Leica has unveiled the Leica Q3 Monochrom, the latest addition to its esteemed Q-series and the second dedicated black-and-white model in the range. This premium compact full-frame mirrorless camera strips photography back to its essential elements—light and shadow—by omitting colour altogether. Engineered for photographers who seek the purest visual expression, the Q3 Monochrom embodies Leica’s tradition of innovation, craftsmanship and visual storytelling.
The camera features a newly developed 60-megapixel monochrome sensor utilising Leica’s Triple Resolution Technology, delivering images at 60, 36, or 18 MP with outstanding dynamic range and tonal depth. Because the sensor lacks a colour filter array, it captures significantly more detail and texture, producing images that are sharper and richer in nuance. The ISO range from 100 to 200,000 and 8K video recording capability ensure the Q3 Monochrom performs exceptionally well across a variety of lighting situations.
Built around the fast Leica Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH. lens, the camera maintains a wide-angle perspective perfect for street and reportage photography. Macro mode enables close focusing down to 17 cm, while digital zoom allows framing equivalent to 28, 35, 50, 75 and 90 mm focal lengths. Designed with resilience in mind, it holds an IP52 rating, meaning it resists dust and splashes.
Ergonomically and visually, the Q3 Monochrom stays true to Leica’s minimalist ethos. Its all-black metal body is free from the iconic red Leica dot, with understated engravings and a refined leatherette finish. A 5.76 MP OLED viewfinder, hybrid autofocus, and a tilting touchscreen enhance usability, while separate colour-coded photo and video interfaces streamline operation.
Connectivity is robust and user-friendly, with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C, and Micro HDMI integration ensuring smooth workflows through the Leica FOTOS app. Importantly, it’s the first Q-camera to support Content Credentials technology, adding a tamper-proof digital signature to image files—a significant step in digital image authenticity.
Optional accessories include a wireless charging handgrip, a red filter, and a variety of carrying straps—all designed to enhance usability and personalise the photographic experience.
The Leica Q3 Monochrom is released during Leica’s 100th anniversary celebrations, which commemorate a century since the revolutionary Leica I was introduced. As a nod to that pioneering legacy, this latest model combines technological sophistication with timeless photographic values.
Specifications:
- Sensor: 60 MP monochrome full-frame CMOS
- Triple Resolution Technology: 60, 36, or 18 MP output
- Lens: Leica Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH.
- ISO Range: 100 – 200,000
- Video: Up to 8K resolution
- Viewfinder: 5.76 MP OLED
- Autofocus: Hybrid (contrast and phase detection)
- Display: Tilting touch display
- Digital Zoom: 28, 35, 50, 75, 90 mm equivalents
- Close focus: 17 cm (macro mode)
- Build: All-metal body, IP52 dust and water resistance
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C, Micro HDMI
- Additional: Content Credentials support, intuitive UI with photo/video separation
Price and Availability:
The Leica Q3 Monochrom is available globally from 20th November 2025 at Leica Stores, authorised retailers and via the Leica Online Store. The recommended retail price is £5,800.00 / $7,790.00, including VAT. For more details, visit the official Leica website at leica-camera.com.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.