Leica announces the Q2, featuring a new 47-megapixel sensor, Cinema 4K video and much more
posted Thursday, March 7, 2019 at 10:00 AM EDT
Leica has announced the successor to its Leica Q (Typ 116) fixed lens camera, aptly named the Leica Q2. The Leica Q2 shares many external similarities to its predecessor, but inside, much has changed.
The Q2 has a newly developed 47.3-megapixel full-frame CMOS image sensor (up from 24 megapixels in the Q) which is paired with the same Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH lens as is found in the original Q.
With its new Maestro II processor, the Q2 can shoot at up to 10 fps with autofocus using the mechanical shutter, and up to a whopping 20 fps with electronic shutter. And whereas the Q's video capture topped out at Full HD, the Q2 can record 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) and Cinema 4K (4096 x 2160) video at up to 30 and 24 fps respectively. The Q2 also now features UHS-II support, and a new battery which promises 30% longer battery life. For photographers who want to quickly share images as they shoot, the Q2 offers Bluetooth Low Energy and Wi-Fi.
While the Q2 has the same basic shape and style as the Q, the new camera has undergone some physical changes, including refinements to the buttons and control layout. There is a new 3.68M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder as well. Further, the magnesium-alloy body integrates IP52 weather sealing throughout the camera, which should offer ample protection against the elements.
The Leica Q2 goes on sale today with a suggested retail price of US$4,995. Click the links below to read our updated Hands-on Preview and Overview.