In the K-3, Pentax obviated the need for providing two separate models by including a selectable AA filter "simulator".

In-body stabilization also gives the Pentax K-3 an advantage, but its 800-gram weight is slightly more than average for a mid-size DSLR.

[3] When the K-3 was originally announced, Ricoh made available a Premium Silver Edition that included the camera body and battery grip with a silver paint finish as well as an exclusive red leather neck strap.

According to Ricoh, this would match the silver versions of Pentax HD DA Limited lenses.

[4] In July 2014, Ricoh announced the Prestige Edition, which included a K-3 and battery grip in a "gunmetal gray" finish as well as two batteries and black artificial leather neck strap,[5] embossed with the lettering "2014 TIPA BEST DIGITAL SLR EXPERT" and the Pentax K-3 logo.