Leica SL3-S: Fastest Camera in Leica’s 100-Year Camera History

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Leica today presents the Leica SL3-S, a new full-frame mirrorless camera in the Leica SL System, which celebrates its 10th anniversary of the Leica SL System this year. According to the manufacturer, the new camera offers Leica's best autofocus to date. Other highlights include a multishot mode that allows hand-held photos to be taken at 48MP or even 96MP.

» Leica SL3-S available at B+H PhotoVideo

Key Features of the Leica SL3-S

• 24 MP BSI CMOS full-frame sensor
• 48- and 96-MP multi-shot modes - hand held
• ISO range 50 to 200,000.
• Advanced autofocus system: with phase detection (PDAF), depth map (object detection AF), and contrast detection AF for high-speed, reliable focusing.
• Content credentials technology: Metadata for image authenticity and transparency in line with the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI).
• 6K video, Open Gate Recording, timecode interface, HDMI-RAW in 5,9K, and SSD direct recording.
• Enhanced connectivity: CFexpress Type B, USB-C, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi with MIMO, and compatibility with Adobe frame.io cloud workflow (available over the course of 2025).
• Extensive lens compatibility: Supports all L-mount lenses as well as Leica M lenses with image stabilization.
• 5.76 MP OLED viewfinder with 120 fps and 3.2 inch tilting touchscreen for versatile perspectives.
• Ergonomic and intuitive design: Optimized user interface, tilting touchscreen, and lighter, more compact build.

The Leica SL3-S is now available worldwide for $5,295 / €5,190 from all Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store and specialist retailers.

Leica SL3-S Product Images

New: Leica SL3-S

The new full-frame system camera with a 24 megapixel sensor, fast autofocus and enhanced video functions is now available.

Wetzlar, 16 January 2025. Leica Camera AG launched the SL-System in 2015, combining photography and videography in a unique way right from the very start. With the full-frame system based on the L-Mount standard, Leica has firmly established itself in the world of professional audiovisual production. The latest version in the range of SL-System cameras is the Leica SL3, which was launched in March 2024. Like all Leica products, it fulfils the highest standards of image and production quality, setting new benchmarks for ease of use with its unique user interface. These values are now embodied in a new SL-System camera: the Leica SL3-S.

When developing this camera, the process centred on the high demands of professional photography and videography. In doing so, the key focus was on speed, flexibility and versatility. The result is a camera that combines the highest image quality for both photography and videography with optimum working speed and reliability. The Leica SL3-S integrates state-of-the-art technology into an outstanding design. It also offers numerous new functions that ensure a professional workflow for producing audiovisual content.

A new BSI CMOS full-frame sensor with 24-megapixel native resolution, 48- and 96-megapixel multi-shot modes, and a new autofocus system form the core of the SL3-S. Securely protected by an IP54-certified solid all-metal body, Leica combines the strengths of three focus technologies here: the latest generation in phase detection AF (PDAF), depth map (object detection AF) and contrast detection AF enable continuous shooting with the Leica SL3-S at up to 30 frames per second with full autofocus support. This makes the SL3-S the fastest Leica system camera ever built. Together with a high dynamic range and the impressive ISO range of 50 to 200,000, the SL3-S delivers excellent-quality photos and videos in all shooting situations.

The SL3-S is also the first camera in the SL-System to be equipped with content credentials technology in accordance with the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) for photos. If desired, each image can be signed with tamper-proof metadata, such as the camera model and author information, as well as creation and editing data. In order to prove authenticity with verifiable image content and to make edits transparent, the content credentials can be checked using freely available verification tools (verify.contentauthenticity.org).

The SL3-S records videos in a resolution of up to 6K and offers 3:2 open-gate recording, a feature that provides flexibility when creating video content for a wide variety of channels. For example, portrait format videos can be recorded in 4K, 9:16 without any loss of quality and the field of view in recorded material can also be determined retrospectively. The SL3-S records HDMI-RAW in 5.9K at 30 fps to external display recorders. What’s more, thanks to the fast CFexpress type B interface, ProRes 4:2:2 HQ in 5.8K at 30 fps or C4K at 60 fps can also be internally recorded without any recording time limits. It is also possible to record directly to an external SSD hard drive via the USB-C interface, which further increases the flexibility of the SL3-S. A dedicated timecode interface enables professional synchronisation of image and sound on set. The Maestro IV processor with L2 technology effortlessly handles enormous amounts of data, resulting in images with superb colour rendering, high dynamic range and excellent noise behaviour in the L-Log colour space. This processor has been lauded internationally for its optimal quality.

The versatile interfaces and powerful connectivity of the SL3-S ensure a seamless professional workflow. It has slots for CFexpress type B and UHS-II SD memory cards, a USB-C port for fast data transfer, tethering, SSD connection or power supply, and a full-size HDMI 2.1 output for external LCD panels or recording devices. In addition, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi with MIMO technology enable fast, stable connection to the Leica FOTOS App, with which DNG images can be transferred in full resolution in a matter of seconds. As a certified Apple “Made for iPhone® and iPad®” accessory, the Leica SL3-S can be connected directly to Apple products using the supplied USB-C cable. Over the course of 2025, the Camera-to-Cloud function will also become available via Adobe frame.io, using which videos and photos can be uploaded directly from the camera to the Adobe frame.io cloud for further processing.

Thanks to the L-Mount, the SL3-S can be combined with the outstanding lenses for all Leica camera systems, as well as the broad range from super wide-angle lenses to super telephoto zoom lenses from the L-Mount alliance partners. Various Cine lenses can also be used via adapters, the special scales for which can be found in the video menu of the SL3-S. The lens bayonet mount ensures that the Leica SL3-S offers comprehensive system compatibility. In addition, the legendary Leica M-Lenses’ full potential can be harnessed thanks to the special design of the image sensor and an external light sensor. Photographers and videographers benefit from the unrivalled imaging performance and compact design of the Leica M-Lenses together with the incredible features of the SL3-S. Image stabilisation of up to 5 stops integrated into the camera body further extends the range of applications for M-Lenses.

The EyeRes® viewfinder of the Leica SL3-S is equipped with a painstakingly produced optical system of glass lenses. It displays the subject crystal clear at all times with up to 120 images per second and a resolution of 5.76 million pixels. Thanks to the live preview, it offers full control over the exposure and composition of shots even before the shutter is released. Another new feature of the SL3-S is the tilting 3.2-inch high-res touchscreen with a high-quality tilting mechanism, which makes it even easier to take photos and videos from different angles.

A further highlight is the interface, already familiar to users of the SL3. As with the SL3, the optimisations to the SL3-S include ergonomic and haptic features, as well as the user interface and menu navigation. The handle, button layout and overall camera design have been improved for even more intuitive handling. The clearly structured icon and menu design makes navigation even easier, with distinct sections for photo and video functions. The Cine mode has been tailored specifically to the needs of professional video production. Freely assignable FN buttons and optimised touch interaction throughout the camera menu allow for intuitive and convenient operation. When taking photos and filming, the entire user interface of the SL3-S aligns itself in landscape or portrait format according to the camera position. The SL3-S is noticeably lighter and more compact than its predecessors and feels even better in the hand thanks to its optimised design. In addition, the complete range of accessories already available for the Leica SL3 are also compatible with the SL3-S.

The Leica SL3-S is now available worldwide in all Leica Stores, in the Leica Online Store and from specialised dealers. The recommended retail price is EUR 5,190.00, incl. VAT.

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[algrove]

I for one will take one. Love high pixel pitch cameras which take M lenses.

[Geoff C. Bassett]

Very disappointed that they went with the same sensor as the SL2s. 

[goodbokeh]

24MP still seems a very popular sensor resolution with camera companies. Look at Canon with their flagship R1, sports model R3, and popular R6 II. I think video applications work well with this 24MP size if the sensor is not going to be stacked.

[goodbokeh]

Interested to see how US tariffs next week will impact Leica products here. Will it be 10-20% across the board on all imports (as promised on the campaign trail) or tailored to specific products as some financial talking heads have predicted. Lots of doom/gloom/happy talk depending on the mouth piece.

[hansvons]

42 minutes ago, Geoff C. Bassett said:

Very disappointed that they went with the same sensor as the SL2s. 

I disagree. It's the best sensor I've worked with in a hybrid mirrorless camera, leaving nothing to be desired. Even the video readout speeds are better than OK, at least at 4K (which I use 90% of the time).

 

This makes me want one:

3 hours ago, LUF Admin said:

The SL3-S records videos in a resolution of up to 6K and offers 3:2 open-gate recording, a feature that provides flexibility when creating video content for a wide variety of channels. For example, portrait format videos can be recorded in 4K, 9:16 without any loss of quality and the field of view in recorded material can also be determined retrospectively. The SL3-S records HDMI-RAW in 5.9K at 30 fps to external display recorders. What’s more, thanks to the fast CFexpress type B interface, ProRes 4:2:2 HQ in 5.8K at 30 fps or C4K at 60 fps can also be internally recorded without any recording time limits. It is also possible to record directly to an external SSD hard drive via the USB-C interface, which further increases the flexibility of the SL3-S. A dedicated timecode interface enables professional synchronisation of image and sound on set. The Maestro IV processor with L2 technology effortlessly handles enormous amounts of data, resulting in images with superb colour rendering, high dynamic range and excellent noise behaviour in the L-Log colour space. This processor has been lauded internationally for its optimal quality.

 

[LocalHero1953]

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I would be very happy with a 24mp sensor. I was worried Leica might follow the pixel race, but this shows they are keeping their focus firmly on real-world photography and practical hybrid video. It's an upgrade to the SL2-S, not a revolution, but the upgrades are all useful. If I didn't have the SL2-S, which does most of what I want, I would certainly get it; as it is, I shall wait and see how it develops.

[BernardC]

2 hours ago, Geoff C. Bassett said:

Very disappointed that they went with the same sensor as the SL2s. 

Read the test at the top of the "More light" thread in this forum. Besides the obvious that the SL3-S sensor has PDAF, and higher frame rates, it also has one f-stop more light sensitivity.

If you mean "why did they stick with 24MP?" it's because that's a sweet spot for video, and it enough for most stills use.

[Olaf_ZG]

A little bit off-topic, wasn’t 2024 the year of 100 years?

[SrMi]

19 minutes ago, BernardC said:

Read the test at the top of the "More light" thread in this forum. Besides the obvious that the SL3-S sensor has PDAF, and higher frame rates, it also has one f-stop more light sensitivity.

If you mean "why did they stick with 24MP?" it's because that's a sweet spot for video, and it enough for most stills use.

The comparison in that thread is wrong. It compared the noise at native resolution instead of at the same size. I do not see one stop of difference between SL2-S and SL3-S (same resolution).

[BernardC]

3 minutes ago, SrMi said:

The comparison in that thread is wrong. It compared the noise at native resolution instead of at the same size. I do not see one stop of difference between SL2-S and SL3-S (same resolution).

Can you elaborate? Both of those cameras have the same sensor "native" resolution, and the sample images are displayed at the same size. I guess this means that your estimate of the difference is not one stop (approximately)? If so, what would you say it is, based on that image? I assume that the writer took more than a single shot to come to their conclusion, so I don't want to put you on the spot, but it would be interesting to know your opinion.

[SrMi]

3 minutes ago, BernardC said:

Can you elaborate? Both of those cameras have the same sensor "native" resolution, and the sample images are displayed at the same size. I guess this means that your estimate of the difference is not one stop (approximately)? If so, what would you say it is, based on that image? I assume that the writer took more than a single shot to come to their conclusion, so I don't want to put you on the spot, but it would be interesting to know your opinion.

I was refering to the comparison with SL3 (60 vs 24 MP) where a difference was visible.

I do not see any difference between the 24 MP sensors. A one stop improvement compared to the state of the art (SL2-S) would be revolutiionary.

[BernardC]

2 minutes ago, SrMi said:

I was refering to the comparison with SL3 (60 vs 24 MP) where a difference was visible.

I do not see any difference between the 24 MP sensors. A one stop improvement compared to the state of the art (SL2-S) would be revolutiionary.

There's a link to the DNGs in the article. Tell us what you think.

[simon_hsn]

I am disappointed by the release. Using the same sensor comes with severe limitations in video: any 50/60p mode is only available with a crop and there is no 4K 120p.

It is basically a Panasonic S5II(X) from 2! years ago with faster momory card to record up to ProRes Internal. 

This will be a very tough sell for the asking price, even for all the reasons I would buy a Leica, such as better build quality and operability. 

Edited January 16 by simon_hsn

[Cobram]

I'm also very happy with SL2s sensor. But I was also very happy with first SL 601 sensor, especially colors and overall rendition. 

I really wish the SL4s will catch current Canon AF performance. So based on my needs, still no need for upgrade. 

My wishes😅: 24MP (perfect file size, resolution, speed etc), color/rendering based on first SL 601, better AFC ( I have small kids), same menu, same size and weight, better battery and smaller and lighter (cheaper) Elmarit AF lenses (similar to sigma 45mm). My dream combo. I still dream of M-Elmarit 28 asph equivalent in SL family. 

Now I'm not sure to save or delete my post. I hope Leica guys are not reading this forum. Based on SL non apo summicrons I really hope Leica will not release another rebadged lens, this time Elmarit 45/2.8 😀😅

Edited January 16 by Cobram

[SrMi]

35 minutes ago, BernardC said:

There's a link to the DNGs in the article. Tell us what you think.

The noise seems pretty much the same. Although the exposure is the same, SL3-S images are a little brighter. I lifted the exposure slider for SL2S before comparing (same histograms).

When lifting ISO 50000 by three stops, I like SL3-S results better, though the images are unusable anyway. Lifting by three stops at ISO 6400 shows no difference to me.

[Lovegenrefilms]

I'm a hybrid shooter, make my money doing both video and stills. I was close to buying an SL3 but held off to wait for the more "video centric" S variant of the camera. I had this day on my calendar and my B&H account logged in and ready to. Then I read the specs..... Still no Full frame slow motion options... Not even 60P 4K. This is a big letdown in my opinion for a camera in 2025 which won't see a refresh until at least 3 years based on previous cycle. Can you imagine in 2026,  2027, your shooting on a $5000 camera that can't shoot full frame 4K 60. I might as well look into buying a X2d for my stills work and a Black magic Pyxis for my video work. Still cheaper than buying a SL3 and Sl3s. 

[Photoworks]

7 hours ago, LUF Admin said:

» Leica SL3-S available at B+H PhotoVideo

Key Features of the Leica SL3-S

Why B&H, there are many Leica stores in the USA that can sell this camera!

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Hallo,

Look here: Leica L-Mount

[Photoworks]

23 minutes ago, Lovegenrefilms said:

Black magic Pyxis for my video work. Still cheaper than buying a SL3 and Sl3s. 

if black magic could come up with some AF and IBIS...

[BernardC]

19 minutes ago, Lovegenrefilms said:

I might as well look into buying a X2d for my stills work and a Black magic Pyxis for my video work. Still cheaper than buying a SL3 and Sl3s. 

Definitely . Any dedicated video camera will be better for production work. It's not just about ultimate image quality, it's about all the little things that make a job run smoothly, like XLR connectors. 

Have a look at the SL2 for stills work, amazing image quality and you can share lenses.