LEICA Q2: HONEST Opinion 6 Months Later

[@kylemeshna]

Do you think the Leica Q2 is worth it?

[@AaronStoneVLOGS]

Nope, sold mine 45 days after buying.. Its cool for about 5 mins but not worth it for me.

[@kylemeshna]

@@AaronStoneVLOGS I might end up trading down to a Fuji and re-investing the 5k in savings into something like an FX6... which is crazy to think those are the same price

[@KyleCr1]

Worth it for me! I'm not a professional photographer, but I love photography. I like to take photos when I go on holiday, visit new cities, or simply capture everyday moments. I've had an A7iii for a few years, along with a 16-35 GM lens, and a 28-75. I loved the quality but I hardly ever took it with me due to the size and weight. I bought a Q2 in June and almost always have it with me due to the small form factor and light weight. I've had way more use out of it than my A7iii. Plus the image quality is unmatched.

[@kylemeshna]

Hey if it gets you out there shooting and using it, that’s all that matters!!

[@ofeykalakar1]

Digital CL- can adapt any lens- M mount etc… About the size of an X100V with the 18mm Elmarit. A very handy everyday camera

[@basilbrush9888]

I borrowed a brand new M11 with 35mm lens a few days ago. I wanted to see what was so different about Leica and the always talked about ' Leica Look'. I have compared very detailed shots of the new M11, a Sony A7iii and Fujifilm XPro3. Aside from resolution, i seriously cannot fathom the extra $10000 price tag for the Leica. Sure the image is much higher in megapixels, but honestly all 3 cameras produced roughly the same quality photo. I appreciate that people like to purchase high end brands as they like prestige gear, but......i do not see it being worth it. For anyone stuck on the fence about getting a Leica camera, I can honestly say that if you have the money do what you want. i have the money to purchase a few of these M11's but to be brutally honest I cannot see any reason aside from social image status to own one. i have tested dynamic range and processed the photos like any normal consumer would and I would bet nobody reading this could determine which camera made which photo. Note to newcomers, DO NOT get caught up in the leica hype. Like all other mirrorless bodies, they are just sensors and a lens like any other mirrorless camera. After shelling out $10,000 plus for a leica, you are kidding yourself if you think your photos are superior to anything else a fifth the price on the market. Dont believe me?......rent one and see for yourself. I have leica raws and I could tell you they came from a sony a7iv and you would believe me as they look like any other camera. KZbinrs seem to pushing the Q2 at the moment, avoid it at all costs. You are not getting a camera that is superior in any way. Leica cameras do have once strength that none of the other brands have yet to achieve. Their bodies and lenses drain your wallets very quickly with no noticeable benefit to the owner. Maintenance on leica is insanely offensive too along with accessories. I dare you to prove me wrong.

[@absonus]

Pay your money take your choice .I`ve shot Leica RF`s for 25 years ,shot Sony and shot Canon too. Used Richo and Sigma cameras for street work . Also Pentax .Currently I use just Leica apart from the two Sigma Merrills .However most of todays cameras are more than capable of getting the shot .There`s very little difference apart from the haptics between any of them. Leica M11 apparently uses the same sensor as the new Sony .Not surprising because Leica use Sony sensors . On the plus side some Leica cameras hold their value. I have one worth four times what I paid for it .Does any of this matter ... not really .I`d never sell my three film M bodies or my CL (digital) . The SL2s I use for a specific purpose but its too heavy for my liking for everyday carry.I`d swap it out for an Q mono though . I`m a happy Leica user .Steer clear of the posers and forget about them getting you that winning shot though.Just enjoy them for what they are .I do.

[@absonus]

I forgot to add . Nice review .

[@eek0212]

Most of people pick fancy M because its only newly manufactured full frame rangefinder you can get nowdays in market. If you not used to and no interest in rangefinder system its not your camera. In addition, M11 use different light metering system and more modern sensor than its prior digital Ms so if you expect ‘leica look’ though im not sure what the heck excatly is but anyway pick the M10 M240 or M9 instead 😅

[@Flying4Film]

Sometimes it’s not just about the specs or image quality. Some people choose cameras because of the way they feel to them or the connection they have with the camera. To someone who is done chasing gear, knows what they want in a camera and feels a connection with said camera, it might be worth it for them to spend the money. That’s my reason for still shooting a 1958 M2. I know there are other film cameras that would give me the same look, but not the same feeling or connection. Spending the money on the M2 might seem crazy to some, but to me it was worth it to have what made me happy.

[@krusher74]

boom boom!

[@dinodemopoulos3336]

One thing I would mention is that if you primarily shoot street/documentary the Q2 does meet most of your needs, and is an incredible camera.

[@TheAdampardee]

"It's really made photography fun again". That says it all, doesn't it? Sure, it has its pros and cons, but every camera does. The Q2 is fun. When I leave the house, it's phone, wallet, keys, and camera.

[@kylemeshna]

Absolutely. It’s started to be an every day carry item along with the keys and wallet

[@shawnls9295]

I bought a Q back in 2018 and took it to Vietnam as my only camera on that trip. Great images, super low light performance. I’m excited to see the Q3.

[@hansgaber6038]

Honestly, for me this sounds like to find the hair in the soup. In my opinion, we should better be focussed on the composition and enjoy the results finally. Autofocus I even never used, it is so easy to focus manually. And the EVF is awesome, due my bad eyes, I never really check th image on the back screen, only in EVF, and this is perfect working for me. Every brand and model has up and downsides, but this Q2 is just so easy to use and so versatile. I shoot from street to model / portrait, and even video. The quality of the images is awesome. And the camera never let me down in any situation. I use a Sony Alpa series too, love it also, but the amount of menu items and the customisable buttons are just too much. Of course it is not a camera for everyone, but I think if you spend this fortune of money, you already know what you want and what you get, and it will always be a wonderful companion on a daily base.

[@gonzalowassermann2353]

Honestly, thank you for this video. As an aspiring photographer who dreams of this camera your video opened my eyes on a lot of things I did not know about this little beast!

[@kylemeshna]

Happy to help. It’s a great camera but not if you’re just starting out. It’s more of a luxury for those who want something fun to enjoy. Like a sports car you only drive for fun on the weekends or something haha

[@ApertureViews]

I was considering this camera long and hard. I eventually ended up going with a Sony A1 with GM35 1.4 for pretty much the same money. Best decision ever.

[@alternatereality7713]

Sony eye AF tracking is superb. I rarely get misfocused shots of my kids anymore with A7r3. But I do love the Red Dot...

[@JerseyShoreImages]

The Q-P is enough for me. It's even more beautiful with the Leica script across the top. 24mp is more than enough for my needs

[@ddeveredanzig]

This review is very helpful. The negatives are very very significant for a $6k camera. No way I can toss $$ at it with these drawbacks.

[@brompterdam]

Want a Q2 but unachievable. Leica T + Elmarit-TL 18mm f2.8 is the closest I can get to Q. It is also my cheapest way to achieve the "Leica Look" for 850 euros mint condition price. I have a Fujifilm and a Lumix M43 with Leica DG Lens. Every time I want to force my self to slow down, enjoy the moment, enjoy photography, I reach for the Leica T. I feel like with this camera, you are buying the brand along with its legacy. Lumix = Video Works, Fujifilm = Film Simulations , Leica = Leica Look. Thanks for the video!

[@CollectiveMindz]

I like my m240 it reminds me of shooting film. When I want a point and shoot I can't justify the leica q(2) price tag and the x100v works great for me.

[@fotografo4295]

I’m hopefully getting one in the near future and for me is more to re-wire my brain. To think and compose differently. I’ve made my whole career as a photographer shooting maybe 90% of my pictures using telephoto lenses and abusing the bokeh when shooting people. Of course 28 mm is not the go-to focal lens for portraits, but having this wide angle fixed lens will make me work my ass re composing and thinking differently. It’ll make me more aware of the surroundings. One thing no one mentioned is this camera is leaf shutter, giving us that medium format advantage when shooting outside using flash strobes. I guess some will argue that nowadays you can shoot using HSS... but is not the same IMO.

[@MARKLINMAN1]

I shoot with an X-PRO 3, I Will definitely wait for a Q3. Leica CAMS are AMAZING!

[@NamuSenpai]

If you are looking for a better alternative aside the x100v the Sony rx1rii is an outstanding option that basically outclasses the q2 in several aspects. It’s got better dynamic range, autofocus ,low light, mic jack, and it’s smaller. Its basically an a7rii with the zeiss 35mm f2

[@RRHH-jm9lr]

If you attach the original thumb support you can easily access the wheels. And you can shift the colors of the EVF and the display in the settings.

[@ShaneSchofield52]

I actually sold my Nikon D850 and my many lenses so that I could prioritise the Leica Q2M and its simplicity. Will I miss the options, yeah I suppose, but I find choice overwhelming and it detracted from my joy. I wanted to go back to basics, but with a camera I can truly enjoy handling and using.

[@justcallmesando]

What you described as "The Leica look" is something perfectly achievable with any other camera. Leica cameras are beautiful and sleekly designed tools that allow use top quality lenses. The added prestige around them is what we so many times fall for, but we all know you don't need a Leica or any other specific brand to be a good photographer. These things are just kind of fun for us. We love the gimmicks.

[@kylemeshna]

I know what I describe can be replicated. But there is still something about the Leica images that is so much richer. It’s an instrument that inspires you to make stuff. Other cameras are tools that help you get a job done.

[@woozyjoe4703]

Best review I've seen. Kudos bro

[@ilduro2]

Fine summary. The Q system makes for a brilliant second camera. I bought the original Q used for a good price - and totally love it. I have to convince myself taking my Nikon along, and equally convince myself not taking my Q. Plus, the optical quality of the pictures I get is second to none.

[@michaelneumann1865]

Great video! But, its not tiny....at all. The Sony RX1 is tiny. The fuji x-e4 is "small". The Leica Q2 is big. Pretty much as big as anything you can choose.

[@kylemeshna]

Compared to any DSLR or Mirrorless… it’s pretty tiny

[@stevegodsell]

Leica cameras could be the ultimate incarnation of the concept of Gear Acquisition Syndrome, they are the epitome of fantasy over fact. They trade on a feeling of nostalgia and build quality that the product frequently cannot live up to. Leica cameras are either the ultimate expression of the photographic artist, or the ultimate expression of form over function. In reality, a really good photographer will get a great shot out of almost any modern camera.... the wannabe great photographer just has to have a Leica, because it really speaks to them. These are really good cameras, there is no disputing that, but there is just too much 'badge' going on and some gullible people like to be taken in by it because it gives them something interesting to talk about.

[@kylemeshna]

Accurate

[@davec8153]

@@GaryLangEngr I agree with his assessment. I have a M11 sitting on the shelf collecting dust. I prefer Nikon and Fuji over it (for different reasons). So sorry you can't see things beyond their badge and what price they're sold at.

[@davec8153]

@@GaryLangEngr Yes, I have 10k sitting on a shelf, sorry you can't afford that. Wait til you hear how much I have sitting in a watch box.

[@Jabber-ig3iw]

There’s a Q2 for sale in my local camera shop for about 45% original retail price, I’m seriously tempted.

[@JMaxwell1000]

Personally, I much prefer the "Zeiss look"! But excellent review.

[@irenedp4947]

The Q1 was my first Leica and the only piece of Leica gear I bought new. I still keep it, and although I do not use it for my professional work, it is still my “go to” camera when I need something that can fit in my handbag, just in case. Obviously the file size is not an issue with a Q1, but I can understand the pain if you do a wedding. I use two 47 MP Nikons occasionally for events and the files take space. My professional work is fine art and documentary and the file size is a non issue. Something that I value is how malleable the files are and the sharpness of the lens. Said that, albeit a new 28 mm Summilux costs about as much as a Z9 or a new Schneider-Kreuznach lens for a Phase, you can get a well cared for 28 mm Summicron just for a small fraction of that. Nice review!

[@garymichael4095]

with regards to the thumb grip - if you have the genuine Leica one it sits lower which does allow you to get to the speed dial - also has the built in button to allow the crop button to be used through the clip. Hope this helps

[@Ham-yj1od]

Thanks man, this was the best Leica Q2 review ever made.

[@kylemeshna]

Hey I appreciate that! There are a lot of good ones out there

[@pierpi8820]

One of the smartest and most honest reviews I've ever seen on Q2; you are one of the very few who talks about the actual probable focal length of 24/25 mm. Compliments!

[@perrymckenna2261]

I’m a huge Q2 user and fan. Your honest opinion is quite accurate. I had to check out some of your claims and I was surprised that the angle of view is indeed closer to 24mm. Who knew! However I don’t think there’s a difference in colour tone when viewing the LCD and EVF. Overall, a very good review.

[@kylemeshna]

Is you EVF or LCD color tuned at all?

[@weisserth]

I've been very tempted for a long time by this camera, but it's not for me. I'm an M user, having photographed with an M3 for more than ten years, then bought a brand new MP and eventually bought a used M10 over any of the Q cameras. Never had a second thought about the Q since I picked up the M10. The resolution is actually something that drove me to the M10 over the M10R/M11 and the Q2. 24MP is the sweet spot.

[@kylemeshna]

I do think 24 is much more manageable and more than enough in almost all instances. I do think an M10 would be epic. But then we’re talking so much more money haha

[@powderedtoastman3093]

One thing to note… Leica QC has become abysmal and their turn around times for repair are absolutely disgraceful. Drop 6-8k and then more on lenses and they expect you to wait months for repairs to be completed due to their incompetence… avoid

[@SuLu_XD]

You're forgetting something -- most people with these cameras aren't buying them to actually take pictures, they're buying them so other people can take pictures of them using it!

[@powderedtoastman3093]

@@SuLu_XD sadly I was actually buying them to use for years

[@powderedtoastman3093]

@@SuLu_XD I bought 2 x M-A’s brand new and they both arrived with crazy dust on the viewfinders sent them back for a swap, 2 months later I get a replacement that was just as bad. Refunded €16k worth of an order and they didn’t even respond to my 4-5 email complaining of the issue and asked for someone to reach out me. Leica easily has the worst service and qc on the whole spectrum of camera manufacturers that I’ve dealt with in 20yrs. The Japanese wouldn’t have let that happen. I heard the horror stories of the service times and the brutal customer service and still after 15yrs of waiting finally was going to buy 2 analogue bodies to keep and service over time. And they couldn’t even get them into my hands new without flaws from the get go. Absolutely ridiculous at the prices and their double sign offs in the box... And people spending 8.5k on digital M’s and having issues and having to wait for months to have it rectified - Completely unacceptable. I commented on another post on Discuss. A guy sent his 11k noctilux that was 3 months old due to sticking aperture blades… it came back with oil all over the blades and ruined… Leica denied it.

[@xxxx-hf4vg]

Mám Leicu přes rok, několikrát jsem ji chtěl prodat,ale vždy když jsem jí vzal do ruky,věděl jsem,že neprodám! Objektiv 28mm není nikterak omezující díky možnosti velkého ořezu při 40mil.pix. Je fantastická, brilantní i když drahá. Měl jsem Canon 5D mark ll, Nikon D700, Fuji XT-2,3,4, Canon R, R5, ale až s Leicou Q2 jsem po čase srostl a pochopil jak je vynikající. Ale nikomu ji nenutí, jako můj přítel přešel na mou radu z APCka na fullframe a nějaký čas mě nadával, ale pak se mu to tak zalíbilo a děkoval mi,že jsem ho přemluvit.., tak je to stejné i s Leicou Q2 dokud ji pořádně nevyzkoušíš nevíš o ní nic. Nádherné, jednoduché ovládání, jak snadné je focení, Fuji je dobrá,ale v menu je toho k nastavování hrozně moc, využiješ tak 1/3.

[@bennyb6902]

That's not a Leica thumbsup because the Leica one sits flush with the body and does not interrupt the shutter speed adjustments so it negates that point.

[@SummersSnaps]

What you're saying around the 6min mark is so true for the Fuji cameras that exist with analogue dials also.

[@dan_payne]

I wish it was a 35mm or 50mm lens. Let´s see what the Q3 will offer. I have always been dreaming of owning a Leica.

[@kylemeshna]

Yeah, I think I'd realistically prefer a 35 or even a true 28 over a 24 if I was stuck with just one like this.

[@craigcarlson4022]

Thanks for helping us keeping our GAS in check. I do really love the concept of it - if it had a 35mm lens. I wonder if Sony will update their RX, or maybe Nikon will bless us with a FF mirrorless compact like their older df model.

[@willcrockett6707]

Great job on this video Kyle. I appreciate your input.

[@josegimenez4322]

La leica Q2 es una pasada para fotos urbanas,no te arrepentirás ...😋

[@kostyafedot551]

Thank you for very honest review. Details I never knew before.

[@mikevinze]

Awesome video. The only time I will be to have a Leica in my hands, is in my dreams 😭😂

[@kylemeshna]

we can hang out and i'll let you hold it 😂

[@crispin8888]

​@kylemeshna Or buy a iiif or iiig ? 😊

[@Parabellum_JW]

Wow, glad to bumped into this video, I nearly bought it last nite, thanks for your honest review. Subscribed your channel

[@krolldavid]

I hear you. I recently bought an M10 and I’m still trying to get over the financial shock 😂. It is really good but I also feel like it made me feel so precious about my gear because of the price.

[@kylemeshna]

M10 feels like a better decision in many ways (despite being more expensive) since it’s more adaptable and you can pick up some other lenses etc

[@TeeNorbu]

Just subscribed and liked your channel to support your credit card bill for Leica q2. Btw, I also have credit card bill to pay for my Leica q2 😂

[@OfficialEthern1ty]

didn't know you were on YT, love it!

[@WILMORENO]

Had a q2, sold it for a m11 with a 35 summilux and 75 summarit. q2 is a gateway drug

[@MikeKleinsteuber]

Get the SL or SL2. For me at least it's a much much better option. Particularly when coupled with Voigtlander lenses...

[@francislan2627]

Bought a Q2 2 months ago because I wanted a full frame compact camera to bring everywhere instead of my Canon 5D. Loved the camera but as you said the 28mm felt too restricting. So returned it and got a M11! There are really not that many choices if you want a full frame camera with top quality lenses that is compact. If you are okay with the rangefinder system and losing video, AF and IBIS, the Leica M cameras are amazing (but very expensive of course). So no, I don't think it's very fair to compare them to "any other mirrorless camera".

[@johnp.fitzpatrick2665]

Coming from a fuji x100t made the transition very easy for me. I tend to take my camera everywhere I go so anything bigger than a Leica q becomes an inconvenience for travel / packing whether i'm going to the store or to work. Im not opposing your decision, I just think a fixed lens camera takes time to be comfortable with. Regardless congrats on your M11!

[@kylemeshna]

I think it depends if form or function is more important.

[@francislan2627]

@@johnp.fitzpatrick2665 A black M11 with my 28mm lens (Voigtlander 28mm Ultron type II) is actually a bit lighter and more compact than the Q2. I can add a 50mm and the whole package is still very light and compact.

[@francislan2627]

@@kylemeshna Yeah, in my case a big mirrorless (and more importantly the big AF lenses that come with it) are too much of a burden that I don't want to bring them, whereas I bring my M11 with no AF, and much less functions everywhere. The best camera is the one you have on you.

[@johnallllen]

really appreciate this video. most other videos speak to the emotional side of the camera only, but you made some great practoical points to consider

[@kylemeshna]

In fairness, it’s an emotion-evoking camera so it makes sense. But happy to bring a different view! And appreciate you stopping by!

[@Artem.Saprykin]

2:32 pretty much sums up the vid. No argues, q2 is the dream camera for any photo guy, but 6 grand is a lot anyway. Though, when you want to buy a Leica, you want to buy the Leica camera, not just any camera.

[@jacobh5817]

You can set the color rendering of both the LCD and the EVF in CMYK values which is great, but opposed to RGB, you also have to make sure that they have a same luminosity (brightness) setting to have identical colors. If you do that, the screens match much better. However, as with every modern camera, you get a slight difference between the two because the LCD uses TFT LCD technology and the EVF is an OLED.

[@Ryomichi]

People paid premium for them to have to calibrate the screen color? Its like buying a Ferrari but we have to tune the engine ourselves. I suppose it is part of the process.

[@jacobh5817]

@@Ryomichi In fact you do this with every modern (mirrorless) camera. Fujifilm calls it EVF and LCD color and color adjustment in their menu, but like most they only support RGB. Leica also supports CMYK which is closer to print. Just like you regularly calibrate your computer monitor to get the exact colors. However, the camera monitors are deteriorating much less over time than a computer monitor. If you need exact representation of color in your camera screens, you need to calibrate them, using a color temp metering device. Some pros do that, but we rely fully on the post process for getting the colors we need.

[@ibanezmnm]

My dream camera… just love it. Maybe one day… maybe

[@tonyklein6499]

Spot on review. It’s an awesome camera with some flaws. Nonetheless, I love my Q2 and plan to keep it forever, but after shooting with it for awhile I’m hooked on Leica and now am looking for a M10! My other mirrorless cameras include Nikon and Fuji, both great camera brands. But Leica’s minimalist design is something special. I’ve heard others say that over the years and didn’t necessarily believe it until I picked up a Q.

[@kylemeshna]

Haha the woman at the Leica store who sold me the Q2 said she'd be seeing me in 12 months when I decided to come back to trade it in for the M10 She might not be wrong.

[@SunshineHB]

Hi, I went Q>m240>m10>m6>SL2-S, and am now considering the Q again. I have sold everything else and while the SL2-S is the best camera I have ever owned, I miss the portability of the Q/M bodies. I have a 1 year old and the autofocus and beautiful video is really handy to have these days, otherwise I would still be shooting Ms. Luckily, Leica stuff retains value and since I bought all of that other stuff used, I basically got back what I paid for it. Good luck on your camera quest 😅

[@tre_tha_beast6848]

Goodluck paying that $10,000 price tag for the M10

[@Red-xz1gk]

Spot on! Great and fair review! For the EVF and back LCD color difference, you can minimize it by to fine tuning them using the LCD or the EVF color adjustment option in the menu.

[@dexterslabmi]

Most people have a preference evf or screen… so this is less of an issue than being made in the video.

[@crazykenbei]

Think a two week rental and travel destination of choice would do it for me 😅

[@oliviatrelles]

I own both the q2 and q2m. The q2 probably needs to be sold. I rarely every take it out but the q2m on the other hand, that camera is glorious. I know the q2m isn’t for everyone but for me it’s the camera I can’t bear to leave at home. Enjoyed your thoughts on the q2

[@kylemeshna]

Q2M seems super intriguing for sure. the B&W profile on the Q2 has gotten me very intrigued about it

[@oliviatrelles]

@@kylemeshna I would highly recommend renting the monochrome to see if it works for you. For me it’s the one camera I would keep if I was forced to choose. That sensor without the color array is amazing.

[@Leicahartt]

@@oliviatrelles does the standard q2 still shoot nicely in black and white? or is the monochrome just so much better?

[@oliviatrelles]

@@Leicahartt the standard q2 is perfectly fine for a black and white conversion but the Q2M just has a look that is hard to define. I’m sure it’s a combo of tones and light sensitivity but the difference is noticeable. With that said I think it’s a camera that’s either love or hate. I love monochrome images and favor them heavily so for me it’s a dream.

[@Kdavi2612]

@@Leicahartt I shoot the q2 in black and white and the photos turned out amazing!

[@floydianslip007]

It's expensive, but its a summilux... It may date.. But it's a summilux... The menu is slightly odd.. But it's a summilux... Its a fixed lens.. But it's a summilux... 🤘💜😋

[@JayFarrellphotography615]

Thanks for not making this video 20 minutes long, first and foremost. I feel the video is honest, and sadly, some use it as a fashion statement...but it's a great fun camera and can absolutely be a workhorse as needed. It gets the job done. I find mine has been a worthy purchase. Is it 4 times better than the Fuji X 100 series? No. But I find the improvements are worth the investment. I've trained myself over the years to depend on that focal length for a majority of my work, which is why this camera is fun and simplifies things.

[@kylemeshna]

Thanks for the comment, Jay. Very much appreciated. I think I agree with your assessment as well. I also find it interesting how many folks have come to watch this video who already own a Q2.

[@alisonwaight4587]

Hi - This is probably a stupid question but in the video you mentioned the lovely Leica colours but I have also read that the JPGs from camera are very flat. Do you have to do a lot of post-processing of RAW files to get the lovely rich colours?

[@kylemeshna]

I have not found the JPGs to be flat

[@phernz1123]

The Q is not for everyone but you really have to use to really understand it. I've had my Q-P as my only camera for the past 3 years and let me tell I've not looked back one time. Its crazy versatile since the lens offers little to no distortion, the files are amazing and easy to work with. Sometimes "limitations" in photography boosts the creativity. Keep shooting and enjoying that camera, its a gem!

[@rumporridge1]

Love my Q-P but also use an SL2. The combo I will be using for several more years.

[@phernz1123]

@@rumporridge1 Q-P is such a special camera. I've been considering SL2-S and play around with some M lenses.

[@rumporridge1]

@@phernz1123 you know what the Q can do but all I can say about the SL line is awesome. Yea AF could be better (Firmware improved it) not the latest tech etc. But the IQ IMHO is the best out there hands down.

[@phernz1123]

@@rumporridge1 What I really dont like about the SL Lenses is the size. Optically I know they're the best, but man, a SL + 35 lux or a 50 Lux is a very interesting setup.

[@rumporridge1]

@phernz1123 completely agree! The lenses are extremely heavy especially the bazooka 90-280. Is shoot Fuji as well so that’s my light weight system. The 35/50 lux on my SL2 now we’re taking.

[@alanjones4622]

I did consider the Q1 for a while but then opted for the Leica CL. It is similarly compact, around the same dimensions as the original Leica 1 film camera, and I can fit a range of lenses, including all my Leica existing M lenses with a suitable adaptor. OK less pixels on the sensor by a good margin but incredibly sharp results from what is effectively equivalent to a 35mm half frame. I have a Canon 1Ds Mk 111 full frame and the images are definitely not quite as razor sharp as the those from the CL even though I only use Canon "L" lenses.

[@magiccarpetrider4594]

I sold a massive collection of Nikon F’s and 15 lenses when I was a pro. Bought Leica, M and R, because they’re sharper and did better massive enlargements. I sold all that during a brutal divorce and purchased a canon 1DS, 1ds2, later the 5D series upgraded as they came out. I’ve gone through almost all the canon L lenses and settled on Zeiss primes, which I now have 8 or 9. Kept the 5D4 and purchased a Canon R a couple of years ago with adapters. I’m finding those kits to be super heavy and cumbersome the older I get. I didn’t sell any canon gear, but got heavily into Fuji XT2 and 6 lenses, but I really hated processing the xtrans files. I’ve just sold or given away the last of the Fuji and I’m considering replacing the size 25,28 and 50 Millvis, 1.4 with a Q2 reporter. Now I’m not so sure…

[@alanjones4622]

@@magiccarpetrider4594 The Canon and its lenses are a bit heavy to cart around up mountains, etc, I only use these local to home so I do not have to cart the weight around anymore. I tend to use the Can to photograph local events where the autofocus makes life easier. I have three Leica M digital cameras, an old but still brand new and working M8, an M-P and an M Model 262. This was purchased new in a very good deal from Leitz in part ex for an M9 after its free repair of the faulty sensor that all M9s suffered. If I need to carry a camera up hills now I take the CL Lightweight and excellent zoom lenses, branded Leica but made in Japan. I still keep my first Leica M3, though the shutter sticks a bit at slow speeds but hen I have no access to 35mm film. I have an M6 as well as the last of the film SLRs the R8 but kept for nostalgic reasons rather than use. I wish I had bought the digital back for it. Though low in pixel count and not full frame, same as the M8 which still produces excellent images despite its limitations, the R8 would have been a lightweight and compact digital SLR.

[@michielcornelis9241]

Awesome honest review thanks!!!

[@SourPlanet]

Finally. An actually honest review about it. It's perfect for what it is but what it is... is far from perfect. For many people, that equation will never add up. Going by the comments we always see, it's a trigger issue too. If I had the disposable income would I own one? Absolutely. Do I get by just fine with my A7c + 35/2.8za? Yup! Maybe I'll pick one up used for $3000 in 2034 😂

[@RyB717]

Great video. I love my Q2 reporter. The color, the texture, the images it produces. Awesome.

[@adamnish5764]

Moment that matter camera. Perfectly said.

[@kylemeshna]

Absolutely man! That’s what it’s best for for sure

[@crosstb]

Nice camera. Great hat. Big fan of the “Thermal A-Game” here in NYC area. 🧢

[@kylemeshna]

Been seeing ads for that one and now I’m very tempted. Does it make a noticeable difference in keeping you head warm? Like how does it compare to a beanie?

[@TheDanielHandojo]

the way you do your reviews and make it so entertaining with all the brolls is through the roof! keep going Kyle!

[@kylemeshna]

Yo thanks so much my dude! Big shoutout to @michaelshainblum for helping me fill most of this!

[@butchfajardo8832]

I agree with your review! Thanks!

[@catherinejoanpiazza420]

Excellent points! Especially the depreciating asset point. I have several Leica lenses which have only gone up in value. I've looked at the Q2-M but I've decided that even "used" it's close to $6000 and for another $1000 or so, I could have the M monochrome and use all my lenses. I think in the long run I'd find the fixed 28mm (24), too limiting.

[@CrumpPump]

What camera did you use to show yourself using the camera?

[@TXTundra-ex8bw]

Great honest review you just earned a sub. Definitely cool camera but $6K?? I’ll probably take much better photos taking photography classes and invest in a couple of prime lenses

[@kylemeshna]

oh yea definitely agree you can learn a TON from a few good courses

[@connormccaskill]

Great title 😊

[@kylemeshna]

Had some help from a master 😅

[@avcle]

Have you tried using the handgrip for it? I got it for my original Q and made it much easier to hold without obstructing the shutter speed dial.

[@minkasound]

Thank You for the honest video!

[@detefonusa]

I was considering the Q2 but ended up getting the Sony RX1R II

[@shaddring]

Thanks for the video. I rented a Q2 months ago but at no point did I fell like I enjoyed it any more than other cameras. I felt distinguished for about an hour and then I found myself longing for my mirrorless camera again. I can see doing some projects with just the Q2 in 2023 but I will never own one.

[@TaoDeChing-ls5gz]

Excellent points, has leica resolved the software issues?

[@Ross-ei3iy]

I have a Q2. A good overall review. Another problem: The auto focus is in my view substandard, particularly in low light. I have the focus set to manual most of the time. For the price the auto focus should be top of the tree. It is not.

[@kylemeshna]

Agreed. I do think the MF is very good though

[@thetogtube2]

Great / honest review. I have a Q2 and feel very similarly as you. And your video made me actually want to create with it more often. I generally shoot with a full Canon R3 kit. So the Q2 is such a treat to carry instead. It is not for everyone and should not be somebody’s only camera but it has been such a great EDC for me over the years. Thanks for creating 🙏⚡️🤙

[@kylemeshna]

Thanks for the response! Agree it's definitely a great EDC to have with ya!

[@thetogtube2]

@@kylemeshna Also ... a little jealous of that Reporter Edition ... RESPECT :)

[@duketoby0]

Did you notice some wear on the Kevlar fabric? I hold one and it did not seem very long lasting. Also how does the green matte colour hold up? When i held it i found it wonderfully grippy but i was worried as how easy cleaning was, as matte finishes are sometimes really hard to get oily fingerprints off. Thank you!

[@kylemeshna]

There’s definitely some wear on the fabric, but it’s still quite nice. They tout that it’s supposed to wear with use in the marketing material which is a bit silly imo The matte green is perfect though. No issues there. Haven’t ever felt like it got my fingerprints on it

[@duketoby0]

@@kylemeshna Thanks! Maybe i will update my Q some day ;) Enjoy shooting!

[@tomariko]

I am using the q2 since 3 years already best investissement ever did. However, you need to pair it with another camera for me Leica q2 and Sony a74 and zeiss 551.8. You can shoot anything with this combo.

[@SAM-de6tp]

Do you have the same black bar appear on the screen with the Leica Q one?

[@annekedebruyn7797]

This is why I ultimately went for the Leica L-mount range. I want a Q2 but I also know that the 28mm lose its charm overtime. 6000 dollars to me is too much to lose interest in over time. I hope Fujifilm will release a fullframe version of the x100 series sub 3k. To me, especially with that rangefinder/electronic hybrid viewfinder, seems much more fun.

[@1993j]

@@photonigarcia She said ‘I hope they will release one’ not ‘they are going to release one’.

[@guillaumesandmayer7053]

The new X100 will in theory have the new fifth generation 40megapixel from the H2 and XT5, sure full frame might still gather more light in dim and dark situations but if Camera Labs recent geekout testing is to be believed, this new sensor is outgunning a lot of current full frame models running in the 20 & 30MP range.

[@kosmidts]

Depends and maybe the Sony lens isn't a 24mm?

[@alejandrowong7628]

can we get a link for your wallpaper? thank you!

[@noimnotclarence]

If you get the official Leica thumb grip, it doesn’t block the shutter dial. It is however… much more expensive

[@kylemeshna]

I suppose I should have expected the Leica sales rep at the store to sell me the correct one 😅

[@lc5945]

I'll stick with my contax 28mm, but I do love this camera

[@theonlinething1039]

I shoot most of my street and landscape stuff on a canon 5d mk35,729 with a 24mm 1.4 Sigma Art which is absolutely perfect. I guess I’d love the Q, and I’m going to try to get one. I don’t care if it’s a Q or Q2 cause 20something MP is more than enough for me, and I have an H2D-39 if I need more

[@cinematik9726]

I sold all my Canon and bought an M11. I wanted small lenses, high megapixel count for prints, and no AF so I could slow down and really work for my images instead of just spraying continuous and hoping I got something. It was the best decision I ever made for my photography. Is it extremely overpriced? Duh. But it got me excited to take photos again 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@xuchen1830]

Thank you for the honest review. I’m very interested in hearing that the lens is equal to 24mm from Sony, since I’m using Sony and 24mm is my favorite.

[@kylemeshna]

I do love me the Sony 24 for sure

[@xuchen1830]

@@kylemeshna I also saw a study from another one, the results shows Q2 is about 26mm. Obviously it is close to 24mm.

[@AndrewWells]

Great, balanced take which every Q owner will identify with... I've got an original Q that I bought cheap, so the awful LCD and EVF are things I just accept, and my eye just zeros them out as I use it... and I come from a film background where I had a cheap Nikon with a budget 28 lens 99% of the time, so the camera and its limitations feels like home... so the camera WAY outperforms my low expectations and I love it, but who else buys a Leica at this price level with low expectations?? ;)

[@stevem3219]

Have you tried the Rx1RM2?

[@kylemeshna]

I have not, but it's now a ~7 year old camera and I feel like the specs are starting to show their age. Sony has made some big improvements in their cameras since then so I feel like there's probably a better buy out there at that price point. I'd prefer an original Leica Q for example.

[@alisonwaight4587]

Do you use a filter on the Q2?

[@kylemeshna]

I don’t. But you can put one on there

[@timothycheng1634]

I did consider Q2 but as claimed it is more 24mm than 28mm, which is more frustrating. I would prefer more tele and 35mm would be perfect. I am a current user of RX1R and more suitable for my daily use, especially for street photography

[@Invictus13666]

Nice review. So often their either “LEICA LEICA YAAAAAYYYYYY” or they feel they need to be all edgy and anti Leica. Good balanced review.

[@kylemeshna]

Haha it’s absolutely such a polarizing topic

[@Rodge948]

ofcourse its not for everyone, and its a fixed lens, everybody knows that. but the picture quality is unmatcht. if you work as a pro everybody knows you must have more than one camera with you. I can do 70 % with the leica q2 then i have to use my sony or nikon z. for low light and when you need snappy focus. or want to use a 85 mm lens or something else. so its well wort the money. you can take good pictures with it in the next 20 years. Leica says its the best wide angle lens they ever have made and you never need moore than 47 mp. and the raw files is the best in the market, when you review a fixed lens compact camera you cant say" it only have one lens" ;)

[@GarrettLucasWV]

I know people say that the lens alone costs more, making it quite the buy. However, you can't take the lens off when the camera no longer works. And $300 for a battery is utterly ridiculous.

[@kylemeshna]

$300 for a battery is pretty inexcusable imo

[@treharris1677]

The cropping to 35 and 50mm and so on is nice but wouldn't it be the same/similar to just go between 16:9, 3:2, ,and 1:1?

[@TheJ_G]

I don’t understand why the Q2 is making the algorithm rounds recently, with a bunch of new videos popping up at the same time. There’s a lot to like about the Q2, but it’s far FAR from the perfect point and shoot the hype would have you believe. It’s overall design and user experience is second to none and it really is a beautifully crafted camera. But it’s definitely not a $6000 camera. Not even close. I eventually could no longer justify the cost to keep it around when it’s autofocus kept failing all the time. And I wasn’t shooting sports with it, just simple moments that were always slightly out of focus even when it prompted that it found focus. It missed focus more than any camera I’ve used in a while; and I’ve tried/used most of what’s out there right now.

[@Borisvanderoost]

Really tempted to get the Q2 as a secondary camera to my M which has no live view, no video, abysmal low light, etc. Parallax is never fully corrected on the rangefinder so it makes certain awkward superimposition-type compositions impossible. A lot of the time my colleagues and friends would ask if I want them to take a photo of me (with the M) and it's embarrassing/condescending to tell them "perhaps it's easier with the phone"; oh and flash support - the flash sync on the Q is a huge plus. Things I don't like about the Q2 - it feels hollow, the lens barrel is too large compared to the M, the manual focus is the best emulation out there but it still feels lacklustre compared to a real Leica M lens.

[@Cool-last-name]

What camera did you use to shoot this video?