Leica Q or Q2 best value

[DaveB-Austin]

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I’m looking to get into the Q as an EDC - have a Fuji x100vi now but want to try the Q series.  Is it a better value to get a used Q (116) for $2,200 or a Q2 for $3,200?  Assuming I’m buying from a reputable person / dealer of course… would love any perspectives on this.  

[parigby]

The Q2 is a distinct step up from the Type 116, and has the advantage ( so l believe ) of being weather sealed, whereas the Type 116 isn’t. 

[Dazzajl]

Unless you prefer the look from the original Q, as I do, you're definitely getting a better specced, more advanced and weather sealed camera if you go for the 2. And the prices do seem quite close these days. 

The model specific image sharing threads on the forum here are probably the best resource on the net for comparing image style and quality of different cameras. 

[Chris W]

Yes, I think the Q2 is probably the sweet spot. I had an original Q and loved it, but the extra megapixels make the Q2 a more versatile camera.

I would rather have a Q than an X100VI, but if I had the budget I'd rather have a Q2 than a Q.

[Olaf_ZG]

Weatherproofing is an advantage to me, so the Q2 for that reason. That said, the Q is the only camera which doesn’t have its bag. 

[Chris Nebard]

Definitely the original Q typ 116 for me. The lens is something special and is the same across Q, Q2, Q3(28mm) range anyway - but, the sensor and processor were designed in tandem with it, specifically for the Q. I have no idea if that philosophy carried through into the Q2. Nevertheless, the additional megapixels of the Q2 are meaningless - for me - and although weather sealing would be nice, I wouldn’t trade that for the reportedly better high iso and low light performance of the Q.

I’ve used mine since 2017 as my everyday camera, for travel, and for weddings as a second camera. I probably would upgrade to a Q3(28) but only because of the flip-screen, the ability to compress the files, better battery life, improved EVF, and because the low light performance is said to be as good (or better?) than the original.

That last point would be the clincher for me, and is one good reason why I wouldn’t swap my Q for a Q2 (great camera though it undoubtedly is). Everyone is different, and what’s best for me will not be the same for them. 

Go with the functionality you need and what you’ll be happy with. If that is a higher spec, newer camera, the Q2 may be it. If you’re happy with no weather sealing, (still) good low light performance, beautiful files and output, the Q typ 116 might be enough. Either way, you can’t really go wrong with a Q. Enjoy whatever you choose! 👍👍

[NigelG]

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I went with a second hand Q116 as a second (or maybe 5th 🙄) camera to complement my Ms as the price difference to the Q2 in the uk at least was quite substantial. 
It also helped that I only own silver (or s/steel) Leicas…that option (or matt black) was dropped after the original version.