Pentax K-3 vs Sony A900

On this page, we are contrasting the Pentax K-3 versus Sony A900, both Advanced DSLR cameras by manufacturers Pentax and Sony. The sensor resolution of the K-3 (24MP) and the A900 (25MP) is very comparable but the K-3 (APS-C) and A900 (Full frame) boast totally different sensor sizing.

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The K-3 was released 5 years after the A900 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras have the same body design (Mid-size SLR).

Before getting into a complete comparison, here is a concise summary of how the K-3 matches up versus the A900 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax K-3 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A900. The complete galleries are viewable at Pentax K-3 Gallery and Sony A900 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry around your camera regularly, you will have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Pentax K-3 has got exterior measurements of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") and a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs) while the Sony A900 has proportions of 156mm x 117mm x 82mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 3.2") and a weight of 895 grams (1.97 lbs).

Check out the Pentax K-3 versus Sony A900 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using at that time. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the K-3 versus the A900.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the K-3 and A900 is 59 and 54 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to visualise the difference in sensor sizes just by going through a spec sheet. The image below will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the K-3 and A900.

Clearly, the two cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The K-3 featuring a smaller sensor will make getting shallower depth of field more difficult and the Sony A900 will produce greater detail as a result of its extra 1MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more recent K-3 will have a benefit in sensor innovation.