Ricoh has launched an updated version of its Pentax K-3 digital SLR from late 2013, improving a few elements while keeping the rest the same. Just like the original, the Pentax K-3 II has a 24-megapixel APS-C sensor, but this time Ricoh has introduced a Pixel Shift Resolution system, which uses the camera’s shake reduction mechanism to move the sensor in single-pixel increments and capturing four images, combinable into one higher resolution photograph.
Using a 27-point autofocus system with 25 cross-type focus points in the center, the camera has an 8.3 frames per second burst mode, an 86k-pixel RGB light-metering sensor, and an ISO sensitivity between 100 and 51,200. Capable of 1080p video at 60fps and packed into the same weather-resistant casing as the original, it has a more precise gyro sensor, allowing it to compensate for camera shake by up to 4.5EV steps.
Also new to this edition is a GPS reciever and electronic compass, allowing the camera to record its position and aid with photographing the night sky, thanks to its new Astrotracer mode. The 0.95x viewfinder is accompanied by a 3.2-inch 1037k-dot TFT lens, with it also including an SD card slot, USB 3.0 connectivity, HDMI output, and trays allowing the rechargeable Li-Ion battery to be temporarily replaced by a set of AA batteries.
Shipping in May, the Pentax K-3 II will be selling for around $1,100.
