LEICA

Leica Q3 43 Compact Camera

The Leica Q3 43 Compact Camera launches with a new 43mm lens, taking what photographers love about the original Q3 and adjusting it with a 43mm APO-Summicron instead. While the original model comes with a 28mm wide angle of view, the 43mm focal length offers a closer match to human vision. This creates a natural field of view that’s just as ideal for street photography and portraiture, as it is for everyday snapshots.

This subtle shift in focal length gives photographers a versatile tool for storytelling with minimal distortion, capturing scenes just as they appear, which will appeal to a wide range of users.

Let’s start our first look review with the launch date and price of the new Q3 43mm from legendary Leica.

What is the new fixed 43mm APO-Summicron lens? Leica’s signature APO lens design is key to the Q3 43, with the APO-Summicron 43 f/2 ASPH minimising chromatic aberrations and delivering stunning sharpness and colour accuracy from the centre to the edges of each frame. It’s also complemented by a digital zoom function, allowing photographers to get closer to their subjects, right up to 150mm.

For those who are familiar with other Leica compacts like the D-Lux 8, which features a zoom lens, or the Q2 with its 28mm prime, the Q3 43 presents an interesting alternative. It doesn’t replace the Q3, but rather complements it, offering a different tool for those who prefer a focal length closer to the classic 50mm.

Leica 43mm APO-Summicron lens key features:

43mm APO-Summicron f/2 ASPH. lens with built-in macro mode

Apochromatic design to control aberrations and artefacts

Natural field of view, ideal for street, travel, and portrait photography

Low distortion and minimal vignetting

Digital zoom 43-150mm without losing lots of detail

49mm filter thread

Camera design and aesthetics...The Leica Q3 43 retains the compact, robust build of the Q3, albeit with new grey leatherette finish. I love this colour, which is subtle and not dissimilar to classic Leica styling. The finish is especially high quality, with a full metal housing using a magnesium die-cast body, ensuring rigidity and strength.

There’s a discreet little inscription on the top plate reminding you that you're holding the Q3 43. And, just in case there was any doubt, Leica made sure to add plenty of Wetzlar engravings on the body and lens to remind you exactly where and by whom this beautiful camera was made.

Leica Q3 43 launch date and price...In line with the existing Q3, the Leica Q3 43 is priced at £5900.00, and was released on September 26, 2024. It launches with a new 43mm lens that includes built-in macro mode, expanding its versatility for close-up shots and offering even more creative control.

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