While we no longer rent this product, we do carry the Pentax KP. Additionally, you may find alternatives in the Recommended section on the left-hand side of this page.
24MP APS-C CMOS sensor and PRIME III processor
Updated high-resolution image-stabilization system
Improved autofocus and metering systems
AstroTracer sensor-shifting feature
The Pentax K-3 II is the flagship high-resolution APS-C camera and update to the Pentax K-3 designed for semi-pro and professional photographers. Key features include:
What’s New. The K-3 II is more of a generational upgrade that adds features to its predecessor’s basic hardware. Notable additions are an updated in-camera shake reduction system that enables a high resolution mode, built-in GPS, improved autofocus performance, and a unique AstroTracer function.
24MP APS-C CMOS Sensor. This high-res sensor provides extremely high image quality at a wide range of sensitivities. Like the original K-3, this update features the user-selectable anti-aliasing filter for increased image sharpness and detail when needed. The PRIME III Processor gives users an ISO sensitivity range of 80-51,200 and continuous shooting at up to 8.3 fps.
Improved Autofocus and Metering Systems. The K-3 II features the same SAFOX 11 Autofocus Module as the original K-3. It employs 27 focus points (25 of which are cross-type) for improved accuracy in low light down to -3 EV. Its updated autofocus algorithm promises more accurate continuous-focusing performance. The 86k-pixel RGB exposure metering sensor is also carried over, providing increased exposure accuracy and white balance.
In-Camera Shake Reduction. One of the primary improvements for the K-3 II, it now compensates for up to 4.5 stops of camera shake.
Pixel Shift Resolution. Using the above-mentioned in-camera stabilization unit, this mode composites four separate exposures into a single frame while moving the sensor in one-pixel increments. This translates to higher resolution images, more accurate color reproduction, and reduced high-sensitivity noise.
Built-in GPS. While many other DSLRs have built-in GPS systems, the K-3 II has a trick up its sleeve: its “AstroTracer” function uses the GPS and stabilizer to shift the image sensor. This compensates for the Earth’s rotation, helping to eliminate star trails when shooting astrophotography.
Full HD Video. The K-3 II is largely the same as the K-3. It shoots 1920 × 1080 video at 60i, 30p, and 24p, and has a dedicated movie button for start/stop recording. There are external mic and headphone inputs for improved audio recording, and the H.264 video format enables easier workflow in popular video-editing software.
High-Quality Build. The durable magnesium-alloy body with stainless-steel chassis gives the camera a solid feel, while the 92 independent seals make the body fully weather- and cold-proof. The K-3 II has dual SDHC/XC memory card slots for greater flexibility, with support for the Pentax 16GB FluCard Pro SDHC Memory Card for Pentax (separate rental item). The large optical viewfinder offers 0.95x magnification and 100% frame coverage when shooting, while the 3.2-inch 1,037k-dot rear LCD is great for live view and image review.