Leica Q3 – 8K Full-Frame Camera with Fixed 28mm f/1.7 Lens Introduced

Camera News

by Francesco AndreolaMay 26^th, 2023

Leica has just unveiled the third iteration of their Q fixed focal length camera series, the Leica Q3. Compared to its predecessors, it features a new 60MP BSI imaging sensor, 8K video recording capabilities, improved AF as well as a redesigned EVF and LCD display. It retails for $5,995.

The Leica Q camera system first debuted on the market in 2015 and last received an update in 2019 with the launch of the Leica Q2. This fixed-lens full-frame camera series has now reached its third generation and, while the Leica Q3 still comes with a 28mm f/1.7 lens, several improvements are hidden on the inside. So let’s take a closer look!

Leica Q3 – new 60MP BSI sensor for 8K capture

The Leica Q3 is a hybrid full-frame camera that comes with a fixed Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH lens right out of the box. At the core of this camera system is a 60.3MP backside-illuminated CMOS sensor that is inherited from the M11 and paired with the new Maestro IV image processor with L² Technology. This combination allows you to capture 60, 36, or 18MP stills in either DNG or JPEG format while exploiting the full sensor area.

When it comes to video recording formats, the Leica Q3 offers quite an extensive list to choose from. Some highlights include internal 8K 4:2:0 10-bit H.265 recording up to 30fps, 10-bit 4:2:2 video recording up to 4K60p, and FullHD at 120fps as well as ProRes 422 HQ capture (Full HD only). You can find the full list of supported recording formats here.

The Leica Q3 also sports an improved hybrid autofocus system that combines contrast AF and Depth From Defocus (DPD) technology with phase detection AF and intelligent subject recognition. According to Leica, this should provide accurate and fast-tracking of faces, eyes, people, and animals.

Body design and connectivity

All these features are packed into a sleek, retro-inspired, compact camera body that is IP52 certified. This means that the camera is fairly well protected against dust and water sprays.

The whole system measures 130×80,3×92,6 mm in size and weighs approximately 743g, including the new BC-SCL6 lithium-ion 2200mAh battery. This can also be charged wirelessly using the optional Leica Charging Pad and HG-DC1 Wireless Charging Handgrip.

While files are stored on a single SD card (UHS-II is recommended), the camera is also equipped with a Micro HDMI port for external monitoring and video recording. A USB Type-C 3.1 Gen 2 connection acts as a charging port and can also be used to transfer files from the camera to an iPhone/iPad via a dedicated cable (included).

Furthermore, the camera integrates Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, so you can also send photos and videos wirelessly to your smart device using the Leica FOTOS app. Finally, on the back of the camera, we find a redesigned 5.76MP OLED viewfinder and a tiltable 3” 1.84m-Dot touchscreen display.

Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH lens

Just like with the previous Q series models, the accompanying lens of the Leica Q3 is a Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH. Its optical design consists of 11 elements organized in 9 groups and includes 3 aspherical surfaces. The lens features an optical image stabilization system and can focus as close as 17cm/6.7” in Macro Mode.

Additionally, you can partially overcome some limitations of having a fixed lens imaging system by relying on the digital zoom function. This allows you to exploit the 60.3MP high-resolution sensor to turn the 28mm into a 35, 50, 75, and now 90mm lens.

Price and availability

The new Leica Q3 fixed focal length full-frame camera is now available to pre-order from authorized dealers. Its official retail price is set at $5,995.

Finally, the company also introduced a new set of accessories for the Q3, including leather protectors, lens caps, retro-look lens hoods, thumb rests, soft-release buttons, and a flash shoe cover.

For more information, please visit Leica’s website here.

Have you ever shot with a Leica Q series camera? What do you think of this 3rd-generation model? Would you consider using a fixed-lens camera system for your work? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!