Leica Q2 vs SL2-S Comparison
Leica Q2
Leica SL2-S
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Brand | Leica | Leica | |
Model | Q2 | SL2-S | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2019 | 2020 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | March 07, 2019 | December 10, 2020 | |
Camera Type |  Compact |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Leica SL2-S takes the lead with a score of 81/100, while the Leica Q2 trails with 76/100. Both cameras, introduced in 2019 and 2020, are priced around $5,000. They share similarities in their launch prices and release years.
The Leica SL2-S, a mirrorless camera, stands out with its larger size (146 x 107 x 83mm) and heavier weight (931g). This camera’s superior score reflects its better performance and features.
On the other hand, the Leica Q2, a compact camera, has a smaller size (130 x 80 x 92mm) and lighter weight (734g), making it a more portable option. Despite its lower score, it still offers excellent quality for those prioritizing portability.
Considering these points, the Leica SL2-S is the better camera overall, but the Leica Q2 remains a strong contender for those seeking a more compact option.
Leica Q2 vs SL2-S Overview and Optics
The Leica SL2-S emerges as the winner in the optics comparison, scoring 85/100, while the Leica Q2 scores 79/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including full-frame CMOS sensors, Leica processors (Maestro II for Q2 and Maestro III for SL2-S), and similar DXOMARK scores (96 for Q2 and 95 for SL2-S).
The Leica SL2-S outperforms the Q2 in various aspects. Firstly, it has a faster shooting speed of 20, doubling the Q2’s 10. Secondly, the SL2-S has a lens mount (Leica L), allowing users to change lenses, while the Q2 has a fixed lens mount. Lastly, the SL2-S includes image stabilization, a feature absent in the Q2, which enhances image quality by reducing camera shake effects.
In contrast, the Leica Q2 boasts a higher megapixel count of 47.3, compared to the SL2-S’s 24.6. This advantage enables the Q2 to capture more detailed images, particularly beneficial for large prints or cropping. However, this is the only area in which the Q2 surpasses the SL2-S.
Weighing the advantages of each camera, the Leica SL2-S’s faster shooting speed, interchangeable lens mount, and image stabilization make it a superior choice in terms of optics. The Leica Q2’s higher megapixel count is noteworthy, but it does not compensate for the SL2-S’s overall stronger performance. Thus, for users prioritizing optics, the Leica SL2-S is the recommended option.
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Optics
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Leica Q2
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Leica SL2-S
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 47.3 MP | 24.6 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 8368 x 5584 px | 6000 x 4000 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 24 x 36 mm | 24 x 36 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame | Full Frame | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps | 20 fps | |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Fixed | Leica L | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Maestro II | Maestro III | |
Aspect Ratio The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 50 | 50 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 50,000 | 100,000 | |
Minimum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 50 | 50 | |
Maximum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 50000 | 100000 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 120 s | 60 s | |
Maximum Shutter Speed The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 1/ 2000 s | 1/ 16000 s | |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 225 | 225 | |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |   |  | |
Viewfinder Type The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Electronic | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | 3,686,000 dots | 5,760,000 dots |
Leica Q2 vs SL2-S Video Performance
The Leica Q2 emerges as the winner in video capabilities, scoring 91 out of 100, while the Leica SL2-S scores 83. Both cameras share some common specifications in this regard. They offer a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 4096 x 2160. Additionally, both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality.
The Leica Q2 outperforms the SL2-S with its higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, compared to the SL2-S’s 60fps. This difference allows the Q2 to capture smoother and more detailed slow-motion footage, providing an advantage for videographers who require high-quality slow-motion capabilities.
However, the Leica SL2-S has its own strengths, despite its lower score. While it may not surpass the Q2 in terms of video frame rate, it matches the Q2 in other important aspects, such as video resolution, dimensions, and time-lapse functionality. This means that the SL2-S still delivers impressive video quality and features, even if it does not outshine the Q2.
Taking these factors into consideration, the Leica Q2 proves to be the superior camera for video capabilities due to its higher frame rate, which allows for smoother slow-motion footage. On the other hand, the Leica SL2-S remains a strong contender, offering comparable video quality and features. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs of the videographer, with the Q2 being more suitable for those prioritizing slow-motion capabilities and the SL2-S catering to those who are satisfied with its solid video performance.
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Video
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Leica Q2
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Leica SL2-S
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  4K | 4K | |
Max Video Dimensions Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 4096 x 2160 px | 4096 x 2160 px | |
Max Video Frame Rate How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 120 p | 60 p | |
Time-Lapse Built In A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. |  | | |
Video File Format Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | MPEG-4 | MPEG-4 |
Leica Q2 vs SL2-S Features and Benefits
The Leica Q2 takes the lead in features with a score of 83/100, while the Leica SL2-S follows with a score of 74/100. Both cameras share common specifications, including a touchscreen, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity. Neither camera has a flip screen or GPS functionality.
The Leica Q2’s advantage lies in its higher feature score. Its 3-inch screen size is slightly smaller than the SL2-S’s 3.2-inch screen but has a lower screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots compared to the SL2-S’s 2,100,000 dots. Despite this difference, the Q2 still manages to outperform the SL2-S in terms of features.
On the other hand, the Leica SL2-S does possess some advantages over the Q2. Its larger 3.2-inch screen size offers a more comfortable and immersive viewing experience. Additionally, the SL2-S boasts a higher screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots, providing a clearer and sharper display than the Q2’s 1,040,000 dots.
Considering the features of both cameras, the Leica Q2 emerges as the better option due to its higher score. This indicates that the Q2 offers more advanced and useful features compared to the SL2-S. However, the SL2-S should not be overlooked, as its larger screen size and higher resolution display are noteworthy advantages.
Ultimately, the choice between the Leica Q2 and the SL2-S depends on the user’s preferences and priorities. If a higher feature score is of utmost importance, the Q2 is the clear winner. However, if screen size and resolution are more crucial, the SL2-S may be the better choice.
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Features
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Leica Q2
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Leica SL2-S
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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External Flash External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. |  | | |
GPS GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |  | | |
Weather Sealing Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |  | | |
Screen Type | TFT LCD | LCD | |
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  | | |
Screen Size |  3" |  3.2" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,040,000 dots | 2,100,000 dots | |
Flip Screen A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. |  | | |
Live View Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  | | |
Wi-Fi |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Leica Q2 vs SL2-S Storage and Battery
The Leica SL2-S triumphs over the Leica Q2 in storage and battery performance, scoring 73/100 compared to the Q2’s 21/100. Both cameras share compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards and use the BP-SCL4 battery type. However, the SL2-S outshines the Q2 with its two memory card slots, longer battery life, and USB charging capability.
The SL2-S’s dual memory card slots provide users with more storage options and flexibility, while its 510-shot battery life ensures extended shooting sessions. Additionally, the convenience of USB charging makes the SL2-S more versatile and user-friendly.
Although the Q2 lags behind the SL2-S in this comparison, it still offers decent storage and battery performance with its single memory card slot and 350-shot battery life. However, the lack of USB charging may be a drawback for some users.
Ultimately, the Leica SL2-S emerges as the superior choice in terms of storage and battery capabilities, while the Leica Q2 remains a satisfactory option for those who can overlook its limitations.
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Storage and Battery
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Leica Q2
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Leica SL2-S
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | BP-SCL4 | BP-SCL4 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 350 shots | 510 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Leica Q2
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Leica SL2-S
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 26.4 bits | 25.2 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 13.5 EVs | 14.1 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 2491 | 3504 |
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Scores
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Leica Q2
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Leica SL2-S
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Leica Q2 vs SL2-S – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Leica Q2 or the Leica SL2-S:
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User Scores
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Leica Q2
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Leica SL2-S
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B&H photo video |
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