Leica Q2 vs Sony RX1R II
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- Опубліковано 6 вер 2024
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Have a Q2 and bought a used R2 for 1800 with gariz case, hood, soft shutter release, extra batteries on ebay. I love what I get from my Sony at 35mm than the 28mm on Q2.
Excellent, objective and fair review. I am an RX1Rii owner, and I do absolutely agree with all the drawbacks you highlighted. Sony can be absolutely congratulated for creating the world's smallest full frame camera, but battery life was a serious compromise. It does mean that I carry around 5 spares fully charged ready to go, and even the quoted 200-250 shots are optimistic, especially on a cold day. That is especially the case if you leave the power on - and you often want to - because it takes a few seconds for the camera to fully boot up (so you can risk losing shots if you keep switching on and switching off). However, there is a great 3rd party market for accessory grips for the RX1Rii, and for lens hoods, and these hugely improve handling. I am a 35mm lens guy, and not a 28mm guy, so, the Leica fell short for me there. I love the out of camera colours of the Leica Q series, the EVF is better, and the larger size is better for bigger hands. There are some things about the Sony though - even though it is 5 years old: both the dynamic range and low light performance are superior to both the Q and the Q2. The Summilux is not a better lens than the Zeiss Sonnar, and there is a premium for having the red dot. The 4K thing doesn't bother me, personally. I have long wondered if Sony are going to release a new RX1R (as I am sure many have). It definitely needs far better battery life, and there have been improvements since 2015 in both IPUs and sensors that Sony makes. Also, EVFs that are more detailed. So, if an RX1RIII came out, I am betting it would be a stellar machine. But all the same.... both cameras are fantastic halo products, both will offer most people incredible image quality potential, and incredible colour, sharpness and bokeh, and both are built like tanks. But it will boil down to focal length choice and, there is something to say about the articulated viewing screen on the Sony, which can be very useful at times. Another thing about the Sony: it has a leaf shutter, which has a drawback, but also an advantage. The drawback is fastest shutter speed which shrinks as your aperture is between f2 - f4 - down to 1/2000 sec, and 1/4000 sec over f/4-22. But, the advantage is flash syncs at all shutter speeds. So, if you like flash photography, you might like the RX1Rii for that flexibility, but, if you like shooting wide open all the time, you will be faffing a lot with ND filters
I have the Sony RX1R. I've owned so many different cameras/lenses since I started shooting in 1980. The RX1R is up at the top for me. It's a magical camera despite it's flaws. The Zeiss Sonnar T lens paired with the Sony sensor makes for jaw dropping files that blow my mind every time I use it. It has a 3-D pop that I've only seen somewhat replicated in my medium format Fuji GFX 50r files. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to have the Leica Q as well, but as long as I have the RX1R I think it would be a bit redundant to have two wide angle fixed lens cameras. Almost pulled the trigger on a Leica Q but went instead with the Fuji medium format. I got a killer deal with the GFX 50r and a Fuji GF 45mm f2.8 that totaled less than what I would have spent on the Leica Q. Maybe someday. For now, I bring my Sony out when I want extra special images. I've put a lot of miles on this camera and so it gets babied now. If it ever stops working, I'll straight out and buy another one :)
Yup. I shot the Sony A850 (same sensor as RX1) and its the closes medium format asthenic i’ve seen from a 35mm sensor. I also shoot a H3D II from that same era and outside of the color bit depth, the Sony files are SO rich and pop. I sold my A850 for a Nikon D800e and HATED those files. Color ,depth and subject isolation is everything. New sensors just dont do it. They’re sharp and thats it lol
Das kann ich sehr gut verstehen, habe die RX1r ii und die GFX 50r und beides ist für mich mehr als Ausreichend, sie machen mich glücklich.
Loved the review. The Zeiss rendering is clearly better to my eyes. The greens are pleasanter and the reds are contrasty. Makes the RX1RII the easy choice for me!
Agreed!
Hi Matt! Thanks for the reviews. Unlike the Leica Q2, I own and use the Sony RX1RII. I do agree that the main differentiating factor between them is the focal length preference - assuming that whoever buys such gears will have hardly any concern about the price point difference. I got to admit that the minuscule form factor does result in a battery performance that is much lower than typical, however being cautious about it you can manage quite well with 2 spare and charged batteries and a little more care about the juice wasted. The lens performs absolutely stunning, color, bokeh quality, macro performance and sharpness keep surprising me even after years of use. Since I rarely shoot video, the only sign that reminds me about its age is the lack of IBIS which demands a lot more attention to image blur due to camera shake. Lately I also discovered its somewhat hidden eye focusing capability.
Looking at your review, I got my choice reconfirmed, honestly I like Sony colors a lot better than of Leica, even though the Red Dot as an instrument has a highly attractive nature. Also the 35mm focal length is more versatile for me for the typical - walk around the street or hiking - applications of such a lightweight and compact systems. But of course this is my personal flavor and I am sure that Leica is more pleasing to use as a gear. At the end it seems that those folks who are ready for footing such a hefty bill are segmented to either enjoy more the process of taking photos, or enjoy more obtaining stunning photos. The first segment will prefer Leica more, while the other will more likely prefer Sony. Obviously, in this review you were focusing a lot more about the process experience, than the process output, hence likely your overwhelming preference to Leica Q2. :-)
So should I use eye auto focus on the rx1r ii for bets pics?
I agree wholeheartedly about the Sony colors and overall image quality.
I have the Q1, it’s now my only gear, it’s such a joy to use.
Me too. Hard to want to use my old Sony A6000 series stuff after using Q
I have a Q2, think Q1 is a better choice, true Leica color, same lens, smaller image size means less demand on card speed.
I'm thinking about trading down from M system.
I owned both the Rx1rii and the Q. The colors out of the Q were superior but I didnt like the 28mm focal length. The Rx1rii is amazingly compact and the lens is unmatched by anything available even today. However the sensor and Sony’s 5 year old color science performs poorly in low light shifting colors of skintones to yellow/orange. I recently sold them both for a Leica CL and SonyA7C for their compact size and ability to use native and small M glass. Despite the poorer low light performance I seem to prefer the CL over the Sony for everyday shooting.
For me personally, this video was more than helpful! I was really thinking about getting the Leica Q2 the last days and I always like to hear what you think and now you made a video about it. So thanks a lot and maybe you can do some more videos about it in the future.
Greetings from Germany!
Love this video - especially the concept of comparing these two amazing cameras. I have owned the mysterious RX1 for seven years and realize its limitations and eccentricities. While the Q2's 28mm images are sweet and finely detailed for landscapes, the RX1's 35mm simply produces lusher, more compelling portrait results. I agree with you, Sony certainly ought to update this classic icon to Mark III status. Thanks for this fascinating contrast.
When I recently got back into photography I tried a few different cameras - Sony a6400 - then sized down to an RX100 VII - I enjoyed it and was happy with the quality but the camera didn't speak to me. When the Leica Q2 came on my radar I realized this was the type of experience I was looking for. It can be automatic if you want it but tweaking the settings is instantaneous and doesn't require menu diving. The settings on the camera are a joy compared to the Sony menus which can be overwhelming and frustrating. As a hobbyist, I want to take photos in a tactile way. I don't want to be pressing tiny buttons and choosing from a bunch of modes. The Leica has that type of workflow down - it's simple - and it's limits are exactly what make it the more creative choice for me.
I had the original Leica Q and it is to this day one of the greatest cameras I’ve ever used.
@Flat Earthers 4 Trump -
Ricoh gr2
Sony rx100 mk2
Fuji xt2
Fuji xt1
Nikon D750
Canon 6D
Nikon D610
Canon 70D
In order of fun.
Analog
Nikon FE
Olympus om1
Yashica 124g
Rolleiflex T
Pentax s3
Pentax spotmatic
In order of fun.
I used both of these. The RX1R II has a tilt screen, is lighter, has eye-af, and can charge in-camera. The real downsides are: no sealing, no touch screen, slow operation. Ergonomically, the negatives: the horrible manual focus ring, the AF/MF switch, the useless mode dial (vs Leica's shutter speed dial) and the video button that you mentioned. The RX1's lens is the best in class, but has a bit of a weird bokeh ball shape due to sticking out aperture blades, and weird sunstars. No other 35mm lens that weighs less than this camera is better than this zeiss 35/2. It's hard to compare 28mm vs 35mm lenses, but I think the RX1 has the edge in both the lens and the sensor performance. The incredible high ISO performance makes OIS mostly irrelevant.
The Q2 is significantly heavier and larger. And no eye-af makes pointing and shooting a bit less convenient. It also sadly has very limited long exposure capabilities at high ISO (4s at ISO 6400). On the bright side, it's weather-sealed and has a touch screen. The OIS is nice to have, but the camera rattles a bit when it's off. No tilt screen :(
I love my RX1, but when it eventually dies (and they all eventually die to "error 61"), the Q2 looks like an alright replacement. I'll miss the tilt screen though. And astro capabilities. I'd happily take a weather sealed, touch-enabled, tilt screen RX1R3 with an improved focus ring and aperture blades over Q2.
Matt, I fell in love with the Leica the minute you turned me on to it- like a year ago...Glad i picked it up.
Can't believe i stayed with the Sony as long as i did. The Sony is a nice machine but it's too small and the menu system is ...well it's a Sony Menu system.
I owned Leica Q and RX1, RX1R and RX1R II. First of all, lens on the Q is more like summicron than summilux. It is also evident in your Q 2 pictures especially with the foliage, no buttery smoothness or anything like that. I think the 3Dness and MF look of the Zeiss is on another level. Eventhough I love the RX1R Mark II for its EVF, flexible screen and AF performance, I am not sure that Zeiss glass was designed for such high megapixel sensor, there are a lot of aberrations, fringing etc.
For me, Ricoh GR offers 90 percent of what Q could offer except environmental portraits, for those cases there is nothing better than an earlier RX1 anyways. Also RX1 is slightly wider than 35mm, which works well for me.
What Q excels at, is mostly on emotional level. I have RX1 with me all the time because I want to make great pictures in as small package as possible. With Q, I want to take it out just to use it. Even the beeps feel special, it is crazy.
Another point is that Sony is self servicable, at least I could clean the sensor myself. With Q, it was sent to germany, it came back even worse, so in the end I sent it back again, which means couple of months of waiting. There was also a spot on the sensor which they couldn't fix, even under warranty. Owning a Leica with electronic parts is always scary for me.
I see pics from rx1r ii always sharp and looking great
Great comments. Agree about the superiority of the RX1R for IQ.
Funny how the reviews for Leica never mention a single SD slot, no eye AF, or only 4K 30. If this was a review for a "Real Pro" full frame camera, it would be immediately dismissed as being unusable by serious photographers, and relegated to a fashion accessory. In the end, if it makes you take pictures, its a great camera, and if it collects dust, its probably not for you. The nice thing about these cameras is that they seem to hold their value a lot better than the "Real Pro" cameras.
Nice work, keep it coming.
Yea definitely. Autofocus in general is a huge weakness on Leica, not even comparing it to the newer Eye-AF tech.
I honestly have no idea why people buy these new Leicas-and not only that, but they pay *more* for them.
The leica is a luxury item not a workhorse, and picture quality is much better than on any sony. In leica world you enjoy your cam, you enjoy focusing yourself. Leica users would never buy a clumsy sony.no one cares about your eye autofocus
JB You have “no idea” because clearly you have never taken the time to shoot with a Leica. Once you do, instead of dissing them out of hand, you’ll start looking to see how you can muster the funds to buy one for yourself. Or two. I now have the Q2 and the M10. Not spoiled “rich guy” here either. I traded in a ton of other equipment - my Sony system and also my Fujifilm system. Have not regretted my decision for an instant. These are cameras I absolutely enjoy picking up and shooting with. And they are not built to feel like they’ll go out of date as soon as the next, rushed updated version hits the market. So many Leica owners - film and digital - have had their cameras for years and years and they work as well today as the day they got them. Try one, seriously (Leica Stores, if you are anywhere near one, have day-loaner programs to help get you hooked. And their staff truly know the equipment inside and out.)
@@castielvargastv7931 It can be a workhorse why not...
On Tuesday of this week I received my Q2 in the mail. It's an absolute joy to carry!
you'll love it.
You bought a camera that expensive and trusted your post 😲
@@aussie8114 Yes, it's Canada after all. 😊
Be sure to get the grip or you might see it slip out of your hand!
Sony should make RX1R mark iii...
I have the RX-1 I picked it up used before the Leica Q came out . I got to use a Q right after they came out with it and it corrected all the issues of the RX-1, HOWEVER I think the 35mm sonnar is special I just love the images I get with it plus it's paid for. In the old days of film I was a M shooter and Leica's are really special but I now use all my M lenses on a Sony A7s. That Sonnar is the closest thing i have come to that matches my Ver 1 8 element 35mm summicron that I still use. They are both good.
If only Sony could release an RX1rIII..
I have been waiting for it forever. keep everything as it was and add PDAF focusing would be the PERFECT P&S camera.
@@vincenttam8642 and significantly better video
I down sized from full frame but kept the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R Mark II for the low light moments only full frame can deliver on and it's diminutive size means it's always with me. I also like the 35 mm focal length for the versatility it brings so have been very happy with the purchase.
As a previous owner of the RX1R mark1 and markii I can only say that I have very high regrets that I have sold the mark 1. What a quality and what a look, with these cam I made some of my very best photos. The mark 2 is a blender, EVF yes but no good, 42mp yes but noise from iso 1600, better AF, yes....
Batterie life, even worse than the mark 1
I have no experience with Leica but if I can get a chance to buy a 2nd hand, I might give it a try
Frank Wieczorek Hello Frank, I also had the RX1r and sold it considering to buy the mark ii. Could you please tell me what aspects in terms of IQ the mark 1 is superior to the mark 2. Thanks a lot!
@@eihabhani5941,
In my opinion the IQ of the mark 1 is much better if you do look for everything ISO 800 or higher, below that the mark 2 shows the better resolution etc., me personal, if I would buy one again and despite the slow AF system I would choose the mark 1.
Forgot to mention, one big draw back Sony has not given any software updates as yet for both mark1 and ii
This shows how important those few customers are for Sony.
My A9 got now firmware 6.0.
I think Sony is bad in that regards.
There is room for improvement I guess...
what noise ? i'm ok with mk2 noise up to 6400 and you can always squeeze 42 mpix to 16m and gone is the noise
@@andreika6681 OK that sounds good, I may have to learn how to squeeze an image down in mp
I got a used rx1rii a over a year ago for 1800 bucks. The images are fantastic but I struggled with usability. It took me a long time to figure out that you NEED to use center point tracking if you want any hope of using the camera.
Also, a third party hotshoe thumb grip helps considerably.
But yes, a larger grip with a larger battery would have made a huge difference.
So face tracking not advised? So to get clear focused shots then use center tacking focus?
@@inquisitvem6723
I've actually tried both and I'm not sure face tracking engages the phase detect autofocus, at least not in the same way continuous tracking does. Yes, from my experience, center point and tracking, hands down. It greatly improved the usability of the camera both in speed and accuracy.
I had many times face tracking didn't hit.
I got a used one recently and the pics are almost aways blurry when transferred and viewed on my laptop, but looks fine on lcd. I'm shooting in aperture mode so the shutter changes automatically...the hand shaje icon always flashes too when I take a pic...what is wrong? Thanks
@@inquisitvem6723 well, higher resolution sensors are more prone to showing camera shake than low resolution ones. It is recommended that you not shoot below 1/100 shutter speed to ensure sharp pictures due to the high megapixel count.
I've shot 1/60 fine, but lower than that could be an issue.
But yes, center point with tracking finds and keeps focus better than face detect. With face detect, I had soft images.
@@inquisitvem6723 if you go to menu 4, you can set the lowest shutter speed for auto iso. Make sure that is set to 1/100 (or try 1/60, if you want).
i loved the sony RX1r :) such a great package :)
It really is a great camera, I love my RX1Rii - always have, even if the battery life is annoying and the shutter speed reducing at larger apertures. I love it for its size, quality, the Sonnar 35mm (which is one of the best 35mm lenses available), and brilliant dynamic range and ISO performance. I like that all the main controls you want fall straight to hand, and there are some great accessories that enhance the camera's flexibility (I have an IR remote release, Sony case and grip extension, vented lens hood, etc.). The Leica Q and Q2 were and are great cameras, but, the price I thought was too high, the ISO performance disappointed me, and dynamic range too. Sony Exmor sensors are well known for being excellent performers on those fronts. The variable low pass filter too, and app extensions are also worth mentioning (I have a time lapse app, an interval timer app, and an app that enables creative filter effects, especially the skylight filter app is real handy)
I still love my RX1, it does produce since great results, I've seen the RX1R II used for $1900CAD, IMO I much better value than paying around $5000CAD for a Q2 unless you prefer Leica.
Why not get another? They are available and worth every penny!
I've owned rx1r for many years now. It's just nice camera to have with you on a daily basis.
When I was choosing the compact camera I compared Q & rx1 and Q was just on the border of size and weight factor. Why bother with Q if you can have the M system.
Over the time I've accepted all the peculiarities of the rx1 and kinda like it now. The one huge issue is of course battery life which is ridiculous. I didn't buy any spare batteries though so I keep it on charge almost all the time i'm not using it. But again this is not a workhorse and not designed that way. It's ok to keep it in the bag and get it out for some causual shooting when you walk from work to home.
Many complain that menus on rx1 is complicated and I absolutely disagree. It's very straightforward. You press Fn button and you see all settings you need. Even my wife could get it with relative ease.
My opinion on the EVF that this kind of camera doesn't need one and better if they kept the flash as in original one.
All in all I would not justify to pay the full price ) I got it used for very fair price )) If you are not limited finacially it's better to have a camera for every purpose. Fuji x70 & ricoh gr would be a nice additionion to the collection )🤣
If you buy the Leica Q2 because you actually want the Leica M, you are making a big mistake. You want the Q2 because you want a Leica with autofocusing system and a 28 mm lens.
You want the Sonny RX1R II because you want the best 35 mm compact camera made with highest quality and technology, and you take digital pictures just like the way with film camera (i.e., take only few shots when they are worth taking rather than spraying the subject with hundred shots (because they practically cost nothing and you can delete them later). Hence the battery becomes an issue. I used an M6 in the 1990s with a 35 mm summicron and now I have the Sonny XR1 for few years, and the Leica ways of Photography lives in the Sony. Both cameras will give you perfect pictures. Nowadays, I prefer coming back from vacation with fewer pictures and spend more time to live for the moment when travelling rather than running around all the time in order to score few hundred shots.
Come on Sony hurry up and bring out the Mark III so we got something new to look at, and not a watch battery next time, that's so dumb.
Been hoping for this comparison for ages haha 👍
I'd go for the Q2, as there is always the digi crop on tap with the higher res sensor, and the macro ability of the lens.
Sony has also digital crop and macro
I wish the Leica Q2 has the 35mm instead of the 28mm, only because Henri Cartier-Bresson shot with a 35mm. Nostalgia! ;-)
Glad to see an updated comparison. I am a Sony guy. I use my Rx1 Rii as my favorite carry. Even though I own a bunch of bodies.
A couple things. The biggest negative for the RX is that they have never updated the firmware. It is in bad need of an update. Sony is great at updating all their other models. They seem to have forgotten about this one.
Something that made me choose the RX over the Q2 (besides the affordability lol) is the articulating screen on the Sony vs the fixed screen on the Leica. For Street shooting it gets a lot of use.
Thanks for your video comparison. I still want to try the Leica someday. Just like you said I have heard before that people just love the feel of Leica.
trust me, size is a big deal, smaller size will help you a lot in extreme conditions and extreme environments
so bad that sony never bring firmware update to this awesome camera
#a7rii user
Bought a used RX1RII a few months ago. Didn't plan on keeping it but as a long-time Sony shooter I'm sued to the compromises, and if you can live with those, it is stellar. I believe they never updated the firmware because it is actually a "Cybershot" product-whole different team than the Alpha line up.
I have always wanted a Leica, and at some point, I will get the Q2 (I figure I can't really afford multiple lenses if I did buy an M - and the Q2 is a bargain). When it comes to focal lengths - my favorite is 35mm - but I would still choose the Leica. I own 3 Sony cameras - and the Sony A7R2 with the 35mm F1.8 is amazing - I much prefer the ergonomics of that than the RX1R. Although I prefer 35mm, I think 28mm is more flexible when traveling, and with the simulated 35mm mode on the Leica - you almost get a rangefinder feel (because it draws a square around what you will shoot). Weirdly - I am more torn between the Q2 and the Ricoh GR3 - it comes down to whether I want a fixed focal length camera that is pocketable or not...
For the price of the q2 you could probably buy quite a few Ricohs lol
The Leica Q2 got even better after the menu system update, it's even better than when it came out, really like the new menu
RX1R owner, believe is really hard to beat IQ, for its today (used) price ......
If you are shooting street with the rx1rii, great! Because nobody will be shocked of a big camera body (silent shooting). Nobody will steal this one. And you can crop the photos out. First to APS-C, then the digital zoom. It is stunning, but you can take photos with the 42 Megapixels, that will bring the subject very near to you, and it is an OK-Photo. The sensor is phantastic with steady shot, lpf, D-Range-, ISO and HDR-Optimizer and all the nice features. The batterys? I have got six in my bag, so no big deal. You can shoot one hour and take the next one. With this camera, you can take 90 Percent of all photos you need, except wide angle landscapes and typical super blurry portraits or sports. And you get quasi-macro with this stunning zeiss lense too.
Ure selling it very well... Nice.
it IS big compared with x70 or ricoh gr or coolpix a, stuff which is much les conspicuous for going covert or rogue on streets (x70 is kinda the best, *without* moving parts)
@@andreika6681 two words,…..full frame.
Matt - Nice job. Thanks for the fair comparison and evaluation.
Straightforward review, I appreciate that biases are acknowledged . There is something to be said for ergonomics, the Sony body is simply too small for that honker of a lens (I have the old RX1r). I installed a fotodiox grip, modified it with grip tape used for pistol handles, added aftermarket knock of lens hood, a hipster leather strap. Actually just ordered a used Zeiss viewfinder .... never modded a camera so much but it went from unwieldy to a really nice rig. Really enjoy the reviews.
didnt even realize that sony camera existed! hopefully they refresh that soon. even a non R version would be nice
Thanks... I am looking for a lightweight travel camera that produces great images.
Based on the images that you provided, i'll just have to purchase a couple batteries for the SONY.
Must be noted the lens on the Sony is actually slightly wider than 35mm (it's been years but iirc 32mm?), which I think is a perfect focal length. 28mm is a bit too wide for me, but it's versatile. IMO with the RX1 lens you get the best of both world. Hope they update it sometime!
Love niche vlogs... oh and both lovely cameras, but Leica with the 28mm would be my pick on this occasion.
I live with Q2 for a year now, it’s actually a pretty hefty camera and the lack of grip makes my hand sore and it’s difficult to shoot one hand specially in portrait mode. I recently bought a grip and it’s a god sent. I have tiny hand so camera size is never an issue, but with this grip, I can shoot with one hand, not worry about camera slips out and feel much more steady. I love the simplicity of the function, the wonderful, sharp lens, the bonus macro and the crop in feature (RAW is still the same coverage, but the feature helps me to compose). I’m not a rich person, nor make money from this and I have no regret buying this camera. I also use a Sony A7r4, a powerful camera. I know I would upgrade to r5 when it comes out, and I actually use only 1 or 2 sony lenses most of the time and I know I will buy more; but Q2 will probably last a life time with me, so it’s a bargain. Q2 3.0 firmware was released recently proves it is improving.
牛b
Forget the Q; it's not worth it! IMO
I've owned every single RX1 camera Sony has made. They are fantastic. That being said, I recently picked up a Leica Q2, as well. The Leica is leaps and bounds better in just about every single regard. As Matt said, nothing really outright "wrong" with the Sony (besides the battery life), but the Leica is just absolutely stellar and incredible to shoot with.
I had the last RX1- for about 6 mos... couldn't wait to get rid of it....
@@gewglesux haha was it the battery life? :D
A good friend of mine obsessed over the RX1 II when it first came out and got his hands on one as soon as it hit the shops. He got rid of it after half a year, citing the absolutely awful ergonomics and the abysmal battery. He went with a ricoh GR after and still shoots with that camera. This just comes to show that specs and test images don’t paint the entire picture. In an age where megapixels and software advances sell cameras more than anything else, it’s important to remember that the tactile experience of using the camera is also vital.
@@michaelli323 A fantastic and very valid point. That's another reason I love the Leica Q2 so much, even over my Sony a7RIV / a9II. The usability of the camera is so much more user friendly, and "easy". I think that's something most people that just judge Leica on their spec sheets and pricing and never try them, don't understand.
When I use my Q2, it's like taking a vacation compared to the Sony system. Love my Sony cameras, don't get me wrong, but the Leica almost feels like using a cell phone camera, but with results that are similar to professional camera systems.
Every time Matt does such a vs comparison, there will be a new version coming out within a month. I bet RX1R III will be announced shortly. Then we will have tonnes tonnes of Leica Q2 vs RX1RIII comparisons as soon as embargo expires. Typical Sony marketing strategy. Matt is ahead of time
Frank Luo : hope so. A new Sony RX1 is at least three years overdue. What Matt forgot to say, was that the camera has a very good Zeiss Lens.
The new Zeiss ZX1 full frame single 35mm lens that looks promising is also around the corner, but it has been promised for over a year now... still waiting. I don’t want to splash so much money on the Leica.
I had the RX1r and RX1rii. Now I own the Q2. There is a lot to like about the Q2, so I won't mention further. The only 2 things I miss on the RX1rii compared to Q2 - in camera charging and a compressed raw option.
How helpful is compressed raw option?
@@inquisitvem6723raw files are smaller, which also means faster write/read on camera and on PC, lesser storage demands on SD card and PC, and faster post processing.
@@cpchow6675 not so with the original Q. File sizes are smaller cause of the 24mp sensor.
In my personal opinion, the main deal breaker here is which focal length do you prefer.
Battery sucks on the Sony? Just buy one or two spare.
Sony not weather sealed? Just do not use it when it's raining, like you would do with any other camera.
Leica too bulky? Still smaller than a DSLR.
Leica too costy? You'll just pay it once and then forget it forever (you'll still spend over $3,000 if you buy the Sony!)
Etc...
In my opinion, I do also prefer the 28 mm focal length over the 35 mm. That gives you much more flexibility on any kind of shooting: street photography, architecture, landscapes...
BUT if I want to buy a COMPACT full frame camera, what I'm really looking for is for a real compact and portable thing.
So the main battle here, in my opinion, is just FOCAL LENGTH vs SIZE.
I'd rather prefer the compactness and portability of the Sony but with a 28 mm (or even wider) lens. As this is not possible (unless Sony launches an RX1R III with a 28 mm prime lens), I think the focal length is more important than the size, so I'd personally pick the Leica Q2 over the Sony RX1R II.
But... Why to pay that much on the Leica if you can get similar sized full frame mirrorless combos for much less money?
Again, if I'm looking for a compact full frame camera, what I want over all is a COMPACT camera.
I think I'm going to wait for the replacement of the Sony RX1R II (the RX1R III). Should it feature a 24, 25 or 28 mm lens (preferably even 24 or 25 mm), then I think that would be my go-to option: ANGULAR lens + COMPACT size.
Otherwise the only remaining options would be:
1. Getting the Leica (at that time when Sony will launches its Mk III version the price of the Leica could even drop), or
2. Waiting for some other manufacturer to launch another angular + compact full frame camera.
In the past owned the RX1R and the Leica Q. Now I have neither. I foolishly sold the RX1R when I bought the A7R. I say foolishly because all round the RX1R was better at producing photographs I liked than any with the A7R (and in fact I got my best shots with the A7R using adapted Leica glass and still I did not find it as inspiring as the RX1R). Later when it was announced I got the Leica Q, reasoning I would own it forever. At the time also owned the Ricoh GR. I mention this because during the 18 months I owned the Leica Q I spent more time shooting with the GR than I ever did with the Q. I found the Leica Q boring. It was a boring camera to use an never inspired me, and never in the way I enjoyed using the RX1R. So, and this is very personal, I now own the GRIII which is even more used than the GR and I would consider if I ever wanted another premium compact the RX1RII over the Leica Q. Just my two cents.
In what way is Q boring. Version software 1, was boring, but 2 and 3... Different ball game. And manual focus lens is gorgeous.
My Q-P is far very very far from boring. Actually will keep it forever and I shoot with multiple formats and brands.
To context my remarks I was a long term Leica RF shooter including the M6, M7 (my favourite) and the M8. I thought I would move with the times with the Q but in truth I should have just bit the bullet and invested in a M9, or M10. Now I shoot Fuji but I wouldn't rule out at some time going back to a digital RF.
@@enigmabletchley6936 I recently picked up a RXR1 M2 for half off msrp. It’s in like new condition. I honestly must say shooting the Q-P against the RXR1 ii gives me 2 different experiences. Mostly in the user interface. But that Zeiss IQ is incredible.
@@rumporridge1 I owned the first version and it was a stonking good camera. The only issue was the 35mm lens was just too narrow for me. I think I sold it to raise the cash for the Leica Q now I think of it.
Damn! Now I am looking at s/h Leica M10s all over again :-)
The value proposition on these fixed lens cameras is interesting. On the one hand your getting a good lens plus camera for a comparable or better price than an ILC plus lens. On the other hand if the camera dies then the lens is also toast.
I used to travel in China with a Leica M240+Elmarit 28mm and it was a very good combo. For me the ideal focal lens is 50mm and I'm dreaming of a Q + 50mm. But if 50 is not possible, 28 is my choice, especially with 47MP and the crop it allows. That's why I'll probably fall for a Q2.
I know this is a camera channel, but I like that model a lot! I didn't even care what camera was being used when she was on screen! She's absolutely stunning!
Still rocking the original RX1. I absolutely love this camera and have taken1000s of photos with it. The only issue for me is the Flippen dust on my sensor...every photo over f8 I need to cleanup in LR...man why they didn't put sensor shake in it is beyond me...but still an amazing camera
Have the original RX1, the Q and the Q2. As well as the focal length difference, what else is the biggest difference is the ergonomics. Here Leica wins hands down. It’s a joy shooting with the Q2, and this is for someone who started preferring 35mm to 28mm. So, don’t just let the focal length decide for you, try a different one. I had previously tried the Fuji X70 and the Ricoh GRIII and still didn’t like 28mm, though the GRIII is super sharp.
The sigma FP with L mount is a tiny camera too especially when pared with a small pancake lens. You can pick up the sigma FP and 45mm lens for 1500 new.
I now have the Q2. I looked at the Sony, but thought the ergonomics are terrible. The Q2, on the other hand, is a joy to use. The 28mm focal length is also more versatile.
The price not withstanding, I must say that a camera with a single fixed lens is such a liberation for a photographer in these day and age of bagful of heavy and ridiculously sized and priced zoom lenses . The best camera is always the one that one uses most frequently and these being fixed lens and gimmick free ( much more so Leica than Sony ) will go a long way to help a photographer take better photos. Good review.
Sonys are a pain in the arse to use and the Leica is brilliant to use. That's always been the difference between Sony, Leica and Fuji. Sony needs to wise up to this if they want to attract more professionals. But then again all the comments about this over the years have fallen on deaf Japanese ears.
Good review. I have the Leica Q2 and agree with all you say. It’s really wonderful. I have it with me most of the time. Thanks
This kind of cameras is absolutely awesome and close to my perfect camera for street photography. But they really should make this lens detachable as normal lens, I don't want to send this cam to service in case of simple sensor dust for example (which I guess is not an issue with weather sealing on Leica).
Matt, this would have been a perfect opportunity for a blind shootout to have everyone vote on the images.
The issue is not "image quality" but ergonomics and ease to use. In 2018, I had to sold my A7RIII after 6 months just because I never had a so few "photographer friendly" camera in 40 years. And that's without speaking about 3 breaks in 4 months... At the end, I will probably soon go for this very versatile and pleasant to use Q2.
@@marc6652 This could be said about every modern camera
@@vlcheish Yes and that's why "image quality" is not the main point when you go for a camera. What's more, you should determine first what is "a good picture" (and it's rarely the sharpest).
It's like comparing cars and focusing on engin performances without taking into account what you want to do with it, confort, handling, security etc...
@@marc6652 Correct and I never said it was the "main point " so what is your point?
@@vlcheish "I never said it was the main point"...
IT IS your main point... because there's no other point wise guy.
i think i like the FOV of the leica and the processing of the sony
I have a lot of heavy lenses for my a7iii (Sigma 105 1.4, 200-600, etc.) but just for the fun of shooting randomly I bought a 24 2.8. I wish there would be a tiny 28 though.
At 7:12 you mention perspective based on focal length. The Nikon School teaches that perspective is based on distance to the subject and an image shot with a 20mm lens matches the same image shot with a 200mm lens when severely cropped. And while I love the moon over the mountains with a 600mm lens I believe the Q2 will get the same perspective from the same distance, but very few usable pixels due to the new image size after cropping to 600mm. When you MOVE the camera closer to the subject to match the 35mm of the Sony, then yes you get a different perspective due to distance. This can easily be proven by shooting the Q2 in the 35mm crop mode side by side with the Sony.
+Matt Granger you should have selected the A7R II and the Sony 35mm f/2.8 or 28mm f/2 which would be far less than the new RX1R II.
i only watched this for the lady in red, lovely. I would take the Leica, or a Fujifilm x100
How to put bigger battery in a compact body like RX1r ii? Do you want smaller shoes outside and bigger inside???
I think that the Leica looks way more interesting and pleasing.
If we remove the colour grade and the tag ! It'll be hard to decipher
It's not though. I have used both.
You think wrong, you made that choice due to the leica name lmfao
I had the Sony at one time, but switched to the Leica Q2 about a year ago, there is simply no comparison between the two and the value of that Summilux lens. Sony should study the Q2 and see what they can come up with. I suspect the amazing improvements of the Q2 over the original Q is why Zeiss still to this day has not released the ZX1 35mm camera that they announced 2 years ago.
I owe Rx1rm2 and if there’s a mark 3 coming out, I’d buy it in blink of an eye!
“Simply no comparison between the two” …..Sony’s RXR1 ii came out a few years before the Q2 was drawn up. The Sony was and still is a marvel of photographic engineering including the pop up evf, tilt screen and portable full frame size.
My experience is the opposite of yours. I had the Leica Q and dumped it for the RX1R. Tried the Q2 and was underwhelmed. Leica is a bit overrated.
11:18 I had to laugh when you said the Sony is "cheaper" - hey, we still talking about >$3.000 😁
paid 850€ for my rx1r mk2 in mid 2019, 2nd hand, works ok, but i had to repair it after ~6mo, 300e extra...
That is definitely the biggest issue with the RX1Rii: very poor battery life. I have 5 batteries charged up when I use mine around and about, and I will often get to the fifth! Personally, I prefer 35mm, don't have issues with ergonomics: but that is because I do have a grip on mine. I do love the stealthiness of the Sony: brilliant for street shooting without getting harrassed for taking photos, general travel photography, and I also find it very good for landscape and contextual portraits. I got mine because I got bored carrying heavy kit everywhere, and I wanted a new challenge: so went for fixed focal length photography and, honestly, I have shot far more with my RX1Rii than I did with my previous DSLR. Pricewise: these are niche, low volume, so come with hefty price tags... but imaging performance and lens performance (the Zeiss Sonnar is delicious on the Sony) is up there with the best DSLRs. Cropping: no problem - plenty of pixels to play with
I like the color of the Sony best. One of the reasons I buy their TVs is they remind me of going to the movie theater. The colors are just like the movies I used to see in the theaters.
One reason I sold an old Sony camera was it was too small, I see they haven’t changed.
Good review. My preference is definitely for the Sony. I much prefer the Zeiss "look" to that of the Leica. But more important: the Sony offers a 1:1 aspect ratio! I HATE rectangles and am obsessed with the beautifully symmetric SQUARE. Leica simply does not offer that option, even though all the images can be cropped in post.
eh.. at that price for the Leica, I'd rather purchase an a7r3 (w everything it offers) plus a 12-24mm 2.8 gm, and almost enough change for a high end gimbal. or an a7r3, 24mm 1.4, plus a drone..
Hi Matt, your video help me to conclude that Leica does can make a fantastic camera at a reasonable price! I don't think that the Q2 is a bargain because all other current Leica cameras and lenses have overwhelmed prices, though they are fantastic gears but Leica dose can make them cheaper , it proved that it can with it's own Q series.
I prefer the colors (vegetation greens and reds) on the Sony. Greens on the Leica tend to the warmer (yellowish) side and I don't like that on vegetation / nature / landscape shots at all.
On the other hand, I very much prefer 28 mm focal length over 35 mm as a landscape / architecture shooter.
What I'm going to do is just to wait for the release of the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX1R III (hope it will come with a new 28 mm lens instead of the 35 mm).
Thanks for this fantastic video. 👍🏻
This is a very fair comparison. Thanks for the video.
Just one point, in terms of perspective, cropping an image is *exactly* the same as changing focal length. Changing focal length does not alter perspective.
Nope. Compression and distortion changes for every focal length.
Following your statement, we can now build a camera with 16mm with 800mp, then just crop everytime you would want to use 35mm, 50mm, 200mm, ... Eh? Physics doesn’t work that way!
@@euvieeugenio no, you’re wrong. Perspective changes when camera position changes. Changing focal length without changing camera position absolutely does not change perspective. You will notice no difference between an image zoomed and an image equivalently cropped. That’s physics. Try it.
@@KimAldis I get your point now. This is an added information. Thank you much 🙂
@@KimAldis I tried this with a 16mm and 70-200mm and had the same exact composition and perspective. The 200mm has different look to the 16mm zoomed in all the way to 200mm. What do you mean?
@@allena3430 what do you mean by "different look"?
If I am not wrong Leica has a macro option. That can be a deciding factor
Not only does it have built-in macro, the mechanism is an engineer’s delight to use. They clearly spent a lot of time on this. It has its own dial, close to the body (and well away from the focus ring and aperature ring). A quick flick of the dial and you’re not only in macro mode, but the lens markings also change with it so when doing critical work, you really do have accurate, on-lens guidance. I LOVE the Q2 (and the Q) macro feature. It is actually a lot of fun to use.
rx1r mk2 has macro, if it decides that much for you
I want a Sony RX1Riii so bad!
What straps are you using? The card in the video didn't work
I heard that RXRII will be last version of the serie ,which means they will be no RX1R III . idk if you heard the rumor ?
It's probably true since it has been many years and sony still has not updated the camera
The Q2 is really the clear winner, I can't imagine spending 3300$ for the Sony in 2020. But I have to say that I would love a updated version with current tech and a new evf ;-)
i cant imagine getting a used q2 for under 3k. and i've got my rx1r mk2 used for 900e. so, q2 is a clear looser for "poor" folks
You basically summed up what I don't like about Sony. No question, they implement some amazing technology and (on paper) are some of the best around, but they're no fun to shoot with. The menus are tedious and the whole shooting experience is rather sterile. They take great images, but I never felt like I couldn't wait to take them out to shoot. Of all the cameras I've shot with, only Leica and Fuji have that impact on me.
I have the Q2 and love it. Great review, thanks.
Helpful review. Very nice. Thanks. Can you say how the q2 AF improved with the latest firmware? I'd like the best of both worlds: excellent AF and MF.
Great review! I definitely prefer the Zeiss look.
thank you very mutch for the review .👍
Thanks for wearing a mask out there. A good example for a change.
@Little Green Spartan I would debate with you that the mask does absolutely nothing old mate , certainly i have no doubt that like anything it does have some downfalls , and as well like anything can also be misused.
However if you are put in a cramped room full of people that you may well assume some of them to be breathing the virus around around , even if there is only a 40 % chance of it protecting you from lighter than air virus droplets in air suspension , i would much rather have the disposable one use mask on than be having nothing at all .
You are free to do whatever you wish though .
Have a great day .
@Little Green Spartan
You are absolutely, completely wrong. Melt blown masks reduce fluid transmission from up to 6 feet down to 2 inches. And there is no risk of carbon dioxide poisoning from wearing one.
Please keep your dangerously stupid comments to yourself.
Please review the Sigma fp... also a compact full frame :)
Simga FP is my perfect camera
If only they had an evf
Where can I get that red camera strap?
Links to the straps please...missed from the video
Which camera are you giving away? Asking for a friend.
really nice, but I could never ever afford a Leica cam, just too expensive here in the Philippines.
Thank you, Matt, do you think you can focus on Otus lenses family as well? Rumors say that they will be upgraded for mirrorless cameras. Do you think they are the best quality lenses produced so far? Can you compare them, particularly 28 f/1.4, with Leica lenses? Thank you so much.
Hey Arif - I have done plenty of videos on Otus lenses. Have you used Leica or Otus lenses? THey are extremely different - I mean they are both optically excellent and very expensive - but in the field operation, and the kind of camera they are designed for - totally different.
Any hot tips on what to do about the lens cap on the Leica? It really annoys me that it does not have a tighter fit (mine keeps falling off). Otherwise, great camera, great comparison review!
Got any mates with 3d printer ;) .
I’ve spotted a couple of “clip on” caps out there. Check Amazon. Also, as a former owner of the Q-P, the “all matte” treatment definitely created a much more snug fit b/t the lens hood and the lens cap. Almost too much so, actually. Both “P” style matte hood and cap are readily available as accessories you can buy. For me, on my Q2, I tend to just take the cap off and pocket it-the hood really does do a very nice job of protecting that oh-so-expensive front glass....
4:12 what is that colour grading?? I like it so much!
Hey Matt! Ever done any astrophotography? Can you do a video on the topic?
Sony for me
An RX1R III with the current 61mp sensor will be incredible for that crowd. For pocketable devices my RX100 V is great and my a7R 4 is fine when I need something slightly larger and interchangeable lenses. Can we get a boudoir shoot with Steph please? 😁
I'm disappointed Sony hasn't pursued the RX1r3 project to date.
Hi Dave, the sales for the RX1R must have always been very low. You can actually still buy the original 24Mp RX1R as a new camera from Sony on the UK website.
@@jward3622 - I appreciate this. The battery life is an issue with this series. However Sony have solved this issue the newer battery in the A73 series. If this battery could be accommodated in the RX1R3 sales would likely increase. I just think it's a missed opportunity.
Echoing J Ward’s comment.... Sony probably never made a profit on this camera. They knew going into it that they were competing against Leica. I’d read years ago that the RX1RII was built by a special team in Japan (not outsourced to Thailand, Vietnam, China like most Sony products). The care, the finishing, the materials, all first rate. I can feel it in mine when I hold it and work the controls. It feels... solid. Beautifully finished, no rough edges, etc. Really nice and truly premium. For a brief stint, Sony even tried to pump the price to $3,800 when Leica put the Q up over $4k. They failed at this miserably. Sony (mass market) is not Leica (targeted, premium brand). I had bought mine before that price bump and felt bad for anyone who did buy at the higher price - especially when they suddenly dropped it back down to its “regular” $3,300 price. I thought of selling mine too during that price spike! as for the Rx1RIII, I too would love to see how Sony would approach it. They certainly have the tech and the know how to do it.
Nice review Matt. Love the Q2 but having a hard time finding a decent quality strap. What strap are you using? Thanks!
geni.us/rocknroll
Anything you can recommend I can get from the US? Thanks!