What’s Changed? The Leica Q3 may look and feel similar to the Q2, but many improvements have worked their way into this stylish, compact camera. In a chassis almost identical in size and weight to its predecessor, the Q3 flaunts an updated 60MP full-frame CMOS sensor, the Maestro IV processor, hybrid autofocus that enables intelligent subject recognition, and boasts 8K recording! In fact, so many features have been upgraded that it would be better to ask what hasn’t changed.

What Hasn’t Changed? Glad you asked. The design of the Leica Q3 is similar to the Q2, but the biggest similarity between the two is the fixed lens. The specially-designed Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH lens is a wide-angle lens designed to work in a variety of environmental and lightning conditions, refined to capture sharp images with minimal distortion in a compact profile that still offers tactical focus and aperture adjustments, a switch to enable focusing on subjects as close as 6.7 inches away, and optical image stabilization. For a more portrait-friendly version of this camera with a 43mm lens, check out the Q3 43.

Superb Performance. With the same high-resolution 60MP sensor as the premium Leica M11., the Leica Q3 offers Triple Resolution Technology. This unique pixel binning process lets photographers select 60MP, 36MP, or 18MP output, with each resolution using the full sensor area and providing vibrant 14-bit color. With such a high resolution, you can simulate different focal lengths, from the native 28mm all the way to 90mm, while retaining image quality.

Advanced Imaging Capabilities. DCI 8K recording is supported at up to 30p, as well as 4K60p, and ProRes 422 HQ at 1080p60. The Maestro IV processor helps the Q3 achieve an impressive 50-100,000 ISO and 14 stops of dynamic range, as well as continuous shooting up to 15 fps. Contrast-detection, phase-detection, and depth-from-defocus autofocus combine to create a powerful hybrid autofocusing system that captures moving subjects with ease. The intelligent subject recognition system is able to track eyes, faces, bodies, and animals.

Hybrid Autofocus. Contrast-detection, phase-detection, and depth from defocus autofocus combine to create a powerful hybrid autofocusing system that works faster and better when capturing moving subjects or working with mixed lightning. The intelligent subject recognition system tracks eyes, faces, bodies, and animals with ease.

Big Upgrade for Video The Leica Q3 now supports DCI 8K recording up to 30p, as well as 4K60p, and ProRes 422 HQ at 1080p60. Micro-HDMI and USB-C ports allow you to connect external recorders, gimbals, a power bank, and more for complex setups. Leica also updated monitoring for the Q3, which boasts a high-resolution EVF featuring a 120 fps refresh rate and a 3" touchscreen with a tilting design. The magnesium alloy body is IP52 rated against dust and moisture for harsher environments.

Powerful. The BP-SCL6 battery provides 350 shots per charge, but the Q3 will still work with its predecessor, the BP-SCL4.. The USB-C 3.1 port can not only transfer and tether but also charge both the camera and battery. The Q3 also supports wireless charging when paired with the optional HG-DC1 handgrip.