My in-depth Leica Q3 43 review, including comparisons with the X100 VI! Buy used gear from MPB at: prf.hn/l/YLqwRAP // Sell used gear to MPB at: bit.ly/3ULU9yL Order the Leica Q3 43 from B&H: bhpho.to/3TIyPve or WEX UK: tidd.ly/3ZGwg0M Buy Gordon a coffee: www.paypal.me/cameralabs Gordon's In Camera book: amzn.to/2n61PfI / Amazon uk: amzn.to/2mBqRVZ Cameralabs merchandise: redbubble.com/people/cameralabs/shop Gordon’s retro gear channel: ua-cam.com/users/dinobytes Gordon's travel tips channel: www.youtube.com/@GordonsTravelTips Equipment used for producing my videos MacBook Air 15in (M3): amzn.to/4cPat9S DJI Osmo Pocket 3: click.dji.com/AIOhqT-LWUFDq-bGk8hD4Q?pm=link Panasonic Lumix S5 II: amzn.to/3Hf5IcI Sony A6400: prf.hn/l/pRO0wp5 Sony e 24mm f1.8: amzn.to/2TqWNzk Rode NT USB mic: amzn.to/3AdHcUp Rode Wireless Go II mic: amzn.to/3xkCvGo Rode Lavalier Go mic: amzn.to/3ygzzKY Godox UL150 light: amzn.to/2VpVbXE Godox QR-P70 softbox: amzn.to/3yQfGdF 00:00 - Leica Q3 43 introduction and alternatives inc RX1R II 02:35 - Buy used gear from MPB! Sponsored segment 04:06 - Pros and cons of Sony vs Leica Q3 43 04:45 - Pros and cons of Fujifilm X100 VI vs Leica Q3 43 05:23 - Pros and cons of Ricoh GRIII x vs Leica Q3 43 06:23 - Leica Q3 43 design and build quality 07:56 - Leica Q3 43 lens hood and filter issue 09:03 - Leica Q3 43 controls, exposures 10:31 - Leica Q3 43 electronic shutter and skewing rolling shutter 12:11 - Leica Q3 43 menus 12:36 - Leica Q3 43 viewfinder 13:12 - Leica Q3 43 screen 13:33 - Leica Q3 43 ports 13:52 - Leica Q3 43 battery and memory cards 15:11 - Leica Q3 43 lens and controls 17:19 - Leica Q3 43 sensor and quality options 17:49 - Leica Q3 43 digital zoom and crops 19:50 - Leica Q3 43 noise quality vs X100 VI high ISO 21:26 - Leica Q3 43 autofocus 23:30 - Leica Q3 43 stabilization 24:20 - Leica Q3 43 landscape quality vs X100 VI 26:20 - Leica Q3 43 monochrome quality vs X100 VI 27:30 - Leica Q3 43 portrait quality vs X100 VI 28:46 - Leica Q3 43 bokeh quality vs X100 VI 31:02 - Leica Q3 43 macro quality vs X100 VI 31:32 - Leica Q3 43 movie quality 1080 vs 4k vs 8k 34:04 - Leica Q3 43 sample images and verdict Music: www.davidcuttermusic.com / @dcuttermusic As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
@@andrewkerns6777 glad you have one and enjoyed my video about it! Let us know your thoughts! PS - that's a quick delivery too, you'd be waiting much longer for an X100 VI
Great review - best for Q3 43 I have read! Loved my X100VI but found myself using it for street snapshots only, where I could be fine with Ricoh or other (small) pocket size camera. Finally sold it and got my Q3 43 last week and cannot agree more with your conclusion. Thanks!
I like watching Gordons reviews even if in not interested in the camera because they are so thorough, so you still feel up to date beeing informed about the latest cameras.
Sometimes I wonder about paying this much and how long the camera will actually last. Dropping this amount of coin for a one year warranty is the reason I don’t pull the trigger.
This is an amazing in-depth review of the Leica Q3 43. I was impressed by this camera's image quality and build quality. It is definitely a high-end camera, but it is worth the price if you are looking for the best of the best Sir
So far my daily was a Z7 with the 40mm f/2 SE from Nikon. The 343 is basically my dream camera even though I still have some gripes with the Q3 body itself. (The screen not being flush with the body, the cheap plastic cover for the ports, the pins at the bottom pushing the cardslot door too close to and around the tripod mount...) I ordered it the moment the first reviews hit and I am very impressed with the lens. It is electronically corrected for distortion again, like the 28mm. But that has much less of a negative effect on a standard focal length compared to a wide. The new Leica Chrome look has become my standard color profile btw. A bit silly that you have to load them up manually from the app but at least they stay on the camera after that.
Great review with irl footage & comparisons. Definitely appreciate the extra effort you take providing landscapes vs photo chart. Helps me far visualize the differences related to subject matter I shoot
The lens cap on the Q3 43 can be used without the lens hood attached. In the box there is an additional ring that covers the exposed threads when the hood is removed that works with the same lens cap.
@@cameralabs for sure!! I honestly didn’t understand why that ring was there when I received my 43 and then I got the idea once I tried it with the same lens cap. Thank you for the review btw! Really enjoy your content!
Great video Gordon, and interesting comparison to a more attainable camera. I don’t envy you editing the skewing tests, i know that you had to watch that way more times than we did!
Thank you! Absolutely the best review of the Q3 43. A pleasure to watch your honest discussion. I’m happy with the original Q3, but the 43 is tempting. The cost is consistent (or even less) than adding lenses to the M. I went back and listened to your review again for the pleasure of the comprehensive observations.
Good review, thank you. I bought a Q43 after watching. I was attracted by the size and simplicity of operation as well as the lens and sensor quality. The IP52 rating is also handy for when I'm out walking the dog on the beach....
Given that Leica makes the 28mm and this new one specifically for the camera, I feel they could have made one body with these two lenses supplied as swappable options.
Gracious Gordon Out The Gate With The Goods ……. Just like anything, it’s worth it if you put it to solid use, and you have some beautiful ideas in your mind and you would like to fulfill those wishes through capturing beautiful and aspiring photos. This is a great tool for sure. It’s still a niche tool, but it’s a beautiful tool and thank you so much once again big man for the splendidly informative review regarding possible options.
I really like your reviews, Gordon. I've been watching them for years; I am also a subscriber. I also own two Leica M camera, as well as Fujifilm cameras, and I really like the Q series, on paper, and I also like the output, however I do not feel the Q/Q2/Q3 are compact, due to the lens size. I handled a Q2 for a few hours, but because of the relatively large lens I was unable to swing it behind my back or to my side and walk around as if.. The X100 series although not pocketable, are definitely very compact, and the Ricoh GR series is the king of compactness. The output of the Q2 and Q3 are certainly different, but I think it more due to the lens design and FOV, and not to the extra resolution. 26MP is plenty, and 40MP is beyond most people's needs. I have seen output from 16MP camera which rivals Q2 output, again due to lens sharpness, and design. With the Q3 I was hoping for a 47MP 30mm f/2.4, something along those lines, and a more compact camera, rather than having the extra MP on the Q3. I wish Leica would go back and took a look at the X1 and X2 bodies, and work from there. Keep up the good work and thanks for all those years of great reviews!
I use Canon mirrorless. I was envious of friends who use the Q3 or the FujiX100V as their walk around camera or at the end of the day when they don’t want to lug the “brick” to dinner. I decided on an R8 with the RF24f2.8 pancake lens. Fantastically light, my wrist tells me. And still full frame. Plus I can use my other RF lenses. I am neither a Leica, Fuji nor a Sony person but I watch Gordon’s videos for their quality!
I just bought the Q3 w 27 mm anout 6 months ago. Expensive purchase for me. Will keep it for now as cost of Q3 w updated lens is even pricier. Still have my Canon R5 and a good number of lenses. Happy for now. Thanks for a great review.
Wonderful review as always Gordon! While not affordable for most of us in the real world, I am always delighted to see these aspirational dream cameras released. It also makes me wish for a LUMIX S9 Mk II with an EVF! That might be nearly affordable!
@@cameralabs The other spec I’d love is weather sealing. The problem with the market position of the S9 as a ‘fun camera’ is that it is limited to ‘fair weather fun’ with the lack of weather sealing. It is not a camera I’d be pleased to take to the beach, a pool, the snow, camping, in the rain, near a waterfall, any dusty place etc. weather sealing would make it so much more versatile!
Excellent review! I'm now a subscriber. In my opinion, this is the camera I've been waiting for. I'm tired of carrying around multiple lenses. I'm not a professional photographer. Just an enthusiast with an appreciation for finer things. So, with that said, I placed my name on the list for one because the Leica store here in LA has sold all 700 of their first allotment. I'm told there might be an updat that deals with the filter issue by the time the next traunch of 43s come out in six months.
Gordon, This is perhaps the most well balanced review I have seen or heard on YT. I was fortunate to pick one up from my local dealer. As I also shoot the x100V, I was interested in what I would pickup when I went out for the day. The X100V is gathering dust. The X100VI order has been cancelled. You make a great point about the risk of carrying this as your EDC. That does concern me a bit in today's world. But as for flexibility, quality, and sheer joy of using manual focus, it is heads and shoulder above the X100 series for me. Thanks for the time and energy you put into your reviews. They are truly excellent.
Thanks, really glad to hear your thoughts as an owner of both those models. There's no doubt it's a really nice camera, I hope you're very happy with yours!
@@cameralabs Gordon, I really do enjoy the flexibility the camera affords with that huge sensor. IF I want to go wider, I simply stitch images together in post. If I want to zoom in, I have plenty of resolution to crop. The bigger lens casing works very well with my bigger fingers and hands. It really is a joy to use with manual focus.
Possibly, but as soon as it's interchangeable, it becomes larger and the optics may not perform as well as ones that can get really close to the sensor.
I love that you compare it with the X100VI - a camera i owned and worked with until I delivered it back under the warranty as the AF is totally unreliable. That unfortunately goes for all three Fujifilm cameras with the 40 mp sensor. So, my setup for my reportage journeys in the future will be my Q2 and a Q3 43 despite the lack of a joystick for moving the focus point around. But I am sure I can get used to that.
I’m very much excited about large format Fuji Cinema Camera. Will there be some surprises? I’m very excited about Fuji “medium” format. I would like to see a return to film as I used to shoot and develop 645 format film and develop color and B&W myself. Great job
It would be very interesting to see a comparison with the Fuji GFX 50r + gf 50mm (40mm equiv) lens for image quality. The 50r with lens is 2.4 lbs and the Q3 is 1.7 lbs, so a difference of about 3/4 lb. I have the 50r and it is the best landscape camera I have ever used and is insanely sharp corner-to-corner from f/4-f/5.6 and of course the color and "look" from the medium format sensor is awesome. My gut (and bias!) tells me the Q3 would not be able to compete with this 50r setup for ultimate image quality. But I am just speaking as a landscape photographer. A 50r+50mm can be had used for under $3k. Of course other than image quality everything is better on the Q3, but boy it comes at a cost!
I hope these cameras inspire other brands. If Nikon releases one, it’s an instant buy for me, especially if they launch both a 35mm and an 85mm. I’d consider simplifying my setup to just those two fixed cameras.
Finally a truly unhyped review. I’m so tired of corporate shill influencers. Who sell their souls to be part of product launch PR campaign. Please add low light AF test. Given there’s a lot of street photography interest in this camera low light AF is part of decision making process
Great review! I'm just a hobby photographer - seven grand for a camera is out of reach for me. I love the focal length and use an X-T4 with a Viltrox 27 1.2. Of course, this is not in the same league as a Leica, but it's still fun
Hi Gordon - another excellent video. I wonder if you could offer some insight. I mainly shoot travel photography / street - and I shoot with a Canon R5 and a 24-70 f2.8 (with most shots between 35mm and 60mm) - Increasingly i'm finding the bulk annoying. So the q3 43 could be a great option for me. Unfortunately i couldn't afford to keep both - so i'm wondering do you think i'd find the AF too sluggish and the EVF blackout too long coming from the canon? Any insight appreciated.
Hmm, good question. While the Q3 43 isn't slow, the R5 and that lens will feel snappier for autofocus. You can see the speed of the Q3 43 for stills in my test with the bottle, so that was between about 1 and 3m for the bottle and wall. I'd suggest setting up a similar test with your camera and lens at around 43mm to see how the speed compares. And to also check my result to see if that's too slow a response for your style of working. It didn't hold me back, but most of my subjects stayed still for the time it took to focus on them. I'd say fine for travel, but for some street it'll depend on your subject. It's quick, but not instant. PS - if you're thinking of ordering through any of the shops I have affiliates with, please consider going through my links thanks!
What a nice review! I’m torn between the Q3 28 or the 43. Yes, first world problems. I like the 28 width and fear the 43 will be too narrow but I noticed I have some wide angle photos but mostly are cropped in. My main focus is events and family so I guess the 43 would be the better way to go? I read somewhere long ago that using a 28 for portraits can end up with some distortion? Does the 28’s versatility outweigh the 43’s portraits and IRL eye perspective?
It really is a personal choice and as you've done I'd consider going through your typical photos to see if you mostly shoot wide or standard. For me the 43 is more practical overall, and yes, you will get more flattering results when photographing people with it. PS - if you end up ordering online, please consider going through my links!
@@cameralabs Yes, you're 100% right. I tend to shoot mostly people and I am cropping all the time so look like the 43 with the DoF is it. LR is great with the background blur but it's just not the same. I am buying in EU but I'll check out your links.
Gordon always use a standard template for reviews. No hype and just technical and real world use. A brief history with his extensive knowledge of cameras. That’s how I landed my first camera 14 years ago.
Thanks, I try to be consistent and hype-free as these are big and important purchases for any of us. It's just a bit disappointing the hyped videos and clickbait get more views, so there's little to encourage my way of working. Basically, work harder, get paid less!
I've not done a side-by-side, so can't say definitively, but the Q3 43 should be better as it's a ewer, higher res sensor plus a newer optical design. But the Sony is smaller. I wish they'd update it.
It's definitely worth mentioning. Which is why I did mention it in the video! Something I forgot to mention though is the X100 series also has a built-in ND filter, which can effectively extend the scenarios in which you can use the leaf shutter before it gets too bright.
@@cameralabsSorry it was my poor English. The idea was to say worth to mention on the comments, you clearly explained that pretty well on the review. It’s for me odd that a camera with the possibly of shooting f/2 (or f/1.7 on the 28mm model) do not have a faster mechanical shutter speed or an internal ND filter. Even my oldie xpro3 does 1/8000. Maybe street photographers with manual focus lens using zone focusing shoot typically f/8 or f/11 but a camera with AF allows to play a bit more with depth of field. Worth to mention 😅 that this is the most complete review I’ve seen from a Leica Q.
@@cameralabs maybe so, but people just throwing out negativity really need to be balanced. You always do a good job in that regard. A bit like the Leica is fullframe and the Fuji isn't and the Fuji has a very small viewfinder on that model (but not the X-T5). Most cameras today are very impressive, all have their strengths and weaknesses. I really don't know why it turns into a fight - just pick the camera that makes you want to shoot with it. :-}
Thx for your review. For me, around 65mm is the focal length I end up with when merging the image I get in the viewfinder of an SLR with the image I get from the eye looking past. 43 or even 50mm look smaller/wider. I also feel it's useful to treat the "normal" 50 as a narrow wide angle lens, composition wise. Each to their own I guess.
It's a nice combo, I have both of those, but it still needs and EVF for me! Plus I'd be willing to sacrifice a little aperture for a smaller lens BUT one that was still high quality.
Nice review Gordon, you weren't kidding when you said you were doing a deep dive! Great to run into you during your testing of it, and thanks again for letting me have a go with it! 😁
You're welcome! Yes, it ended up getting a little out of control, plus I had to leave out a few things that would have taken about 10 more mins runtime! PS - I also used the photo you took of me in the samples at the end, thanks!
@@cameralabs I thought I recognised something 😉 Any chance you could send that one over my way? Technically my first image taken with a Leica so that might be meaningful some time in the future haha!
@@henrychin8064 Ah, I see, that's a nice camera. I also use that focal length (effective) on the X100, and I like it. So we are in the same boat. Obviously 28 is pretty close to 35, and you can achieve 35 coverage with a minimal crop, so that would make the most sense if you want the closest match for your Sony. BUT if you're happy with more of a standard focal length, then you might enjoy the 43. I actually really loved it myself as you saw in this review. It's a tricky choice. I'd choose the 28 if I were shooting more landscape or buildings, but 43 if I were doing more street or details or portraits, or if I was chasing more shallow DOF effects. I guess you need to ask yourself, when shooting with your Sony, do you ever wish it were a bit wider, or a bit longer? PS - if you end up buying one online, please do consider going through my links, thanks!
Thank you for the thorough review of the Q3 43. Certainly food for thought and a great introduction to the Leica. I was not interested at all in the Fuji - details or comparison. In fact I would be more interested in a use comparison with the Q3, and how the different focal lengths suited a range of photography opportunities. Have you reviewed the Q3 ?
you forgot one argument in your more than brilliant review: future resale value of both cameras. I bet that Q3 43 will hold better its monetary value than the Sony over 1-5 years or so. In other words, if you are able to find the money to buy yourself a Q3 43, it'll probably depreciate less than a Sony camera if you wish to resell (or upgrade to other Leica gear) in the future.
That's a nice piece of kit. Unfortunately I am known to be cheap. I generally settle for high end gear of the last generation. Unfortunately, in this case the Q2 is still very expensive. Normal rules don't apply for Leica. For now I stick with my analog 1960's M4.
What you're asking for is a 28 vs 43mm review, which would actually be quite hard to compare if you wanted to match the subject sizes. I used the X100 VI as it's the most popular fixed lens compact, in huge demand, and a quarter of the price, so why not see what you get for your money on both cameras? As you saw in the macro test, the X100 can actually outperform the Q3 43. It also has the hybrid finder. It also has a faster 1/4000 leaf shutter plus a built-in ND. There's actually a few aspects where it beats the Leica. Plus this is my video and I personally wanted to see that comparison as no-one else had done it and I thought it would be fun.
Once again, like Apple, Leica have released old technology wrapped in beautiful minimalist design, priced it 1.5x more expensive than the competition where the competition is 3 years ahead and the cult following loves it. This camera is my dream if I ever acquire a large pile of cash to burn.
But as I said in the review several times, no-one else has combined these features - the 60mp sensor, excellent fixed lens and a really good EVF. Sony could have years ago, but they didn't.
I'm not saying you're wrong. But I was surprised to see even the Sony A7C R is priced over at almost $4200 here in Norway. And thats without a lens. The Sony RX1R i and ii were also above $4000 already in like 2016 if I remember correctly. I do see the point of comparing the Q343 against the x100vi and Ricoh GR since the fixed compact camera market is small, but they are in different leauges. I think Sony could do great things with a Sony Rx1r iii with a 60 mpx sensor and that brilliant Zeiss lens, but it's definetely going to cost $5000 +
The unobtainable favorite compared to the obtainable -and proudly obtained- favorite. It doesn't get any better today for sure! Thanks Gordon. Just right.
Gordon, this is an incredible review, thank you very much for time and sharing your expert view. I really enjoyed and learned a lot. May I ask you share your views low light shooting? I do have an X100F and let me just say it is disappointing without a tripod, handheld shooting is impossible for me. How does the Q3 43 performs? Since it is full frame with 2.0 aperture it should be sufficient I hope without using higher ISOs.
It all boils down to what shutter speed can you handhold without seeing blurring from camera shake. Higher resolution bodies and longer lenses will be more unforgiving. So having stabilization is the key. The Q3 43 has optical stabilization, and I have a section in the review showing how slow I could use it. Also consider the X100 VI which has sensor shift IBIS, again allowing you to handhold MUCH slower shutter speeds than before without having to boost the ISO. See my X100 VI review for photography.
For me Lumix body with Leica lens is the winning price/quality combination. Price being a priority for such a camera. Waiting for LX100-3... one happy day.
Great review as always. I considered the Q3 before buying an m11p, I also have an X100VI and use these two for travel. I also have a Sony a7rv but it's just too large with the 35mm and 24-70mm GM lenses so they sit home mostly these days especially when I'm traveling. I love the Q line and may consider the Q3 43 at some point in the future but for now I'm fine with my m11p (w/28mm and 50mm) and X100VI since it makes such a great travel package especially for street photography ~ light and fast, or slow and methodical is what this package offers me.
I love it but won't afford it. I have a Lumix S9 with the Sigma 45mm 2.8. It's a second camera to the S5 and ever since my OM System 20mm 1.4 I knew how versatile the 40mm-ish lenses are. (If only the S9 had a mechanical shutter... I can live without the rest...) So my S9 set is a poor man's version but also a GX9 killer
@@VietnameseCosmonaut Oh yes, the 50 apo is 8.3k € vs. 6750 € for the Q3 here in Germany. That's pretty mind bending. Plus OIS, plus auto focus, plus close focus distance. If I were in the market for a 7k camera this would be very tempting.
Given your connection with MPB, perhaps it's time to do a review (like this one) on the Q2 monochrom? of course, you'd need a "normal" Q2 alongside for comparison, but it would be awesome to get your "unbiased" review of that. I have both a Q2 and a Q2 monochrom, and i'd be hard pressed to give a evidence-based excuse to "need" the monochrom version, but somehow I am very addicted to the Q2 M.
Happy to see the proliferation of The Best And Most Natural Focal Length. Thanks to Pentax, for blazing the trail. (I'll stick to 28mms on my K-3iiiMono.)
C’mon Gordon you know Leica is burning a hole in your wallet😂! They’re setting mine on 🔥!😢 Then I’m thinking about arranging a couple of our REDs for a visit with you when free and some photo software for them. I’ll reach out when closer to making this happen. This will be after my neurosurgery in early January.
Great review, as always. Very complete and very pleasant to watch 😊 And I'm like you about that focal length, as I was so surprised when I bought Tamron's 45mm for my previous D850 : I love that focal! And when switching to Sony's A7IV, I was glad Samyang also offered a 45mm prime, since it had become my favorite focal length of all.
Thanks Gordon. I’ve really come to trust your reviews over the years. I too like the 40-ish mm focal length (am using a Nikon Z50 with 28mm primes as my EDC). I don’t see myself springing for something this expensive. But i totally feel its appeal.
It's the sort of midlife crisis camera that you buy when you've got the money and you just want one from a professional photography perspective. Not many people will buy this as a camera. They would use professionally. They might buy as a second camera for joy photos but it's not practical enough to use in a professional setting in my opinion and that's partly due to the fixed focal length. It might be an okay portrait camera for portraits but you can't shoot all your landscape set that focal length. That's my little negative out the way. I think it's a wonderful camera and thank you for your review.
Great review as always, thanks. Curious if you have an opinions on the "Leica Looks" profiles vs the Fuji film sims as that is a real point of differentiation
TBH, I find you can get pretty much any colour and tonal style you want from any camera these days. They all have good options. I find many of the Fujifilm SIMS can be a bit over-cooked, but they definitely have impact.
Love your videos Gordon, If I had the money, I'd buy this, but I don't, but for me the 43mm focal length is more useful than the original 28mm (I do love the 35mm focal length and the 50mm) The X100 VI is my favourite camera to shoot with, although making it weather proof, attaching a lens hood or filter is needlessly awkward it is not a deal breaker but I hope Fujifilm fix this in future versions of the X100 I am very cautious about carrying the X100 VI where I am, I doubt I'd ever take a Leica as an every day carry camera. I wonder with the success of the X100 and with Leica introducing this camera, if Fuji would ever give me a X100 - 33 for a 50mm EQV.
Thanks! I do ask Fujifilm about other focal lengths often, but it doesn't seem to be something they're that interested in. I suspect we'll have that 23 f2 lens without a filter for a while yet.
My in-depth Leica Q3 43 review, including comparisons with the X100 VI!
Buy used gear from MPB at: prf.hn/l/YLqwRAP // Sell used gear to MPB at: bit.ly/3ULU9yL
Order the Leica Q3 43 from B&H: bhpho.to/3TIyPve or WEX UK: tidd.ly/3ZGwg0M
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00:00 - Leica Q3 43 introduction and alternatives inc RX1R II
02:35 - Buy used gear from MPB! Sponsored segment
04:06 - Pros and cons of Sony vs Leica Q3 43
04:45 - Pros and cons of Fujifilm X100 VI vs Leica Q3 43
05:23 - Pros and cons of Ricoh GRIII x vs Leica Q3 43
06:23 - Leica Q3 43 design and build quality
07:56 - Leica Q3 43 lens hood and filter issue
09:03 - Leica Q3 43 controls, exposures
10:31 - Leica Q3 43 electronic shutter and skewing rolling shutter
12:11 - Leica Q3 43 menus
12:36 - Leica Q3 43 viewfinder
13:12 - Leica Q3 43 screen
13:33 - Leica Q3 43 ports
13:52 - Leica Q3 43 battery and memory cards
15:11 - Leica Q3 43 lens and controls
17:19 - Leica Q3 43 sensor and quality options
17:49 - Leica Q3 43 digital zoom and crops
19:50 - Leica Q3 43 noise quality vs X100 VI high ISO
21:26 - Leica Q3 43 autofocus
23:30 - Leica Q3 43 stabilization
24:20 - Leica Q3 43 landscape quality vs X100 VI
26:20 - Leica Q3 43 monochrome quality vs X100 VI
27:30 - Leica Q3 43 portrait quality vs X100 VI
28:46 - Leica Q3 43 bokeh quality vs X100 VI
31:02 - Leica Q3 43 macro quality vs X100 VI
31:32 - Leica Q3 43 movie quality 1080 vs 4k vs 8k
34:04 - Leica Q3 43 sample images and verdict
Music: www.davidcuttermusic.com / @dcuttermusic
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I have watched virtually all the Leica Q3 43 reviews on UA-cam, and this is the best so far.
Thankyou, I did a lot of tests and comparisons that I've not seen on others. Plus tried to avoid the kool aid!
I agree! As I’m sitting here with my week old Leica Q3 43😂. Absolutely love it so far!
@@andrewkerns6777 glad you have one and enjoyed my video about it! Let us know your thoughts! PS - that's a quick delivery too, you'd be waiting much longer for an X100 VI
Appears UK folks have yours but I am still waiting for my Q3 43 here in the States
@@HK-NYCI’m in the states and I got mine the Monday after it was announced. Guess I’m lucky! 😊
Great review - best for Q3 43 I have read! Loved my X100VI but found myself using it for street snapshots only, where I could be fine with Ricoh or other (small) pocket size camera. Finally sold it and got my Q3 43 last week and cannot agree more with your conclusion. Thanks!
I like watching Gordons reviews even if in not interested in the camera because they are so thorough, so you still feel up to date beeing informed about the latest cameras.
Thankyou, that's what I aim for!
I see "hype free" in the title, I click. I see Gordon Laing, I like.
Why thankyou!
I see Police, I run...
I love almost everything about the Q43 43. For the cost, the AF should be perfect in performance.
Sometimes I wonder about paying this much and how long the camera will actually last. Dropping this amount of coin for a one year warranty is the reason I don’t pull the trigger.
This is an amazing in-depth review of the Leica Q3 43. I was impressed by this camera's image quality and build quality. It is definitely a high-end camera, but it is worth the price if you are looking for the best of the best Sir
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
So far my daily was a Z7 with the 40mm f/2 SE from Nikon. The 343 is basically my dream camera even though I still have some gripes with the Q3 body itself. (The screen not being flush with the body, the cheap plastic cover for the ports, the pins at the bottom pushing the cardslot door too close to and around the tripod mount...) I ordered it the moment the first reviews hit and I am very impressed with the lens. It is electronically corrected for distortion again, like the 28mm. But that has much less of a negative effect on a standard focal length compared to a wide. The new Leica Chrome look has become my standard color profile btw. A bit silly that you have to load them up manually from the app but at least they stay on the camera after that.
Best review yet on the Q3 43. Many thanks.
Great review with irl footage & comparisons. Definitely appreciate the extra effort you take providing landscapes vs photo chart. Helps me far visualize the differences related to subject matter I shoot
Thanks, it takes more effort, but I think it's worth it
Thanks! Nice well…excellent job. Full marks.
Thankyou, much appreciated!
Hands down the best review of the Q3
Thanks!
The lens cap on the Q3 43 can be used without the lens hood attached. In the box there is an additional ring that covers the exposed threads when the hood is removed that works with the same lens cap.
Thanks for letting me know, my test sample didn't come with that accessory and I wasn't told about it!
@@cameralabs for sure!! I honestly didn’t understand why that ring was there when I received my 43 and then I got the idea once I tried it with the same lens cap. Thank you for the review btw! Really enjoy your content!
An excellent lens and high mp sensor does seem like a winning combo if you can afford it.
Definitely, likewise for a Sony A7R V and GM lens. The images can look amazing.
Great video Gordon, and interesting comparison to a more attainable camera. I don’t envy you editing the skewing tests, i know that you had to watch that way more times than we did!
Thanks Gordon. Although i'm not planning to buy the Q3 any time soon. Great review!
Thank you! Absolutely the best review of the Q3 43. A pleasure to watch your honest discussion. I’m happy with the original Q3, but the 43 is tempting. The cost is consistent (or even less) than adding lenses to the M. I went back and listened to your review again for the pleasure of the comprehensive observations.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! If you end up ordering anything online, please do consider going through my links, thanks!
Will do, of course.
Good review, thank you. I bought a Q43 after watching. I was attracted by the size and simplicity of operation as well as the lens and sensor quality. The IP52 rating is also handy for when I'm out walking the dog on the beach....
Glad you found it useful!
This was excellent. Informed. I bought one yesterday (having bought a Q3 28 at the start of the year). Lens quality is excellent.
Happy to have helped!
Given that Leica makes the 28mm and this new one specifically for the camera, I feel they could have made one body with these two lenses supplied as swappable options.
Gracious Gordon Out The Gate With The Goods ……. Just like anything, it’s worth it if you put it to solid use, and you have some beautiful ideas in your mind and you would like to fulfill those wishes through capturing beautiful and aspiring photos. This is a great tool for sure. It’s still a niche tool, but it’s a beautiful tool and thank you so much once again big man for the splendidly informative review regarding possible options.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I really like your reviews, Gordon. I've been watching them for years; I am also a subscriber. I also own two Leica M camera, as well as Fujifilm cameras, and I really like the Q series, on paper, and I also like the output, however I do not feel the Q/Q2/Q3 are compact, due to the lens size. I handled a Q2 for a few hours, but because of the relatively large lens I was unable to swing it behind my back or to my side and walk around as if.. The X100 series although not pocketable, are definitely very compact, and the Ricoh GR series is the king of compactness. The output of the Q2 and Q3 are certainly different, but I think it more due to the lens design and FOV, and not to the extra resolution. 26MP is plenty, and 40MP is beyond most people's needs. I have seen output from 16MP camera which rivals Q2 output, again due to lens sharpness, and design. With the Q3 I was hoping for a 47MP 30mm f/2.4, something along those lines, and a more compact camera, rather than having the extra MP on the Q3. I wish Leica would go back and took a look at the X1 and X2 bodies, and work from there. Keep up the good work and thanks for all those years of great reviews!
Thanks for your support! Yes, it is a bit bigger than I'd like. I'm happy with my X100V, although if they made a smaller one I'd be even happier...
@@cameralabs I settled on Canon M6 Mark II with the 22mm EF-M for street.
Great video as always. On a side note the double boxes over the eyes of the subject is really distracting. Is there a way to turn that off?
Hmm, not sure, I'll try to find out
I use Canon mirrorless. I was envious of friends who use the Q3 or the FujiX100V as their walk around camera or at the end of the day when they don’t want to lug the “brick” to dinner. I decided on an R8 with the RF24f2.8 pancake lens. Fantastically light, my wrist tells me. And still full frame. Plus I can use my other RF lenses. I am neither a Leica, Fuji nor a Sony person but I watch Gordon’s videos for their quality!
Thanks! Yes, the R8 is a really nice compact option
I just bought the Q3 w 27 mm anout 6 months ago. Expensive purchase for me. Will keep it for now as cost of Q3 w updated lens is even pricier. Still have my Canon R5 and a good number of lenses. Happy for now. Thanks for a great review.
You're welcome, the original is still awesome!
Wonderful review as always Gordon!
While not affordable for most of us in the real world, I am always delighted to see these aspirational dream cameras released.
It also makes me wish for a LUMIX S9 Mk II with an EVF! That might be nearly affordable!
Tell me about it! I KEEP asking them to make an S9 with an EVF!
@@cameralabs The other spec I’d love is weather sealing. The problem with the market position of the S9 as a ‘fun camera’ is that it is limited to ‘fair weather fun’ with the lack of weather sealing. It is not a camera I’d be pleased to take to the beach, a pool, the snow, camping, in the rain, near a waterfall, any dusty place etc. weather sealing would make it so much more versatile!
@@Democratiser definitely
Excellent review! I'm now a subscriber. In my opinion, this is the camera I've been waiting for. I'm tired of carrying around multiple lenses. I'm not a professional photographer. Just an enthusiast with an appreciation for finer things. So, with that said, I placed my name on the list for one because the Leica store here in LA has sold all 700 of their first allotment. I'm told there might be an updat that deals with the filter issue by the time the next traunch of 43s come out in six months.
Glad you found it useful!
I wish Sony would update their RX1. It is a marvel at a more competitive price.
We all wish they would, but they don't seem interested.
Viewfinder is pathetic!
@@simon359 have you looked through the finder on the A7c? The one on the RX1 is of its time. Hence the call for an update.
@@simon359 on the RX1? Yes of course it is, it's ancient. That's one of the reasons it deserves an update.
For the markings, Sony sells that specific frame marker facade in a software upgrade. Great photos as always
Thanks, interesting to see Panasonic adding multiple frame markers to the S9 in a free firmware update today.
I own a X100VI and very surprised how well it hangs for 25% the price. As my skills progress, I look forward to one day owning a Leica on my journey
Gordon, This is perhaps the most well balanced review I have seen or heard on YT. I was fortunate to pick one up from my local dealer. As I also shoot the x100V, I was interested in what I would pickup when I went out for the day. The X100V is gathering dust. The X100VI order has been cancelled. You make a great point about the risk of carrying this as your EDC. That does concern me a bit in today's world. But as for flexibility, quality, and sheer joy of using manual focus, it is heads and shoulder above the X100 series for me. Thanks for the time and energy you put into your reviews. They are truly excellent.
Thanks, really glad to hear your thoughts as an owner of both those models. There's no doubt it's a really nice camera, I hope you're very happy with yours!
@@cameralabs Gordon, I really do enjoy the flexibility the camera affords with that huge sensor. IF I want to go wider, I simply stitch images together in post. If I want to zoom in, I have plenty of resolution to crop. The bigger lens casing works very well with my bigger fingers and hands. It really is a joy to use with manual focus.
@@rudigerwolf9626 I agree, and I've stitched many a panorama from my X100 cameras.
Thank you, Gordon. Great review!
Would not make more sense to make Q body with interchangeable leaf stutter lenses a la Hasselblad X2D?
Possibly, but as soon as it's interchangeable, it becomes larger and the optics may not perform as well as ones that can get really close to the sensor.
I love that you compare it with the X100VI - a camera i owned and worked with until I delivered it back under the warranty as the AF is totally unreliable. That unfortunately goes for all three Fujifilm cameras with the 40 mp sensor. So, my setup for my reportage journeys in the future will be my Q2 and a Q3 43 despite the lack of a joystick for moving the focus point around. But I am sure I can get used to that.
Do you think the AF is any better on the q3?
@@norwegianoutdoors4437 Oh yes - much better - I have tested it out.
I’m very much excited about large format Fuji Cinema Camera. Will there be some surprises? I’m very excited about Fuji “medium” format. I would like to see a return to film as I used to shoot and develop 645 format film and develop color and B&W myself. Great job
It would be very interesting to see a comparison with the Fuji GFX 50r + gf 50mm (40mm equiv) lens for image quality. The 50r with lens is 2.4 lbs and the Q3 is 1.7 lbs, so a difference of about 3/4 lb. I have the 50r and it is the best landscape camera I have ever used and is insanely sharp corner-to-corner from f/4-f/5.6 and of course the color and "look" from the medium format sensor is awesome. My gut (and bias!) tells me the Q3 would not be able to compete with this 50r setup for ultimate image quality. But I am just speaking as a landscape photographer. A 50r+50mm can be had used for under $3k. Of course other than image quality everything is better on the Q3, but boy it comes at a cost!
Yes, that would make an interesting comparison...
@@cameralabs Yes, that was going to be my next search, although I highly doubt there's such a comparison made yet.
What an excellent and comprehensive review - thank-you.
You're very welcome!
I hope these cameras inspire other brands. If Nikon releases one, it’s an instant buy for me, especially if they launch both a 35mm and an 85mm. I’d consider simplifying my setup to just those two fixed cameras.
Definitely, I wish the other companies would react to the popularity and demand of fixed lens compacts, it's been a few years now.
I would love to see compare between Leica Q3 43, and Fuji X-H2 with XF33mm f/1.4
Wow! What a great review, thank you for doing this.
You're very welcome!
Finally a truly unhyped review. I’m so tired of corporate shill influencers. Who sell their souls to be part of product launch PR campaign. Please add low light AF test. Given there’s a lot of street photography interest in this camera low light AF is part of decision making process
Does it do back button focus?
very nice review, but kinda surprised no discussion of APO, I mean I feel it's a key feature/advancement for a Q
Well the proof of the pudding is in the eating and I show a LOT of optical examples.
Great review! I'm just a hobby photographer - seven grand for a camera is out of reach for me. I love the focal length and use an X-T4 with a Viltrox 27 1.2. Of course, this is not in the same league as a Leica, but it's still fun
That's still a nice combo!
Hi Gordon - another excellent video.
I wonder if you could offer some insight. I mainly shoot travel photography / street - and I shoot with a Canon R5 and a 24-70 f2.8 (with most shots between 35mm and 60mm) - Increasingly i'm finding the bulk annoying. So the q3 43 could be a great option for me. Unfortunately i couldn't afford to keep both - so i'm wondering do you think i'd find the AF too sluggish and the EVF blackout too long coming from the canon? Any insight appreciated.
Hmm, good question. While the Q3 43 isn't slow, the R5 and that lens will feel snappier for autofocus. You can see the speed of the Q3 43 for stills in my test with the bottle, so that was between about 1 and 3m for the bottle and wall. I'd suggest setting up a similar test with your camera and lens at around 43mm to see how the speed compares. And to also check my result to see if that's too slow a response for your style of working. It didn't hold me back, but most of my subjects stayed still for the time it took to focus on them. I'd say fine for travel, but for some street it'll depend on your subject. It's quick, but not instant. PS - if you're thinking of ordering through any of the shops I have affiliates with, please consider going through my links thanks!
What a nice review! I’m torn between the Q3 28 or the 43. Yes, first world problems. I like the 28 width and fear the 43 will be too narrow but I noticed I have some wide angle photos but mostly are cropped in. My main focus is events and family so I guess the 43 would be the better way to go? I read somewhere long ago that using a 28 for portraits can end up with some distortion? Does the 28’s versatility outweigh the 43’s portraits and IRL eye perspective?
It really is a personal choice and as you've done I'd consider going through your typical photos to see if you mostly shoot wide or standard. For me the 43 is more practical overall, and yes, you will get more flattering results when photographing people with it. PS - if you end up ordering online, please consider going through my links!
@@cameralabs Yes, you're 100% right. I tend to shoot mostly people and I am cropping all the time so look like the 43 with the DoF is it. LR is great with the background blur but it's just not the same. I am buying in EU but I'll check out your links.
@@wss327 thanks! I have a link to calumet on my written review page at www.cameralabs.com/leica-q3-43-review/ if that helps!
In the portrait segment, what white balance setting are you using? Maybe I missed it.
They were both on auto WB, but taken moments apart. Believe it or not, the conditions had not changed, but they deliver quite different results.
Gordon always use a standard template for reviews. No hype and just technical and real world use. A brief history with his extensive knowledge of cameras.
That’s how I landed my first camera 14 years ago.
Thanks, I try to be consistent and hype-free as these are big and important purchases for any of us. It's just a bit disappointing the hyped videos and clickbait get more views, so there's little to encourage my way of working. Basically, work harder, get paid less!
Sir, how is the picture quality of Q3 43 as compared with sony's RX1RM2?
I've not done a side-by-side, so can't say definitively, but the Q3 43 should be better as it's a ewer, higher res sensor plus a newer optical design. But the Sony is smaller. I wish they'd update it.
Now you might understand why Pentaxians adore the K-1 paired with the FA43/1.9 Limited 🥰
It's all become clear!
Worth to mention that the Fujifilm mechanical shutter speed goes to 1/4000 when compared to the 1/2000 from Leica.
It's definitely worth mentioning. Which is why I did mention it in the video! Something I forgot to mention though is the X100 series also has a built-in ND filter, which can effectively extend the scenarios in which you can use the leaf shutter before it gets too bright.
@@cameralabsSorry it was my poor English. The idea was to say worth to mention on the comments, you clearly explained that pretty well on the review. It’s for me odd that a camera with the possibly of shooting f/2 (or f/1.7 on the 28mm model) do not have a faster mechanical shutter speed or an internal ND filter. Even my oldie xpro3 does 1/8000. Maybe street photographers with manual focus lens using zone focusing shoot typically f/8 or f/11 but a camera with AF allows to play a bit more with depth of field. Worth to mention 😅 that this is the most complete review I’ve seen from a Leica Q.
Yes but the minimum ISO on the Leica goes as low as 50 to compensate.
@@stephenelliott7071 true, but the Fujifilm goes down to 64, so pretty close!
@@cameralabs maybe so, but people just throwing out negativity really need to be balanced. You always do a good job in that regard. A bit like the Leica is fullframe and the Fuji isn't and the Fuji has a very small viewfinder on that model (but not the X-T5). Most cameras today are very impressive, all have their strengths and weaknesses. I really don't know why it turns into a fight - just pick the camera that makes you want to shoot with it. :-}
Thx for your review.
For me, around 65mm is the focal length I end up with when merging the image I get in the viewfinder of an SLR with the image I get from the eye looking past. 43 or even 50mm look smaller/wider.
I also feel it's useful to treat the "normal" 50 as a narrow wide angle lens, composition wise.
Each to their own I guess.
I've felt that too in the past, I think a lot has to do with the way our brains perceive a scene
@@cameralabs Indeed :-)
my poor mans version is the s9 w 35 f1.8. gorgeous.
Except it’s got no viewfinder and the shitty side hinged, take forever rear selfie screen.
It's a nice combo, I have both of those, but it still needs and EVF for me! Plus I'd be willing to sacrifice a little aperture for a smaller lens BUT one that was still high quality.
Nice review Gordon, you weren't kidding when you said you were doing a deep dive!
Great to run into you during your testing of it, and thanks again for letting me have a go with it! 😁
You're welcome! Yes, it ended up getting a little out of control, plus I had to leave out a few things that would have taken about 10 more mins runtime! PS - I also used the photo you took of me in the samples at the end, thanks!
@@cameralabs I thought I recognised something 😉 Any chance you could send that one over my way? Technically my first image taken with a Leica so that might be meaningful some time in the future haha!
@@JamesABloomfield sure I'll send it on IG
how is Q3 28 compared with Q3 43? which is a better choice?
It's literally a choice between a 28 or a 43mm lens. Which is your preferred focal length?
@@cameralabs I mostly use a 35mm compact camera during travel.
@@henrychin8064 is 35mm the film or the focal length? or both?
@@cameralabs focal length 35mm. Sony RX1RM2.
@@henrychin8064 Ah, I see, that's a nice camera. I also use that focal length (effective) on the X100, and I like it. So we are in the same boat. Obviously 28 is pretty close to 35, and you can achieve 35 coverage with a minimal crop, so that would make the most sense if you want the closest match for your Sony. BUT if you're happy with more of a standard focal length, then you might enjoy the 43. I actually really loved it myself as you saw in this review. It's a tricky choice. I'd choose the 28 if I were shooting more landscape or buildings, but 43 if I were doing more street or details or portraits, or if I was chasing more shallow DOF effects. I guess you need to ask yourself, when shooting with your Sony, do you ever wish it were a bit wider, or a bit longer? PS - if you end up buying one online, please do consider going through my links, thanks!
Gordon, you look quite handsome with the APO 43 lens.
ha ha, thanks! It took a seven grand camera to finally make me look good! But I'll take that, thanks!
Great review! 🎉
Thanks!
After being with the X100V for the last 2 years, the Q3 feels like a metal brick, the weight difference is massive
Be good to see a battle between the q3 and 43, especially low light
You mean to compare the lenses on both the Q3s? The original is much wider, so it'd be hard to match any of the subjects meaningfully.
@@cameralabs yes the 1.7 vs the 2
Just wondering if there would be a big difference in say interior low light parties etc etc
Thank you for the thorough review of the Q3 43. Certainly food for thought and a great introduction to the Leica.
I was not interested at all in the Fuji - details or comparison. In fact I would be more interested in a use comparison with the Q3, and how the different focal lengths suited a range of photography opportunities. Have you reviewed the Q3 ?
No, I've not tested the original Q3, only this one.
Brilliant review
Thanks!
you forgot one argument in your more than brilliant review: future resale value of both cameras. I bet that Q3 43 will hold better its monetary value than the Sony over 1-5 years or so. In other words, if you are able to find the money to buy yourself a Q3 43, it'll probably depreciate less than a Sony camera if you wish to resell (or upgrade to other Leica gear) in the future.
Yes you're right, and that's already proven with earlier Leicas.
If you buy the right one they even go up and cover majority of a better purchase in due course.
Brilliant review, thank you.
Glad you liked it!
That's a nice piece of kit. Unfortunately I am known to be cheap. I generally settle for high end gear of the last generation. Unfortunately, in this case the Q2 is still very expensive. Normal rules don't apply for Leica. For now I stick with my analog 1960's M4.
Nothing wrong with your M4!
Would have preferred Q3 vs Q3 43. There is no comparison between a Q3 and the X100VI.
What you're asking for is a 28 vs 43mm review, which would actually be quite hard to compare if you wanted to match the subject sizes. I used the X100 VI as it's the most popular fixed lens compact, in huge demand, and a quarter of the price, so why not see what you get for your money on both cameras? As you saw in the macro test, the X100 can actually outperform the Q3 43. It also has the hybrid finder. It also has a faster 1/4000 leaf shutter plus a built-in ND. There's actually a few aspects where it beats the Leica. Plus this is my video and I personally wanted to see that comparison as no-one else had done it and I thought it would be fun.
I think I’ll get one of these. Just need to sell my old camera first. And my car. And move back in with my parents.
Ha ha, I hear you!
Gordon does the best reviews. Thanks! Can I afford it, no, but still nice to window shop! Did you review the Leica D-Lux 8?
Thanks! Nope, I didn't do the D Lux 8. Is that the rebranded Panasonic model? If so, I prefer to only review original Leica products
@@cameralabs Thanks! keep up the amazing work!
Excellent video. Very balanced. People must go to the end to hear 'truth'.
Thanks! I didn't want to put 'the truth' in the title or thumbnail!
With the current market I'd definitely expect Sony to update their fixed camera models.
You'd think so, but they don't seem in any hurry
Such an excellent, clear and critically objective review - your content really is always amongst the best UA-cam offers.
Thankyou!
Seemed a very fair review
That's what I aim for!
Great video no drama
Thanks, I aim for a no-drama approach, which is strangely rare on YT. I get it though as drama does get more views.
Once again, like Apple, Leica have released old technology wrapped in beautiful minimalist design, priced it 1.5x more expensive than the competition where the competition is 3 years ahead and the cult following loves it. This camera is my dream if I ever acquire a large pile of cash to burn.
But as I said in the review several times, no-one else has combined these features - the 60mp sensor, excellent fixed lens and a really good EVF. Sony could have years ago, but they didn't.
I'm not saying you're wrong. But I was surprised to see even the Sony A7C R is priced over at almost $4200 here in Norway. And thats without a lens. The Sony RX1R i and ii were also above $4000 already in like 2016 if I remember correctly. I do see the point of comparing the Q343 against the x100vi and Ricoh GR since the fixed compact camera market is small, but they are in different leauges. I think Sony could do great things with a Sony Rx1r iii with a 60 mpx sensor and that brilliant Zeiss lens, but it's definetely going to cost $5000 +
The unobtainable favorite compared to the obtainable -and proudly obtained- favorite. It doesn't get any better today for sure! Thanks Gordon. Just right.
Your reviews are just so good. I am a sucker for fixed lens small cameras and already own too many. But a man can dream, right?!!
Thanks, and go on, just one more...!
@@cameralabs The lens of the Q3 43 was designed by Panasonic, not Leica. See dpreview the Patent.
great video!
Gordon, this is an incredible review, thank you very much for time and sharing your expert view. I really enjoyed and learned a lot. May I ask you share your views low light shooting? I do have an X100F and let me just say it is disappointing without a tripod, handheld shooting is impossible for me. How does the Q3 43 performs? Since it is full frame with 2.0 aperture it should be sufficient I hope without using higher ISOs.
It all boils down to what shutter speed can you handhold without seeing blurring from camera shake. Higher resolution bodies and longer lenses will be more unforgiving. So having stabilization is the key. The Q3 43 has optical stabilization, and I have a section in the review showing how slow I could use it. Also consider the X100 VI which has sensor shift IBIS, again allowing you to handhold MUCH slower shutter speeds than before without having to boost the ISO. See my X100 VI review for photography.
Fuji XPro with a fixed prime lens. Done. Leica’s heavy new model is as always for the “collectors”.
The X-Pro is lovely but much larger than this while having a smaller and lower res sensor. Very different prospects.
For me Lumix body with Leica lens is the winning price/quality combination. Price being a priority for such a camera. Waiting for LX100-3... one happy day.
We can hope! I keep asking them every time!
This "Leica" lens is already a Lumix lens. Panasonic have a patent for a lens with an identical optical formula.
@@Wildridefilms Have they? Any chance you can post the link to the patent so we can see? Cheers my friend.
Great review as always. I considered the Q3 before buying an m11p, I also have an X100VI and use these two for travel. I also have a Sony a7rv but it's just too large with the 35mm and 24-70mm GM lenses so they sit home mostly these days especially when I'm traveling. I love the Q line and may consider the Q3 43 at some point in the future but for now I'm fine with my m11p (w/28mm and 50mm) and X100VI since it makes such a great travel package especially for street photography ~ light and fast, or slow and methodical is what this package offers me.
Thanks, sounds like some nice gear you have there!
I love it but won't afford it. I have a Lumix S9 with the Sigma 45mm 2.8. It's a second camera to the S5 and ever since my OM System 20mm 1.4 I knew how versatile the 40mm-ish lenses are. (If only the S9 had a mechanical shutter... I can live without the rest...)
So my S9 set is a poor man's version but also a GX9 killer
I must get that 45mm back in again and retest on an S9...
like some Vietnamese reviewer said: "Buy lens get body".
pretty much
...never be able to attach the lens to a newer/different body. But yes, I totally agree. For what it is now it's quite a nice package.
@@Nearest_Neighbor yea. but the lens, I believe, is going to cost 2/3 of the whole thing. Now it's pretty much like "German Hasselblad"
@@VietnameseCosmonaut Oh yes, the 50 apo is 8.3k € vs. 6750 € for the Q3 here in Germany. That's pretty mind bending. Plus OIS, plus auto focus, plus close focus distance. If I were in the market for a 7k camera this would be very tempting.
I think this is the first Leica review on Cameralabs UA-cam channel.
Certainly the first in a while. I've done some pana-leica lenses, but they're not pure Leica
Excellent, detailed review and great context comparing it to other cameras 🙏👏
Thanks, glad you found it useful!
Given your connection with MPB, perhaps it's time to do a review (like this one) on the Q2 monochrom? of course, you'd need a "normal" Q2 alongside for comparison, but it would be awesome to get your "unbiased" review of that. I have both a Q2 and a Q2 monochrom, and i'd be hard pressed to give a evidence-based excuse to "need" the monochrom version, but somehow I am very addicted to the Q2 M.
Not a bad idea!
Happy to see the proliferation of The Best And Most Natural Focal Length. Thanks to Pentax, for blazing the trail. (I'll stick to 28mms on my K-3iiiMono.)
Nice! And yes, I was really fond of 43!
excellent detailed review as always, thank you Sir
You're welcome!
Q3 43 is superb, but I could never afford one. Fuji is at least affordable, smaller and lighter.
True, and it does have a number of benefits over the Leica too
Leica q3 image stabilisation on always function defaults to auto m, in this a fault
A7CR, 40MM G. Just lie about your photos on social media. Nobody will know.
True, no-one needs to know! But sadly the 40mm G doesn't have particularly nice rendering. So you'd really need a GM lens, but no-one need know!
C’mon Gordon you know Leica is burning a hole in your wallet😂! They’re setting mine on 🔥!😢 Then I’m thinking about arranging a couple of our REDs for a visit with you when free and some photo software for them. I’ll reach out when closer to making this happen. This will be after my neurosurgery in early January.
It's certainly very nice, but it's a bit too big for my travel kit and way too valuable for the places I go to!
Great review, as always. Very complete and very pleasant to watch 😊
And I'm like you about that focal length, as I was so surprised when I bought Tamron's 45mm for my previous D850 : I love that focal!
And when switching to Sony's A7IV, I was glad Samyang also offered a 45mm prime, since it had become my favorite focal length of all.
I'm all for the 43 now!
I’ll wait for five years and then get it at half price on the used market. Still a lot of money but that’s the way it goes
Do you see other Leica products selling at half their original value? They tend to hold it quite well.
Too expensive for what was promised, I'd try to buy Hasselblad X2D instead...I have Nikon ZF btw...
Nobody does hype-free as hype-free as you, Gordon. Thank you for another great review and I am blaming you for my wife calling me a "camera slag". 😆
You're very welcome you camera slag!
@@cameralabs😂
Thanks Gordon. I’ve really come to trust your reviews over the years. I too like the 40-ish mm focal length (am using a Nikon Z50 with 28mm primes as my EDC). I don’t see myself springing for something this expensive. But i totally feel its appeal.
Thanks! And yes, 40-ish for the win!
It's the sort of midlife crisis camera that you buy when you've got the money and you just want one from a professional photography perspective. Not many people will buy this as a camera. They would use professionally. They might buy as a second camera for joy photos but it's not practical enough to use in a professional setting in my opinion and that's partly due to the fixed focal length. It might be an okay portrait camera for portraits but you can't shoot all your landscape set that focal length. That's my little negative out the way. I think it's a wonderful camera and thank you for your review.
Thanks! I think plenty of people would use it for travel or as an everyday carry. I would if I could afford it.
@cameralabs me too mate
Right how do I create a mid-life crisis 😆 ha ha
Great review as always, thanks. Curious if you have an opinions on the "Leica Looks" profiles vs the Fuji film sims as that is a real point of differentiation
TBH, I find you can get pretty much any colour and tonal style you want from any camera these days. They all have good options. I find many of the Fujifilm SIMS can be a bit over-cooked, but they definitely have impact.
ライカQ3最高です。私の休日の写真は心地よいシャッター音と素晴らしい画像で癒されます。
日本より
Arigato Gozaimasu!
Love your videos Gordon,
If I had the money, I'd buy this, but I don't, but for me the 43mm focal length is more useful than the original 28mm (I do love the 35mm focal length and the 50mm)
The X100 VI is my favourite camera to shoot with, although making it weather proof, attaching a lens hood or filter is needlessly awkward it is not a deal breaker but I hope Fujifilm fix this in future versions of the X100
I am very cautious about carrying the X100 VI where I am, I doubt I'd ever take a Leica as an every day carry camera.
I wonder with the success of the X100 and with Leica introducing this camera, if Fuji would ever give me a X100 - 33 for a 50mm EQV.
Thanks! I do ask Fujifilm about other focal lengths often, but it doesn't seem to be something they're that interested in. I suspect we'll have that 23 f2 lens without a filter for a while yet.