Leica Q3 43 Adds Natural Perspective to Q Lineup

There have been many iterations and variations of the Leica Q since its inception, and all have shared the same phenomenal 28mm Summilux lens. That lens has lasted through collaborations, exterior redesigns, and even multiple sensor generations—which is an impressive feat considering ever-increasing sensor resolutions. Today, that lens gets a partner with the release of the Q3 43, which, as you may have guessed, brings a unique APO-Summicron 43mm f/2 to the table. Promising perhaps the closest to a natural perspective as a lens can, this will be a compelling option for photographers looking for something more natural and tighter than the 28mm of the original Q.

Why 43mm?

The choice to go with a 43mm has to do with its ability to replicate a person’s natural vision—this focal length is very similar to the field of view of your own eyesight. It is technically an even more accurate rendition than 50mm, which is often considered to be the “normal” lens. This true-to-life perspective makes it an extremely versatile optic, suitable for portraiture, street, and everyday photography.

This one goes above and beyond with its APO designation. Leica’s Apochromatic lenses are often considered best in class with essentially no chromatic aberration or distortion. It retains the optical image stabilization and dedicated macro mode of its predecessor as well as a quiet leaf shutter.

Another benefit of the 43mm lens and its fast f/2 aperture is that it can achieve a shallower depth of field than the 28mm f/1.7 of the Q3, resulting in even smoother bokeh in your images and making the Q3 43 an even better camera for portraiture.

It also still offers multiple digital zoom settings to effectively shoot at different focal lengths. Starting at 43mm in full-frame, the Q3 43 can then be set to 60mm, 75mm, 90mm, 120mm, and 150mm “focal length” crops.

Leica Looks make a return for shooting images with a distinct creative style automatically applied. Leica Chrome joins an existing selection of analog-influenced looks and gives you a ready-to-share image—especially if you opt to quickly transfer images from the camera to a smartphone via the Leica FOTOS app.

(Nearly) Same Q Body, Same Q Specs

Beyond the lens change, the Q3 43 features only two conspicuous changes that differentiate it from the original Q3:

• A gray leatherette

• “Leica Q3 43” engraving on the hot shoe

Internally, the Q3 43 is the same as before. It has a full-frame 60MP BSI CMOS sensor with Leica’s Triple Resolution Technology, a sensitivity range of ISO 50-100,000, and a fast hybrid autofocus system. The camera can also shoot video at up to 8K resolution and now it will support RODE microphones via the USB-C port.

The Leica FOTOS app returns and the Q3 43 features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for a wireless connection. It is also certified as a Made for iPhone device and can be directly connected using a USB-C or Lightning cable.

Customize to Your Heart’s Content

Featuring the same layout and size as the original Q3, all existing accessories will work with the Q3 43. This includes items like the Wireless Charging Handgrip and Q3 Thumb Support. The various shoe covers and soft release shutters are also naturally designed to work well with the Q3 43.

A new release for the Q3 series is a Multifunction Protector. This black leather grip wraps around the camera, features an integrated handgrip, and has an Arca-type compatible baseplate.

Create a Q that matches your personal style.

The Q3 43 finally gives fans of the compact camera series an alternate focal length to choose from—and it’s a unique one at that. Is this the Q update that you have always wanted? Let us know your thoughts or questions in the Comments, below!