By Tati Taylor 11 days ago, Cameras & Lenses
What is the cheapest Leica camera?
Leica is a famous brand that produces quality cameras. The produce of this company is really for photography connoisseurs, who are not going to save on their hobby.
Leica cameras are perfectly built, have an ergonomic design and a variety of features that allow taking photos of superb quality. This luxurious brand offers a great selection of models that will be suitable for professional and personal use.
Although many Leica cameras are very high-priced, you may find some affordable Leica-badged models that are produced by the partner companies.
If you are looking for a good camera that isn’t worth an investment, the Leica brand has something to offer you. This overview will describe several models from this category, so that you can compare them.
Type: Zoom compact | Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds | Resolution: 17MP | Lens: 24-75mm f/1.7-f/16 | Viewfinder: EVF| Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 11fps
⊕ Large 4/3rd sensor
⊕ 4K video recording
⊖ Too expensive
⊖ Fixed type screen
Leica D-LUX 7 is the latest Leica compact camera, which is actually an analog of Panasonic Lumix DC-LX100 II, but featuring more exquisite design.
The advantage of this camera is 17MP resolution on a large 4/3d sensor that ensures a superb image quality and excellent low light performance. Leica camera is equipped with a 24-75mm equivalent zoom lens that provides a maximum aperture. This feature makes Leica D-LUX 7 very expensive, but also more attractive for photographers.
An electronic viewfinder has high resolution and a 3.5-inch touch screen display makes the usage of this camera more comfortable. Post focus 4K photo feature is worth the customer’s attention and make this model stand out among the rest.
The main disadvantage of Leica compact camera is that a 3-inch LCD cannot be tilted. However, it has the function of touch control. All in all, this model has many attractive features and can boast high-quality performance.
Type: Rangefinder | Sensor size: Full frame | Resolution: 24MP | Lens: Leica M | Viewfinder: Direct Vision | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 5fps
⊕ Construction of premium quality
⊕ Extremely quiet
⊕ Classic body design
⊖ No video recording function
⊖ Troubles while removing card
Leica M10 Rangefinder is an updated version of the older the M10. A new M10-P model is slightly different from its predecessor. Its body doesn’t feature a bright red logo of the brand anymore.
This model possesses a range of improved characteristics such as a touch screen LCD, electronic split level, etc. What makes M10-P the best Leica camera is the quietest shutter release mechanism – many photographers highly appreciate this characteristic.
Every aspect of this Leica camera focuses on the essential thing - taking photos. A new touchscreen makes it possible to swipe through and pinch-zoom on photos when reviewing them. It also lets you tap for focus when using the live view mode. But, as before, the video recording and continuous shooting functions are not supported.
All in all, this Leica digital camera meets the same high standards as its sister M models, making this an ideal choice for photographers striving to take unusual and extraordinary shots.
Type: Large sensor compact | Sensor size: 1″ | Resolution: 20MP | Lens: 24–360 mm F3.3–6.4 | Viewfinder: Electronic| Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 1/16000 sec
⊕ 15x optical zoom
⊕ 20MP 1” sensor
⊕ 9.4fps burst rate
⊕ Support for RAW images
⊖ Small aperture
⊖ Small HD EVF
⊖ Fixed LCD
⊖ Recording limits when shooting 4K
The Leica C-Lux is an analog of the Panasonic Lumix ZS200 camera, which has a more attractive and comfortable design. This is one of the Leica models that was specially created for travelers, who want to capture every moment of their adventures. 15x zoom and 20MP 1-inch image sensor make the camera ensure the high quality and bright colored images.
The components of this Leica camera complement each other creating a functional device that amazes by its operational capabilities. Because of a one-inch sensor, the C-Lux can create images with great resolution, that are clear and rich in color throughout the whole zoom range.
This is one of the best Leica cameras designed to meet and exceed consumers’ expectations. However, many users prefer the Panasonic Lumix ZS200 camera because of the long-zooming, pocket-friendly design and Zeiss-branded lens.
Type: SLR-like (bridge) | Sensor size: 1″ (13.2 x 8.8 mm) | Resolution: 20MP | Lens: 24–400 mm F2.8–4 | Viewfinder: Electronic | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 1/16000 sec
copied ⊕ Lens with 16x optical zoom
⊕ EVF of premium quality
⊕ High-quality 4K resolution
⊕ Custom buttons that can be set
⊖ Rather expensive
⊖ Lacks USB Type-C
⊖ Purple frame
A modern Leica V-Lux 5 is considered the most versatile Leica camera that can boast a 16x optical zoom lens. The device also features an excellent EVF with a high magnification ratio.
Look through the viewfinder and you’ll notice that images are incredible. The camera can shoot crisp, detailed images, as well as 4K videos of an amazing quality.
This is one of the Leica models that is the perfect model for any photo situation - shooting sports events, taking pictures while traveling, or capturing all your adventures! Leica V-Lux 5 is similar to Panasonic FZ1000 II, which is more affordable.
However, if you are a fan of the Leica brand, this camera must be your favorite. Panasonic camera that possesses similar characteristics is also great but it is designed for the other market segment.
Type: Instant camera | Sensor size: - | Resolution: -MP | Lens: 60mm f/12.7 | Viewfinder: Direct view | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed:- fps
⊕ Instant photo printing of high quality
⊕ Easy to use
⊖ Pricier than analogs
⊖ Expensive films
Leica Sofort Instant Film is thought of as the best Leica camera of this type. Moreover, it is cheaper than other Leica models that are often selected by professional photographers. If you choose this camera, you will appreciate its stylish appearance, with the variety of color options to choose from.
The compact dimensions and lightweight design make this Leica compact camera very handy and easy to use. However, many consumers admit that Leica film packs are quite expensive. However, this model can use Fuji’s Instax film packs that are cheaper and work at around $1.50 for a page.
With the help of this camera, you can print the shots you’ve just taken in a few minutes. Unlike the cheaper analogs like Fujifilm and Instax Mini 90, Leica Sofort looks better and offers higher quality photos.
The images of a credit card size boast intense colors that make every captured moment brighter and more memorable. Although not everyone can afford this camera, its functionality and stylish design make it a perfect choice for party lovers or adventurers.
Type: Compact | Sensor size: Full frame | Resolution: 47.3MP | Lens: Fixed 28mm, f/1.7 | Viewfinder: EVF | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 20fps
⊕ Beautifully designed
⊕ Excellent photo quality
⊖ High price
⊖ Screen that can’t be tilted
Leica Q2 is a luxurious camera of a premium class. Often considered as the best Leica digital camera, this model is equipped with a 47.3MP full-frame sensor and a 28mm f/1.7 lens.
The majority of Leica cameras are supplied with lenses that can be changed, but Leica Q2 is fitted with the fixed ones. This model is more powerful than the others in this segment and is aimed at professional photographers. This is one of the Leica models that aren’t often seen on the market, but it is still can be found.
Although this is not the cheapest Leica camera, it offers many attractive features. The device has a 4K video function mode (plus the choice of ‘C4K’), and can shoot at up to 10fps-20fps in burst mode.
Its body is waterproof and dust-resistant, and can be used even in the most severe weather conditions. Having compact dimensions, Leica Q2 is a perfect device for street, portrait, or landscape photographers.
Type: SLR-like (bridge) | Sensor size: 1″ | Resolution: 20MP | Lens: 25–400 mm F2.8–4| Viewfinder: Electronic | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 1/16000 sec
⊕ Remarkable picture quality
⊕ Extremely speedy autofocus
⊕ 1-inch picture sensor
⊕ 16x zoom range
⊖ High price
⊖ Cumbersome
⊖ Absence of integrated ND filter
⊖ Not weather-proof
The V-Lux (Type 114) Digital is the best Leica camera to take shots while traveling, during sports and outside activities, etc. Thanks to the big 1-inch sensor, the camera is capable of snapping incredibly clear and vibrant pictures. Combined with the DC Vario-Elmarit aspheric lens, the MOS sensor opens up broader possibilities of exploring the focus planes and depth of field.
Regardless of the type of outdoor photography you are involved in, this Leica digital camera will impress you with vivid color rendering and pictures full of detail. Aside from photographing, the model is capable of recording UHD 4K footage as well.
With a classic design, a multi-axis, rotating and tilting 3-inch LCD monitor, it won’t be a problem to snap pictures from different angles. The 2.4 MP OLED electronic viewfinder has the identical settings incorporated into the monitor but in the form of an immediately classic EVF.
The in-built Wi-Fi makes it possible to connect straight to the Leica C Image Shuttle app. In addition to the Leica camera, the kit presents Cameroon Bowery for Leica Camera Bag and Leica Rope Strap by COOP.H.
Type: Mirrorless | Sensor size: APS-C | Resolution: 24.3MP | Lens: Leica L | Viewfinder: EVF| Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 10 fps
⊕ Compatibility with a vast array of Leica optics (some via adapter)
⊕ Big APS-C sensor
⊕ Satisfactory resolution
⊖ Fixed LCD screen
⊖ High Price
⊖ Lenses require additional investment
Constructed in Germany, this appealing Leica compact camera boasts a 24.2 MP APS-C sensor along with a Leica L lens mount, which was “borrowed” by Panasonic for its fledgling full-frame ‘S’ system not long ago.
The CL model is a sibling of the TL2 one released practically in the same time period and offering almost identical functionality. The CL camera pleases users with a touch-sensitive 3-inch LCD, eye-level viewfinder, 4K video capability, integrated Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as up to 10fps burst shooting for up to 140 JPEGs, or 33 Raw and JPEG files together.
Due to the sharing of the L mount with the TL2, this Leica camera model is equally compatible with the TL line of Leica optics and L mount lenses. As for Leica M and R series lenses, they may be used with adapters. Upper plate dials contribute to the model’s traditional hands-on operation that all Leica users admire. An external flash may be fastened through its hot shoe.
Mind that the rear screen isn’t adjustable or tiltable. Moreover, the CL isn’t exactly the cheapest Leica camera, which is explained by the fact that the camera is manufactured not on a factory but is a manually crafted device.
| Image | Name | Features | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Leica D-LUX 7
Our Choice |
CHECK PRICE → | |
 |
Leica M10 Rangefinder
Professional |
CHECK PRICE → | |
 |
Leica C-Lux
Budget |
CHECK PRICE → |
When you are choosing the best Leica camera, there are several things that you should take into account.
Leica cameras are well put together and have the signature build quality we’ve come to expect from this manufacturer. If compared to their competitors, such as Voigtlander or Zeiss, they deliver better performance regardless of the weather conditions. With the Leica camera, you don’t need to worry about getting caught in the pouring rain. Beware, though, that these cameras work best with high-quality lenses.
As I use the Leica M6 TTL camera regularly, I believe that analog devices are more reliable. Full analog cameras that come without electronics are less prone to breaking up. They deliver a more stable performance as well. The only thing you need to do is to pay attention to the lighting and take a good shoot.
Nowadays, there is a wide choice of lenses available. I’m not a big fan of using a lens created for the M39 screw thread mounting system with an adapter on my Leica camera. However, if the lens has been already adapted, it might be a good option to consider.
Leica lenses are overly expensive as they are designed to be compact and have stunning light-gathering capabilities. They are also known for their build quality and short focal length. Thanks to it, light hits the sensor under a steep angle.
Although Leica cameras cost a lot, they will be a worthy investment for certain photographers. With Leica cameras and lenses, stunning shots are guaranteed. Besides, the brand attracts shooters with the remarkable build quality and peculiar design. However, you should look elsewhere if autofocus and video capabilities are relevant for you (speaking of M-mount cameras) and you aren’t willing to spend much on a camera.
Leica cameras can be suitable for beginners, but they often cater to experienced photographers who appreciate the craftsmanship and precision of the brand. Leica offers both manual and autofocus options, so beginners can choose a model that suits their comfort level.
However, it's important to note that Leica cameras are known for their manual controls and may require a learning curve for those new to photography.
Many renowned photographers have chosen Leica cameras as their tool of choice. Some notable examples include Henri Cartier-Bresson, known for his pioneering street photography; Sebastião Salgado, acclaimed for his powerful documentary work; and Annie Leibovitz, celebrated for her iconic portraits.
These photographers, among others, have recognized the exceptional quality and reliability of Leica cameras in capturing their artistic vision.
The Leica TL2. It is a 24MP compact system or mirrorless camera with an APS-C format sensor and the Leica L lens mount. Among the peculiarities of this model that aren’t typical for Leica are a large touch screen and a small number of physical controls.
The main reason for that is top-notch quality. Leica lenses manage to successfully unite two significant characteristics. Firstly, it is extremely sharp glass that requires no “fake” software sharpening on the camera’s side. Secondly, the fall-off from the in-focus to non-focused parts of the shot are consistent and appear natural.
Leica is admired for the gorgeous texture of the out-of-focus areas of the shots. Besides, the lenses of the brand let in light practically without leaking and deliver qualitative contrasting pictures even if the scene’s shadows and highlights are quite intense.
