Pentax K-3 vs Pentax MX-1

Here, we will be evaluating the Pentax K-3 and Pentax MX-1, one being a Advanced DSLR and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are built by Pentax. There exists a crucial gap between the sensor resolutions of the K-3 (24MP) and MX-1 (12MP) and the K-3 (APS-C) and MX-1 (1/1.7") have totally different sensor sizes.

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The K-3 was introduced 10 months later than the MX-1 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Pentax K-3 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Pentax MX-1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight to a in depth comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the K-3 grades against the MX-1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax K-3 and Pentax MX-1. The whole galleries are available at Pentax K-3 Gallery and Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

In case you're going to lug around your camera regularly, you will need to factor its weight and proportions. The Pentax K-3 provides exterior dimensions of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") having a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs) whilst the Pentax MX-1 has measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") along with a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

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

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are using at that moment. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the K-3 and the MX-1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the K-3 and MX-1 is 59 and 84 respectively.

Sometimes, it's hard to see the contrast between sensor measurements purely by going over specs. The visual underneath will offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the K-3 and MX-1.

All in all, the two cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The K-3 having a bigger sensor will make getting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Pentax K-3 will offer extra detail using its extra 12MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures way more aggressively. The more modern K-3 will have an edge in sensor innovation.