Torn Between the SL2 with Elmarit 24-70 and the Q2 Monochrom – A (Lovely) Leica Dilemma

[avaniperen70]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

 

Hi everyone,

 

I’m currently caught in one of those “Leica problems” I’m sure some of you can relate to.

 

Right now, I own the SL2-S paired with the 35mm f/2 APO-Summicron-SL — a combo I absolutely love for its flexibility and rendering. However, I’m lucky enough to be in the position to add another camera to my kit, and I keep circling around the idea of getting the Q2 Monochrom.

 

There’s something deeply appealing about the purity of the Q2 Monochrom — the constraint, the mood, the commitment to black and white. Every time I look at sample images, I feel inspired. But then... I find myself drawn back into the SL2 system with the Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8. That zoom lens makes the SL2 feel like a true workhorse with beautiful output and serious versatility.

 

I’m going in circles. Do I lean further into the SL-2 ecosystem with the 24–70 and build out from there? Or do I embrace a different kind of photography entirely with the Q2 Monochrom?

 

Would love to hear from those of you who’ve faced similar decisions, especially if you’ve used both systems. How do you balance the creative appeal of the Q2M with the flexibility of the SL2?

 

Appreciate your thoughts — this is a good problem to have, but a dilemma nonetheless!

[Advertisement]

The Leica Q3 is available for pre-order at B&H Photo Video and Adorama

[Chris W]

The biggest difference is going to be bulk and weight.

I'm not personally a fan of zoom lenses either.

[jankap]

What do you want to achieve with your equipment? Do you work with post-processing? With your 35 mm, you can crop to 75 mm. Is n’t B/W possible with the SL?

What about adding a wide angle much wider than 35 mm in f/2.8?

 

Edited May 16 by jankap

[jaapv]

Depends on your muscles. 

[avaniperen70]

That helps, thanks Jaap.

[Jeff S]

My SL2 with SL 24-90 complements use of my M system, which includes an M10-R and M10 Monochrom.  The latter is used separately when I want to enjoy the B&W shooting experience as I did with B&W film (avoiding color distractions and potential color pics).  Each different beasts, different use cases.  

 

[jaapv]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

On 5/16/2025 at 12:51 PM, avaniperen70 said:

That helps, thanks Jaap.

Well, there is a considerable difference in weight and bulk which defines different use cases. I would not see this as alternative, more as a complement to a system. Only you can decide whether this camera will  only see use for a couple of weeks or whether it will become part of your tools chest. 

[Stuart Richardson]

The 24-70mm is a Sigma lens design. You can save a very substantial amount by just getting it in the Sigma bodyshell. Perhaps then you can save up a bit more and get the Q2 Mono. But I have to admit, it is a little hard to understand how this is an either/or choice. The camera setups are so different. I think it is probably more about how you photograph. A Q2 Monochrom is a very specific camera...fixed lens only black and white. It is not exactly versatile.

Edited May 17 by Stuart Richardson

[Dazzajl]

I’d say get the Q2M, on the basis that you’re unlikely to lose much if you decide it’s not for you and sell it on. It’s going to offer that very different experience you speak of and it might even be the case that you love it but quickly get it out of your system.