Leica Q2 is the Compact Full-Frame Camera You've Been Waiting For

Leica Q2 Is the Compact Full-Frame Camera You’ve Been Waiting For

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Leica has improved on its popular Q model, taking the compact full-frame camera to new heights with the Leica Q2. A newly developed 47.3-megapixel full-frame sensor is just one of many improvements that ups the potential of the Q2. Whether taking candid street photographs or capturing architectural and landscape images, this compact camera is packed with features that make it the perfect choice for both amateur and professional photographers.

The Leica Q2 comes with a fixed Summilux 28 mm f/1.7 prime lens and is weather sealed against dust and water spray, making it a great choice for shooting in any conditions. Leica declares the newly developed sensor to be the highest resolution in its class, and a built-in crop feature allows photographers to go beyond the conventions of the 28 mm lens. Using the feature, it's possible to crop equivalent focal lengths of 35 mm, 50 mm, and 75 mm without losing clarity. The new sensor improves on the Q, maintaining 30 MP when cropped to 35 mm. This is a marked improvement over the Q, which maxed out at 24 MP at 28 mm.

Speed is a key component of the Leica Q2. The new high-resolution OLED viewfinder has a lag-free high refresh rate and provides a crystal clear view of your work thanks to a 3.68 MP resolution. Leica also boasts that its lightning fast autofocus hones in on subjects in milliseconds and the improved processor means that the Q2 can shoot continuously at a rate of 10 fps—even at maximum resolution. If you're also into video, the Leica Q2 shoots gorgeous clips and features 4K UHD and Cine4K video recording options.

For the Q2, Leica kept in mind the entire photography experience. By adopting the BPSCL4 battery from the Leica SL, the Q2 enjoys a 30% battery boost over the Q, meaning you'll have fewer worries about running out of power on the road. In addition to Leica Q2's IP52-certified weather sealing (which protects the camera from dust and water spray) an additional, built-in rubber gasket gives an extra layer of protection. Sharing your shots has never been easier, thanks to the Leica FOTO app which connects to the camera quickly via its Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities.

From a design standpoint, the Q2 has all of the classic elegance that Leica is know for, with a few new additions thrown in. “The distinctive thumb rest of the new Leica Q2 and the sophisticated diamond pattern of its leather trim ensure optimum grip and highlight the accomplished symbiosis of form and function,” Leica writes. “Also new is the camera’s uniquely intuitive handling concept. A highlight of this is the redesigned dioptre compensation setting dial on the back of the camera that prevents inadvertent shifting of the compensation value.”

There's a whole host of new accessories, including a handgrip, thumb support, and various holsters, to round out the Q2 experience. The Leica Q2 is now available for pre-order for $4,445, with an expected delivery date of late March 2019.