With its distinctive design and premium price, the Leica Q3 is an intriguing camera. Does it deliver enough to justify its steep cost?
Coming to you from James Popsys, this engaging video offers a hands-on look at the Leica Q3. Popsys begins by discussing the lens, which he considers a masterpiece. The 28mm f/1.7 lens is known for its sharpness and quality, although there’s debate about whether it’s truly 28mm or slightly wider. However, the overall performance and build quality of the lens make it a standout feature of the Q3.
On the other hand, the camera body itself doesn’t impress Popsys as much as the lens does. He notes that while some parts of the body feel premium, such as the battery and card slot mechanisms, other aspects, like the USB-C door and the buttons, feel less refined. The addition of a tilt screen on the Q3, which isn’t flush with the camera’s back, also seems like a peculiar design choice. These details lead Popsys to question the overall user experience of the camera, especially considering its price.
One of the bigger questions Popsys raises is why this is a fixed-lens camera. Given the size of the lens, the camera is not pocketable, so why not allow for interchangeable lenses? He speculates that Leica might have avoided this to keep the Q series distinct from their M and SL systems. The fixed-lens design limits versatility, which could be a drawback for those who prefer different focal lengths. Moreover, the ergonomics of the camera are another point of concern. Popsys mentions that the small thumb indent and tight controls make handling the camera less comfortable, especially given the weight of the lens.
Despite these criticisms, the video acknowledges that the Leica Q3 has its appeal, particularly for those who appreciate the Leica aesthetic and shooting experience. However, Popsys is clear that the camera doesn’t suit his personal preferences, especially since he doesn’t favor shooting at 28mm. He also notes some quirks like the touch AF being activated by his nose and accidentally switching to video mode, which add to his mixed feelings about the camera. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Popsys.
Why doesn't Leica make a 35mm lens version of this camera??? I believe there are a lot of folks who would prefer it over the 28mm lens.
How about this. If you want a camera with a 35mm lens, then buy one. They are selling these Q3s in excess of capacity to produce them so why would they change on the basis of your whim ? Personally I am much happier at 28mm and bought a q3 on that basis
Couldn’t agree more Cliff, on Leica lens sales 35mm must be significantly more than 28mm, its wanted as is but it could be better imo (there will always be alternative views but lens sales are pretty clear), though the Q has autofocus perhaps its thought it may damage leica M camera purchase numbers as a chunk of M users refer to 1 body and 1 lens use, but the manual rangefinder or autofocus capability of a Q should be sufficient to define customers on leica choice and not harm sales (if thats a leica concern). As a potential customer Q wise Id prefer a 35mm that serves 90% of my requirements, than a 28mm that serves such a low proportion of need and not have to consider regular cropping!
Click the crop button once to choose the 35mm framelines and you have a 35mm lens on your Q3 - and a 39MP capture. Easy!
Your not wrong, but if shooting 35mm is a preference in the vast majority of times, you using say 80% of the cameras capability i think thats frustrating, its not be a output issue quality wise, but it feels good to use something to its full capability personally - a user challenge!
Why doesn’t Leica let you have the ability to back button focus. The Sony A9 is still so far ahead in focus terms and it’s almost 7 years old !
i've had this camera for a little over a year, an upgrade from a Fuji X100V. the Q3 is a phenomenal camera. its very expensive.. and not for everyone.. for the money the x100 series is amazing.. but there is something really special about the Q3 and the images that come out of it. its not perfect.. it has its quirks.. but the 28mm lens on this camera is something really special.