🔴 UNEXPECTED Results! Leica Q3 vs Q2 vs Q (DETAILED Comparison)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

💫 MRLEICA LR PRESETS - mrleica.com/presets/ (incl. Leica Q3 📝 LEICA CLUB WELCOME PACK - mrleica.com/leica-club-join-the-club/ 📝 FREE NEWSLETTER & EBOOK - bit.ly/3OLE37t Detailed review comparing the Leica Q2 vs Q3 vs Q. Side by side hands on test of all 3 Leica cameras. 📝 RECEIVE THE MONTHLY NEWSLETTER - mrleica.com/follow-me/ 📷 MY FAVOURITE CAMERA BAG: bit.ly/3Uiva6w 📷 SEE MY KIT: mrleica.com/kitlist/ 🚀 LEICA WORKSHOPS: mrleica.com/workshops/ 🚀 FREE MODEL PHOTOGRAPHY GUIDE EBOOK: mrleica.com/ebooks/ 🚀 MAKE MONEY WITH PHOTOGRAPHY EBOOK - bit.ly/3PIYtwD 📞 ZOOM: Not sure what camera or lens to buy? Arrange a call today - bit.ly/3lBkdgq ⭐️ PATREON: 100+ Videos & Zoom - mrleica.com/patreon/ ✅ CHECK PRICES: (US) ebay.to/2F0HoxY (UK) ebay.to/3ijzle2 (DE) ebay.to/3iqDNYs (FR) ebay.to/2ZJ3E75 (HK) ebay.to/32A8xBu 🛎 SUBSCRIBED?: Monthly Giveaways! bit.ly/3qET0ZO 🎞 NEED FILM?: mrleica.com/do-you-need-film/ ☕️ COFFEE: Thank Matt with a coffee - www.paypal.com/paypalme/MrLeica ⛔️ INSURANCE: Aaduki UK Photography Insurance - with since 2014 - www.aaduki.com

[@cinemaheist8]

Owns a collection of leicas, drives a Corolla. I approve of these priorities 😊

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ha it was a hire car but yes that's about right for me personally! :)

[@MykeWinters]

My kind of priorities, lol

[@earvinquero2037]

Your smart enough not to get a FORD

[@robinbhairam7508]

😂

[@ChaosKamiKaze]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaComme 2 🫡

[@frand6822]

After having my Q since 2015, I sold it and bought a Q3. No regrets! Oh, and I would never say I "needed" it. I wanted it...

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Wanted.. yes that’s a good way to explain it!

[@victorcarmelo8606]

Comparison videos are fine for people not owning a Q but for us who do we made our bed and few of us the money to upgrade. For me personally I am happy with my Q2, low light is not a problem as I own an old Sony A7s v1. And the Q2 is a great travel camera which was the reason I bought it for in the first place. Lovely video as always, thanks.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you! Yes I’m happy with my Q as I shoot when I have more light.

[@jzuffoletto]

I’ve had my Q typ 116 since it was released in 2015 and while I think the Q2 and Q3 are great cameras, I’ve really never seen a reason to upgrade, given my needs. I’m not a video guy, so I don’t care about that. 24 megapixels to me is the perfect balance of high resolution and “reasonable” file sizes; 60 megapixels is insane (but I’d still like it). I don’t shoot much in low light, so even though the high ISO comparisons in this video were interesting, they are mostly academic to me. I do like the tilt screen on the Q3, but not enough to sell my Q for $3K to pay over $5K for the Q3. Finally, I live in Mexico, so weatherproofing isn’t important to me either. One thing I really dig about the Q3 is the USB-C in-camera charging… I wouldn’t need to bring my Leica charger with me any more when I travel because I could charge it with my iPad charger. All three are fantastic cameras and I very much enjoyed this detailed comparison. Cheers.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you! Yes I'm with you.. happy with my Q but the USB-C would be nice!

[@ilduro2]

My thoughts exactly.

[@jeffchastain2977]

I would have to agree with you. If I had an original Q or a Q2 I wouldn't upgrade to a Q3. But since I didn't have the money when those cameras came out and had the money when the Q3 came out, I put myself on the waiting list of every Leica store in the US, and Leica LA came thru for me!! It's an amazing camera in a line of amazing cameras. But the difference between the 2 and the 3 is not enough, just like upgrading to the latest MacBook Pro isn't always in the cards for me. The differences between the generations are not large enough. The thing that struck me the most when I started editing the images from the Q3, was how little needs to be done to them. Absolutely NO sharpening required. Sometimes a bit of a saturation tweak, a crop here and there, but almost nothing else.

[@touchtennis]

Went from the Q2 to the Q3 specifically for the tilting screen and range of DNG sizes you can use. I shoot a lot of landscape so 61MP is awesome for large prints I do. Great video as always mate.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Makes great sense for tripod work too. Thanks!

[@coasttocoastphoto]

Just a thought here- if you’re looking for a small camera, don’t rule out the Sigma fp. It’s an L mount camera with uses the same battery as the Q. I bought a Q when they first came out and loved it, but the fp is highly capable and routinely outperforms my SL2-S. It’s not your all occasion camera as you do have to watch out for rolling shutter and banding under certain lighting conditions. As for lenses, I’m using L and M glass, and some S glass. S lenses with auto aperture are not controlled by the camera and only work wide open. The exception is the S 120 Tilt Shift which has a huge image circle and renders beautifully. I do have the detachable viewfinder and use it about half the time. It’s a little finicky, and you do have to remove it to charge via the C port. Overall, I like the fp better than the original Q. If you are a general purpose shooter, one of the Q’s might serve you better. If you are a fanatic, then perhaps an fp is the better choice.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks for sharing, noted!

[@crissignori7482]

How does it outperform the SL2-S?

[@coasttocoastphoto]

Sigma did a nice job with the build quality and with tweaking the sensor. Outdoors on a nice day shooting Leica or Voigtlander glass, the camera renders, in my opinion, a little more organically than the SL2-S. I’m not suggesting one versus the other, I’m saying the Sigma is a solid machine with a very small form factor that has a lot of potential. @@crissignori7482

[@ElmarJournal]

@@crissignori7482owner of fp, q and sl, i can say image quality from fp is outstanding, i also used their merrill and quattro dp, i trust it when sigma make camera, and they're probably the only camera brands nowadays that really unique, its not for everyone, but once you accept the quirks it's a nice experience. Sadly the evf is quite expensive, so i treat the camera like i use a pocket camera.

[@Benibou10]

I have the Q since 2018 which I love but I would be interested in your views of the Sigma Fp and what lenses you have!

[@ikakau]

I have a QP, a Q2 monochrom reporter and just got a Q3. The tilt screen, phase detect and the usb-c charger was what really made me want to get one. Been using it a lot and really enjoying it. Nice to have a monochrom in the mix as the Q2 monochrom is a great camera.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great combo! I like the QP design and the Reporter models all look awesome I think.

[@tzj21]

What made you feel the need to have all 3? I’m debating on the q3 and I’m very impatient with pre orders. I also have most of the Sony lens and cameras already so the point and shoot I’m not sure about. I just have the m11, and been debating about the q3… does owning the q series make you feel you don’t need anything else? Tempted to get into it 😢

[@ikakau]

@@tzj21 a friend of mine had a Q, I had a Sony camera then, I used it and was attracted to the Leica “look” which was difficult to reproduce with other cameras at that time. I picked up a pre-owned QP, the ease of use of the Leica and the terrible Sony menu system, at least in my opinion, made the Q easy to pick up, I was using it way more than my Sony. When the Q2 came out I didn’t feel the need to get it but the monochrom edition intrigued me as I found myself shooting more black and white than color. I saved and the reporter edition was available so I got it and still use it a lot. I didn’t think I would get another camera but the usb charging, tilt screen and hybrid focusing of the Q3 brought it to another level so I got one. I’m not wealthy by any means and have sold most of my other camera equipment and saved to get the cameras I have and do not regret it at all. The Q system just works for me, sorry about the long response.

[@sunny16portraits]

Leave it to Matt for an unbiased detailed comparison of the nicest Leica gear :) Would love to shoot the high mega pixel Q3 as the wide angle lens seems to me would be perfect to crop to panoramas in post. But indeed the original Q looks cleaner in the low light tests to me!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Thomas! 🙏🏻 Yes the old Q did a good job here!

[@andyreid8098]

Hey Matt i am moving back to Leica after a long hiatus (my last was the M9) for a small carry around camera for work. I work in the collector car space and am often judging a concours event and also need to cover it for various publications. My Nikon Z6 II and Z8 were too big and cumbersome and just decided on the 116 Q instead of the Q2 based on this comparison. Thanks so much for making it and giving me the information i was looking for in a clear and concise way.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Andy! Welcome back to Leica and no problem at all.

[@smith507]

Excelent points on each and a real surprise with the Q2 in low light. As an original Q user, makes sense to skip the Q2 to get phase detection, high ISO performance and higher MP count. Actually, the Summilux lens is so sharp it creates moiré with some ease on the 24MP sensor; the viewfinder seems to flash RGB quickly to give the perception of color which may affect some people. I think those would be my nitpicks. Maybe I'll wait for a Q3-P launch.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes I was surprised too. Yes I like the P styling more than the standard models

[@rumporridge1]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaComnever selling my Q-P bro.

[@zoltankaparthy9095]

Another one well done. Clear, concise and understandable. Thanks.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you!

[@vc6218]

I’m learning and buying into Leica (starting with the first models for cheap) and your website and videos are like going to Leica school. Saving us thousands of dollars by buying the right cameras the first time!!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great. Yes happy I can help

[@thomasgoetze]

It looks like my Q (Type 116) is far from old. The 24 megapixels are fine with me (and my hard disk), a few raindrops have not harmed it and the image quality is at least identical to its successors. Seriously, I see the Leica Q (Type 116) as a serious rival to the Q2/Q3. Buying a new Q because of a USB-C socket, a flip-up display and a phantastillion pixels doesn't fit into my value context. They share the same lens and sensor quality. Anyone who wants to try out the Q should consider the Q116.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Thomas, yes! In this limited test the Q beat the Q2 in low light too. I still use the 116.

[@stanb.5261]

My choice was easy- I could only afford an Ex Cond Q at half price, and it's all I need. Discipline yourself to crop in camera, it makes you a better photographer. I love my Q, that said, the increase in image quality is not as much as one would expect coming from a Ricoh GR... PS- I much prefer your pronunciation of Leica as... "Lucky!"

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ha thanks! Yes I’m like you and bought a used Q. I’m used to framing in camera from shooting film so it works fine for me.

[@tonyselwah6420]

Hey Matt, thanks for the video, nice comparison. Two things I noticed; the Q2 has iso 50 and max shutter of 40k and Q3 max shutter is 16k.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ah thanks Tony, sorry for this. I relied on online info and some were conflicting. I expected the Q3 to be the ‘higher’ one as I found both written. Apologies

[@tonyselwah6420]

All good Matt, I know it matters to you, so I try to help. Cheers

[@irenedp4947]

I bought a Q1 new in 2018. The cost was huge but it was night and day from the Fuji X100 I used for scouting. I am always surprised about how many Q photos end up on my projects’ master files. I don’t feel the need to upgrade.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great stuff! You're not the first person to say that vs. the X100! Yes the Q does all I need too.

[@davidblair3697]

Q2m manages the low light issues with cleaner high ISOs…with the other benefits of the color Q2. Thanks for sharing your results!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks David! Yes Q2M will be king for low light.

[@kenmonahan9924]

I thought the same however was chatting with the guy I bought the Q3 from; he owned a Q2M and showed me some serious shadow detail issues with the 60MP raw files (strange patterns) which go away when you reduce the file size…..weird.

[@joansmith7649]

@@kenmonahan9924 Does anyone on here need 60MP? Higher MP always causes issues. Generally it is better to have fewer but bigger higher quality photosites that will produce clean images that require less noise reduction, especially given that noise reduction blurs detail. I was hoping that Leica engineers were beyond running a megapixel race. And who wants to store all those huge images from a shoot? I don't see the attraction. The phase detect auto-focus is the only real upgrade in my opinion.

[@johnkulias]

Love your channel and appreciate the great content! I have a Q and have had trouble with dust on the sensor twice now. Probably because I cycle with it and have it hanging on a strap across my back in the wind. For this reason I have a Q2 on the way and hope I don’t need the higher iso much to avoid the low light challenges. Love the camera and this seemed to be the best option for me. Stay tuned !

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks John! Try using macro less. Some say that’s how dust gets on the sensor.

[@HartponderJr]

Bravo! Most detailed informative Q series comparison I have seen to date.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great, I’m happy for this. That was my goal!

[@rainer-christophermandel5270]

thanks, bought the Q and waiting for Qq3 Monochrom

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Very nice!! (and thanks)

[@PaulTakesPhotos]

I like the video Matt. One thing that has always bothered me about the Q2 is that it uses the same image processor as the Q. Have noticed a difference in processing speed between q/q2

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Paul! I’ll be honest, from real world use and single shot shooting I didn’t notice any difference

[@PaulTakesPhotos]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaComthat is interesting I would expect the processor on the Q2 to take a bit longer to process images. Thanks for setting it straight :) keep posting episodes!

[@90boiler]

New Owner of M8 and Q. To me, Q just blows my mind how great it is in use and I find it more filmic than M8 which is widely regarded as a"digital-film" camera..

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Welcome! Yes I think for colour especially the Q has a lovely tone.

[@robinbhairam7508]

Great review … no bells, whistles, or cheesy music! Wish I’d seen this before buying my first Leica … fortunately, as Yoda would say “Chose, well you did young padawan … luckily! …” Thanks and subscribed …

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ha thanks Robin! :)

[@YoramPomer]

I know you are a manual focus shooter, but maybe you could do a comparison between the focus quality of the 3 cameras. When I say quality, I trust that you know best what is important for a street and a model photographer in real life situation. Regarding the low lights compare. I use the Q2 a lot in low light and recently I have started using the AI Noise reduction of LR and its so addicting that I do it for most of the photos I took in low light. Yes, it takes 2 minutes for every image and it creates an even bigger image file than the original Q2 raw. but the result is a game changer for me. Thanks for the video

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Q cameras always seem instead AF to me but I don’t try to track small moving children etc. I use single spot AF. Q3 looks more like a Canon R5 AF etc, like a flight sim. Green AF boxes move round the screen when it sees faces.

[@YoramPomer]

I fully understand you. I activated the auto pilot on my Q2 for some months and eventually turned it off because it does great autofocus , but not necessary on the correct part of the image@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom

[@tonyvokey7607]

Well done! Thanks Matt! I’m on the waiting list at Leica Store Miami for a Q3 and will be trading in my Q2 when my number comes up. I’ve been enjoying the 60MP on my M11 but the USB-C charging capability is a game changer. I can take or leave the tilt screen and I liked the fact that the button configuration was a match on my Q2 and CL but I’m going to take the plunge nonetheless. I’m REALLY hoping that Leica is going to shock us all and come out with a CL2 equipped with an updated sensor and EVF 😮

[@janwedek]

They won’t do APS-C for sure. But who wouldn’t love a FF L-Mount variant of the CL? 😅

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Tony! Yes I love the USB-C too and yes we can hope for the CL2 🤞🏻

[@shimon1166]

Josh!

[@paper_shmaper]

great comparison - Q obviously the the best in terms of photo in low light... no need to upgrade. Appreciate)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Yes I’m happy staying with my Q

[@averywagg1839]

I just bought a 28mm lens for the new M11. It’ll be interesting to see how often I pull it out. I shoot mostly street, and usually film..

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great, yes I use a few 28s for walkabout too

[@statonra]

Great job with the video! Packed with information and actual stuff to look at. So many people just sit there talking on camera and say blah blah blah.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you! Yes I try to make them answer all the questions I might have.

[@Narsuitus]

Since I prefer cameras with interchangeable lenses instead of fixed lenses, I was really not interested in the Leica Q cameras. However, your comparative review was very well done.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks 🙏🏻 Yes I prefer to change lenses too

[@MarcS4R]

i have the Q2 and i love it, it is good enough for my work. i love the sensor , getting superb results, it cost me much less than a new Q3

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice Marc, yes I think the Q2 is enough for many users.

[@hypnotoads]

EXACTLY the video I needed today! The Q is an amazing performer despite it's age.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and yes agreed!

[@terrydavis1488]

Hi Matt, Very helpful ad informative video. My son just acquired the Leica Q, and I have set it up for him, until he arrives home. It seems easy to use. I used to be a Nikon man, but ditched all my gear for the iPhone, which is all I need now. Carry on the good work!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Terry, great. Yes these Q cameras are very popular.

[@rennymas]

Great review. Are 25mp on the Q enough if I prefer to crop into 35mm?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! People that remember 10MP cameras would say yes but those liking 60MP will say no! Q2 would be better for cropping but the Q is usable.

[@matthadenmusic]

great video, thanks. The reason i sold my q2 was the poor performance in low light. Generally speaking i was not happy with even 3200 ISO. So, so noisy imo. I moved over to an SL2-S which is truly amazing in low light and overall a more versatile tool. I have compared so many images between the two cameras and the 47 mp is only noticable to me when realllllly pixel peeping and zooming in. i do miss macro though...

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! SL2S is great

[@LensForgotten]

Great no nonsense mashup. Very informative

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks 🙏🏻

[@d30gaijin]

Turns out the TL2 is the best camera for my needs, since I'm only a hobbyist photographer.😎 It's on its way to me.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great, even smaller than CL too!

[@rd_rae]

Great comparison. I don‘t own a Leica at all (yet), but to me the Q3 with all its bells and whistles, i.e. ports and tilty screen, while practical, seems to have lost some of its charme and sexiness. Because when I go for such features I‘d look at other bigger brands. The Q2 with its flush screen looks so clean and sleak, and still delivers great IQ. A Q2M seems also very tempting for its low light IQ and uniqueness, which I‘d use with alongside with a regular, non-Leica, ILC, and in future get a M when I can afford it. FWIW

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes others like the Q2 too for the design (screen)

[@guitargirlutube]

Hi the Leica Q seems to perform better in low light that the Q2. Would that also hold for the Q2 Monochrom? Deciding between Q and Q2 monochrome. Would appreciate your opinion, thanks )

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Q vs Q2 - yes as lower MP. Q2M is different. It's designed for low light so it'll be fine/great/better

[@guitargirlutube]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom cheers thanks )

[@aque4life]

Matt in your opinion which camera AF works better in low light the Q2 or the CL ?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Q2 for me, but the CL is less specific. My Q was faster than CL + 18mm from memory

[@ish77777]

The most informative comparison video on the Q line so far!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! That was the goal 🙏🏻

[@HartponderJr]

I really want to buy my first Leica, and like the specs but I was surprised by more than a few buyer’s reviews of the Q3 that the finish “scuffed” and dented easily. Did you observe this with the Q3?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Dented - I’ve never seen. Scratches can happen if try hard

[@Jmalkolm]

Thanks for the review. Any major difference with the autofocus in real life? How is the battery life on the Q? Thanks

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! I didn’t notice a difference in AF but used single spot. The Q3 phase detect will be much quicker in reality. Battery is fine on Q (for me), maybe 350-400 photos from memory.

[@steveoh4511]

Always excellent and down-to-earth review on camera gears! Your channel provides a good reference in choosing which gears to choose. And wonder what brand the camera strap of Q3 is. Thanks~

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you!

[@tagchristof]

I love how it always sounds like Matt's saying "Lucky Q"

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ha sorry about that!

[@tagchristof]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom no way! it's awesome - I call mine the "Lucky Q2" now. :) Keep up the good work, man!

[@winniduesseldorf]

Thank you for this comprehenshive review.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you!

[@pv2780]

Interesting, thanks! Please compare the Q3 to the Q2Monochrome.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! I will if I get a chance

[@DmitryBrodsky007]

I was about to ask why Q does not have build in ND filter since it only goes up to 1/2000 with mechanical shutter like Fuji x100 series which is extremely convenient when shooting at wide apertures with flash at daytime. Then thanks to the review I saw that Q3 has base iso 50. Base iso on latest x100 is 1/125 before it was 1/200. ISO50 makes a big difference it is same as iso100 at 1/4000…… 😊

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Glad you found it useful. Yes I love cameras with base ISO 50 (like my SL)

[@peterbondmusic]

The Q2 has noise and banding issues, I was always amazed that nobody ever seemed to mention it. I was so happy to upgrade to the Q3 for that alone. And then there's the Q3's resolution switching which is great. 36mp gives you lower noise and higher dynamic range in high iso/lower light situations, that will beat any of the older Q cameras.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Peter, yes I'll be honest I thought the Q2 would perform better (I own the Q so just assumed the Q2 was improved). Yes to the Q3 benefits.

[@Sojourner88]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaComI would love a high ISO comparison with the megapixel on the q2 and q3 dropped down to 24mp

[@thedondeluxe6941]

The Q2 is kinda notorious for not being the best in low light, just like the SL2. It's the only reason why I'm considering selling my Q2 for a Q3. Other than that, the Q2 is pretty much perfect imo!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes it makes sense with the higher MP (and why they did the SL2-S) but Q2 was still a surprise.

[@thedondeluxe6941]

Yes, I think that's why they made the SL2-S. Sensor tech just wasn't quite up to high resolution in low light yet back then. It is after all a few years old now! My solution was to get an SF24D flash for the Q2. It does soft fill-in light very well in darker conditions and fits in my pocket. @@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom

[@thedondeluxe6941]

@@phillipbanes5484 Interesting! That is usually the case with very high res sensors, I think. At least the ones I've tried. The Q2 has superb looking photos at lower ISO values, but it struggles with banding lines rather quickly if you start pushing it. The Q3 is a lot better there.

[@thedondeluxe6941]

@@phillipbanes5484 I'm guessing the sensor architecture is basically the same (Sony makes Leica sensors), but tailored towards the different cameras. I've always liked Leica because they don't overdo the noise reduction, but I haven't tried the Q3 yet. The older 24mpx sensors (M10, SL, CL, TL2) are really good at high iso levels. Ideally I would just like something similar to those, but with higher resolution.

[@thedondeluxe6941]

@@phillipbanes5484 Pretty much agree with all this. Sensor tech hasn't really evolved that much in the later years, just the noise reduction algorithms. I still like my older 24mpx M10 and CL a lot for high iso stuff. They both have a pleasing, grain-like noise pattern. I'm also very happy with my Canon R5 for high iso work, actually. It's surprisingly good for 45mpx. Like you said, it's noisy but the noise looks good.

[@smooth111012]

I want a Q camera, 2 is good but 3 obviously better. Not much difference price wise for new anyway Great review sir Thank you

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes with a similar price the 3 makes more sense for the reasons mentioned.

[@chukolna]

Awesome video. Any chance you can provide the low light photos for us to see at our computers? The Q seems so much brighter at each ISO, is there a reason for that? Looking at KZbin it seems like Q has the most “organic” grain and performance the best, Q2 is just bad. Q3 feels like there is baked noise reduction, looks weird.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes if you chase me in a week I can make them available once I’m home. Yes the Q did well

[@chukolna]

Ive be dabating to get another M10, but i think Q may be the better choice, especially for the macro capabilities. Im wedding shooter and i do miss that, currently sho

[@taigenetsudo4273]

They're all great in my opinion. 24mp or 18mp even, are enough for any situation. I'd only use it as a 28 or 35mm as you'd lose the DOF depth after that. Shot at 35mm crop f1.7 it'd be equivalent to a 35mm f2.2 approx i think 🤔

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and yes re. DOF low

[@CDeeez94]

Q3...a dream camera...maybe one day... Thanks for the review. 👍

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks!

[@ianforber]

A minor point but the video says that the max shutter speed of the Q2 is 1/16000s whereas it’s 1/40000s, same as the Q3. I don’t have a Q or Q3 to compare but the low light performance of the Q2 isn’t brilliant above 3200 ISO. Do the extra pixel count make it better than the Q after putting through noise reduction though? I use Topaz and they clean up fine

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you! Yes sorry the data online seems to vary so sorry for the incorrect numbers.

[@DAVE_WHITE]

my canon r7 and r6 are fine for me :) the get exposure and white balance right..

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice, they are probably better AF and still good in low light 👍🏻

[@StreetPhotographyChina]

Very useful comparison. None of the Q3 improvements would be enough to make me want to upgrade, although the USB-C charging is something I would love to have. By the way, have you got the electronic shutter maximum speeds transposed? I'm seeing on the Leica website the Q2 has the faster 1/40,000 sec and the Q3 has 1/16000 sec maximum speed. Also the Q2 continuous shooting speed is quoted as 10 frames per second rather than the 20 fps you mentioned while the Q3 is 15 fps.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and yes sorry I had them Showing the wrong way around. Apologies

[@StreetPhotographyChina]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks for clarifying, I actually thought maybe Leica had it the wrong way round because it made more sense the newer model would have a faster electronic shutter speed!

[@Orwell_2984]

If you still shoot in 28 mm indeed do you need 60 mo? On the other hand if you crop in 70 or 90 mm because you want to make some portraits .. you will be happy to have opted for the Q3!! This is the only question to ask at the time of purchase: will I really need to reframe??

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes! I frame in camera (ie. 28mm so the Q is great). If you love 28mm look out for the next video!

[@tomjsmith000]

No mention of the major upgrade of the OLED EVF of the Q2. The Q has a LCOS (field sequential) EVF which I found extremely annoying as it has a RGB flicker which is noticeable when moving your eye when looking through the EVF especially when using monochrome mode you can see the RGB.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes TBH I didn't see a difference jumping between the 3 cameras but I wasn't looking for it*

[@james-p]

Luckily it's rare when I need to go beyond ISO 1600. For night city shots, I usually just set my Q2 to ISO 1600, 1/60 @ f/1.7 The stabilization helps a lot for keeping the ISO down.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes with the fast lens that helps a lot.

[@SneakyCaleb]

I’ll take the Leica Q2 monochrom

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice! Popular camera

[@wilfredshum3703]

Keeping my Q-P and Q2-M

[@walterlee3839]

Adore my Q2M! Eats high ISO for a snack!

[@wilfredshum3703]

@@walterlee3839 Never fails to give me a good one

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice. I like the Q-P or Q2 Reporter the most for body styling!

[@thedarkslide]

Re: image quality. I am not surprised about the results. We've seen the same with the M10 versus the M10R, where the M10 did somewhat better in low light, the Q versus Q2 works of the same sensor set, so why would the result be different. As for the colors: the original Q had really bad white balance, the JPEGs come out very green cast often. I think I would go for the Q3 if I was in the market for a Q body.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes I’d like to do a M video like this if I ever get a chance. All the Q cameras have a slight green look vs Ms. See M11 vs Q3 video.

[@thedarkslide]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I honestly do not understand why Leica can't implement a consistent color balance across the same generation of their cameras. If you shoot a project with an M and a Q, you got a ton of extra work to make it look consistent.

[@joemills4603]

Q2 looks like a fair balance. I'd definitely want one of the weather sealed models, and I don't often need to go above ISO 3200. I prefer the Q2 button layout, but I really like the Q3 USB charging. I don't really like the pop-out screen of the Q3, due to lack of portrait mode... but it's arguably better than nothing. I like the Q3 base ISO of 50 - allowing for more wide open shooting. How is the electronic shutter on the Q cameras, in real use? The M11's is more of a sh1tter.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks. Yes the w/sealing it the big Q2 advantage. Shutter seems fine. I’ve seen no issues at all so far. Leaf shutter*

[@TheLeiPol]

Currently I do not own any of the Q’s. Would love to get one. Think I’ll get a Q 116 or QP since 28 mm would be my default use. The not weather sealing is not a dealbreaker for me and the batteries of which I have several from a Panasonic camera fit de Q and QP. I also have a Nitecore USB charger for those batteries that I can connect to a power bank. 24 MP is enough and with the Q2 or Q3 I also would have to upgrade my computer due to the file sizes. I do not need the latest and greatest, I’m not a professional, just a guy that likes taking pictures and the my wallet has also something to say. Many thanks for this very interesting comparison.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes I still have the Q and I’m not looking to upgrade. Someone else just recommended that charger for my M10. It gets mixed reviews online but maybe I should consider it.

[@MeAMuse]

Still waiting for my Leica Q3 (ordered day 3). I was going to pick up the Q2, but the tilt screen and button placement made up my mind.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

If you're based in the UK you can probably get one sooner. Message me via the MrLeica.com blog if that's the case.

[@ywileo]

Great topic 👍🏻 simple clear comparison

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you!

[@GastonShutters]

Awesome video Matt. I just dropped a similar video. 😊 to me the Q2 offers perfect balance in terms of resolution features and price.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, great. Yes in good light the Q2 gives more res. Not great in low light.

[@user-sf5bt8eb4y]

I agree. seems like Q >Q2 in low light. Q2 is much more gritty/grainy

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes, the problem with more MP!

[@user-sf5bt8eb4y]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom but Q3 has the most MP and its doing better than Q

[@jls2975]

My travel cam is a Q2 Add a nitecore charger and get hi res, weather sealing and USB charging for half the price of Q3 Don't worry about 12500 + ISO, you dont need these with high aperture and stab

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Yes the Q2 should tick the box for most I think. I agree, I rarely use crazy high ISO.

[@cameraprepper7938]

The price difference right now is $200 in the US for the Q2 versus the Q3, so if you want a new camera, it is daft to buy a new Q2 ! Further more if you need to crop a lot (it is only a 28mm Lens !!!), then there is much more to crop from the Q3 than the Q2. I had the Sony A7RIII which have the same sensor as the Q2, now I have the Sony A7RIV which have the same sensor as the Q3 and I can crop a lot more now than I could before. The 5.8 mega dot EVF in the Q3 is much more detailed than the 3.7 mega dots EVF in the Q2, plus all the other new advantages in the Q3. So for $200 extra you get a LOT in the Q3 ! The price of the Q2 should be lowered much more !!!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes for $200 it’s a no brainer for sure!

[@erwin2912]

Very well done! Thanks!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Erwin!

[@tombube49]

The used prices of Q2 and Q are still very high, so I get a used SL2-S as a second camera to the M. The used SL2-S are very cheap in comparison to the new price.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes you can get some great deals on the SL bodies. The old SL is a bargain these days too.

[@MichaelBoelton]

is it true the q3 doesn't have the 2 minute max exposure time limit that the q2 does?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hmm not sure, try Google. I only used it at normal speeds for daytime use.

[@Flipopotamus]

Im honestly shocked by how bad the Q2's low light performance is...

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Me too!

[@chrisakin2323]

What's that flat black button on the Leica Q-P?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Buttons should be the same as other models

[@MichaelBoelton]

I usually shoot with fujifilm gfx system. but I found I wasn't taking as many pictures when traveling because of the weight. since purchasing the Q2 two years ago, I've taken far more pictures than I otherwise would, and the fixed lens has forced me to think about more deliberately about composition. at this point spending an extra $3k to change to the Q3 is not worth it.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Good to hear. I'm the same, I prefer smaller setups as I can carry them easier and therefore use them more. Agree I don't think most Q2 users need the Q3 except for the mentioned benefits. Hip shooters etc.

[@kevin-parratt-artist]

A Leica Q3 with M mount would be nice. 😁

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes! You’re not the first to say this :)

[@TWEAKER01]

NB: the digital cropping in each camera does *not* change the focal length, merely the equivalent field of view.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks

[@user-jo8nj]

surprised how good the q3 is for such a high resolution sensor!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes!

[@milkyISO]

is it just me or the Q is the best? lol Awesome video btw.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Yes I still love my Q, no need to upgrade for me!

[@mwales2112]

Thanks Matt...

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks!

[@ExtremeAerialProductions]

what are the rope camera straps

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi I'm not sure, it's an old video and not my cameras. If I remember it might be mention in the comments section (if it's this video I think of)

[@ExtremeAerialProductions]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks

[@Dr.Kyriazidis]

Are the photos from q3 better in quality and clarity than q2 or is it just imagination? Cause I have that sense that Q3s are more close to Ms for some reason. How can this be explained?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Sensors vary in Q and M bodies. Newer releases are less zLeica like some say as they use modern sensors to work in low light. Same with SL series.

[@TheGeordietheWitchandtheWench]

I LOVE my Q!!!! the end......

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

I still have mine too!

[@TheGeordietheWitchandtheWench]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom :-) It's so beautiful, I'll never sell it.....

[@doctorkj5640]

The way you pronounce Leica Q, I always hear Lucky Q and after that it sounds like Lucky Few... just about right. :-)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ha thanks! Yes sorry I’m still learning to speak with each video! ..but yes the Q did well!

[@Rawa2ful]

Thanks again Matt for the very helpful video. I own a Q2 and I have to say it performs really bad in low light situations. I mean I don’t go beyond 3200 maximum 6400 ISO . Thanks to you and your videos I am learning on camera flash with my Q2 and this helps keeping the ISO down 😊. Upgrading to the Q3 not an option for me I wasn’t impressed with the Q3 and the tilting screen helps only if you shoot at waist level, and my computer is already so slow from the DNGs from the Q2 .

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks for confirming the Q2 low light results. I plan to do some Q + flash work this week so hopefully a video to follow!

[@Ianl6311]

@Rawa2ful how does that bad performance manifest itself? Have you noticed unpleasing, digital-looking artifacts or is it closer to film grain? Especially in b&w

[@Rawa2ful]

I love film grain and I even add it to my pictures but with the Q2 whenever I go high with the ISO it is more like artefacts than grain and the annoying thing somehow they managed to make it look nice on the back lcd but once I open the file on the computer it is very annoying. from my experience I wouldn't go beyond 64oo Iso in the extreme situations@@Ianl6311

[@albertobellini2579]

I own a Q2 and I love it, but I have to say it performs quite bad in low light situations and AF. I own also a Sony a7R5 and every time I use the Q2, the AF is like a joke. I could move to Q3 mainly for this reason.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes this surprised me for the Q2

[@pinkeye00]

Nice that the Q3 has made it to 2014 SONY design

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Haha yes!

[@jklphoto]

Whoa, stop the presses! The improved BP-SCL6 is "only" $170 USD? Haven't they been $275?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes..I thought it looked ‘cheap’ too. I think it’s M batteries that cost the most?

[@jklphoto]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I realized after my original post, the SCL6 is for the Q3, Q2 and SL2 series, not the SL(601). The BP-SCL4 is still $285 @ B&H! WTH Matt?

[@ArminHirmer]

I am happy with my Q3 :) does one NEED it? depends. Is it fun to have? FOR SURE :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and great. Yes need is a grey area but if you enjoy it that's the main thing!

[@chrisachristie]

Hi Matt, new subscriber here. I don’t really ever buy presets, but I felt the need to buy your presets. My gosh, I know it’s only four but they’re incredibly well rounded. Thank you for putting them together.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Chris, thanks so much on both accounts. I'm glad you found them useful and thanks for your support!

[@Biosynchro]

I just hope he doesn't start selling light leak overlays! LOL (I know you won't, Matt!).

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@Biosynchro hmm nice idea! 😝 .. this is why I love imperfect glass. Much easier / more rewarding than a perfect lens then lots of editing to make look more imperfect/ arty

[@hedydd2]

You really should have done a custom white balance on each before starting those low light tests. No winner here due to the dodgy colour due to WB. None of the Leica Q will win in low light compared to certain versions and lens combinations of Sony or other models that excel in this regard.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, They all matched in daylight but yes colours changed at high ISO.

[@Red-xz1gk]

First like smashed!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

🥇 Thank you! 🏆

[@kolkataphototours917]

Love the video

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks!

[@humaner3527]

Someone asked me what make my camera was I said Leica it was a Fujifilm...I got the date 🌹.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Haha only maybe 1 in 10 models I meet know what a Leica is, and those are the smarter full timers!

[@kenmonahan9924]

My first thoughts on the Q3; the buttons are on the wrong side for someone who likes to carry and shoot with the strap wrapped around the right elbow…..! First world problems😂

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Ken! Yes this may catch out some people.

[@mamumonkan]

who needs 60Mpx ? Improved AF ... now that would tempt me

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Q3 has the latest phase detect AF too (similar to most other brands)

[@hayabusa27]

It sucks if you have a Q2 batteries were one off no longer in production

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes the M240 series cameras have the same problem

[@innstikk]

Of course you don't need a Leica Q# camera. You get better (image quality) and cheaper cameras nowadays.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes very true!