Pentax K-1 vs Pentax K-3

The following is a in depth analysis of the Pentax K-1 versus Pentax K-3, both Advanced DSLR digital cameras and both are manufactured by Pentax. There exists a sizeable gap between the image resolutions of the K-1 (36MP) and K-3 (24MP) and the K-1 (Full frame) and K-3 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The K-1 was announced 23 months after the K-3 making them a generation away from one another. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Mid-size SLR).

Before we go right into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the K-1 matches up versus the K-3 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax K-1 and Pentax K-3. The whole galleries are viewable at Pentax K-1 Gallery and Pentax K-3 Gallery.

If you are aiming to travel with your camera often, you'll need to consider its weight and measurements. The Pentax K-1 comes with external dimensions of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") having a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-3 has proportions of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") with a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Check the Pentax K-1 versus Pentax K-3 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the K-1 vs the K-3.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the K-1 and K-3 is 55 and 59 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions only by going over a spec sheet. The image below may offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the K-1 and K-3.

Clearly, both cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The K-1 having a larger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Pentax K-1 will offer you extra detail with its extra 12 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos way more aggressively. The fresher K-1 will have an edge with regard to sensor tech.