Pentax K-3 vs Pentax K-5 II

Let's take a closer look at the Pentax K-3 versus Pentax K-5 II, both Advanced DSLR cameras and both of them are built by Pentax. There is a large difference among the sensor resolutions of the K-3 (24MP) and K-5 II (16MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor sizing (APS-C).

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The K-3 was introduced 11 months after the K-5 II and they are of a similar age. The two cameras have the same body design (Mid-size SLR).

Before going straight to a detailed comparison, here is a simple summary of how the K-3 matches up vs the K-5 II when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax K-3 & Pentax K-5 II. The whole galleries are available at Pentax K-3 Gallery & Pentax K-5 II Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry around your camera regularly, you will need to consider its weight and size. The Pentax K-3 features outer measurements of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") with a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs) and the Pentax K-5 II has specifications of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") having a weight of 760 grams (1.68 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax K-3 versus Pentax K-5 II in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have at that moment. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the K-3 and the K-5 II.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the K-3 and K-5 II is 59 and 60 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizes only by seeing specs. The image below will provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the K-3 and K-5 II.

All in all, each of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You can expect the Pentax K-3 to provide more detail using its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The more modern K-3 provides an edge in sensor technology.