Leica D-Lux 8: New Entry-Level Mirrorless Hybrid Camera

Leica states that this model offers premium image quality, a unique user experience, and an updated interface inspired by the Q series.

Key Features

• 17MP Four Thirds CMOS Sensor
• 24-75mm Equivalent f/1.7-2.8 Lens
• Design Inspired by Q Series
• Connectivity via Leica FOTOS App
• First D-Lux with DNG RAW Format
• On-Camera Flash Included

Comparison with Predecessor

The D-Lux 8 features a 17MP Four Thirds sensor and a 24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 lens. Compared to its predecessor, the D-Lux 7, which also had a 17MP Four Thirds MOS Sensor and a similar lens, the improvements are minimal on paper. The notable enhancement is that the D-Lux 8 is the first in its series to capture DNG RAW files.

Performance and Capabilities

The 17MP Four Thirds MOS sensor offers sensitivity up to ISO 25600, an 11-fps continuous shooting rate, and UHD 4K30p video recording. The DC Vario-Summilux lens provides a 24-75mm focal length range with a f/1.7-2.8 aperture and optical image stabilization to reduce camera shake for sharper images.

Design and Usability

The camera’s design is compact and travel-friendly, incorporating a 2.76m-dot electronic viewfinder and a 3.0″ 1.24m-dot rear touchscreen LCD. Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi work with the Leica FOTOS app for wireless sharing and remote control from iOS or Android devices.

Sensor and Image Quality

The 17MP Four Thirds MOS sensor ensures high resolution, low noise, and vivid color rendering. It supports multiple aspect ratios (4:3, 3:2, 16:9, 1:1) while maintaining the same field of view. The sensor and image processor enable continuous shooting at up to 11 fps and UHD 4K movie recording.

Lens and Video Recording

The built-in DC Vario-Summilux 3.1x zoom lens covers a 24-75mm focal length range. The D-Lux 8 supports UHD 4K video recording at 30p or 24p and Full HD 1080p60 in both MP4 and AVCHD formats.

Shooting Modes

The D-Lux 8 offers three still shooting modes using its video recording capabilities:

• Burst: Continuous recording for capturing fast moments.
• Pre-Burst: Records images one second before and after pressing the shutter button, providing 60 frames to choose from.
• Burst (S/S): Allows playback of video, pausing at the chosen moment to save as an 8MP frame.

Body Design

• Bright electronic viewfinder with 2.76m-dot resolution
• 3.0″ touchscreen LCD with 1.24m-dot resolution
• Hot shoe-mounted external flash for low-light conditions
• In-camera battery charging via USB-connected power bank or computer

Wireless Connectivity

Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, with the Leica FOTOS app, allow for image sharing and remote control. The Post Focus feature enables selecting the focus point after taking the shot. An electronic shutter function allows for a top shutter speed of 1/16,000 sec., suitable for bright conditions and wide apertures.

Leica believes there is still a market for compact cameras with smaller sensors, despite the capabilities of modern smartphones.

Price and Availability

The Leica D-Lux 8 is available for pre-order at $1,595 USD and will be released worldwide on July 2, 2024.