Which Leica camera is right for me? A guide to the best Leica cameras 2025

Would you like to buy a Leica camera, but don’t know which model to choose? Are you hesitating between cameras from the iconic M system, those from the powerful SL system, or a more compact body such as those from the Q and D-Lux series?

Each range has its own features and benefits, suited to different styles of photography.

Find out in this article which Leica camera is right for you. In this guide, we present the different Leica models to consider in 2025 to help you make the best Leica choice for your needs and expectations.

1. Leica M11-P

The Leica M11-P is the evolution of the famous Leica M11, combining the brand’s classic style with cutting-edge technology. In terms of design, it retains the elegant lines of the M11, but abandons the iconic red logo for a more discreet look, ideal for street and reportage photography.

Beneath its refined body, the M11-P features the same 60 MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor as the M11, guaranteeing exceptional image quality. Thanks to its triple-resolution technology (60, 36 or 18 MP), it offers great flexibility and an extended dynamic range, enabling photographers to achieve images rich in detail and nuance.

What truly sets the Leica M11-P apart from the M11 is its 256 GB internal memory. Additionally, it features Leica Content Credentials, an image authentication technology designed to combat digital manipulation and AI-generated content.

2. Leica M11-D

The M11-D is the ideal choice for the most purist of photographers. It combines the charm of analog photography with the versatility of digital. What makes the M11-D unique compared to the Leica M11 and M11-P is the absence of a screen, offering a pure, immersive approach to photography.

Inspired by film cameras, the M11-D and its design force the photographer to compose and capture without distraction, prioritizing the rangefinder and the moment. To view images, you need to use the Leica FOTOS application, reinforcing the idea of a return to essentials.

Beneath its sleek design lies the same 60 MP BSI CMOS full-frame sensor as the M11. Its dummy film advance button adds a retro touch while serving as a grip lever. Like the M11-P, it also features a 256GB internal memory.

The Leica M11-D also seamlessly integrates authentication technology, fully compliant with CAI (Content Authenticity Initiative) and C2PA standards.

3. Leica M11 Monochrom

The M11 Monochrom is the fourth-generation Leica Monochrom camera. As its name suggests, it captures only black and white images.

Equipped with a BSI CMOS sensor specially designed for monochrome photography and an impressive ISO range from 125 to 200,000, the M11 Monochrom delivers exceptionally detailed, high-contrast, naturally sharp images.

Like the M11-P and M11-D, it offers a choice of three resolutions: 60 MP, 36 MP and 18 MP. It also retains the same features as the M11, such as internal memory (256 GB), a robust body and improved battery life, while removing the color shooting option.

The design remains faithful to the iconic Leica M, but the brand’s distinctive red logo has been removed for a sleeker look.

4. Leica Q3

The Q3 is the best Leica camera for photographers looking for a compact body. It combines the best of compact and professional cameras with its 60 MP full-frame sensor and integrated 28mm f/1.7 Summilux lens, ideal for capturing sharp, detailed images with beautiful background blur.

Every picture taken with the Q3 benefits from Leica processing, offering superb color rendition and exceptional dynamic range. It also boasts a high-performance autofocus system that delivers fast, accurate results, especially when it comes to focusing on subjects, thanks to its face and eye detection capabilities.

Unlike the M11, the Q3 offers video functionality. It supports video up to 8K as well as ProRes and .h265 formats, and offers USB-C and HDMI ports.

5. Leica Q3 43

The Leica Q3 43 is an enhanced version of the Q3, designed for those seeking a more precise and natural photographic experience thanks to a specially developed lens.

It is equipped with an APO-Summicron 43mm f/2 ASPH lens, a high-quality apochromatic lens designed to produce distortion-free, impressively sharp images. This model is perfect for street photography and environmental portraits, offering a more natural field of view compared to the original Q3 with its 28mm lens.

Like the Q3, the Leica Q3 43 features a 60 MP full-frame sensor, delivering very high-resolution images with vivid colors and excellent dynamic range. Autofocus is fast and precise, and it incorporates face and eye detection features for impeccable focus on subjects.

It also retains the ability to shoot in 8K, with professional codecs for exceptional video quality.

6. Leica SL3

The Leica SL3 is a 60 MP full-frame hybrid camera. When combined with SL lenses, it delivers outstanding image quality and a unique user experience.

This Leica camera is particularly well suited to professional photography, thanks to its hybrid autofocus system (phase detection, contrast AF, object detection and AI), integrated image stabilization and features not found on other Leica cameras.

Also ideal for videographers, the SL3 offers video capabilities up to 8K and features USB-C and HDMI 2.1 ports. With its high-resolution electronic viewfinder, 5.76 million-pixel OLED screen and tailored user experience, the SL3 is clearly a body of choice for professional photographers.

7. Leica D-Lux 8

The Leica D-Lux 8 is the ideal Leica option for those who want a Leica camera at an affordable price. Compact and easy to use, it combines minimalist aesthetics with practicality, making it perfect for photographers looking for a portable body.

Equipped with a 22 MP sensor, it delivers high-quality images, perfect for everyday use or sharing on social networks. Its integrated Leica DC Vario-Summilux 10.9-34mm f/1.7-2.8 ASPH. lens covers the majority of everyday photographic needs.

The D-Lux 8 also features an image format selector, useful for publications on platforms such as Instagram.

Although it offers video capabilities, they are inferior to those of Q-series models, but remain an asset compared to M-system bodies.

Which Leica camera to choose?

In a nutshell, which Leica camera model you choose will depend on your style and what you want from your camera.

If you like the classic approach andunique rangefinder experience, the M11-P, M11-D and M11 Monochrom are for you.

If you’re looking for a compact, powerful and easy-to-use body, the Q3 and Q3 43 are perfect choices for versatile use.

If you’re an experienced photographer and need more flexibility and professional performance, the SL3 is an excellent option.

The D-Lux 8, meanwhile, is an excellent alternative if you’re looking for a compact, easy-to-use Leica body, without the need for a camera with a high pixel count.