Leica Q3 43: Model variant of the popular luxury compact camera presented

Leica presents the Leica Q3 43. The high-end compact camera with a fixed focal length of 43 millimeters complements the Q3 basic model.

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Leica

3 min. read

Leica Camera AG has introduced another version of its high-end compact camera Q3, the Q3 43. While the basic model of the Q3 works with a fixed Summilux 1:1.7/28 mm ASPH. lens, the 43 model, as the name suggests, comes with an APO-Summicron 1:2/43 ASPH. This increases the focal length from 28 to 43 millimetres, while the maximum aperture is reduced slightly from f/1.7 to f/2.0.

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The focal length of the lens therefore lies between the classic street focal length of 35 millimetres and a standard focal length of 50 millimetres, which corresponds to human vision. This makes the new Q3 43 suitable for both street photography and portraits. This should make it easier for photographers to capture their subjects realistically and without distortion. It has also adopted the macro mode from the basic model.

The lens design consists of eleven lens elements in eight groups. In addition to an apochromatic correction, four aspherical lenses have been used. Leica also uses an optical image stabilizer.

The Leica Q3 43 retains almost the same dimensions and weight as the basic model, except that the lens is around five millimetres longer and the weight (including battery and memory card) has been increased by around 50 grams to 793 grams.

Apart from the lens, the technical specifications of the two camera models are the same. Apart from the optics, they differ externally in the color of the leather cover, as the Q3 43 comes in grey instead of black.

The Leica Q3 43 comes in gray instead of black.

(Image: Leica)

The manufacturer uses the maximum sensor resolution of 60 megapixels for digital zooming up to an equivalent focal length of 150 millimetres. This produces an image section with a resolution of five megapixels. To do this, the camera displays frame lines in the 5.76 MP OLED viewfinder or on the tilting monitor with touch function. In general, the resolution of the sensor can be set in three stages to 60, 36 and 18 megapixels per image, which Leica calls Triple Resolution Technology. Other camera manufacturers such as Sony also allow the resolution to be reduced with interpolated pixels.

The Leica Q3 43 supports video recording up to a resolution of 8K. From the end of October, it should also be possible to connect external Rode microphones via USB-C. Tests will show whether this also works with other manufacturers.

From October, it should be possible to connect Rode microphones via USB-C.

(Image: Leica)

The camera can be connected to the Leica Photos app on a smartphone or tablet via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The manufacturer also provides a new image look with the Q3 43: Leica Chrome, which is intended to give the images an analog charm.

With protection class IP52, the camera is said to be robust and suitable for use in dusty and damp conditions.

For users who need more grip on the tidy camera body, Leica offers an optional multifunctional protector in black with an integrated handle for 250 euros. It is attached to the tripod thread.

The Leica Q3 43 is available immediately at a price of 6750 euros, which is 500 euros more than the basic model.

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(cbr)

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This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication.