How to check the shutter count on the Pentax K-3
The shutter count is the number of photos a camera has taken. It's the first thing to check before you buy a used Pentax K-3, and worth adding to your listing when you sell one.
How to check the shutter count on the Pentax K-3
- Take one photo with the camera (ideally in PEF format) and copy the original file to your computer or phone.
- Open the Reti shutter counter and add the file.
- You'll see the shutter count, the shutter wear rating and whether the camera has the latest firmware.
Pentax K-3 shutter life
The typical shutter life of this model is about 200,000 shots (estimate for this class of camera).
What shutter count is high on the Pentax K-3
| Shutter count | Rating |
|---|---|
| up to 50,000 shots | Low |
| 50,000 to 120,000 shots | Medium |
| over 120,000 shots | High |
This is a rough guide: a shutter can fail earlier or last much longer than its typical life.
What else to check on a used Pentax K-3
- Sensor: one photo of the sky and one with the body cap on show dust and dead pixels.
- Autofocus: a few photos of the AF test chart show whether the lens focuses in front of or behind the target.
- Viewfinder, mirror and focusing screen: scratches, marks and dust you see in the viewfinder but not in photos.
- Lens mount and contacts: play with a lens attached, dirty or bent contacts.
- Card slot, doors, rubber grips and hot shoe: looseness, cracks and signs of a drop.
- Battery: does it last for a few dozen shots.
For the full checklist to take to the seller, see How to check a used camera before you buy.