Leica Q3 Monochrom Introduced

Today, Leica has announced the Leica Q3 Monochrom, the latest addition to its digital black and white lineup. The new camera replaces the already outstanding Q2 Monochrom and incorporates the generational improvements first introduced with the Q3, including a high dynamic range 60 MP BSI CMOS sensor, tilting rear LCD display, USB-C charging and power delivery, faster wireless connectivity, 8K video, and the latest Maestro IV image processor. It’s also the first Q-series model to feature a hardware encryption chip for Content Authentication as well as the first to showcase a redesigned SL3-style user interface with new icons and touch menus.

Finished in a discrete matte black paint, the Q3 Monochrom uses the same elegant black mid-grain leatherette found on the Q2 Monochrom and M11 Monochrom rather than the more modern diamond-pattern covering of the standard Q3. Like previous Monochrom models, there’s no Leica dot on the front and no script engraving on the top. A very subtle ‘MONOCHROM’ etched in black-on-black ahead of the hot shoe declares its namesake, with the standard ‘LEICA CAMERA / WETZLAR GERMANY' in white on the back. All lens and dial markings are rendered entirely in shades of gray and white, maintaining the camera’s fully monochromatic aesthetic.

Leica has employed the same fixed Summilux 28 mm f/1.7 ASPH lens used on the Q2M and standard Q3. The optical design remains unchanged, delivering exceptional resolving power, minimal distortion, excellent contrast, integrated optical image stabilization, and close-focus capability down to 17cm in macro mode. At this time, Leica has not indicated whether a Monochrom version of the 43 mm Q-series variant is planned.

Contrast Detect AF only

While the standard color Q3 incorporates on-sensor phase detect autofocus that works in unison with contrast detection, the Q3 Monochrom does not. PDAF requires dedicating selected pixels across the sensor to phase detection by partially masking sections of the photosite. This creates directional sensitivity that allows the camera to measure phase offset, but it also alters the structure and light-gathering behavior of those pixels compared to the rest of the array.

On a color sensor, these modified pixels are dispersed through the Bayer pattern and are blended during the demosaicing process, making any irregularities functionally invisible. On a Monochrom sensor, every pixel directly records luminance with no color filter array or interpolation, so even small architectural differences can lead to fixed-pattern artifacts, subtle banding under certain lighting conditions, or uneven tonal response. By omitting PDAF and relying on a refined contrast-based AF system, Leica prioritized a completely uniform sensor layout, maximizing per-pixel sensitivity and maintaining the smooth tonal transitions and exceptionally clean noise characteristics that define the Monochrom look.

Advantages of a Monochrom sensor

I've covered this topic in great detail in the past, putting Monochrom versions to the test against their color counterparts in multiple showdowns. And the results are always the same. Due to the lack of a Bayer color filter array, a monochrome camera offers around 1.5-2 stops better high ISO performance, while also producing sharper, more detailed images. When it comes to the Q3 Monochrom, you can expect the same advantage over the Q3, which already performs amazingly well up to around ISO 10,000. But we don't need to speculate. The M11 Monochrom has shown what the latest 60 megapixel BSI sensor can do sans CFA. Expect the Q3 Mono to shoot comfortably up to around ISO 32,000 with extremely low film grain-like noise, a noteable improvement compared to both the color Q3 and the Q2M it replaces.

Where does it fit?

The Q3 Monochrom now sits alongside the M11 Monochrom at the top of Leica’s dedicated black and white offerings, giving photographers a compact autofocus alternative with image quality and tonal performance on par with the flagship rangefinder, while preserving the simplicity and immediacy that define the Q series. It will pair nicely with an SL or M setup, or even with a color Q3.

Pricing, Ordering and Availability

Initial deliveries of the Leica Q3 Monochrom will start within the next week for a price of $7,790. As with any major Leica camera launch, supply will be probably be limited for a number of months. If you are interested in ordering the Q3 Monochrom, you can do so at Leica Store Miami by clicking the button below, calling 305-921-4433 or sending an email to info@leicastoremiami.com. If you are interested in trading in any other Leica equipment towards the purchase of the Q3 Monochrom, you can note it during the pre-order process.

New Accessories

Leica is releasing a small collection of new accessories alongside the Q3 Monochrom, all designed to complement the camera’s understated blacked-out aesthetic while expanding functionality and personalization options.

The lineup includes two new flat braided straps made from a rayon and leather cord blend. One comes in black (14696) to match the stealth look of the camera, while the other is offered in cognac (14698) for those who prefer a warmer, more classic feel.

Leica is also introducing two round braided straps using the same material mix. The first appears in a monochromatic black and white pattern (14719), and the second combines cognac leather fittings with a denim blue cord (14720).

For improved handling, Leica offers a matching HG-DC 1 Monochrom Wireless Charging Handgrip (19697). It provides a more secure hold and adds Qi-compatible wireless charging when paired with Leica’s charging pad, making it possible to top up the battery simply by setting the camera down. Of course, the standard Q3 handgrip is fully compatible, but won't match the camera's leatherette wrapping.

Rounding out the accessories is a new red filter in E49 (19696). With its slim profile and black finish, it will sit inside the lens shade of the Summilux 28mm lens while offering the dramatic contrast boost and deeper tonal separation so many photgraphers love. The existing orange filter is still a great choice if you want some contrast, but not the black skies and white trees you'll get with red.

Q3M Compared to Q2M

Leica Sample Images

Leica has provided a nice selection of sample images from the new Q3 Monochrom which you can see larger by clicking on the thumbnails below. The images really show off dynamic range, high ISO capability and the unique rendering of the 28mm Summilux lens.

Tech Sepcs – Photo

Tech Specs – Video