Pentax Launches First Monochrome DSLR

2023.04.12

Ricoh Imaging just announced the first exclusively monochrome DSLR. This new digital camera is a variant of the superb Pentax K-3 III reviewed here with a monochrome sensor and revised firmware optimized for black-and-white photography. This makes it unique and it joins a handful of monochromatic digital cameras such as the Leica Q2 Monochrom fixed-lens Full-Frame range-finder.

The Pentax K-3 III Monochrome is a 26 megapixels DSLR with a unique monochromatic BSI-CMOS sensor. It is most likely the same physical chip as the standard K-3 III without a Bayer Color Filter Array in front. This camera also omits an Anti-Alias filter to maximize captured detail. The new Monochrome version keeps the state-of-the-art 5-axis image-stabilization system, robust weatherproof and freezeproof body, including its control layout.

Ricoh adjusted the look of the Pentax K-3 III Monochrome to show some of its unique character. White labels are replaced with grey ones and the SR logo is now silver instead of gold. The top status LCD lights up white instead of green. The rear display remains in color to show overlays that contrast against black-and-white images. Many image parameters have been replaced with similar monochrome ones. One can see the video mode switch at the top of the camera which signifies that this camera also record black-and-white video.

Monochrome photography is a particularly niche market. Interested buyers are likely to be looking for a certain vintage look yet the intersection of black-and-white imagery with modern DSLR is bound to be minuscule. Most, if not all digital cameras, can be set to record images in black-and-white and certainly any imaging software can convert a color image into a black-and-white one. The existence of a camera that can only capture monochrome images is puzzling and will be limited to people with significant means since most will also want a color camera.

There are advantages though to a purely monochrome digital camera. Specifically, the typical bayer filter used by the K-3 III and virtually every other digital camera ever made, blocks 2/3 of light from reaching every pixel in order to filter out its complementary colors. A monochrome camera does not use a bayer sensor and therefore receives 3X more light, resulting in lower noise and wider dynamic-range. How noticeable this will be in images remains to be seen.

Ricoh Imaging expects to start shipping the new Pentax K-3 III Monochrome this month for $2200 USD. Buying options will be available shortly.

• Digital Camera