Ahh, Leica. Nothing says “luxury” like that little red dot. Their latest camera promises plenty of that: the Leica Q3 43 is precisely crafted in Germany, offering rock-steady, high-level performance and synergistic joy for the user.
There are two main differences between the Q3 and the Q3 43, and the second one (USB-C support for microphones) is coming to the Q3 via a later firmware update. That leaves perhaps the most important part of any camera: the lens. The Q3 sports a Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH lens; the Q3 43, as you may have predicted, is outfitted with an APO-Summicron 43mm f/2 ASPH lens. While there is a slight reduction in maximum brightness, it’s worth noting that the increased focal length of the Q3 43 means that it offers significantly more control over background blur and bokeh (check out a direct comparison here).
The Q series features cameras with full-frame sensors and fixed lenses. Having a fixed lens can be a huge advantage from an engineering standpoint, allowing the sensor and lens to be married in a way that’s impossible on more optically adaptable bodies. It also allows the final product to be substantially smaller. With a charming choice of “normal” focal length—a callback, of sorts, to the 42mm focal length of the original Leica made by Oskar Barnack back in 1914—this is absolutely intended to be a carry-around street camera, so compact form is key.
The full-frame sensor captures 60 MP still images and up to 8K video, so you’ll never find yourself hurting for pixels. Plus, it’s all there physically: easy-to-tune custom buttons, an EV adjustment dial, physical aperture ring, and physical shutter speed dial. This is the kind of camera you can melt into, with which you can become one. (For even more tactile involvement, Leica has also created solid brass accessories, including a thumb grip, shutter release add-on, and lens hood.) The Leica Q3 43 is expandable via HDMI and USB-C—including compatibility with microphones, external recorders, monitors, power banks, and more—and interacts seamlessly with your devices using the Leica FOTOS app.
Eager to embrace the intemperate richness of the Leica Q3 43 experience? Please call or visit your local Mike’s Camera to secure one of these gems for yourself.
