Leica SL3: 60 MP & Phase Detection AF

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Leica today presents the mirrorless full-frame system camera Leica SL3. New features include the 60MP sensor and hybrid AF with phase detection.

The Leica SL3 is now available worldwide and will cost €6,800,

Leica SL3 at a glance

• 61 MP Multi Resolution Sensor
• Leica Maestro IV processor with new L2 technology
• Better ISO performance (up to ISO 100.000)
• IBIS
• PDAF assisted Hybrid-Autofocus
• Enhanced User interface
• Animal AF Detection
• Enhanced Video Formats
• Leica Looks
• New battery with 2200mAh (SL2: 1860mAh)
• Tilt Display
• CFe Type B for faster Video recording

Leica SL3 Images

Leica SL3 Press Release

New: Leica SL3

The new mirrorless full-frame system camera from Leica is now available. In 2015, Leica Camera AG introduced the SL-System, uniquely combining the two worlds of photography and videography. From the beginning, Leica has focused on partnering with its users and the photographic community to ensure that their products achieve exceptional standards. The result is a system which meets the highest requirements in image quality, manufacturing quality, and ease of handling. Now, the long-established company presents the next generation of the mirrorless full-frame system: the Leica SL3.

The rigorous demands of professional photographers have long served as a benchmark and inspiration for the development of the system, in particular the Leica SL3. The result is an extremely versatile camera, offering unprecedented image quality in both photography and videography. The SL3 combines state-of-the-art technology, extraordinary design, and masterly manufacturing quality – more compact, lighter, and even more user-friendly than its preceding model. The new functions of the Leica SL3 are based on an ongoing dialogue with professionals, which is highly valued and cultivated by the company in the ever-changing world of photography.

At the core of the Leica SL3, you can find the BSI CMOS full-frame sensor with Triple Resolution Technology, which is safely protected in a solid all-metal body with elegant leather. To meet a variety of photographic requirements, the sensor records raw files in DNG or JPEG format with a resolution of either 60, 36 or 18 MP. In each case, the full sensor surface is used. Together with the dynamic range expanded to 15 f-stops and the impressive ISO range from 50 to 100,000, the SL3 delivers remarkably detailed images in outstanding quality – in all light conditions.

With phase detection (PDAF), depth mapping (Object Detection AF), and contrast recognition (Contrast Detection AF), the innovative autofocus system of the SL3 combines the strengths of three technologies to create razor-sharp pictures even in dim light. In addition, intelligent subject recognition supports the photography of dynamic scenes.

The lens bayonet, which is based on the L-Mount standard developed by Leica, facilitates the use of outstanding lenses from all of the Leica camera systems. Additionally, it is compatible with a diverse array of ultra-wide to super-telephoto zoom lenses offered by L-Mount alliance partners. Therefore, the lens bayonet guarantees extensive system compatibility for the Leica SL3. Specifically, the exceptional potential of the renowned Leica M-Lenses is fully harnessed, thanks to the unique design of the image sensor and an external light sensor. The integrated in-body image stabilisation further broadens the scope of application for M-Lenses.

The EyeRes® viewfinder of the Leica SL3 is equipped with an elaborately manufactured optical system made of glass lenses. It always shows the subject crystal clear with up to 120 frames per second and a resolution of 5.76 million pixels. The live preview enables full control over the exposure and composition of images even before releasing the shutter. Another new feature is the tiltable 3-inch high-res touchscreen with a high-quality tilting mechanism. Even more creative possibilities can be achieved thanks to its additional viewing angles.

Videos are recorded in a resolution of up to 8K, supported by efficient codecs such as H.265 and ProRes by Apple. A dedicated time code interface allows for professional image and sound synchronisation on set. Throughout this process, the new Maestro-IV processor with L² technology easily handles the vast amounts of data, resulting in pictures with magnificent colour rendering as well as excellent noise performance.

Another highlight is the new user interface of the Leica SL3. Every optimisation is aimed at enhancing user comfort such as ergonomics, tactile feel, and menu navigation. As a result, the grip, button layout, and overall camera design have been refined to further promote intuitive handling. The updated, streamlined icon and menu design offer a clear structure, facilitating even easier navigation. The distinct separation of photo and video modes proves especially beneficial as it is aided by a specific colour code for differentiation: red for photo mode and yellow for video mode.

Furthermore, the camera’s main functions can be completely adapted to individual needs. The freely assignable FN keys and the optimised touch interaction in the menu add to the intuitive and comfortable operation of the camera. When photographing and filming, the SL3’s user interface aligns itself in landscape or portrait format, depending on the camera position. Thanks to the convenient handling, improved ergonomics, robust design, and IP54 certification, photographers can focus on capturing the shot in any weather and environment. At the same time, the new SL3 is noticeably lighter and more compact than its predecessors and is even more comfortable to use.

The Leica user experience undergoes continuous refinement. Regular firmware updates, influenced by valuable customer feedback, are seamlessly delivered to the SL3 through the Leica FOTOS app. This ensures the camera stays current and future-proof in a user-friendly manner.

The camera’s new interface and improved connectivity ensure a seamless professional workflow. There are slots for the memory cards CFexpress type B and UHS-II-SD, a USB-C port for high-speed data transmission, tethering, and power supply as well as a full-size HDMI 2.1 output for external monitors or recording equipment. Additionally, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi with MIMO technology ensure a stable and fast connection to the Leica FOTOS app. As a certified Apple “Made for iPhone® and iPad®” accessory, the Leica SL3, together with the included USB-C cable, enables a direct connection to Apple products.

The new BP-SCL6 battery, along with the separately available double charger, offers ample capacity. This dual charger allows for the simultaneous and faster charging of two batteries. The double charger and the additional battery are available individually or as an attractive set. Moreover, the accessories within the SL-System now include a new handgrip and a DC coupler. The DC coupler can be inserted into the camera’s battery slot to ensure a continuous power supply via USB-C. The new carrying strap with an innovative attachment and a hard-wearing wrist strap for the hand grip have also been specially designed for everyday professional photography use.

Conclusion: In close partnership with photographers, Leica Camera AG has taken the SL-System to a new level. With an optimised design, efficient user interface, and the versatile L-Mount bayonet, the Leica SL3 is a highly modern, intuitive full-frame camera with outstanding image quality. It combines precision, the best materials, and unprecedented manufacturing quality “Made in Germany”. Robust and reliable, it masters every challenge in photo- and videography, setting new standards in terms of user comfort and a seamless professional workflow with extended interfaces, improved connectivity, and useful accessories.

The Leica SL3 is now available globally at all Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store, and authorised dealers. The retail price will be €6,800.00 including VAT.

[nariza7]

Has there been any mention if there is some form of dual iso for video?
 

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[JohnathanLovm]

So got any info about handheld multishoot, focus bracketing and flash support?

[Paul2660]

As a long time SL2 and SL2-S user I find this all to be basic fluff. 
Leica really did not do anything new or groundbreaking at least for stills.  In fact for my usage they took a few steps backwards or so it appears. 
 

No multi shot or mention of it with future firmware. A feature that was unique to Leica in that file were processed in camera and were depending on subject and scene could be very impressive. 
 

No Focus bracketing. Hard to to understand this. 
 

Same degree of resolution on EVF when 9 million is available. 
 

Can’t tell if self timer reverted back to a separate mode or not. It took Leica 2 years to figure this out and allow self timer to be used outside of single exposures. 
 

No mention of a physical remote or if the same port as SL2 is there and will work the same. Only mention is the remote apps. So far Leica Photos has been less than impressive. 
 

Glad they finally got it out but hopefully Panasonic will follow with a S2R. 
 

Paul
 

 

[deekay]

Is focus bracketing something that can be added through firmware?

[Geoff C. Bassett]

Power Button and worse flash sync speed are pretty big issues. Continuous shooting speed apparently has also gone down if your shooting 14-bit with AF.

[Sailronin]

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I don't use focus bracketing a lot (with Hasselblad 907x) but when it's needed it's a wonderful feature.  Still have to load images into Helicon Focus to process but the results can be really impressive.  

Would be really nice if that feature could be incorporated into the SL system via software.

[theseahawk]

It’s not so evident in the still product photos but in review videos it appears the tilt/control screen, when folded, protrudes from the camera body at the edges. In a way that routine bumps to the camera would go directly against the housing of the screen. On the SL2, the screen is flush with the camera body and its edges not at risk of bumping. I’d be interested if the accessory grip protects the edge of the screen. 

Edited March 7 by theseahawk

[Simone_DF]

1 hour ago, deekay said:

Is focus bracketing something that can be added through firmware?

Yes

[Simone_DF]

36 minutes ago, theseahawk said:

It’s not so evident in the still product photos but in review videos it appears the tilt/control screen, when folded, protrudes from the camera body at the edges. In a way that routine bumps to the camera would go directly against the housing of the screen. 

The Q3 has the same screen and nobody reported this issue or any issue with the screen

[theseahawk]

4 minutes ago, Simone_DF said:

The Q3 has the same screen and nobody reported this issue or any issue with the screen

Of course it’s hard to tell from the video but it looks like the SL3 practically rests on the bottom of the control screen when it is set down (see Mathphotograper’s video review).  

[bab]

Im baffled by the lack of improvements to the SL newbie questioning who is this beautiful beast of a camera for?

I like the new ergonomic layout and menu features but one would think oh there must be more Im just not seeing it that way!

Its not a low light king but it is decent, it wouldn't be my choice for studio but yet Leica had a whole studio setup with some U-tubers pointing, directing and shooting a model with no real effort to show tethered connectivity or DR or at least shadow-highlight recovery.

Sports, wildlife, kids or any fast moving photos forget it.

Macro ugh

Street HUM

Landscapes oh YA (but would you rather have X2D or GFX?)

To say I'm disturbed on how the AF in the new SL3 was implemented by Leica is understated. The shutters limitations is not acceptable along with the flash sync.

This is a camera in 2024 that's not ready for prime time and such I will not be buying into it BOO HOO I was so wanting the experience.

 To all you U-Tubers unless Leica is paying your expenses and paying you handsomely to participate in the initial launch if your going to make a trip to Germany to review or talk about a camera that you get for 4 hours to play with and come up with trying to be nicely correct with you review better stay at home next time and wait for Leica to send you a camera for a month then go to Wetzlar!

[jaapv]

2 hours ago, Sailronin said:

I don't use focus bracketing a lot (with Hasselblad 907x) but when it's needed it's a wonderful feature.  Still have to load images into Helicon Focus to process but the results can be really impressive.  

Would be really nice if that feature could be incorporated into the SL system via software.

They should implement  the Panasonic Postfocus system which offers both focus bracketing and focus stacking and has in-camera processing (in 6K)

[jaapv]

44 minutes ago, bab said:

wildlife

??? As a wildlife shooter: Even my SL601 does perfectly well in that discipline, if I look at the DPAF of the SL3 it should be even better, not to mention te superior cropping ability. The AF is the same as the Panasonic S5ii as far as I know, and that is very close on the heels of what Sony and Nikon offer, according to trustworthy reviewers. Marginally slower, but with better suppression of PDAF banding.

For me the main worry of the camera would be the slow shutter readout - Using long lenses calls for near-mandatory electronic shutter and I fear that the distortion would be a problem with for instance birds in flight or running game.

[BernardC]

19 minutes ago, bab said:

Im baffled by the lack of improvements to the SL newbie questioning who is this beautiful beast of a camera for?

Same people as the SL2, but with more pixels and better DR?

20 minutes ago, bab said:

Landscapes oh YA (but would you rather have X2D or GFX?)

Only you can answer that. It's your money, after all. I would be surprised if the SL3 had worse IQ, provided you use APO-Summicrons.

25 minutes ago, bab said:

To all you U-Tubers unless Leica is paying your expenses and paying you handsomely to participate in the initial launch if your going to make a trip to Germany to review or talk about a camera that you get for 4 hours to play with and come up with trying to be nicely correct with you review better stay at home next time and wait for Leica to send you a camera for a month then go to Wetzlar!

You should have a look at Kai Wong's video, he reviews his hotel room at the end. They got a night at a business hotel next to an industrial park, a return flight from London, and meals. It's hardly a handsome payday. They probably received a swag bag, so maybe they can sell some Leica pins, coffee mugs, and lens cloths if the video doesn't get enough views to pay the rent.

[Photoworks]

5 hours ago, bab said:

Im baffled by the lack of improvements to the SL newbie questioning who is this beautiful beast of a camera for?

I like the new ergonomic layout and menu features but one would think oh there must be more Im just not seeing it that way!

Its not a low light king but it is decent, it wouldn't be my choice for studio but yet Leica had a whole studio setup with some U-tubers pointing, directing and shooting a model with no real effort to show tethered connectivity or DR or at least shadow-highlight recovery.

The SL2 was a great camera for studio work, It was my workhorse for 4 years. 

The SL3 is available today and can tether and live view today with Capture One, and Capture One mobile, and LrC. All software have updates.

I feel strongly about better shadow recovery on the SL3, at 100 ISO pushing 4-5 stops in post is very clean.

I did hi ISO testing today and the performance is great. better than M11, that I consider a fantastic camera/sensor

5 hours ago, bab said:

Sports, wildlife, kids or any fast moving photos forget it.

Macro ugh

Street HUM

Landscapes oh YA (but would you rather have X2D or GFX?)

To say I'm disturbed on how the AF in the new SL3 was implemented by Leica is understated. The shutters limitations is not acceptable along with the flash sync.

This is a camera in 2024 that's not ready for prime time and such I will not be buying into it BOO HOO I was so wanting the experience.

Today I was walking and shooting people walking in my direction with the 75 APO wide open, I got a good hit rate. The APO lenses are not fast-focusing lenses. It is not at sony or canon, but 90% there.

I don't see why not using any modern Leica to do landscape. in my experience, Hassi and Fuji have great offerings with limitations and bugs.

But nobody has to buy any of them. 

[Photoworks]

I do want the my Multi-shot back, and the favorite menu.

[LBJ2]

19 hours ago, Photoworks said:

I do want the my Multi-shot back, and the favorite menu.

Agree about the multi-shot. Based upon how SL2 went, maybe some reason to believe multi-shot might come in a later SL3 firmware update...maybe. 

[Leslie22]

Am I the only one to notice the "video thing" on the side of the viewfinder ... OMG , that's ugly , what were they thinking (I'm a SL2 user)

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[Paul2660]

With the SL2 Leica announced at product launch that MS would come later with firmware. The Panasonic S1R was already out and had MS. So far I have seen no mention of MS from Leica for the SL3.  Maybe the camera processor can’t handle the process in camera like the SL2. It sure can’t handle a fast frame rate with 4fps. The way the SL2 and S1R did MS was unique as all the work was done in camera and could produce very good results based on shooting conditions. 
 

Paul