Leica Unveils the Q3 43: A New Lens, A Higher Price, and More Premium Appeal

Leica, the iconic camera brand known for blending luxury with high-end performance, has introduced a new addition to its popular Q series: the Leica Q3 43. This new camera is a variant of the recently released Q3, now equipped with a 43mm f/2 APO lens, a departure from the 28mm f/1.7 lens that has been a staple of the Q series since its inception in 2015. Priced at Rs5,80,000, this model is even more expensive than its predecessor, which came in at Rs5,80,000.

A New Lens for Portrait Lovers

The most significant update with the Leica Q3 43 is its 43mm f/2 APO-Summicron lens, which delivers a tighter field of view, making it a more suitable option for portraits and close-ups. The 43mm focal length offers a balance between the wider-angle lenses and the popular 50mm portrait lens range, making it a versatile choice for photographers looking to capture intimate shots without compromising on quality.

Leica’s decision to move to a 43mm lens has been welcomed by enthusiasts who have long wanted a 50mm option in the Q lineup. While it’s not quite 50mm, the 43mm focal length gets close enough to offer that portrait feel, giving users more creative flexibility compared to the original wide-angle 28mm lens.

Premium Build and Familiar Features

Aside from the new lens, the Q3 43 retains many of the features that made the original Q3 so well-regarded, including the 60-megapixel full-frame sensor and hybrid autofocus system. It also includes 8K video recording capabilities at up to 30fps, with more extensive frame rate options available in 4K resolution.

Aesthetically, the Q3 43 comes in a stylish black-and-gray leatherette finish, giving it a sleek look that sets it apart from the standard Q3. The revised button layout and tilting 3-inch touchscreen also remain the same, as does the digital cropping feature, which now allows users to crop their 43mm images to focal lengths equivalent to 60mm, 75mm, 90mm, 120mm, and even 150mm.

However, Leica’s decision to continue leaving out a charger from the box has sparked some frustration. Just like the M11-D, which launched earlier this year, the Q3 43 only comes with a USB-C cable, while the proprietary BC-SCL4 charger — required for its battery — is sold separately for $200. This omission has left many Leica fans questioning the value proposition of such an expensive camera that lacks essential accessories.

A Natural Evolution of the Q Line

The introduction of the Leica Q3 43 represents a natural evolution of the Q series, which has remained largely unchanged in terms of lens offerings since its debut. While the 28mm lens was originally chosen for its balance of speed, size, and cost, the new 43mm lens provides a fresh option for those looking for a more portrait-friendly setup. The lens itself is only 5mm longer than the original, so there’s no noticeable increase in the size or weight of the camera, making it just as compact and portable as its predecessors.

For Leica enthusiasts, the Q3 43 could be the ideal upgrade, offering the versatility of a tighter lens without sacrificing the signature Leica feel. As always, though, the price tag remains a point of contention — especially with the additional cost of accessories.

The Verdict: Is the Q3 43 Worth It?

While the Q3 43 brings a compelling new option to the Q series lineup, its higher price tag and lack of included accessories may give some photographers pause. However, for those who appreciate Leica’s meticulous craftsmanship and the unique aesthetic and shooting experience the brand provides, the Q3 43 offers an exciting evolution in the world of full-frame compact cameras.

If you’re a portrait photographer who’s been waiting for a Q-series camera with a focal length better suited to your needs, the Q3 43 could be a dream come true. It combines all the modern technology Leica is known for with a tighter, more focused field of view — all wrapped in a premium package that looks as good as it performs.

With Leica continuing to refine its Q-series, the question for buyers isn’t whether the Q3 43 is an upgrade but whether its Rs5,80,000 price tag offers enough to justify the leap. For deep-pocketed enthusiasts, it very well might.

Key Specifications of the Leica Q3 43:

• Sensor: 60MP full-frame BSI CMOS

• Lens: 43mm f/2 APO-Summicron (permanently attached)

• ISO Range: 50 to 100,000

• Video: 8K at 30fps, 4K with higher frame rate options

• Display: 3-inch tilting touchscreen

• Cropping Modes: 60mm, 75mm, 90mm, 120mm, and 150mm equivalent

• Price: Rs5,80,000

For those who live and breathe Leica, the Q3 43 offers a unique blend of classic design and cutting-edge tech, with a new lens that promises to expand the creative potential of this legendary camera line.