract anyone from outside the 'Nikon fold'.

Like we've seen in other reviews, the K-3 Mark III is penalized for its price, lack of moveable screen, and for being a DSLR. It's too bad that the cursory review didn't give more details on the user experience, apart from the numerical comparisons. Furthermore, like other reviews, it fails to provide a balanced analysis of the value propositions of the various camera systems, nor does it counter with a thoughtful analysis of what they think would be a 'reasonable' price point for the K-3 Mark III.

The DCW review highlights numerous strong points about the K-3 III. Unfortunately, the glib subjective comments detract and distract from an otherwise positive overview.

- Craig

**TER-OR** · 08-13-2021, 09:45 AM

Nikon using old sensors? Say it ain't so!
Style over substance and high prices don't deter Fuji buyers, either. While I'm attracted to the old-school aesthetic, I'm highly deterred by the price of entry to the Fuji or Nikon Z systems.

One thing I though I wouldn't like on the K3III is the GPS tethering to my phone. Turns out, it's really convenient. I don't have to remember to hit the GPS button when in the field. iNaturalist automatically pulls that information, as does Flickr.
Oh, and sealing is very nice in the field - so is a great viewfinder because full sun and LCD viewfinders often don't play well together.

**Michail_P** · 08-13-2021, 10:01 AM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by Kunzite

"adds insult to injury". I suspect using a Pentax is an insult to the "reviewer".

I generally find the statement a bit off. Design is a subjective process. Dslr isn’t gone yet, some people have difficulties understanding that.

Kunzite · 08-13-2021, 10:27 AM

Originally posted by Michail_P

I generally find the statement a bit off. Design is a subjective process. Dslr isn’t gone yet, some people have difficulties understanding that.

The insult, it seems, is having a choice different than his. Such people should be condemned to live in a world without choice.

dlhawes · 08-14-2021, 05:38 AM

I found this amusing:

You Tube

Jeff · 08-14-2021, 06:02 AM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by dlhawes

He's gone off Pentax I see... let's hope forever!

08-12-2021, 02:04 PM	#1
Kobie Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2014 Location: Bowmanville Photos: Albums Posts: 1,211	Digital Camera World Review - K-3 Mark III ..."Is it worth the formidable asking price?" Well, one thing's for sure... If you're using the DA 16-85 don't expect to have options for video AF.C Doh!!! I guess that lost credibility. Anyways, here's the review. Pentax K-3 Mark III review \| Digital Camera World

08-13-2021, 07:55 AM - 2 Likes	#10
c.a.m Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2013 Location: Ottawa, Canada Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 4,189	DCW's Inconsistent Reviews Originally posted by Kunzite "adds insult to injury". I suspect using a Pentax is an insult to the "reviewer". Adding "Insult to injury" seems to be the overall tone of the review's subjective assessment. It's hard to fathom how these reviews treat the K-3 Mark III in relation to other cameras. Within the past couple of days, Digital Camera World published a glowing review of their new darling, the Nikon Z fc: Nikon Z fc review: old-school style meets cutting-edge tech \| Digital Camera World According to DCW, while the Z fc has numerous positive aspects, it's notably inferior to the K-3 Mark III in key image-quality metrics of resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise characteristics. It has serious compromises in ergonomics and handling, and noise issues start at ISO 3200. It uses a relatively low-resolution, old-design sensor. There is a shortage of DX Z-mount lenses. Conveniently, the review omits some important details, such as its maximum shutter speed of 1/4000s; single UHS-I card; 11 fps is for 12-bit RAW; and a relatively low battery capacity provides only 300 shots per charge. It's certainly hard to find the "cutting-edge tech" that the title proclaims. Inconsistently, DCW criticizes the Pentax for specifications in which they praise the Z fc, which has equal or worse performance (e.g., burst rate; buffer capacity; high-ISO characteristics). Yet, the "recommended" Z fc is rated 4.5 stars and garners a conclusion that "the Nikon Z fc is a camera oozing with both style as well as substance." The ultimate platitude: "If you dig the retro aesthetic, it’s worth every penny," (despite its serious drawbacks?). Of course, the review doesn't dare to suggest explicitly that it's hard to see how the camera could attract anyone from outside the 'Nikon fold'. Like we've seen in other reviews, the K-3 Mark III is penalized for its price, lack of moveable screen, and for being a DSLR. It's too bad that the cursory review didn't give more details on the user experience, apart from the numerical comparisons. Furthermore, like other reviews, it fails to provide a balanced analysis of the value propositions of the various camera systems, nor does it counter with a thoughtful analysis of what they think would be a 'reasonable' price point for the K-3 Mark III. The DCW review highlights numerous strong points about the K-3 III. Unfortunately, the glib subjective comments detract and distract from an otherwise positive overview. - Craig Last edited by c.a.m; 08-13-2021 at 10:06 AM.

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08-12-2021, 03:49 PM - 2 Likes	#2
Lhorn Veteran Member Join Date: Jan 2019 Posts: 554	From their review: “However, there are some clever features, including digital filters, in-camera HDR, multiple exposure, interval shooting and interval composite modes. The K-3 III may look dated in its physical features, but there’s still a lot to experiment with.” I really have no idea what other manufacturers have going on but found it interesting that they seemed impressed with features that I believe the K-70 has despite some people feeling that the K-70 is getting long in the tooth. The K-3iii seems like a great camera. My only issue would be the price. On the other hand it makes the K-1 seem more within my reach of I choose to ever step up from the K-70.

08-12-2021, 03:55 PM	#3
Kobie Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2014 Location: Bowmanville Photos: Albums Posts: 1,211 Original Poster	Originally posted by Lhorn From their review: “However, there are some clever features, including digital filters, in-camera HDR, multiple exposure, interval shooting and interval composite modes. The K-3 III may look dated in its physical features, but there’s still a lot to experiment with.” I really have no idea what other manufacturers have going on but found it interesting that they seemed impressed with features that I believe the K-70 has despite some people feeling that the K-70 is getting long in the tooth. The K-3iii seems like a great camera. My only issue would be the price. On the other hand it makes the K-1 seem more within my reach of I choose to ever step up from the K-70. My K-30 has those features too.

08-12-2021, 04:31 PM - 2 Likes	#4
biz-engineer Pentaxian Join Date: Feb 2015 Photos: Gallery Posts: 12,231	Originally posted by Lhorn I really have no idea what other manufacturers have going on Leading spec sheet numbers, more cameras more often, quicker obsolescence, more lenses , more accessories, more retail shelf space occupied, and more market share.

08-12-2021, 05:41 PM - 6 Likes	#5
Password1234 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Montreal Photos: Gallery Posts: 143	I'm a longtime user of Pentax camera and the entry level Pentax since they offered all I wanted, I might have been tempted to go upward because of the lack of grip ( my k70 is slightly too short for me to be comfortable for long period ) but my k70 is having issues with the aperture control. I only have two choice now, k70 again or k3iii. On all honesty I'm glad I don't have a plethora of camera to consider. K70 served me well and is still a really capable camera, but the space between the focus point was sometimes annoying. Long story short my k3iii is on its way and even if expensive, I know that the chances that Pentax put out a new model with minor updates is somewhat reassuring. Can't wait to see through the new viewfinder

08-13-2021, 02:40 AM	#6
Jeff Pentaxian Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Berkshire, England Posts: 837	Originally posted by Password1234 I'm a longtime user of Pentax camera and the entry level Pentax since they offered all I wanted, I might have been tempted to go upward because of the lack of grip ( my k70 is slightly too short for me to be comfortable for long period ) but my k70 is having issues with the aperture control. I only have two choice now, k70 again or k3iii. On all honesty I'm glad I don't have a plethora of camera to consider. K70 served me well and is still a really capable camera, but the space between the focus point was sometimes annoying. Long story short my k3iii is on its way and even if expensive, I know that the chances that Pentax put out a new model with minor updates is somewhat reassuring. Can't wait to see through the new viewfinder There is also the KP which has a battery grip available. And cheaper than the K3III...

08-13-2021, 03:10 AM	#7
Password1234 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Montreal Photos: Gallery Posts: 143	It is discontinued and not available new where I live.

08-13-2021, 06:27 AM	#8
TER-OR Site Supporter Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Dundee, IL Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 6,699	The Pentax K-3 Mark III is a good, solid, powerful DSLR, but one with a design that’s rooted in the past and a price tag that just adds insult to injury. If you love the Pentax brand and the DSLR design, you could probably forgive it for all of that, but it’s hard to see how this camera could attract anyone from outside the Pentax fold. Fair enough. Design consistency within a brand is typically a good thing. Getting people to switch brands with something as expensive as an SLR system isn't likely. Attracting people new to the SLR world is always the holy grail for marketing - and Pentax does lag behind in that range at least in the US.

08-13-2021, 07:45 AM	#9
Kunzite Pentaxian Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Romania Posts: 15,132	"adds insult to injury". I suspect using a Pentax is an insult to the "reviewer".

08-13-2021, 09:45 AM	#11
TER-OR Site Supporter Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Dundee, IL Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 6,699	Nikon using old sensors? Say it ain't so! Style over substance and high prices don't deter Fuji buyers, either. While I'm attracted to the old-school aesthetic, I'm highly deterred by the price of entry to the Fuji or Nikon Z systems. One thing I though I wouldn't like on the K3III is the GPS tethering to my phone. Turns out, it's really convenient. I don't have to remember to hit the GPS button when in the field. iNaturalist automatically pulls that information, as does Flickr. Oh, and sealing is very nice in the field - so is a great viewfinder because full sun and LCD viewfinders often don't play well together.

08-13-2021, 10:01 AM - 1 Like	#12
Michail_P Site Supporter Join Date: Nov 2019 Location: Kalymnos Photos: Gallery Posts: 3,006	Originally posted by Kunzite "adds insult to injury". I suspect using a Pentax is an insult to the "reviewer". I generally find the statement a bit off. Design is a subjective process. Dslr isn’t gone yet, some people have difficulties understanding that.

08-13-2021, 10:27 AM	#13
Kunzite Pentaxian Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Romania Posts: 15,132	Originally posted by Michail_P I generally find the statement a bit off. Design is a subjective process. Dslr isn’t gone yet, some people have difficulties understanding that. The insult, it seems, is having a choice different than his. Such people should be condemned to live in a world without choice.

08-14-2021, 06:02 AM - 1 Like	#15
Jeff Pentaxian Join Date: Apr 2015 Location: Berkshire, England Posts: 837	Originally posted by dlhawes I found this amusing: The Best APS-C DSLR CAMERA \| 2021 \| Nikon D500 \| Canon 90D \| Pentax K3 MKIII \| Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 - YouTube He's gone off Pentax I see... let's hope forever!