For the first time, Pentax-affine SLR photographers also get the possibility to record real videos in 4K with the recently introduced K-3 Mark III DSLR (to our knowledge, 4K was previously only available for time-lapse, i.e. quasi photo sequences). However, only a UHD resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels) at 30 or 24 frames per second is available. Since the video function still does not play an important role for Pentax, dedicated features like higher color sampling or video RAW are not available.
At least image stabilization is provided by a movable sensor (IBIS), which is called SR II mechanism (like shake reduction) at Pentax and works on five axes. Older and manual lenses with K bayonet are also supported, as long as the focal length is entered separately.
The K-3 Mark III has many new components compared to the previous model, including a new APS-C size BSI image sensor without a low-pass filter. It resolves at about 26.7 MP effective - how this resolution is scaled to 4K when filming, via lineskipping or binning, or whether a crop takes effect, is unfortunately not known.
The PRIME V image processor including accelerator unit is also new, as is the optical viewfinder, which consists of a high-refractive-index glass pentaprism and offers approximately 1.05x magnification, as well as the shutter unit. Furthermore, there is the new Safox 13 AF system, the number of focus points has been increased from 27 to 101, 25 of which are cross-type sensors. It is unclear how autofocus is in video mode.
The 3.2-inch LCD monitor is fixed and offers touchscreen control. There are two SD slots, Wi-Fi and a microphone input and headphone output on the camera.
The Pentax K-3 Mark III DSLR costs €1,999.99 and should be available by the end of April.
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