Leica Q3 Camera Announced With New Tiltable Touchscreen

The next-generation, compact full-frame camera with new features and a fast Summilux lens has been introduced by Leica.

Internally, the Leica Q3, which updates the Leica Q2, comes with a new BSI-CMOS sensor with Tripel-Resolution-Technology. With a resolution of either 60, 36 or 18 MP, raw images can be created using the DNG format or processed JPEG files with a perfect look, straight out of the camera. The Q3 uses the entire size of the sensor for all resolutions with a sensitivity range of ISO 50 – 100,000 and the latest generation of the Maestro Series processor with L2 Technology ensures excellent operating speeds. An extended digital zoom allows users to zoom to the focal lengths of 28,35,50,75mm and now 90mm and a new hybrid autofocus system with phase detection allows for extremely fast tracking and accurate focussing of objects.

Externally, the biggest new feature is the addition of a tiltable 3-inch high-resolution touchscreen which enables unique viewing angles to create even more opportunities for photographers to capture shots they otherwise wouldn’t have access to. Even with the new display, the Leica Q3 retains the IP52 certification, protecting itself against dust and spray water for use in challenging environments. With the ability to record in 8K, and new USB-C and HDMI ports making connection to gimbals, power banks and display recorders, the Leica Q3 now meets all of the needs of content creators.

The Leica Q3 will be available globally at all Leica stores, online and with authorised dealers, for an RRP of £5,300.00 from 25 May 2023.

From Leica:

Leica Camera introduces the 3rd generation of the successful Leica Q family, the Leica Q3. High-quality craftsmanship, a timeless and sleek design, and simple operation make this family of fixed-focal-length full-frame cameras stand out. They have been highly regarded worldwide since 2015 by both photographers and creatives, as well as those in front of the camera. The new Leica Q3 camera delivers perfect photo and video results; equipped with one of the fastest lenses on the market with integrated macro mode and a whole package of new features, it represents the next evolutionary step in this unique camera segment.

At the heart of the Leica Q3 is the new BSI-CMOS sensor with Triple-Resolution-Technology. With a resolution of either 60, 36, or 18 MP, raw images can be created using the DNG format or processed JPEG files with a perfect look, straight out of the camera. When shooting with 60 MP even the finest details and structures are captured. Shooting with 36 or 18 MP allows faster camera operation, longer image sequences, and smaller file sizes. The Leica Q3 uses the entire size of the sensor for all resolutions with a sensitivity range of ISO 50 to 100,000 and the latest generation of the Maestro Series processor with L2 Technology ensures excellent operating speeds.

The construction of the fast Leica Summilux 28 mm f/1.7 ASPH. is an optical masterpiece. With its integrated macro mode, it allows close-up shots from a minimum focusing distance of 17 cm. In combination with its high resolution, this 3rd generation Q family member also offers an extended digital zoom. This allows the user to zoom to the focal lengths of 28, 35, 50, 75 mm, and now also 90 mm. Two new and practical assistants, Leica Perspective Control (LPC) and Leica Dynamic Range (LDR), also ensure perfect JPEG images without any post-processing.

A significant development has also been made to the autofocus system of the Q3. A new hybrid autofocus system with phase detection ensures extremely fast tracking and accurate focusing of objects. In addition to the high-precision contrast autofocus, the DFD system and phase detection autofocus, combined with intelligent subject recognition, supports the capturing of sharp and brilliant images, all displayed crisply and clearly on the new 5.76 MP OLED viewfinder.

The new tiltable 3-inch high-resolution touchscreen with a high-quality tilting mechanism provides unique viewing angles and creates even more creative opportunities when taking photos and videos. Additionally, even with the movable display, the Leica Q3 still provides protection against dust and spray water thanks to its IP52 certification.

The Leica Q3 continues to impress with its seamless and fast connectivity via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The camera is equipped with advanced Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology, which has increased the transfer speed to the Leica FOTOS app by up to 10 times compared to the previous model, taking mobile creative workflow to the next level. With a stable connection and high data transfer rates to the Leica FOTOS app, videos can now be loaded from the camera to a smartphone, or special ‘Leica Looks’ can be imported onto the camera for beautiful JPEG images. Various connection modes from ‘Eco’ to ‘Performance’  improve the mobile workflow and energy management of the Leica Q3. The Apple certification “Made for iPhone and iPad” accessory and the included Leica FOTOS cable, make the Leica Q3 the ideal tool to express the creative vision of users working with it daily.

With the ability to record video at 8k resolution and highly efficient codecs such as H.265 and Apple’s ProRes, the powerful Leica Q3 now meets the needs of all content creators. The connection of external devices such as gimbals, power banks and display recorders is secured directly via USB-C and HDMI. Tethered shooting with Capture One or the Adobe Lightroom plug-in is also supported via the USB-C cable connection and further enriches the fields of application for this compact digital camera.

Entirely wireless charging is also now possible with the new Leica Charging Pad and separate camera handgrip. This stylish charging pad conveniently recharges the new powerful battery BC-SCL6 of the Q3 and many other Qi-compatible devices.

When it comes to image composition, the Leica Q3 offers maximum freedom, but also for an individual style of the camera body, the new accessories offer versatility for a customised look. Leather protectors, lens caps, retro-look lens hoods, thumb rests, soft-release buttons and flash shoe covers are also available in three different colour variations.