Leica has unveiled its latest flagship camera, the Leica SL3, which boasts a 60MP sensor, 8K video recording, phase detect autofocus, and a new body design. The SL3 is the most advanced and versatile camera in the Leica lineup, offering unparalleled image quality, performance, and durability.
Triple-Resolution Technology for Every Situation
The heart of the SL3 is the new 60.3MP back-side illuminated CMOS sensor, which features Leica’s Triple-Resolution Technology. This allows the user to choose between three different resolutions: 60MP, 36MP, or 18MP, depending on the output and workflow needs. In each case, the entire sensor surface is used, ensuring maximum detail and dynamic range. The sensor also has a dual basis ISO range of 50-100,000, enabling low-noise images in any lighting condition.
Hybrid Autofocus System for Fast and Accurate Focusing
The SL3 also introduces a hybrid autofocus system, which combines phase detection, contrast detection, and object detection to achieve fast and accurate focusing. The phase detection autofocus covers 215 fields across the sensor, enabling smooth and reliable tracking of moving subjects. The contrast detection autofocus enhances the accuracy and speed in low-light situations. The object detection autofocus recognizes human faces and bodies, and keeps them in focus even in dynamic scenes.
8K Video Recording and Professional Features
The SL3 is not only a superb stills camera, but also a powerful video camera. It can record up to 8K 30p video, as well as C8K (uncropped) and 4K 60p video, in various formats such as H.265, ProRes, L-Log, and timecode interface. The camera also has a full-size HDMI port, a timecode interface, and a 3.5mm audio in and out jack. The video quality is stunning, with rich colors, high dynamic range, and sharp details.
New Body Design and Improved Ergonomics
The SL3 has a new body design that is slightly smaller and lighter than the previous SL2. The camera weighs 762 grams and measures 146 x 107 x 42 mm. The camera is also fully weather-sealed, with IP54 certification, and can operate in temperatures ranging from -10°C to 40°C. The camera has a new power button with LED backlight, which can be customized for brightness and function. The menu buttons have been moved to the right side of the LCD screen, for easier one-handed operation. The LCD screen is also tiltable, for more flexible shooting angles. The camera has a 5.76M dots OLED viewfinder, which offers a clear and lag-free view of the scene. The camera also has a CFexpress Type B slot and a UHS-II SD card slot, and can be charged and powered via USB-C.
The Best Camera Leica Has Ever Made
The Leica SL3 is a remarkable camera that sets a new standard for the L-mount system. It offers a versatile and powerful sensor, a fast and reliable autofocus system, a stunning video capability, and a refined and durable body design. The SL3 is the best camera Leica has ever made, and one of the best mirrorless cameras on the market. It is available now, priced at $6,995 / £5,920 body only.
