The Q3 from Leica has finally made its grand entrance as king of compacts This camera packs a 61MP Fullframe B CMOS sensor from Sony, along with Leica’s stunning 28mm f/1.7 Summux lens. Oh, and it can also 8K videos 30fps!
Leica Q3 comes loaded with top-notch features that it a fantastic choice for anyone into photography or videography. Here’s a quick look at 20 important features:
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Top 20 Major Features of the NEW LEICA Q3
- A powerful 60MP full-frame CMOS sensor for amazing image quality & detail.
- The Summilux 28mm f/1.7 fixed lens which gives sharp, clear images, plus nice blurred backgrounds.
- Integrated image stabilization to keep your shots steady in both photos & videos.
- Macro mode for super close-up shots without needing another lens.
- The fast Maestro IV processor allows quick performance for both stills & moving pictures.
- It records in 8K at 30fps, plus 4K at 60fps & FHD at 120fps to capture high-quality videos.
- Phase-detection autofocus that focuses fast & reliably, even in tough situations.
- Intelligent AF with subject recognition—yes, it’s Leica’s first use of AI to help autofocus work better!
- A high-resolution electronic viewfinder provides a clear view for framing shots perfectly.
- The tilting rear LCD screen is flexible for capturing angles from different perspectives.
- You can use the Leica FOTOS app for easy wireless file transfers & updates.
- It has USB-C and HDMI ports for connecting external devices.
- Long battery life lets you enjoy all its features without worrying too much about running out of power.
- It’s got a compact magnesium body—durable yet lightweight with a premium feel.
- Wireless charging support (with an optional grip) makes shooting easier on the go!
- The in-camera perspective correction helps straighten lines in your architectural photos.
- Weather sealing means it can handle some dust & splashes without trouble.
- Customizable control buttons let you set the camera up just how you like it.
- Silent shutter mode is great for when you want to take photos discreetly.
- DNG and JPG formats give you flexibility based on your editing needs.
But like anything else, it has a few downsides of Leica Q3:
- The fixed 28mm lens might be limiting for folks who want to switch up lenses based on their needs.
- At 743g, it’s heavier than many other compact cameras out there.
- Its high price might not fit everyone’s budget.
- With no interchangeable lenses, some users may find their creativity held back.
- Some might feel the menu system is too basic if they’re into deep customizations.
Leica Q3 vs Leica Q2 – A Bigh Jump Over Technology
Comparison between the Leica Q3 Compact camera and Q2
| Feature | Leica Q3 | Leica Q2 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 60MP Full-frame CMOS sensor | 47.3MP Full-frame CMOS sensor |
| Processor | Leica Maestro IV | Leica Maestro II |
| Lens | 28mm f/1.7 Summilux | 28mm f/1.7 Summilux |
| Autofocus | Phase-detection + contrast-detection | Contrast-detection only |
| Video Recording | 8K at 30fps, 4K at 60fps, FHD at 120fps | 4K at 30fps, FHD at 120fps |
| ISO Range | 50-100,000 | 50-50,000 |
| Image Stabilization | Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) | Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) |
| Display | 3-inch tilting touchscreen LCD | 3-inch fixed touchscreen LCD |
| Viewfinder | 5.76M-dot OLED EVF | 3.68M-dot OLED EVF |
| Wireless Charging | Supported (with optional grip) | Not available |
| Connectivity | USB-C, HDMI, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | USB 3.1, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Weather Sealing | Yes, dust and splash resistant | Yes, dust and splash resistant |
| Battery Life | Up to 350 shots (CIPA) | Up to 370 shots (CIPA) |
| Weight | 743g | 734g |
| Price (Approx) |
Leica Q3 Official Press Release
NEW: Leica Q3 43
The Unique, Compact Full-Frame Camera Now with a
New APO-Summicron 43 f/2 ASPH. Lens.
Teaneck, September 26th, 2024. In 2015, Leica Camera AG introduced a completely new camera segment with the launch of the Leica Q. Now in its third generation, the compact full-frame Leica Q3, with a fixed focal length of 28mm, inspires people all over the world. In addition to the unrivalled standards of design, workmanship, image quality and operation, the success of the Q-Family is especially attributed to its close dialogue with its users. Now, Leica fulfils a frequently expressed wish and introduces the Leica Q3 with a 43mm fixed focal length.
At the heart of the Leica Q3 43 is a unique, newly developed lens. The APO-Summicron 43 f/2 ASPH. not only joins the family of legendary Leica APO lenses, renowned among the best lenses in the world, but also distinguishes itself within Leica’s own lens portfolio. The focal length closely mirrors the natural perception of the human eye, enabling the creation of realistic, distortion-free images through the high-resolution OLED viewfinder. This makes the versatile 43mm focal length ideal for both for street photography and portraits. Like its sister model, the Leica Q3, the Leica Q3 43 also features an integrated macro mode for detailed close-ups and a leaf shutter for high-speed flash photography.
The Leica Q3 43 creates extraordinarily sharp, high-contrast images in any lighting condition thanks to its complex construction of the apochromatically corrected optical design, which includes four aspherical elements, while maintaining its compact, lightweight design. The new APO lens delivers superior performance at its maximum aperture of f/2 making it possible to separate subjects from the background with a harmonious bokeh. Combined with its outstanding ISO performance, the APO lens enables short exposure times, even in low light. Photos and videos can be taken at the 43, 60, 75, 90, 120 and 150mm focal lengths by using the frame lines displayed in the 5.76MP OLED viewfinder, or on the touch friendly tiltable monitor.
In addition to the lens, the Leica Q3 43 also differentiates itself visually from its sister model. The new grey leather stands out elegantly against the black camera body and celebrates the timeless design that Leica cameras are renowned for worldwide.
With easy-to-use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, the Leica Q3 43 provides a seamless mobile workflow. Certified as a ‘Made for iPhone® and an iPad® accessory, it ensures an exceptionally smooth connection experience. When paired with the Leica FOTOS app, data transfers quickly and reliably, and creative Leica Looks can be easily loaded onto the camera. With the Leica Q3 43, Leica also introduces a new Leica Look: Leica Chrome. Leica Chrome can be applied to JPEGs, adding an analogue charm to one’s images. The expanding range of Leica Looks allows for the creation of unique, creative and striking images directly in the camera, ready to be instantly shared with the world via the Leica FOTOS app.
Both Leica Q3 models carry the same DNA. Like the Leica Q3, the BSI CMOS full-frame sensor with Triple Resolution Technology in the Leica Q3 43 gives you a choice between a resolution of 60, 36 and 18 megapixels. The camera’s ISO range of 50 to 100,000, coupled with a highprecision, fast hybrid autofocus system makes this robust IP52-rated device the perfect tool to capture your unique perspective. In addition, the Leica Q3 43 offers the possibility to connect external RØDE microphones via USB-C. Whether you’re shooting in 8K resolution or capturing stunning photos, this German-engineered camera seamlessly integrates into your daily creative routine, allowing you to capture stylish shots with unparalleled Leica quality in any situation.
The Leica Q3 43 fits comfortably in your hand, particularly when paired with the new optional multifunction protector crafted from sleek black leather. This protector includes an integrated grip, offers direct access to the battery, and can be swiftly mounted onto tripods thanks to its Arca-Swiss compatibility. The Leica Q3’s practical, comfortable and stylish accessories are all available for the Leica Q3 43. These accessories include a unique wireless charging handgrip that works with the elegant Drop XL Wireless Charger for inductive charging, a range of protectors and carrying straps in various leather colors, and a selection of stylish thumb rests, soft release buttons, filters and colorful round retro lens hoods. Each accessory enhances the individual look and functionality of the Leica Q3 43.
The Leica Q3 43 is now available worldwide at all Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store and authorized dealers. The retail price of the Leica Q3 43 is $6,895.00, and the new multifunction protector with integrated handgrip is $250.00.
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