Nikon D300S vs Pentax K-3

Here is a complete analysis of the Nikon D300S and Pentax K-3, both Advanced DSLR digital cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Pentax. There is a big difference between the image resolutions of the D300S (12MP) and K-3 (24MP) but they possess the exact same sensor size (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The D300S was brought out 5 years earlier than the K-3 and that is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras come with the identical body type (Mid-size SLR).

Before getting through a in-depth comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the D300S matches up vs the K-3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon D300S and Pentax K-3. The entire galleries are available at Nikon D300S Gallery and Pentax K-3 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera often, you have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Nikon D300S enjoys exterior dimensions of 147mm x 114mm x 74mm (5.8" x 4.5" x 2.9") with a weight of 938 grams (2.07 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-3 has dimensions of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") having a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Check the Nikon D300S and Pentax K-3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have attached at the time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the D300S vs the K-3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the D300S and K-3 is 55 and 59 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to picture the gap between sensor sizing simply by going over technical specs. The graphic below might offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the D300S and K-3.

As you have seen, each of the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but different megapixels. You should expect to see the Pentax K-3 to offer extra detail having its extra 12MP. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The older D300S is going to be behind in sensor tech.