Upgrade Guide

Pentax K-3 II→Pentax K-1

Is it worth upgrading? Spec analysis, key improvements, and our verdict.

You own

Pentax

K-3 II

£185 used

2015

→

Upgrade to

Pentax

K-1

£475 used (+£290)

2016

✅

Worthwhile

Clear improvements over the K-3 II. Whether it justifies the cost depends on which upgrades matter most to your shooting.

What's new in the K-1

Suitability by genre

Base scores — computed from verified specs for an enthusiast shooting photo and video. The Upgrade Checker adjusts them for your skill level.

Full spec comparison

Spec	K-3 II	K-1
Price	£185 used	£475 used
Released	2015	2016	↑
Sensor	24.35MP APS-C CMOS	36.4MP full-frame CMOS
Resolution	24MP	36MP	↑
Video	Full HD 1080/60i, 30p	Full HD 1080/60i, 30p
Autofocus	SAFOX 11 phase-detect AF, 27 points (25 cross-type)	SAFOX 12 phase-detect AF, 33 points (25 cross-type)
Stabilisation	Sensor-shift Shake Reduction, 4.5 stops	5-axis sensor-shift Shake Reduction II, 5 stops
Burst Rate	8.3fps	4.4fps	↓
Battery Life	~720 shots (CIPA)	~760 shots (CIPA)	↑
Weight	785g (with battery)	1010g (with battery)	↓
Weather Sealed	Yes	Yes
Viewfinder	Pentaprism, ~100%, 0.95x	Pentaprism, ~100%, 0.70x
Screen	3.2" fixed LCD, 1.04M dots	3.2" Flexible-tilt LCD, 1.04M dots
Mount	Pentax KAF2 (K-mount)	Pentax KAF2 (K-mount)
Memory Cards	Dual SD slots	Dual SD slots

Compare side-by-side

See K-3 II and K-1 next to each other with our interactive comparison tool.

Get a personalised upgrade score

Tell us what you shoot and we'll score the K-1 against your specific genres — not just specs.

Other upgrades from the K-3 II

Related buying guides

Camera family history