Best Compact Camera? LEICA D-Lux 7 and Panasonic LUMIX LX100 II

[@rudigerwolf9626]

Anyone with a Tonkinese has a lot of credibility in my book. We have two. Just ordered my DLUX 7 today. Appreciate your quick comparison to both the RX110mvii and X100. Very helpful.

[@MACROMARVIN]

Haha thanks! Love my cats and that little one with blue eyes is something, very loving and great companion. Haha hey why not have the multiple options, I’m constantly debating and fighting myself to not spend all of my money on cameras lol

[@DavidMBanes]

Great video. I looked at this and it's siblings but in the end went with the Fujifilm X-M1 (same body size) with the 27mm prime and it's almost an identical size, not much chunkier with the tiny Fuji 15-45mm zoom. A came from M43 using OMD and Lumix previously.

[@MACROMARVIN]

Thanks for watching! Can’t go wrong with Fuji, they have many attractive models and lenses for compact setups. I enjoy xpro2 with a 27 as well!

[@icecreammm2]

I really like how the D-Lux 7 looks, but the LX100 II seems a bit more practical with its grip. I bought the LX100 II a couple months ago and I love how small and light it is + having so many buttons and dials. I used to take my very light and small Ricoh GR with me when we went out on a day trip, but the LX100 II is so much more useful with the zoom lens. For street photography, I would say the Ricoh GR still is better, but the LX100 II isn't a very intimidating camera, so street photography is very much an option.

[@MACROMARVIN]

I haven’t had the chance to try a Ricoh yet I would be interested but also would be sad leave the zoom lens behind!

[@hedydd2]

Good choice. I recently bought a new 007 edition which is one of 1962 in existence. I take delight in this kind of thing and don’t feel the need to justify it. It is not my primary camera and my Lumix GX80 is a ‘better’ camera in many ways, but I enjoy them all. There is something ’special’ about the LX100MkII/D-Lux 7 though which makes it a real pleasure to use. The only slight annoyance being the lens retracting when the camera idles, but there are some adjustments available to minimise that while still getting acceptable battery life. It is worth getting a hand grip for the D-Lux7 as it makes it far more comfortable. The same battery model is used as for the GX80, so get two generic extra ones or very little money. Set the QM [quick menu] and customise it and the buttons as you like. I tend to set the dial on the lens to off, because I often accidentally nudge it and change something when it is active.

[@MACROMARVIN]

Totally get it, I love mine too. Even if it’s not my “best” camera it’s a joy to use. Just the fact you take out more makes so good

[@MACROMARVIN]

I need to customize it more

[@wanderlustdetailer]

I actually did the opposite! I use my Typ 109/lx100 way more than my gx85. I don’t like the colors as much. The lense though (Leica 15mm 1.7) is great though!

[@weebadwolf4893]

Gorgeous Lumix ❤

[@dragonfist25]

That’s how I felt shooting with my Sony ZV1. The images looked flat because I was used to shoot with an aps-c size sensor.

[@mike_qbik]

Very nice. I have to tell you, my DLux 4 was the camera I made with one of the best photos of my kids and those were printed around our house. Dlux is something special - and I currently shoot with SL2S and had Leica Q. The immediacy and size of Dlux is unbeatable. Its metal case and jsut rugged to have it in pockets. I am still eyeing the dlux 7 even my Q3 is in my basket. Not sure there ever be DLux 8 unfort. There is just something special about dlux. Excellent video. Subbed

[@MACROMARVIN]

I absolutely agree! Size and function beat everything. You’ll just be more likely to use it and the quality does not disappoint. I think these cameras are really underrated. As much as I love Sony and canon these hit the spot haha. I love this dlux7, been tempted by the Q2, I’ll be testing one soon. See if it will scratch the full frame Leica itch lol

[@wanderlustdetailer]

Agree! I have a typ 109 and it makes some incredible images with a lot of life to them.

[@knab2831]

picked up a LX100 II for 400, was struggling to decide on this or a mirrorless but convenience won over.

[@MACROMARVIN]

That’s a great price! Hey you can always get mirrorless later too ;)

[@Cthames123]

Agree on the fantastic price. Where did you get it and what type of condition was it in?

[@knab2831]

@@Cthames123found it locally online, was in near new condition and came with a few extras.

[@theodoremann1461]

Great photos! Love your cat! Siamese mix?

[@MACROMARVIN]

Yeah I think he is also tabby but Siamese attitude all the way!

[@ronanderson2130]

I have the D-Lux 7 for three years now. Have very sharp image2. Wiil take it to Europe with me this fall. Norway, Sween & UK . The Nikon D850 will stay home because of wieght.

[@MACROMARVIN]

That is exactly my point, this is a camera you feel encouraged to take with you and doesn’t get in the way

[@ronanderson2130]

Wonder what part of the country do you live . I am south of Seattle close to Mt. Rainier. I bought the D-Ux 7 at the Leica store in Bellevue. Great people to work with.

[@davidletterboyz]

How do they compare with top modern smart phone camera? I know it's not apple vs apple, but we do carry our phone every day and it's actually an EDC. I suspect modern flagship phones have caught up, especially the main sensor.

[@MACROMARVIN]

I need to do a comparison between phone and this camera. The other way I look at is straight to the facts of the micro four sensor being so much larger than one included in a phone. The phone compensates for these drawbacks through software but can not properly deliver what a larger sensor can do in terms of output. The sensor in this camera is only slightly smaller than an APS-C. And in “full frame” equivalence you are getting a 24-75mm F3.5 to 5.6 which is like a standard kit lens when you get most cameras. See it from that perspective and it is pretty decent to have as a compact option

[@rebdovid]

Your lens comparison isn't exactly right: from 4/3 to FF, F1.7 equals F3.4 for depth of field, but it's still 1.7 for exposure (gathering light).

[@nielsk6563]

I had a d-lux 5. Not comparable to its follower the d-lux 7, way smaller and with smaller sensor. Then in 2018 it was time for quality pictures again - in analog times I had an SLR (Minolta XD-7) with a couple of lenses. So I got me a Fuji X-Pro2 with 3 lenses - 16, 35 and 56 mm. Then I recognized that I didn't really like to carry around this equipment all the time, having I quite heavy bag on my shoulder. When travelling by car it was quite ok but for a day or weekend city trip it was just too much. So I looked for an alternative and found the d-lux 7. This camera has almost everythng I was looking for. It is small and handy so you can take it everywhere, it offers you all the control options you need. And with it's zoom lens it's really versatile. I've owned it for two years now and took it with me as my only camera to holidays on Iceland and in northern Italy. Pictures are beautiful, I made prints up to size 40 x 30 cm and they are looking great. Sure I admit, that pictures made with the X-Pro2 have a higher quality. But weighing the Pro's and Con's - here a compact camera you can take ityour pocket with a decent picture quality there a camera with higher picture quality you have to carry in an extra bag - I most times go for the first one. As I'm not a Pro, shooting for myself, family and friends I'm satisfied with the results. And yes, I also like how the d-lux and its wheels and buttons feel in my hands.

[@MACROMARVIN]

Exactly my thoughts too, sure you can get better image quality and a lot of nice glass but you don’t always need that for trips, family and being out and about. This little camera makes it breeze with good enough image quality. Nice that you have used xpro2! I’ve been wanting to try the xpro series cameras! What are your thoughts for other uses?

[@nielsk6563]

@@MACROMARVIN I like the X-Pro a lot, especially the film simulations (yes, I'm shooting JPEG), but also all the options for adapting it, I think you can use it for almost everything. To extend my story a bit: My d-lux 7 is currently at Leica in Wetzlar for repair. Some fuzz managed to get inside the camera/lens. Will be fixed on warranty, otherwise it would have been more than € 500,- (they change the complete lens, I understand). That was the reason why I picked up my X-Pro again and took it for some walks - really nice pictures but the 16 mm lens is just quite big. Triggered by the Leica Q(3) hype I plan to go for another approach: Getting me a kind of pancake lens - rather 18 than 27 mm - to reduce the weight and size and just shoot with that one lens. But still the X-Pro is of course quite a bit chunkier than the d-lux.

[@Yoko.Kurama]

Is that lens cap built in the leica?

[@MACROMARVIN]

Some include it (the special editions), but you can buy it to add on called the auto lens cap.

[@MACROMARVIN]

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[@benm5651]

Excellent video

[@AlvinATMurdockJr]

3.5-5.6?

[@MACROMARVIN]

The lens is f/1.7-2.8, but when you do the expected depth of field comparison to full frame it is about f/3.5-5.6 subject separation.

[@jurekjerry7274]

What about the Sony RX1R - 2?

[@MACROMARVIN]

I really really want to try that camera, honestly if the price gets closer I would consider selling my Dlux to get that one. But so far I’ve seen prices still be around 2k. But wow that Zeiss lens must be nice

[@rjrj570]

I have an LX100 and was looking at these two, I set F1 to focus point. Isn't the LX100-ii discontinued, thanks

[@DidierMOULINPhotography]

When you mention full frame Leica on the used market are over 2500€ without lens you forget to mention the Leica Q that we can find now at a 2000€ tag price and the lens is included. And compared to these 4/3 sensor… plus with the 28mm f/1.7 you are on another planet believe me!

[@MACROMARVIN]

Absolutely! Things got even better with the Q3 release making the first Q more accessible! I actually ended up adding a Q2 to my collection after I saw prices dropping. Truly a masterpiece of a camera

[@adambreuse1875]

No, you get even a smaller sized apsc, this being the sony a5100, fantastic 👍👍👍👏👏👏

[@nigelsmith721]

I have suggestions regarding the cat-hair issue.

[@MACROMARVIN]

Help me! Lol

[@-_ch40s_]

Fujifilm x100 has APSC sensor and the same case size ;)

[@MACROMARVIN]

I do love the x100 series. I think for what I was looking for right now I valued the compactness with a zoom range with a very close sensor size to the APSC. I definitely see a x100vi in my future

[@ms-jt9dk]

nk x100 series big and heavy

[@michaeltuffin8147]

I've owned the LX 100 II for several years. Prior to that, I used the Canon G5X. I sold my G5X because the Lumix was superior in every way. Micro 4/3 > 1", as you said. Plus the LX100 II has the fantastic Monochrome D rendering.

[@MACROMARVIN]

The monochrome is my favorite

[@moshi1737]

Lx100 ii better than g5x mark ii right ? sir

[@michaeltuffin8147]

oh heck yes. by a longshot @@moshi1737

[@barcostudio]

Have you considered recording any 4k videos with the D Lux? I loved mine and regret selling it.

[@MACROMARVIN]

Have not tried that! I will put that on my to do list

[@burneshollyman2621]

"The look" is totally superfical and has no image on an image. If you mean prestige and status, that doesn't make great pictures by a long shot. It is not about the equipment.

[@MACROMARVIN]

I agree it’s not about the equipment. My focus wasn’t the Leica prestige or the look, it’s a functional focal range in a compact camera body. Easy to use for anything and everything. It’s not the only one out there, but this is one I have really enjoyed. Could’ve gotten the same out of the lumix version it’s all preference.

[@timtroder8802]

Great Video. Sometimes it‘s hard to explain why You feel like taking your d-lux with You? You mentioned some reasons. Just feels so light and valuable and delivers quality.

[@MACROMARVIN]

Exactly, it’s not a camera that was ever on my radar because we usually go for the usual suspects but this little camera has a lot to offer. That zoom range and macro capability is really nice to have on the go

[@andrewstorm8240]

voice sound is soft in this video

[@Xer0.Visual5]

only pay extra for that Leica Badge.. Rest is the same.

[@godisgoodallthetime728]

Some country have same price lumix and Leica d lux 7

[@MrAlb3rtazzo]

They cost almost the same

[@butwhythough4895]

I wish you were right

[@voytekj7420]

Clean the camera before creating video, it’s annoying during video

[@AshBashSneakers]

Please look at the Lens and not the screen.. it’s super distracting

[@MACROMARVIN]

Lol damn it need to remind myself to not do that

[@Swingkid14]

I'm so disappointed with the LX100 ii. The jpgs are horrible and reminds me of smartphone pictures. I actually think the Sony Rx100 iii got me better and sharper photographs. I did a test yesterday with a used Fujifilm XE1 from 2012 with a cheap 7artisans 35mm1.2 mark2 lens and the Fujifilm images was miles ahead in terms of everything. I rather shoot my Fujifilm XE1 any day. After trying to like the LX100 ii I now have taken my last photograph with it. The RAW images are ok for black and white streetphotography but there's so much better cameras out there.

[@MACROMARVIN]

I get it, it’s not for everyone. Also Fuji is just a beast and offers so much in terms of compactness, image quality, colors and lens options. I would say this type of compact camera I’m referring to is not a must for anyone it really is an additional camera very mucha luxury to enjoy separate from the workhorse cameras. The reason I like the lx100ii is because of the zoom capability while retaining a decent sized sensor in a small package. I have no issue with the workarounds. And feel confident handing it over to a friend or family member to use. But yeah there are way better cameras I agree

[@icecreammm2]

Color science of the standard color profile definitely isn't the best (you can try other profiles and tweak parameters), but sharpness shouldn't be a problem. Maybe the Rx100 III adds more sharpness to the jpegs than the LX100 II by default, but you could just change that in the settings. I shoot mine in "L.Monochrome D" and I think the jpegs are just amazing. The X-E1 is great for manual focus lenses, but I didn't like the autofocus as it was slow and unreliable. Couple it with a lens similar to the LX100 II lens and you get a larger and heavier camera. APSC will be better, but you will only see a noticeable difference in low light conditions.

[@Swingkid14]

@@icecreammm2 I see big difference in prints and I only shoot raw with Lumix and Sony. I have no issues with the AF on my XE1.

[@Cthames123]

The sample photos by the author 15:36 of the cats look really good! I’m really surprised you were disappointed by the LX100 ii. Everyone is drawing an equivalency to the DLUX7. Is it actually the same?, I would have expected better based on the f1.7 aperture, micro 4/3rds sensor, and Leica brand. Thanks for the comment because this camera is not cheap, and if not better than the Rx100 iii, which was produced several years ago I will save myself some some heartache.

[@Cthames123]

@@icecreammm2again disappointed to hear the comment on the Leica color science. What of the mythical “Leica look” that some many tout and are willing to give their left kidney for? Sounds like you din’t feel it was all that great.

[@squidwerd1981]

That is not a true Leica