Pentax K-3 II vs Sony A9

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Pentax K-3 II versus Sony A9, one being a Advanced DSLR and the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by competitors Pentax and Sony. The sensor resolution of the K-3 II (24MP) and the A9 (24MP) is pretty well matched but the K-3 II (APS-C) and A9 (Full frame) feature totally different sensor dimensions.

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The K-3 II was launched 24 months prior to the A9 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. The two cameras offer different body type with the Pentax K-3 II being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Sony A9 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving in to a in depth comparison, below is a concise summation of how the K-3 II scores against the A9 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax K-3 II and Sony Alpha A9. The complete galleries are viewable at Pentax K-3 II Gallery and Sony A9 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera, you need to factor its weight and proportions. The Pentax K-3 II provides exterior measurements of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs) whilst the Sony A9 has measurements of 127mm x 96mm x 63mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.5") accompanied by a weight of 673 grams (1.48 lbs).

See the Pentax K-3 II versus Sony A9 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the K-3 II against the A9.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the K-3 II and A9 is 59 and 65 respectively.

Sometimes, it's hard to see the difference between sensor sizing merely by checking specs. The visual below will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the K-3 II and A9.

All in all, each of the cameras offer the same exact megapixels albeit not the same sensor sizing. The K-3 II has the tinier sensor which will make achieving shallower DOF more difficult. The older K-3 II is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.