Key Takeaways
1. The Leica Q3 Monochrom features a completely black exterior, removing all color elements, including the logo and markings.
2. The user interface has been redesigned with new color schemes for easier navigation between photo and video modes, with updates available for the standard Q3 and Q3 43.
3. It is the first Q series model to include Content Credentials, enhancing image authenticity verification.
4. The camera has a 60 MP full-frame sensor without a Bayer color filter, allowing only black-and-white photography and increasing maximum ISO to 200,000.
5. Priced at US$7,790, the Q3 Monochrom includes a 28 mm f/1.7 lens, advanced viewfinder, and improved burst shooting capabilities.
Since the debut of the Leica M9 Monochrom in May 2012, Leica has been providing a range of digital cameras equipped with monochrome sensors. Recently, the camera maker from Wetzlar has revealed a monochrome variant of the Leica Q3, taking the chance to implement several design changes to the compact model.
Exterior Design Changes
In keeping with its “Monochrom” name, the camera eliminates all color from its exterior – the classic red Leica logo, the yellow markings on the lens, and the red “A” signifying the aperture or shutter priority mode have all been removed. Leica has also added a new leather texture that is similar to that of traditional Leica cameras. There are three primary technical upgrades. Firstly, the user interface has been redesigned to feature different color schemes that help users easily identify between photo and video modes. This improvement will also be available to the Leica Q3 and Q3 43 via a firmware update by the end of the year.
Innovative Features
Secondly, the Leica Q3 Monochrom becomes the first model in the Q series to include Content Credentials, a functionality that aids in confirming the authenticity of images. Thirdly, the camera’s 60 MP full-frame sensor does not use a Bayer color filter, enabling it to take only black-and-white photos and videos (up to 8K). This design decision enhances photosensitivity and reduces image noise. When compared to the standard Q3, the Q3 Monochrom’s maximum ISO has increased to 200,000, doubling its capacity.
Technical Specifications
The other specifications are mostly consistent with the previous model. The Leica Q3 Monochrom is equipped with a 28 mm f/1.7 lens featuring optical image stabilization and a central shutter. It also has a 120 Hz OLED viewfinder with 5.76 million dots, a 3-inch touchscreen with 1.84 million dots, and autofocus capabilities. Powered by the Leica Maestro IV processor and 8 GB of buffer memory, it allows for a burst of up to 4 photos per second with autofocus and 15 photos per second without.
With a price tag of US$7,790, the Leica Q3 Monochrom is currently available through authorized dealers and on Leica’s online store, reflecting a US$1,055 increase over the standard Leica Q3 that features a color sensor.
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