Leica is known for producing some of the world’s best cameras, and the Leica Q2 is no exception. This full-frame compact camera is designed for photographers who demand the highest quality images in a compact and easy-to-use camera. In this Leica Q2 review, we’ll take a closer look at the camera’s features, performance, and image quality, to help you decide if it’s the right camera for your needs.
Leica Q2 Specs
Here are the specifications for the Leica Q2:
- Sensor: Full-frame 47.3 megapixel CMOS sensor
- Lens: 28mm f/1.7 ASPH lens
- ISO range: 50-50,000
- Autofocus: Contrast-detect AF system with 49 focus points
- Continuous shooting speed: Up to 10 frames per second
- Viewfinder: 3.68 million dot OLED electronic viewfinder
- LCD screen: 3-inch 1.04 million dot touchscreen LCD
- Video: 4K UHD video at 30 frames per second, 1080p Full HD video at up to 120 frames per second
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Battery life: Approx. 350 shots per charge
- Dimensions: 130 x 80 x 91.9 mm (5.12 x 3.15 x 3.62 in)
- Weight: Approx. 718 g (25.35 oz)
These specs show that the Leica Q2 is a high-end compact camera, designed for professional photographers who demand the best image quality and performance. With its full-frame sensor, fast autofocus system, and 4K video capabilities, the Leica Q2 is capable of capturing stunning images and videos in a small and easy-to-use package. Additionally, its weather-sealed body and wireless connectivity make it a versatile camera for travel and documentary photography.
Design and Build Quality
The Leica Q2 has a sleek, minimalist design, with a magnesium alloy body that’s both durable and lightweight. The camera’s controls are well-placed and easy to use, with a customizable menu system that lets you access your favorite settings quickly. The Q2 has a fixed 28mm f/1.7 Summilux lens that’s perfect for street photography, travel, and documentary photography. The lens is weather-sealed, so you can use the camera in almost any weather condition.
Features and Controls
The Leica Q2 is packed with features that make it one of the most versatile cameras on the market. It has a 47.3-megapixel full-frame sensor, which provides stunning image quality with exceptional detail and dynamic range. The camera has a built-in electronic viewfinder and a 3-inch touchscreen display that lets you quickly change your settings and review your images. The Q2 also has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, which makes it easy to share your images with your smartphone or tablet.
Performance and Autofocus
The Leica Q2’s autofocus system is fast and accurate, even in low-light conditions. The camera has a high-speed autofocus system that can acquire focus in just 0.15 seconds. It also has a focus peaking feature that makes manual focus easy and precise. The Q2 has a continuous shooting speed of 10 frames per second, which makes it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Image Quality and ISO Performance
The Leica Q2’s image quality is exceptional, with sharp detail and accurate colors. The camera’s full-frame sensor provides a wide dynamic range, which means you can capture both bright highlights and dark shadows without losing detail. The Q2 has an ISO range of 50 to 50,000, which gives you plenty of flexibility when shooting in different lighting conditions. The camera also has a low noise level, even at high ISOs.
Video Capabilities
The Leica Q2 can shoot 4K video at 30 frames per second, with full manual control over your settings. The camera also has a slow-motion mode that can capture footage at up to 120 frames per second at 1080p resolution. The Q2’s video quality is excellent, with sharp detail and accurate colors.
Battery Life and Storage
The Leica Q2 has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can take up to 350 shots per charge. The camera also has a built-in 32GB memory card that can store up to 1300 RAW files or 5000 JPEG images. The Q2 also has a USB-C port that lets you charge the battery and transfer your images to your computer or other devices.
Pros and Cons of the Leica Q2
Pros:
- Exceptional image quality with a full-frame sensor and sharp 28mm f/1.7 lens
- Weather-sealed body that’s durable and can be used in almost any condition
- Fast autofocus system and high-speed continuous shooting for capturing fast-moving subjects
- Built-in electronic viewfinder and touchscreen display for easy controls and image review
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for easy image sharing
- 4K video capabilities with full manual control
Cons:
- Expensive price point compared to other compact cameras
- A fixed lens may not be suitable for all types of photography
- Limited battery life of 350 shots per charge
- No built-in image stabilization, which can make handheld shooting difficult in low light conditions
- Limited zoom capabilities may not be suitable for some photography needs
Here is a table summarizing the pros and cons of the Leica Q2:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional image quality | Expensive price point |
| Weather-sealed body | A fixed lens may not be suitable for all types of photography |
| Fast autofocus system and high-speed continuous shooting | Limited battery life of 350 shots per charge |
| Built-in electronic viewfinder and touchscreen display | No built-in image stabilization |
| Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity | Limited zoom capabilities |
| 4K video capabilities with full manual control |
This table provides a quick and easy way to compare the positive and negative aspects of the Leica Q2.
Leica Q2 Price
When compared to other cameras on the market, the Leica Q2’s price point of around $4,995 puts it in the higher price range for compact cameras. However, it is important to note that the Leica Q2 is a premium camera designed for professional photographers who demand the highest quality images and performance from their cameras.
In terms of other high-end compact cameras, the Sony RX1R II and the Fujifilm X100V are two cameras that are often compared to the Leica Q2. The Sony RX1R II has a similar full-frame sensor and fixed 35mm f/2 lens as the Leica Q2, and it is priced at around $3,299. The Fujifilm X100V has a smaller APS-C sensor and a fixed 23mm f/2 lens, and it is priced at around $1,399.
FAQs about Leica Q2 Review
The Leica Q2 is a premium camera, with a price point of around $4,995.
Yes, the Leica Q2 has an ISO range of 50 to 50,000, which makes it suitable for shooting in low-light conditions. However, it does not have built-in image stabilization, which can make handheld shooting difficult.
Yes, the Leica Q2 can shoot 4K video at 30 frames per second, with full manual control over your settings.
Final thoughts
The Leica Q2 is the ultimate full-frame compact camera, designed for photographers who demand the highest quality images in a small and easy-to-use camera. Its exceptional image quality, fast autofocus system, and weather-sealed body make it a versatile camera for travel, street, and documentary photography. While it may not be suitable for all types of photography due to its fixed lens and limited zoom capabilities, the Leica Q2 is a great investment for photographers who want a premium camera that can deliver outstanding results.
