Leica Q Hands-On Field Test

The new Leica Q Type 116 combines classic Leica M looks with a full frame, fixed lens compact. Does it live up to the Leica Heritage? TCSTV's Chris Niccolls and Jordan Drake take to the streets of Calgary to find out.
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Shot and edited by Jordan Drake
Shot on the Panasonic GH4 with V-Log L Profile

[@bobmerc3312]

Promised my youngest son I'd quit smoking on his birthday on January 1st...so what am I using for motivation??? You guessed it...I'm cookie-jarring my cig money and buying a Leica Q in August of 2017. I lost my wife of 31 years to a heart-attack in September so I'm going to have ALOT of time on my hands. I'm disabled with rheumatoid arthritis but I can still shoot..I shoot a Canon right now so this is a huge step up for me...I have followed Nikki Sixx and his photography and he shoots Leica. I also have a picture of the camera on my fridge so I can SEE my goal every day! Peace from a late 60s and 70s boomer !!!

[@AlGreenLightThroughGlass]

Good on you - go for it

[@tankx5915]

It's August now. Did you achieve your goal? I really hope so :)

[@kookymunster75]

I am using the Leica Q as motivation for my own personal goal. It's December now. Did you get it?

[@MrJusnan]

I hope you get it already

[@MattFothergillmattephotography]

Show us some photos when you get it

[@thomasblasig4551]

bought this camera after comparing countless reviews - once you got it you do not give it away :-) It makes awesome photos in all situations. The Macro is phantastic. It took me some time to get used to the 28 mm - but the quality of the pics, the sharpness and the "Leica colours" amaze me with again and again - best buy for an everyday compact camera!

[@orange42]

Came to see the drop dead gorgeous GH4 footage shot by a true artisan. Not disappointed.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

orange42 Glad you liked the look! I'm coming to grips with V-Log L. Jordan @ TCSTV

[@raksh9]

TheCameraStoreTV The correction and grade on this footage is very nice, indeed. Natural style grade but still has enough punch. Which lenses were used to shoot this review?

[@cactuslabm]

TheCameraStoreTV My man, do you know when V-log is goin to be available to normal mortals?

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

raksh9 This was all shot on the Veydra 16, 25 & 35mm T2.2 lenses. Jordan @ TCSTV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Carlos Méndez No clue. Soon, I hope! It seems ready to go. Jordan @ TCSTV

[@ferbilkers]

LOVE the contrast and colors in this video. I have always felt like TCSTV's videos need just a SLIGHT kick in contrast and this one seems to have it. Very nice!

[@bigheadtaco]

Good review guys. I had my sample copy for a week from Leica and I too found it great for street photography. I also really enjoyed the 28mm lens because I'm a Ricoh GR shooter since the film days so I'm use to 28mm for the street. As for the Leica jpegs, you're right, they've never been that great so I always recommend to shoot DNG with all Leica cameras. Chris, I actually love the Leica X-Vario. Horrible AF and slow lens, but amazing image quality. Call me weird, but I just zone focused with the X-Vario because of the focus and DOF scale built on the lens, the same reason why I love the Q, but AF and focus peaking is actually amazing on the Q. Good work guys and happy shooting!! BHT

[@Smaug1]

bigheadtaco How would you compare it to the GR II?

[@bigheadtaco]

Funny these two cameras get compared together, but they are totally different, other than the fact they both have fixed lenses with the same field of view. the Leica is better at everything over the GR II, except for compact size and price point. I could put my GR in my back pocket and go for a quick jog or bike ride. When you drag out your Leica Q, you better be taking pictures. It's not huge or heavy, but it's purposeful and you have to commit to the space and weight to lug it around. It's a fantastic all-in-one camera though, but you really must love the 28mm field of view, because you're stuck with it.

[@Gary_W]

Great review as always! And the GH4 V-log L profile is much better in this video than your previous G7 video! Excellent!

[@ThePurple1968]

Probably one of the best Leicas ever. After shooting with it for just a week it has relegated my other gear to emergency usage. But the real thing to mention is the IQ. Just take a look at the Q pictures thread on the Leica forum or the various Flickr groups. It's really spectacular.

[@Smaug1]

ThePurple1968 Having to shoot raw all the time because of bad jpgs sucks though, eh?

[@iamsimonmorris]

I have been using my Q for a couple of days now, your summery is spot on. A beautiful camera, great to use sharp quick and a pleasure to work with. Leica really have got it right with this one.

[@MarkLuker1]

Nice but, Not for that kind of money..

[@johnnymossville]

Definitely looks like a real Leica to me. Chris is correct, that "Leica Look" is very present in the images. I don't think most would see the difference between the Leica M and this. Also, Your color grade of v-log looks great here. I thought we would have had v-log in our hands by now.

[@larrygucciardo3801]

I have the Sony A7 and I like it a lot, takes good photos but I really am looking forward to getting the Leica Q for landscape photography and inside of historic buildings, to me, this is where this camera will shine. The price here in the USA is $4250, not cheap but the images are some of the best I have seen, all reviews I have seen say this is a great camera with a superior lens. To me, the price is worth it, and this is the first Leica I can say that about. Yes, Sony may come out with a better camera in a few months, but that is the way it is with all technology. You buy the best you can afford now and when something better comes along you can always sell and buy the new product.

[@HarisAbdulRahman]

Great review as usual. I agree with Chris, it justified the cost and it felt like a true Leica.

[@MrAterianer]

Alternative: X100T + Wide converter. If you want get the tele coverter as well and still save money compared to this. Yes it's not full frame but you get the hybril viewfinder, Fuji JPGs, faster AF, are more flexible when it comes to focal lenghts and are well under 2000 bucks.

[@stevencottam7570]

I came from film cameras, I love the feel of the film cameras mechanics, the Q is satisfying, almost as good as

[@victorbart]

Nice to see that Panasonic makes fullframe camera's :)

[@RJINCORP]

I saw you guys editing this the other day. Great store by the way

[@johnnybrabus2967]

i love the beer-drinking-cigarette-away-flicking-guy in the background

[@sterby1]

Chris and Jordan, here is an idea: Now that the Pentax K-3II has the astrotracer integrated, how about a review on it in conjunction with general beginner DSLR astrophotograhy, landscape and deep sky. I would really like to see your take on this niche aspect of photography.

[@ahmedrashed78]

Just got one today, amazing camera!

[@DaveDugdaleColorado]

Jordan, nice job with the vlog.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Dave Dugdale Thanks Dave! Hopefully they can get you a sample soon. Jordan @ TCSTV

[@FredBloggsTheThird]

TheCameraStoreTV What lenses are you using for your GH4 normally Jordan?

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

arkid77 I've been using Veydra Micro Primes for the last few episodes. They're absolutely gorgeous. Jordan @ TCSTV

[@davidnaida6531]

TheCameraStoreTV Indeed, great work! Was this recorded internally or 10-bit? Either way, the colors, DR, and skin tones are looking REALLY nice. Of course, it helps having all that skill behind the camera. :)

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

David Naida This was recorded internally. I'll do some external 10-bit stuff soon for comparison. Jordan @ TCSTV

[@martinakis3747]

I love the cropping mode. Perfect for portraits.

[@tony12102001]

I have this camera pretty happy overall I’m still learning, great video thanks man

[@diordrama]

Dude, you are a brilliant reviewer. Very thoughtful, clever and balanced.

[@m1k3e]

I love these reviews. Great job as always!

[@Stadtkind32]

I like the shot with the Nikon logo in it, when you are reviewing the Leica Q's screen :-)

[@iglooo102videos]

Looks like a beautiful camera

[@ciarankavanagh9518]

If it had different lenses it would be perfect for journalist. This with a apple mackbook would be a killer setup for on the go photography

[@cylurian]

For a 5K camera, you would expect the jpegs to be rich and clean! The de facto street camera for now is the X-T1 hands down; great jpegs, great low light performance, small, interchangeable lens, not $5K, etc. Want something less expensive, then get yourself an Sony a6K. I can't believe Chris recommended this camera. Sony A7 is the standard right now for full frame mirrorless camera and thus the Q can't compete for it's not less than $2K and doesn't have interchangeable lenses.

[@Mamo878]

cylurian He recommends it because the IQ is better than anything you mentioned - and it's a fraction of the cost of an M with a lens.

[@cylurian]

I agree with the last part of your statement.

[@77appyi]

cylurian remember they sell them ..i have never seen a terrible revue on this channel as they sell them all

[@cylurian]

david appleton I agree, especially a Leica.

[@fcnghkkc1]

cylurian The Leica is not for everyone as the entry price is not for the poor. Even enthusiast won't spend that money on a fixed lense. The normal guy would be looking at Sony, Canon, Nikon with interchangeable lens. The Leica is for the rich and not us...

[@arndsan]

...and I thought it's the perfect camera just looking at other reviews. Thank you for this grounded review!

[@blocklit]

Chris's reviews are the best, nothing comes close. Whether the Leica Q justifies its price is not simply a question of whether "it feels like a camera that belongs to the Leica family". The question is whether there is another camera that can do the things the Leica Q can do and what sort of price that other camera is asking for. There are plenty of cameras just as good if not better, say Fuji X100s. How much does that camera cost? And how do you justify the price of the Leica Q? Well, you can always say it's a Leica.

[@kape06111]

Nice review and beautiful functional camera.

[@jshbluesky]

the best review about the Leica Q!

[@eazizisaid]

Guys, are you going to review the Leica SL ? It's a must ! We're still waiting for it ! Thanks

[@sfoonsfo]

Chris... I think the hidden menu is only on the pre-production units. The copy I have doesn't show the hidden menu option. Good review. The other thing that I wished it had was a bit stiffer diopter dial - too easy to fall out of adjustment.

[@TheSwiftnick]

Great video..ordered my Leica Q now.

[@commandoape]

Nick Beer gotta get down and boogie

[@nightdonutstudio]

very beautiful image with the v-log.

[@paulszilard1685]

I think I prefer the Fuji X range. Either an X100T, X-T1 or X-PRO2 (when released) with my choice of lens(es).

[@superfred6024]

Nice review Chris, very detailed....just ordered my Leica Q today after watching this, very happy about it :)

[@metocvideo]

Looking at this in 2020, we now have the Q2, which solves a lot of the minor quibbles, so I will now try to find a good second hand one.

[@SuperCacapedo]

Beautiful job with the V-log. I'd love to see the grading workflow for this episode. When V-log goes mainstream you guys could maybe do a tutorial on it. Cheers!

[@26lumma]

Thanks for nice review. Love that camera, but why Leica don’t do reversing screen on the side or down or up whatever.

[@dudemanismadcool]

insane IQ on this camera for sure!

[@davidmays1115]

Love your videos Chris and this one especially. Will buy a Q soon.

[@Beatsuite]

Great video, looks and sounds awesome guys!

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Beatsuite.com Music Library Thanks for the tunes!

[@TerryCioni]

A question I have is how does the Auto Focus compare with the X100T. As you have reviewed both cameras (Q & X100T) it would be valuable to hear how you feel about the the AF. As always an excellent review. Thank you for being so clear with your content. Although I know very little about video (a viewer of sorts) it seems to me that this is masterfully done on the GH4.

[@hyuue2990]

My favorite camera

[@alexanderdunning6586]

For me, the fact that the X100 produces great JPEGs is just more compelling. I'd like a newer sensor in it for sure, but faffing with RAWs gets in the way of the appeal of a beautiful street compact.

[@spencefrederickweddingphot7791]

Great review. Eloquent and informative. Thanks.

[@ErikNaso]

GH4 V-Log looked pretty good. Saw some noise in a few shots on the black T-shirt. Could be compression but overall it looked good and the grade was nice. I know this is a review of the new Leica Q but I'm more interested in what your experiences with the new gamma are Jordan. Are you going to talk about this soon? Thanks!

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Erik Naso We're recording an episode about firmware tonight, and V-Log L will be a big talking point. Jordan @ TCSTV

[@ErikNaso]

TheCameraStoreTV Looking forward to that! Cheers!

[@Neopulse00]

Makes me want to choose the Ricoh GRII over this :-/ very through review you guys gave though.

[@roastbeef1967]

My heart skipped a beat, when I saw you smashing a Leica.

[@janijtube]

28mm is my favorite focal lenght, so no complaints there. If only the price was much much more reasonable.

[@makenalawrence7136]

I was waiting for you to say if you would pick this camera over the A7II or D750. With an unlimited budget, which of the aforementioned cameras would you chose.

[@MegaFrenzyman]

really nice camera and nice review

[@GetOutsideYourself]

If Olympus or Fuji had come out with this exact same camera (and they'd have to price it in the $2500 range), everyone would say they're 3 years behind Sony. But since it's Leica, we give them a pass. Hey, don't get me wrong, the images look beautiful, and an AF full frame from Leica is big news. But when Sony releases the Wikileaks-promised RX-2 later this year, it will relegate the Leica Q deep down into a fanboy niche. That said, I still want one.

[@fallenentity2]

Jonathan Stewart Leica is always 2-3 years behind in tech, and about 10 years ahead in lens quality.

[@GetOutsideYourself]

fallenentity2 Their lenses are certainly beautiful and have a wonderful character. But I wouldn't say they're 10 years ahead, until they start putting AF on their best optical designs. Given the option, I think the market would really respond to an AF top-end system from Leica.

[@fallenentity2]

Jonathan Stewart Unless Leica used Panasonic for the AF, I think they would suck at it. But lens design and optical quality really have nothing to do with AF, and for that, I still think they are lightyears ahead. Also, the benefit of Leica glass is the size. Ever held their 35 or 50 f/2? Tiny. It's incredible!

[@GetOutsideYourself]

I've used them. It's a matter of taste. Leica has a certain characteristic to its optics that separates them from everything else, and maybe you could say they've fallen behind the curve as far as absolute sharpness. But what makes them so amazing is not really the sharpness. They're sharp, but not in the same way you might get from, say, a modern Zeiss lens. The famed Noctilux in particular is not sharp at all, but renders so beautifully, it doesn't really matter. I'm just sayin', if they totally re-thought their system, and came out with something that would compete with Sony head-to-head in functionality, I think their famous leica intangibles would put a lot of people over the top.

[@apoman200]

Excellent review!!!!

[@kape06111]

Love this camera, i was waiting to see what sony puts out, therefore i would appreciate to get a comparison between this Leica Q and the new Sony RX1RII. This will help to take a decision Thanks

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

+Hans Lewinnek Check out our new RX1R II test for the comparison! Jordan @ TCSTV

[@Pulsonar]

Practically a dead heat between the Q and RX1RII as far as overall performance goes.

[@carlycruise]

You honestly could get A7II with the Zeiss 55 f1.8, 70-200 f4, 28 f2 and a used 100s for the same cost, just saying. Great Video, as in great youtube video not that 1920s video from the Q

[@Bondwagon77]

Hi, Great review, but you say there is a hidden meny where you can see the number of exposures. Mentioned this to a local Leica dealer here in Stockholm who said No way! Only Leica center can see the number of actuations of that particular Q1. So what your comment to that?

[@chrsweden]

Great review guys!!

[@stema84]

Why is it that much better than the rx1? I like the 28mm, I think it's better as fixed lens, but that's just how you like taking pictures. In other aspects I think they are on par, aren't they?

[@UfukSahinDenmark]

Is there a Leica Q2 review on the way soon?? I’m waiting your video to decide 😅

[@Doc_Mitch]

I'm thinking of getting the X Pro 2. I'm beginning to love street photography. But I stumble upon this video, now I'm torn.

[@Smaug1]

Really well-done review; emphasis on the right things for the price. I guess it would pretty much annihilate a Fuji X100T? Head to head, you said it's nicer than the Sony RX-1. Just the Sony menu layout again?

[@derekwong1063]

Impressed on the added dynamic range of v-log. Do you have to protect the highlights really closely?

[@ThomasBryant]

You know, I don't own a Leica. So I probably shouldn't be commenting. But, I just don't see the appeal for a super high-end camera like this. It seems to me that you can get many other cameras that are in the market today that have equal or better image quality. So is it safe to say that you are just paying for the brand name? I currently own a Fuji x100 S, and this camera seems to be the best fit for my street photography needs. What are your thoughts? Is it just a branding situation?

[@ThomasBryant]

I agree Sam, And I am not bashing anyone who owns a Leica. I have many friends who own a Leica. I am just trying to find out what the appeal is for this particular camera. is it the style? Is it the form factor? Is the sensor? Or is it perhaps just the name? Since photography is my career field of choice, I just find it difficult to understand the purchase of a Leica if you are not getting a higher standard of functionality out of it. Quality, yes! Standard of functionality? I don't know. Again, I am not bashing or criticizing anyone who owns one. I'm just trying to understand the mindset of such a purchase.

[@Bervilat]

Sam Santana Yes but driving is all about the feeling if you are not racing. You are not going for an early sunday mountain road carving on your Ferrari then hang the results on the wall. In photography, that's the whole point.

[@rsam1101]

Bervilat Well are your photos for yourself or are they for other people? If your photos are for yourself, then the feel of the camera to produce those images can matter. Maybe you are happier or more creative with a particular camera, whether it be a DSLR/Mirrorless that fits better in your hands or whichever brand you end up choosing. Which ever camera can get you your results, that is the camera. If your photos are for other people, you may have to choose a particular camera to produce the highest quality image for your client. As for justifying the price, that is different for everyone. If they feel it's worth it to them, that is all that matters. If they're affluent, why judge their spending? That's why we have choices when we shop.

[@wanderingphotog]

Thomas Bryant It's kind of hard to explain the appeal of Leica. I use my Leica everyday and it's just such a joy to take photos with. The rangefinder experience, the uncluttered operation, build quality and of course the lenses are just some of the things I love about it. I also use a Sony A7r and have tried other similar cameras (Fuji and Olympus) and I simply cannot stand all the buttons and unnecessary (for me) features. The Leica always 'feels right' in my hands. Sure, the price is high and yes, I bet many people get a Leica based solely on the brand, but it does go beyond that. As for the Q, I don't think it'll be in my camera bag anytime soon! For a little extra cash, I would much rather have the new MM246. Cheers.

[@idolempert7814]

Hi Do you still recommend the leica Q as a street camera today ? December 2016 ? Thanks!

[@johndyer5113]

Hi! great review of the Leica Q! Would you say the Leica Q is a better camera for street, rather then the Leica T & the M would be?

[@lamaludwig1470]

great video, just ordered a Q

[@baker2niner]

GFC. I want it. If you don't want to use the electronic shutter, just put an ND filter on it; you'll have to either way, right? Also, leica does't lie about ISO, as do the other makes, so ISO 3200 for a LEICA is generally 2/3 stops better than the label on the other's dials. Check DxO on this. (Niiice video quality Jordan).

[@Maxwell_Miranda]

I still can not believe how good v-log looks with skin tones. How's grading it?

[@Maxwell_Miranda]

Well the veydra primes most likely help with that.

[@TheMayxaves]

Hello, my main equipment is Canon (5D Mark III) and photograph only as a hobby.Would I like a smaller camera for everyday and travel use. Can I buy a X100T this year or wait a year (or two) and buy a Leica Q. I would help to decide;)

[@rphysamstill]

Because of this video im happy with my leica q. 🙏

[@gewglesux]

Thanks Chris.

[@ItisBean]

The Leica look you talked about, actually what is the Leica look? Is that the colors? If so...what's so special about the colors?

[@chowmonkey2002]

Dunno but in 2015 this is not really a discrete camera. It's quite large and will attract attention.

[@Othercargo]

I like how the Viper showed up right when the video started

[@ayeminkhant7182]

I like is very much ... by the way, what camera was using when you made this video? Cuz .... your video camera is incredible too

[@holgerfehsen]

Thanks for the honest review. BTW: how do you get on to the hidden menu?? Holger

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Holger Fehsenfeld It's not that well hidden. It's at the very bottom of the settings in the menu. Jordan @ TCSTV

[@nutralizer01]

Thorough review ~ I love summilux 28mm the lens itself, but i'm not sure about the body or image processing capability. only if the lens were f1.4, i wouldn't have hesitated to afford one. Relatively cheap for a Leica, a bit too extravagant for a street camera

[@genevievemb]

Love your videos - thank you so much!!

[@highdesertdragons6674]

Great review as always.... now lets get too the hi jacking part of this comment section because the Gh4 log in this video. It look GREAT!!! really great skin tones and seems like a better all around color profile. Damn panasonic I wish they would release this already!! Do you noticed more dynamic range when using it? Also was it pretty straight forward grading or was it pain? Next can you give us the exact date panasonic plans on releasing this to us?...lol ok thats a serious reach I was just happy to see it in action :)

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

jason rae It's a really spectacular improvement, especially now that I'm using it more. More dynamic range and a big improvement in skin tones. Grading is fairly straight forward, but contrast needs to be handled more aggressively than S-Log2. I have no idea when the profile will be released though. Jordan @ TCSTV

[@PolluxChung]

TheCameraStoreTV Hey Jordan what's the ideal ISO to be used with V Log L?

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Pollux Chung 400 ISO is native. Jordan @ TCSTV

[@PolluxChung]

TheCameraStoreTV Thanks :)

[@Alexemeel]

I love the Leica-Magic, iLeica :) There is, in my humble opinion, no-thing 'leic' a Leica when it comes to 'authentic-ness' but then again it is all very subjective... Great review, leic your style of presenting the product!

[@YaStarz]

Would love to try this camera. But the price... One day maybe :D

[@jugsma6676]

The picture from Sony A7 II, seems to have some grey spot because of dust/dirt on sensor.. at 11:39

[@damancandance1]

another great informative video thanks again! and damn the video quality on the gh4 so sharp it cuts my eyes! is that due to the vlog profile or the 4k or a particular lens you used? thanks guys!

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

James Wu The GH4 shoots very sharp video, but I'd attribute the look to the beautiful Veydra lenses I used. Jordan @ TCSTV

[@KONAMAN100]

Your camera in this video is the old firmware version 1.02, I don't see the 'hidden menu' in version 2.0

[@georgetaylor7383]

Great review, but how do you get to the 'hidden menu'? Mine doesn't appear to have one.

[@jakobeder7043]

Make a review of the new Leica M Monochrom.

[@juantelle1]

actually this camera is used by jon solon on his videoblogs and seems the perfect tool for videographers

[@mykoueyang7178]

thanks for the informative video. Is there any news of firmware update to fix some of the minor bugs/complaints i.e. option to shut off electronic viewfinder etc...???

[@michael007ish]

I really loved the idea of the RX1. I loved the image quality but hat was about it. Slow focus and no evf other than that periscope. Yuk. This Leica looks like it nails it. Great review guys. Now will I have anything money left over after The A7r II? :(

[@sergioderderian16]

Hi, great video! How would you describe the «Leica tuch » in terms of image Quality and colour science, particularly compared to the RX1Rii (Iwatched your great review about it as well). At a close price (second hand) which on would it be a better bargain in your opinion...? Thanks for your help... Sergio

[@Sport4Life]

Excellent review.

[@cavalrycome]

8:20 Man, I hate it when people litter!

[@ItzKamo]

cavalrycome ???

[@albertdesalvo7273]

8:26, to be precise.

[@PelicanIslandLabs]

Thanks for the latest GH4 vlog edit. Still looks a bit too flat for a "youtube vid" IMO, of course. Would love to see a posting that would have one scene with multiple grades.

[@1BigBucks1]

good camera, great lens.

[@PhilHover]

Liking the look of the VLog. Did you use a LUT?

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Phil Hover No, manually graded. Jordan @ TCSTV

[@trlalli92]

In terms of value for money, would you have this or the Sony RX1(R), or even an RX100 mk.4 (putting aside the fact that it isn't full frame and that it isn't out yet)? And wouldn't you prefer interchangeable lenses on a Leica? Thanks!

[@HiPnautique]

Would have been nice to have more direct comparison with the RX1/R One single line at the end feels lackluster. Of course the Q should be better, the price is exponential, éventuellement compared to when the RX1 was released, and Leica had plenty of time to make a great competitive product : the RX1 dates back to september 2012 :-D

[@wedisegen]

This was shot with the GH4??? Wow! Which lens do you use?