Nikon D300 vs Pentax K-3

Its time to take a more detailed look at the Nikon D300 and Pentax K-3, both Advanced DSLR cameras by rivals Nikon and Pentax. There is a huge difference among the image resolutions of the D300 (12MP) and K-3 (24MP) but they come with the same exact sensor sizes (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The D300 was manufactured 7 years earlier than the K-3 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Mid-size SLR).

Before getting through a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief overview of how the D300 grades against the K-3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon D300 and Pentax K-3. The entire galleries are viewable at Nikon D300 Gallery and Pentax K-3 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to lug around your camera regularly, you will have to consider its weight and size. The Nikon D300 comes with external measurements of 147mm x 114mm x 74mm (5.8" x 4.5" x 2.9") accompanied by a weight of 925 grams (2.04 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-3 has specifications of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Check the Nikon D300 and Pentax K-3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are employing at that moment. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the D300 versus the K-3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the D300 and K-3 is 55 and 59 respectively.

Usually, it is hard to picture the gap in sensor measurements only by seeing specs. The photograph here will provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the D300 and K-3.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You should expect the Pentax K-3 to show extra detail due to its extra 12 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop photographs far more aggressively. The older D300 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.