The year was 2015 when Leica introduced the first camera in its now-popular Q series. With a speedy autofocus capability and excellent image quality, the camera went on to win the photographers’ hearts. With each iteration, Leica kept upgrading to make the Q series one of the best full-frame compact cameras in the industry. After the success of the Leica Q3, it seems the German camera maker wants to surpass its own innovations. And it appears that they have achieved the impossible with the Leica Q3 43.
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What Makes the Leica Q3 43 so Special?
The Leica Q3 43’s camera body is similar to the other models. It features a BSI CMOS full-frame sensor with Triple Resolution Technology, allowing you to choose between 60, 36, and 18 megapixels. It also includes a fast, hybrid autofocus system and tough IP52-rated weather sealing. The model also features wireless charging, a rarity for cameras.
However, the model stands because of its unique lens: the APO-Summicron 43 f2 ASPH. The lens is a new addition to the company’s APO series, but what makes it different is that it imitates the perception of the human eye. As a result, the images that you see will appear more natural and in line with how you see the world. In a way, one could even forget that they are shooting with a camera! There is also a dedicated macro mode in the Leica Q3 43.
Specs:
- 11 elements in 8 groups, 4 aspherical elements.
- E49 filter thread
- Image stabilization for photos and videos
- It is as small and compact as the 28mm
- Digital zoom options include five options: 1.4x (equivalent to 60 mm), 1.7x (equivalent to 75 mm), 2.0x (equivalent to 90 mm), 2.8x (equivalent to 120 mm), and 3.5x (equivalent to 150 mm)
- Weather-sealed
In addition, the Leica Q3 43 makes itself visually different by employing a grey leather covering.
Leica Achieved the Impossible
To give you a better understanding, the 43mm lens was not created until Pentax HD FA 43mm f1.9. The lens was first created in 1997 and received an improved, refreshed look and feel in 2021. Leica is taking it a step forward by introducing the 43mm f2 Summicron Apochromatic Macro lens. It is a macro variant, which is again an undefeatable feat.
Not only does one get the truest human eye vision perception, but they also get a chance to achieve the creamiest bokeh. An f2 is pretty wide, and it can be used as an exceptional portrait lens with macro capabilities.
Is it Worth The Price?
The Leica Q3 43 is priced at $6,895, slightly higher than the original Leica, which is $6,295. That’s purely due to the lens, which is quite unique in its own way. Furthermore, a 43mm is a great addition to any photojournalist, wedding photographer, or street photographer’s arsenal. While an odd focal length for those using 35mm and 50mm, 43mm can truly make your pictures stand out.
So, is it worth the price? Absolutely. As we said in our review of the Leica Q3, the camera offers some excellent upgrades over the Q2. The only place we felt it lacked was the continuous shooting speed. However, if you can look past it, you will get an exceptional device that can last you a very long time.
The Leica Q3 43 is available in Leica stories and galleries around the world.