Pentax K-3 DSLR Camera Body, Black {24MP}

Pentax K-3: the weather-sealed APS-C workhorse built for serious shooters.

The K-3 pairs a 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor with the PRIME III processor to deliver 8.3 fps continuous shooting, making it one of the faster-firing DSLRs in its class. The 27-point AF system covers the frame well, with nearly all points operating as cross-type sensors and three center points capable of locking focus at f/2.8. Add ISO headroom up to 51200 and a 1/8000 sec maximum shutter speed, and you have a body that handles both low-light work and fast action without compromise.

The magnesium alloy body over a steel chassis carries 92 environmental seals, rated for operation down to 14°F. That spec matters when you're shooting in rain, dust, or cold conditions where other bodies get sidelined. Sensor-shift image stabilization works with every KAF2 mount lens, so older glass stays useful. The 100% pentaprism viewfinder at 0.95x magnification gives you a genuinely large, bright view of the scene, a rarity at this price tier.

Dual SD card slots with UHS-I support handle both overflow and backup workflows. USB 3.0 speeds up file transfer when you're moving RAW files off large-capacity cards. Timelapse recording runs to 9999 frames in-camera, and optional GPS via the O-GPS1 accessory adds geotag data for field work. The K-3 is a time-tested platform with the build quality and feature depth that rewards photographers who actually use their gear hard.

Who It's For

Landscape photographers benefit from the weather sealing, 100% viewfinder coverage, and timelapse capability up to 9999 frames, the body goes where conditions are difficult. Wildlife and sports shooters get 8.3 fps continuous drive with a 27-point AF system that can roam the full sensor in continuous-servo mode. Pentax lens collectors find the KAF2 mount unlocks decades of glass, with in-body stabilization covering every optically unstabilized lens in the system. Documentary and travel photographers working in mixed conditions get a sealed magnesium body with dual card slots for redundancy, all in a 800g package that isn't oversized for long days on foot.

Key Features

• 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor with PRIME III processor
• 27-point autofocus with cross-type coverage and f/2.8 center points
• 8.3 fps continuous shooting, 60 JPEG or 23 RAW buffer
• ISO 100–51,200 with 1/8000 sec maximum shutter speed
• Sensor-shift stabilization works with all KAF2 mount lenses
• 100% pentaprism viewfinder at 0.95× magnification, bright optical view
• Dual SD/UHS-I card slots with USB 3.0 connectivity
• Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, 92 environmental seals, freezeproof to 14°F

FAQ

What autofocus setup does the K-3 have?

27-point system with cross-type sensitivity on 25 of the points, plus three center points rated for f/2.8 apertures. It locks fast enough for action work but won't match the point density or sophistication of more recent flagships.

How does the weather sealing compare to other APS-C bodies?

The K-3 carries 92 environmental seals across a magnesium alloy body over steel chassis, rated freezeproof to 14°F. That's legitimate protection for rain and dust work, though it's baseline for a body at this price tier.

Can I use older Pentax lenses on the K-3?

Yes, the KAF2 mount accepts all KAF2 and KAF lenses. Sensor-shift stabilization works with any of them, so your older glass stays useful without needing newer AF motors.

What's the burst rate and buffer depth?

8.3 fps continuous at full 24MP resolution. You get roughly 60 JPEGs or 23 RAW frames before the buffer fills, after which write speed to your SD card determines how long you wait.

Does the K-3 shoot video?

1080p only (1920x1080 at 60i, 50i, 30p, 25p, 24p, plus 720p options). It's functional for B-roll or documentation but doesn't compete with purpose-built video tools. H.264 compression helps manage file sizes.

What stabilization system does it use?

Sensor-shift in-body stabilization that works with every lens you mount. It's effective for handheld work but won't save you from subject motion like faster shutter speeds will.

How long does a battery last?

560 shots per charge under CIPA test conditions. In practice, expect 400-500 frames depending on how much live view, flash, or cold weather you're working in.