Leica Q3 vs Leica Q3 43

The Leica Q3 and Q3 43 are both superb cameras and many of our customers are now choosing between the two focal lengths. Below, we break down the key differences between the two cameras, along with the benefits of both. 

Key Information 

The Leica Q3, released in 2023, is a full frame compact camera with a fixed 28mm f/1.7 Summilux ASPH lens with integrated macro. The Q3 has a 60 Megapixel, Triple-Resolution sensor, an ISO range of 50 up to 100,000, advanced Autofocus, a 5.76MP tiltable display, 8K video capabilities and an IP52 weather rating. 

The Leica Q3 43 has all of the above too- apart from the lens difference- replacing the 28mm is a 43mm f/2 APO-Summicron ASPH lens. 

Why did Leica choose 43mm?

The question of 43mm has been asked a lot to us- and the answer covers both technical and historical reasons. 

The focal length of 43mm really closely mimics the human eye vision. This ensures that you get an authentic and realistic perspective in 43mm photos. As it is more traditional focal length, it is great for portraits. 

From a historical point of view- Oskar Barnack chose to use a 42mm as the first lens for the original Leica camera when being designed in the 1920s. It is a natural length to use with a full-frame sensor.  

Crop Factor Differences

It is also important to note the digital crop factor differences on the Q3s. 

The Q3 43 has a digital crop factor of 43mm, 60mm, 75mm, 90mm, 120mm, 150mm. The Q3 28 has a digital crop of 28mm, 35mm, 50mm, 75mm and 90mm.  

At 60MP sensors on both cameras- you can get fantastic quality when using this feature.

Why choose 43mm?

The 43mm, with it's aperture of f/2, is perfect for portraiture. If you enjoy street or portraiture photography, the Q3 43 would be a great choice. It has a beautiful light bokeh, and given the natural length gives less distortion and natural skin tones. 

The Q3 43 lens is also Apochromatic, meaning it is made with low-dispersion glass, which enables all colours to converge at the same point of focus- resulting in a really sharp photo and less chromatic aberrations (colour fringing).