It looks like the PENTAX K-3 III DSLR might not be around much longer. Ricoh Imaging has discontinued the camera in Japan, though it will still be available in the United States for now.
PENTAX K-3 Mark III
The PENTAX K-3 Mark III launched back in April 2021. At a time when most manufacturers were moving to mirrorless cameras, Ricoh chose to make the K-3 III a DSLR. The camera had a 25.73-megapixel BSI sensor and five-axis in-body image stabilization. It could also record 4K video up to 30 frames per second (fps) and 1080p HD up to 60fps. However, the K-3 III lacked log profiles for higher dynamic range video and there was no option to use waveforms for accurate exposure. Overall, the camera was more of a photography camera than a video camera.
Discontinued in Japan
Last week, the Japanese website Asobinet posted that many camera stores were showing the PENTAX K-3 III as a discontinued model. Asobinet also reported that some retailers had sold out of their remaining stock of the camera.
In addition, the Ricoh Imaging website in Japan moved the K-3 III to its discontinued digital SLR cameras page. This means that there are now only three PENTAX DSLR camera models still shown as active in Japan. These are the PENTAX K-1 II, the PENTAX KF and the PENTAX K-3 III Monochrome which can only shoot in black and white.
What next?
The PetaPixel website contacted Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation to ask what the future holds for the PENTAX K-3 III in the United States. In response, the company said, “We cannot provide comment on the business in Japan, but we can confirm that the PENTAX K-3 III is still available in the U.S. and is part of our plans for 2025.” In addition, traders such as B&H are listing the camera as in stock, though it is discounted by $100.
What we think
The discontinuation of the PENTAX K-3 III in Japan is another nail in the coffin of DSLRs as we move towards a mirrorless future. While some will miss DSLRs for nostalgic reasons it’s hard to argue with the advantages that mirrorless cameras offer. These include smaller sizes, faster continuous shooting speeds, and advanced autofocus systems. Plus, you get to see exactly what your image will look like through the electronic viewfinder before taking the shot. Although Ricoh in the United States says the K-3 III is part of its plans for 2025, you must wonder how long that will remain the case.