Six years (!) after the D-Lux 7, Leica returns with a new expert compact with a 4/3″ sensor. The German photo specialist partly lifts the veil on the D-Lux 8, a model which is inspired by the aesthetics of the Leica Q3 at a much more affordable price. The risk after eight generations and numerous special editions is to lack surprises and this D-Lux 8 doesn’t really offer any. It takes the main lines of its predecessor and presents itself to us with a 4/3″ CMOS sensor offering 22 Mpx (17 Mpx effective), associated with a Leica DC Vario-Summilux 10.9-34 f/1.7-2.8 ASPH zoom (equivalent 24-75mm for a 35mm camera). Here we retain the light aperture ranging from f/1.7 to f/2.8.
Leica doesn’t say much more on the technical level (processor, ISO page, shutter speed, etc.). However, a visit to the site of specialized resellers (like Missnumerique) allows you to learn about the expert compact. We learn that the D-Lux has a sensitivity range of up to ISO 25600, as well as a burst mode of 11 frames/s. On the video side, it is capable of filming up to UHD 4K at 30 frames per second.
The new D-Lux 8 stands out by integrating the first in the range to integrate the DNG file format. It comes with a flash to offer more versatility.
The first D-Lux that integrates the DNG file format.
The D-Lux 8 has an electronic viewfinder and a 3-inch rear touchscreen for 1.2 Mpts. Resolutely compact, it has dimensions of 118.0 x 66.0 x 64.0 mm and weighs 403 g with battery and memory card. Measurements and weight similar to what its predecessor offers.
Despite resembling the old body on many points, the D-Lux 8 offers a design closer to that of the Leica Q3, launched last year. Leica cleans up the buttons on the back of the case, limiting itself to a directional cross and two Play and Menu buttons on the right side. Above the screen, there are two customizable buttons.
The upper part is more familiar with the presence of the dial dedicated to shutter speed, as well as the exposure dial. We note that the latter loses its flocking and should be customizable. Compared to its predecessor, this D-Lux 8 abandons the A and 4K keys.
Price and availability
The Leica D-Lux 8 will be available from July 2, 2024, priced at 1,590 euros. Despite a certain lack of new features (on paper), the compact expert is significantly more expensive than the D-Lux 7 launched at 1,180 euros. It could, however, benefit from the enthusiasm around expert compacts, but the competition is tough with a reference like the Fujifilm X100VI (1,799 euros).
We nevertheless remain on much lower prices than for the Leica Q3, a high-end expert compact sold for 5,950 euros upon release.
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