Leica TL vs Leica Q
- Full frame
- 24 megapixels
- Fixed lens
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54
Overall -
32
Imaging -
63
Features -
72
Size -
0
Price
Leica TL vs Leica Q: a Complete Review and Comparison
Are you looking for the best camera to suit your needs? Due to a wide range of options, making a wise and weighted decision can be rather challenging. Which specs to keep in mind? What are the key pros and cons of each model? This comparison should give some helpful hints!
The goal of this overview is to provide a detailed comparison of two popular camera models introduced by the same brand - Leica. Although both products are offered by the same brand, they come from different categories. Thus, Leica, is a camera from Semi-Pro Mirrorless category, while Q is a Large Sensor Compact camera. Both products that we are going to review are equipped with the same type of sensor - CMOS. However, they have different resolution. The first compared model, Leica TL, features has a resolution of 16.0 MP. Another model that we are reviewing, Leica Q, features a sensor with a resolution of 24.0 MP.
Without a doubt, these two categories have a few considerable distinctive features. However, it is worth saying that cameras from MirrorLess category create serious competition to models that fall into Compact category. Such an intense competition between these two categories is explained by the significant advantages of cameras from the first category in terms of size and weight. In addition, thanks to the latest enhancement, this type of cameras come with increased focus speeds. This fact makes our comparison overview even more exciting.
Now, before we can move on to our comparison, let's take a moment to look at the key characteristics of Leica TL and Leica Q.
Leica TL Key Features:
- 16.0 MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 12500
- Image Stabilization: No
- 3.7″ Fixed Type Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 5.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 1920 x 1080 (30p), 1280 x 720 (30p)
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 134 x 69 x 33 mm
- Weight: 384 g
- Environmental Sealing: No
- Built-in GPS: Yes
- Replaced by Leica TL2. Compare
Leica Q Key Features:
- 24.0 MP Full frame CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 50000
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- 3″ Fixed Type Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 10.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 1920 x 1080 (60p, 30p), 1280 x 720 (30p)
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 130 x 80 x 93 mm
- Weight: 640 g
- Environmental Sealing: No
- Built-in GPS: No
- Also known as Leica Typ 116
Since Leica TL has been around for some time, it was substituted by
Leica TL2.
Be sure to check out some of our other comparisons that may also interest you:
Leica TL vs. TL2
Leica TL2 vs. Leica Q
Why is Leica TL a better choice than Leica Q
| Built-In Flash | Yes vs No | All the lenses are stabilized |
| Flash Range | 4.5 vs No | 4.5 better flash range |
| Screen Size | 3.7″ vs 3″ | 0.7" larger screen |
| Screen Resolution | 1,230k dots vs 1,040k dots | 15.4% higher resolution screen |
| Weight | 384 g vs 640 g | 256 g lighter |
What are the key reasons to pick Leica Q over Leica TL
| Timelapse Recording | Yes vs No | Creative shooting |
| Sensor Resolution | 24.0 MP vs 16.0 MP | 33.3% more pixels |
| Sensor Area | 864 mm2 vs 370.52 mm2 | 57.1% larger pixel area |
| Image Stabilization | Yes vs No | All lenses are stabilized |
| Continuous Shooting | 10 fps vs 5 fps | 5 fps faster |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/16000 vs 1/4000 | Faster shutter speed |
Key PROs of Leica TL and Leica Q
| Touch Screen | Yes | Yes | Easy control of camera functions |
| Screen Size | 3.7″ | 3″ | Large display |
| Screen Resolution | 1,230k dots | 1,040k dots | High resolution screen |
| Viewfinder | Electronic (optional) | Electronic | Better framing and control |
| Raw Support | Yes | Yes | Better image quality |
| AutoFocus Face Detection | Yes | Yes | Very handy for portraits |
| Bracketing | Yes | Yes | Useful for tough lighting conditions and HDR |
Key CONs of Leica TL and Leica Q
| Screen Type | Fixed Type | Fixed Type | No flexible viewing angles |
| Microphone Port | No | No | No microphone port |
| Headphone Port | No | No | No headphone port |
| Environmental Sealing | No | No | No environmental sealing |
Leica TL vs Leica Q: Comparing Two Models By Physical Characteristics
Before heading straight to the technical characteristics of each model, let’s start with comparing their physical specs. Let’s start with looking at the physical difference of the two products. Below are images that clearly show the sizes of Leica TL and Leica Q from the front view.
Now, let’s go on and see how the reviewed models are different or similar by the top view.
After looking at these images, you should get a clear idea of each model’s dimensions and how they are different from each other. However, we are not going to stop there. The next characteristic worth looking at is the weight. Of course, not every photographer is concerned about the weight, for example, it wouldn't be a decisive point for those who shoot in a studio. However, it is still an important factor because if you happen to go on a long photo session or just love having the camera with you wherever you go, you want to be sure that the chosen model isn't too heavy.
Speaking of weight, Leica TL is a lighter option of these two, as it weights 256g less than the Leica Q. This difference, in fact, can become a significant disadvantage for the photographers, who prefer to have their cameras with them wherever they go.
Comparing Leica TL and Leica Q by the type of Sensor and Resolution
Sensor is, without a doubt, the most significant element of every digital camera. Its type, size, and resolution are the factors that define the quality of future shots. Thus, it is barely possible to pick a suitable camera without looking at these specs.
Are Leica TL and Leica Q any different in terms of sensor type?
In fact, that's exactly what makes these two models really different. Thus, it is a good point to consider if your are choosing between these two cameras. Leica TL features a 16.0 MP APS-C sized CMOS sensor . Leica Q, in its turn, comes with a 24.0 MP Full frame sized CMOS sensor and Maestro II processor , which makes it significantly different from the first model.
Take a look below to find the comparison of Leica TL and Leica Q by the size of their sensors.
One more distinctive feature of compared models is the sensor size. Leica Q is equipped with a sensor that is 0.4x larger than the one featured in Leica TL. Compared to the cameras with smaller sensor area, the ones with larger sensors ensure more control on the blurry background and depth of field if you shoot in the same aperture and focal length. Thus, the first model has a significant advantage here.
For Which Fields Of Photography Are Leica TL and Leica Q Suitable?
If you are interested in photography or has made a career in this field, you should know that different types of shooting actually require different camera characteristics. While one model can produce outstanding portraits, at the same time, it can be terrible for shooting landscapes, and so on. Thus, before you purchase a specific camera, it is vital to decide, which type of shooting you do most often and consider an option that suits it the most.
This section of our comparison is devoted to the performance of Leica TL and Leica Q in different fields of photography. Here we are going to look at the five main areas and evaluate how well each of the reviewed models performs in them. This will help you choose an option that suits your needs the most depending on your interest in one or several of these fields.
| Photography Type | Leica TL | Leica Q |
|---|---|---|
| Portrait Photography |
|
|
| Street Photography |
|
|
| Sports Photography |
|
|
| Daily Photography |
|
|
| Landscape Photography |
|
|
Leica TL for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.6 x 15.7 mm) sensor
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
- No Image Stabilization
Leica Q for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (36 x 24 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (24 MP)
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/16000s)
- Image Stabilization
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
No Significant DisadvantagesLeica TL for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Large APS-C(23.6 x 15.7 mm) sensor
Disadvantages:
- Big size (134 x 69 x 33 mm)
- No Image Stabilization
Leica Q for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Image Stabilization
- Large Full frame(36 x 24 mm) sensor
Disadvantages:
- Big size (130 x 80 x 93 mm)
Leica TL for Sports Photography
Advantages:
No Significant Advantages
Disadvantages:
- Slow Continuous Shooting (5.0 fps)
- No Environmental Sealing
- Slow Max Shutter Speed (1/4000s)
- Bad Max Native ISO (12500)
- Small battery life (400 shots)
Leica Q for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/16000s)
- Nice Low Light ISO (2221)
- Big size (130 x 80 x 93 mm)
Disadvantages:
- Slow Continuous Shooting (10.0 fps)
- No Environmental Sealing
Leica TL for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.6 x 15.7 mm) sensor
- Built-in Flash
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Wireless Connectivity
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
No Significant DisadvantagesLeica Q for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (36 x 24 mm) sensor
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Wireless Connectivity
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
- Big weight (640 g)
- Big size (130 x 80 x 93 mm)
- No Built-in Flash
Leica TL for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.6 x 15.7 mm) sensor
- Live View
- RAW Support
Disadvantages:
- Low resolution sensor (16 MP)
- No Environmental Sealing
- Bad Max Native ISO (12500)
Leica Q for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (36 x 24 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (24 MP)
- Good Dynamic Range (12.7)
- Live View
- RAW Support
- Nice Low Light ISO (2221)
Disadvantages:
- No Environmental Sealing
Comparison of Leica TL vs Leica Q: Final Verdict
Hopefully, our detailed overview of these models has helped you consider all the main specs, pros and cons of each cameras. Maybe, after reading this comparison, some of you have already decided which option to opt for depending on your needs and preferences. However, if you are still wondering which option is a better choice, Leica TL or Leica Q, below you can see what scores each of them received in five different aspects. To wrap up, we have used our unique Decision Algorithm that assesses different camera models upon 63 different factors including their price, and, if possible, DxO Mark scores. This algorithm allows us to make our verdict more consistent and objective.
What is our final verdict? Based on our comparison and the final scores of Leica TL and Leica Q here is what we can say in conclusion:
According all the factors that we considered in the process of comparing these two cameras, Leica Q deserves a higher Total Score than the Leica TL. Thus, if you are choosing between these options, we would recommend you to choose the first model over the other one.
Leica TL vs Leica Q Table Of Technical Specs
For better understanding of each model’s technical characteristics, find the detailed comparison below:
| Leica TL | Leica Q | |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Leica | Leica |
| Model | TL | Q |
| Announced | Nov 08, 2016 | Jun 10, 2015 |
| Body Type | Rangefinder-style mirrorless | Large sensor compact |
| Sensor | ||
| Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS |
| Sensor Size | APS-C | Full frame |
| Sensor Dimensions | 23.6 x 15.7 mm | 36 x 24 mm |
| Sensor Area | 370.52 mm2 | 864.00 mm2 |
| Sensor Resolution | 16.0 MP | 24.0 MP |
| Max Image Resolution | 4928 x 3264 | 6000 x 4000 |
| Max Native ISO | 12,500 | 50,000 |
| Max Boosted ISO | n/a | n/a |
| Min Native ISO | 100 | 100 |
| RAW Support |  |
|
| Lens | ||
| Manual Focus | |
|
| Lens Mount | Leica L | Fixed lens |
| Number of Lenses | 3 | n/a |
| Focal Length Multiplier | 1.5x | n/a |
| Macro Focus Range | 17 | |
| AutoFocus | ||
| AF Touch | |
|
| AF Continuous | |
|
| AF Single | |
|
| AF Tracking | |
 |
| AF Selective | |
|
| AF Center | |
|
| AF Multi Area | |
|
| AF Live View | |
|
| AF Face Detection | |
|
| AF Contrast Detection | |
|
| AF Phase Detection | |
|
| Number of Focus Points | n/a | n/a |
| Number of Cross Focus Points | n/a | n/a |
| Screen | ||
| Screen Type | Fixed Type | Fixed Type |
| Screen Size | 3.7″ | 3″ |
| Screen Resolution | 1,230k dots | 1,040k dots |
| Live View | |
|
| Touch Screen | |
|
| ViewFinder | ||
| ViewFinder | Electronic (optional) | Electronic |
| ViewFinder Resolution | 0k dots | 3,680k dots |
| ViewFinder Coverage | % | 100% |
| ViewFinder Magnification | ||
| Photography Features | ||
| Min Shutter Speed | 30 s | 30 s |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 s | 1/16000 s |
| Continuous Shooting | 5.0 fps | 10.0 fps |
| Shutter Priority | |
|
| Aperture Priority | |
|
| Manual Exposure Mode | |
|
| Exposure Compensation | |
|
| Custom White Balance | |
|
| Image Stabilization | |
|
| Built-in Flash | |
|
| Flash Range | 4.5 | 0 |
| Flash Modes | Auto, auto w/redeye reduction, slow sync, slow sync w/redeye reduction | no built-in flash |
| External Flash | |
|
| AE Bracketing | |
|
| WB Bracketing | |
|
| Exposure Modes | ||
| Multi-Segment | |
|
| Average | |
|
| Spot | |
|
| Partial | |
|
| AF-Area | |
|
| Center Weighted | |
|
| Video Features | ||
| Video Resolutions | 1920 x 1080 (30p), 1280 x 720 (30p) | 1920 x 1080 (60p, 30p), 1280 x 720 (30p) |
| Max Video Resolution | 1920 x 1080 | 1920 x 1080 |
| Video Formats | MPEG-4 | MPEG-4 |
| Microphone Port | |
|
| Headphone Port | |
|
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless Connectivity | |
|
| HDMI | |
|
| USB | USB 2.0 | USB 2.0 |
| Physical | ||
| Environmental Sealing | |
|
| Water Proof | |
|
| Dust Proof | |
|
| Shock Proof | |
|
| Crush Proof | |
|
| Freeze Proof | |
|
| Weight | 384 g | 640 g |
| Physical Dimensions | 134 x 69 x 33 mm | 130 x 80 x 93 mm |
| Battery Life | 400 shots | n/a |
| Battery Type | Battery Pack | n/a |
| Battery Model | BP-DC13 | BP-DC12 |
| Other Features | ||
| Self Timer | |
|
| Timelapse Recording | |
|
| GPS | Optional | |
| Storage Type | Internal + SD/SDHC/SDXC card | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Storage Slots | 1 | 1 |
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