Leica Q (Typ 116) Detailed Review

In additional Q (Typ 116) was introduced by Leica in June 2015. It belongs to the enthusiast Compacts category.

Leica is well-known and shouldn’t require further introduction, please see our manufacturer’s page for more digital cameras by Leica.

Also Q (Typ 116) has a Full frame CMOS sensor with size of 36 x 24 mm² (1.42″ x 0.94″).

Picture of Q (Typ 116)’s sensor compared to popular format.

The 1-Euro coin has a diameter of 23.25mm.

The Q (Typ 116)’s sensor has resolution of 24 megapixel.

The Leica supports taking images in RAW. RAW images are stored as they come from the sensor, without any in-camera processing or sharpening. Converting to JPEG or other formats takes place on the computer, using software like Adobe Lightroom or Leica’s RAW converter. This involves one extra processing step but almost always results in superior image quality. Some filters, like converting to monochrome (black and white) will only yield decent results when used with RAW images.

The Q (Typ 116) uses an electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 3.68 megapixel, an excellent value for a viewfinder like this which makes the camera a joy to use.

The magnifcation is c. 0.70x, an above average value for an electronic viewfinder.

The Q (Typ 116)’s shutter speed varies from 1/2000s to 60s.

The highest shutter speed of the Leica is just 1/2000s. That’s no longer state of the art and may cause problems in challenging light conditions.

The Q (Typ 116)’s sensitivity goes from 100 ISO und 50000 ISO, a very useful and practical range.

The Q (Typ 116) supports all general exposure modes.

The Leica allows spot exposure for the difficult occasion.

The Q (Typ 116)’s auto focus processor uses 49 AF points (or sensors). A basic rule of thumb says that the more AF points you have, the better. More AF points mean a better chance to have a point at the location of interest in a scene, a big plus in challenging situations (e.g. with low contrast subjects).

Manual focus is also possible with the Leica, a plus in tricky situations or for some creative freedom.

The Q (Typ 116) doesn’t feature a built-in flash. That is not unsusual in this camera category.

A flash or a trigger for remote flashes can be attached to the Leica’s hotshoe.

The Q (Typ 116) features a monitor with a diagonal of 76.00mm (3.0 in.) and a resolution of c. 1.04 megapixel. That’s about average.

Unfortunately, the Q (Typ 116)’s monitor is not articulated. That can make it tricky to frame your subject in some situations, e.g. when taking selfies.

The Q (Typ 116)’s monitor can work as a touch screen, just like a smartphone. That can be very useful, for example to pick AF points, but keep in mind that touch screens usually don’t work when wearing gloves.

Display characteristics at a glance:

Q (Typ 116) video supported the resolution with 1920 x 1080 pixel.

ACamera is not equipped with an external microphone.

Leica Q (Typ 116) Video parameters:

The Q (Typ 116) has Wifi connectivity already built-in. Use Wifi to transfer images to a smartphone or computer and to remote control the camera. With NFC, camera and smartphone can be paired without the need for passwords.

Connect the Leica to a monitor or TV set over HDMI.

The Leica supports USB 2.0.

Connection parameters:

The camera supports SD HC and SD XC cards.

Memory cards characteristics:

The Leica Q (Typ 116) has a BP-DC12 LiIon battery. The battery provides a shooting life of 300 shots. It`s enough for one day or more.

The Q (Typ 116)’s battery battery parameters:

The Leica Q (Typ 116)’s dimensions are 130 x 80 x 93mm³. (5.1″ x 3.1″ x 3.7″). This includes the lens. The camera’s weight is a reasonable 640 grams (20.6 oz.), lens included.

Here is front and top view of the Q (Typ 116):

For a better idea of the size of the camera, takes a look off camera and ID card comparison image.