Leica Q3 Showdown: The All-New 43mm vs. the Classic 28mm – Which One Should You Choose?
The Leica Q series has long been a favorite among photographers who appreciate both cutting-edge technology and the timeless appeal of classic camera design. With the launch of the Leica Q3 43mm, Leica has stirred up excitement once again, offering a new focal length and features that set it apart from the Leica Q3 28mm. But what exactly are the differences between the two, and how does the new 43mm variant stack up against the well-loved 28mm?
Let's dive into the key differences, what makes each model special, and how each camera caters to different photographic styles.
The Legacy of the Leica Q Series
Before we dive into the details of each model, let’s appreciate the heritage of the Leica Q series. Since the original Leica Q, these cameras have been the perfect blend of form and function, offering photographers a fixed-lens, full-frame experience with premium optics and advanced technology. Whether you're a street photographer or a travel enthusiast, the Leica Q cameras are designed to deliver exceptional image quality in a compact and elegant package.
Leica Q3 28mm: The Iconic Wide-Angle Workhorse
The Leica Q3 28mm has been a cornerstone of the Q series and is beloved for its 28mm Summilux lens. This wide-angle focal length is ideal for photographers who love to capture expansive scenes and dynamic compositions. Here's why the 28mm stands out:
Why the 28mm Lens is Special:
Wide-Angle Creativity: The 28mm focal length is a go-to for street photography, landscapes, and environmental portraits. It allows you to capture more of the scene, creating context around your subject, and drawing the viewer into the image.
Dynamic Storytelling: With 28mm, you can get up close to your subject while still including the background, making it perfect for street photography where you want to capture both people and their surroundings in harmony.
Sharpness & Speed: The f/1.7 Summilux lens delivers razor-sharp images even in low-light conditions, offering incredible depth-of-field control for those dreamy, wide-angle bokeh effects.
Use Case for the 28mm:
If you love wide, immersive compositions, the Leica Q3 28mm is your ideal partner. It’s designed for photographers who want to include as much detail and atmosphere as possible in a frame—perfect for those who love documenting cityscapes, architecture, and everyday moments with a wide perspective.
Leica Q3 43mm: The New Kid with a Tighter Field of View
Enter the Leica Q3 43mm, the newest addition to the Q family, and it’s already making waves. This model comes with a 43mm Summilux lens, offering a focal length closer to a standard field of view, which provides a unique blend of versatility and subject isolation.
Why the 43mm Lens is Game-Changing:
Closer to Human Vision: The 43mm focal length mimics the natural field of view of the human eye, which makes the images appear more “true to life.” This is perfect for portraits, lifestyle shots, and general everyday photography, where you want the focus to be on your subject with less environmental distortion.
More Intimate Compositions: With a slightly tighter frame than the 28mm, the 43mm allows you to bring your subject forward and isolate them more effectively. It strikes a balance between the traditional wide-angle look and the classic 50mm portrait lens, giving your photos a more personal, intimate feel.
Portrait Power: The 43mm is just wide enough to capture the surroundings while offering excellent subject separation. Whether you're shooting portraits or lifestyle photography, this lens provides that perfect "natural" look without the distortion of a wide-angle.
Use Case for the 43mm:
If you lean more toward portraiture, lifestyle photography, or prefer a more natural field of view, the Leica Q3 43mm will be your go-to. It’s a great all-rounder focal length that can adapt to various shooting scenarios, from street shots to tighter environmental portraits.
Key Differences: 28mm vs. 43mm
Feature: Leica Q3 28mm - Leica Q3 43mm Focal Length 28mm – Wide-angle 43mm – Standard (near 50mm) Perspective Expansive, includes more context Tighter, more subject-focused Best For Street, architecture, landscapes Portraits, lifestyle, everyday shots Depth of Field Shallow, but wide field of view Deeper subject isolation, bokeh Shooting Style Storytelling, immersive composition sIntimate, personal, versatile
Which Leica Q3 is Right for You?
Ultimately, choosing between the Leica Q3 28mm and the Leica Q3 43mm comes down to your shooting style and what you prioritize in a camera.
If you’re someone who thrives in the street photography scene or loves capturing wide, immersive landscapes, the Leica Q3 28mm will feel like an extension of your creative vision. It offers a wide perspective that pulls viewers into your frame, making it perfect for those who enjoy the hustle and bustle of city life or epic outdoor scenes.
On the other hand, if you lean towards portraits, lifestyle photography, or want a camera that’s more versatile for everyday shooting, the new Leica Q3 43mm offers the perfect middle ground. Its field of view is natural, closer to what the eye sees, and it’s ideal for isolating subjects with stunning clarity without losing touch with their environment.
Image credit: LEICAHUNTER
Final Thoughts: The Best of Both Worlds?
There’s no denying that both the Leica Q3 28mm and the Leica Q3 43mm offer exceptional image quality, Leica craftsmanship, and a user experience that few other brands can match. But with the introduction of the 43mm model, Leica has given photographers more choice. Whether you prefer wide, dynamic scenes or tighter, more intimate compositions, Leica’s Q3 lineup now has something for every photographer's style.
In a perfect world, having both would let you tap into the strengths of each lens. But no matter which model you choose, you’re guaranteed the Leica magic in every shot.
So, what will it be? Wide-angle storytelling or subject-focused intimacy?