Leica Camera has announced the availability of its latest compact camera, the Leica Q, in Malaysia. Its most advanced compact camera yet, the Leica Q combines the company’s renowned camera capabilities with today’s latest technologies.
The Leica Q is a digital compact camera that packs an amazing array of technologies. From the 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor precisely matched to its Summilux f/1.7 28mm lens to the surprisingly compact and robust body, the Q is easily one of the best compact cameras around. The lens itself is a system of 11 lenses in 9 groups, with 3 aspherical lenses. There’s optical image stabilisation, an aperture range of f/1.7 to f/16, and an ISO range of 100 all the way to 50,000.
The Q shoots up to full-frame 24MP (6,000 x 4,000) pictures in DNG+JPEG and JPEG only, as well as Full HD vieos at 60fps. It’s also equipped with an electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 1,280 x 960, and a 3-inch LCD touchscreen. There’s also an extensive range of settings for white balance, autofocus, exposure, and scene modes, with both mechanical and electronic shutter types up to a maximum speed of 1/16000s with the electronic shutter. The contrast-based AF system also locks in within 0.14 seconds.
Finally, as a modern compact shooter, the Q is also equipped with a healthy selection of connectivity options. There’s built-in WiFi, NFC, USB 2.0, HDMI-out, and every purchase of the Q is also bundled with a copy of Adobe Photoshop Lightroom. Plus, users can easily sync their smartphones with the Leica Q using the Leica App for iOS, offering remote controls and picture transfers using WiFi Direct. An Android version of the app is coming very soon.
The Leica Q weighs just 640g, and measures 130 x 80 x 93mm with a standard 1.4″ tripod mount at the bottom. The body itself is made from extremely light magnesium and aluminium, which contributes to the exceptionally light yet durable feel of the camera. The Leica Q will also have a selection of accessories that will be made available alongside it. While the standard package comes with a carrying strap, lens hood and lens cover, users can also opt for the premium holster, ever-ready case and a classy day bag made from Italian leather.
The Leica Q is now available at all Leica Stores and Leica Boutiques (located at Avenue K, Starhill Gallery and Suria Sabah) for a retail price of RM16,500 inclusive of GST. Despite the asking price, the camera is already a hit among Malaysian Leica enthusiasts; the allocation for June has already sold out, and Leica Malaysia is pushing for July’s stocks to be brought forward.
