Leica Camera AG has announced the Leica D-Lux 8 compact digital camera, 21 years after the company released the very first D-Lux. Eight generations later, the D-Lux series remains popular among photographers looking for a sleek all-in-one camera. However, when you look at the new D-Lux 8, it’s not clear that all that much has changed.
At the heart of the D-Lux 8 is a 21-megapixel Micro Four Thirds CMOS sensor, although only 17 megapixels are used for imaging. The sensor is paired with a Leica DC Vario-Summilux 10.9-34mm f/1.7-2.8 ASPH lens, with a 35mm equivalent focal length of 24-75mm.
If this sounds like a familiar imaging pipeline, that’s because it is. The Leica D-Lux 7, launched at the end of 2018, had the same image sensor and built-in zoom lens. While the D-Lux 7 was a big step forward from 2013’s D-Lux 6, it’s not clear that the D-Lux 8 represents the same kind of evolution as its predecessor.
While there isn’t much new in terms of imaging features, Leica notes that the D-Lux 8 will launch alongside a range of new accessories, including a handgrip mount, leather camera case, carrying straps, wristbands and leather covers. which will be available in multiple colors. There are also new matching accessories, such as an automatic lens cap, soft shutter release, belt bag, crossbody bag and equipment bag. Leica, no stranger to stylish accessories, is going all-in with add-ons for its new D-Lux 8.
The Leica D-Lux 8 also features a revised aesthetic compared to its predecessor, including simplified, revised controls reminiscent of the Leica Q-series cameras. Where the D-Lux 7 had eight separate buttons on the back, plus a four-way pad with each cardinal directional pad serving as a function button, the D-Lux 8 is severely limited, with just four independent buttons and a simplified directional pad.
The top deck is also slightly different, with the old â4Kâ button now serving as the power button and the power switch near the shutter speed dial moving towards the dodo. The exposure compensation dial is now a customizable control dial. Everything is cleaner and simpler, although the aspect ratio switch remains on the lens barrel. It was undoubtedly ahead of its time on the D-Lux 7, as it makes perfect sense on the D-Lux 8 in 2024 given the social media-driven world of content-sharing photographers these days.
Speaking of sharing, the Leica D-Lux 8 works seamlessly with the impressive Leica Fotos app, meaning photographers can wirelessly send images from their camera to their phone and share them to social media platforms almost instantly.
As for video sharing, while Leica hasn’t specified the D-Lux 8’s video features, it’s safe to assume it will offer the same 4K/30p recording as its predecessor. Likewise, users can expect the same 2.76 million dot EVF, 11 frames per second continuous shooting, and ISO range (200-25,600).
The Leica D-Lux 8 will be available from July 2 at all Leica Stores and authorized retailers. The camera is available for pre-order now for $1,595 and comes with an optional additional flash.
Our take
It’s disappointing to see the same sensor and lens combination in the new Leica D-Lux 8, almost six years after the D-Lux 7 hit store shelves. However, that camera is difficult to find and the market for premium compact cameras is booming. For example, it’s hard for photographers to get their hands on the Fujifilm X100VI and Ricoh GR III cameras because they’re so popular, so perhaps Leica felt the time was right to renew its focus on the sub-full-frame compact camera market. It’s a smart move.
The D-Lux 8 also emphasizes compatibility with Leica Fotos and the modern Leica style, so it certainly has some novelty, even if the internal components are not cutting-edge.
For those looking for Leica quality and ‘feel’ in an all-in-one camera, there’s also the excellent full-frame Q3, but that costs $5,995. The D-Lux 8 certainly offers the looks of the Q3, albeit at a much more accessible price point. The sensor and lens, while old and not entirely unique to Leica â hello, Panasonic LX100 II â should deliver solid all-round performance, especially in good light.
We’re certainly looking forward to getting our hands on the D-Lux 8, and when it comes to all-in-one compact cameras, the more the merrier, even though $1,595 is a lot to ask for a camera that’s built on old cameras. technology. That said, a camera is much more than its specifications.
Image credits: Leica