The second monochrome generation of the Leica Q family featuring a dedicated black-and-white sensor

A century ago, the Leica I defied convention and transformed the field of photography by becoming the first mass-produced 35mm camera. This pioneering spirit endures in Leica’s monochrome cameras, defined by an unwavering commitment to pure black-and-white photography and the bold choice to deliberately renounce colour. The same is as true now as it was back then – these cameras embody a mindset of stepping beyond the familiar to explore new visual frontiers. With the arrival of the Leica Q3 Monochrom, a new chapter unfolds in the evolution of compact mirrorless full-frame cameras – dedicated wholly to the art of composing with light and shadow.

As the second monochrome generation in the Q family, the Leica Q3 Monochrom distils photography to its purest form, capturing only brightness data with its dedicated black-and-white sensor. Its 60 MP monochrome sensor with Triple Resolution Technology delivers remarkable sharpness, impressive dynamic range and exceptional tonal depth – no colour filters and no compromising on detail. It captures images at resolutions of 60, 36 and 18 MP across an ISO range from 100 to 200,000, and records video with up to 8K resolution. Alongside the fast Leica Summilux 28 f/1.7 ASPH. with its wide angle and fixed focal length, it delivers low-noise images rich in nuance and texture – consistently, and even in challenging lighting conditions.

The design of the Leica Q3 Monochrom stays faithful to the contemporary Q family while embracing the unmistakable monochrome aesthetic. Made in Germany, it exemplifies functional beauty in its design and superb craftsmanship in the tactile quality of its finest materials. The all-metal body and lens hood are finished in black, with engravings – such as the “Monochrom” lettering on the top plate – rendered in understated black or grey, while the leatherette covering features a refined, stylish finish. Finally, the intentional absence of the red Leica logo accentuates the camera’s minimalist design.

The high-resolution 5.76 megapixel OLED viewfinder, rapid and precise hybrid autofocus, and tilting touch display highlight the Leica Q3’s impressive performance capabilities. The Q3 Monochrom offers maximum creative freedom to dedicated black-and-white photographers and filmmakers by allowing them to effortlessly switch to macro mode at a close focus distance of 17 cm and choose between automatic or manual control. With its IP52 rating, this durable camera is safeguarded against dust and splashes of water.

With digital zoom ranging from 28 to 90 mm and a whole host of video features, the Leica Q3 Monochrom provides extensive possibilities for capturing black-and-white imagery in exceptional quality throughout everyday creative practice. Thanks to reliable, user-friendly connectivity with the Leica FOTOS App via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C and Micro HDMI, content can be securely integrated into mobile workflows with exceptionally fast transfer speeds.

The Leica Q3 Monochrom features a well-organised, intuitive user interface with a distinct separation between photo and video functions. Each follows its own colour scheme and, combined with the carefully designed icons and menu navigation, allows for especially intuitive operation. Leica will introduce this new operating concept for Q-Cameras to both the Leica Q3 and the Leica Q3 43 through a firmware update at the end of the year.

The Leica Q3 Monochrom also plays a pioneering role within the Q family through its innovative use of Content Credentials technology. It is the first Q-Camera to offer images with a digital signature compliant with the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI), ensuring tamper-proof verification of their origin and any subsequent modifications.

Optional accessories broaden the creative possibilities and enable personalisation of the Leica Q3 Monochrom. The new monochrome camera is compatible with accessories designed for the Leica Q3, further enhancing its functionality. Alongside the Q3 Monochrom, Leica is also launching a handgrip with wireless charging and a coordinated leatherette covering, a red filter, and a selection of carrying straps.

The Leica Q3 Monochrom will be available worldwide from 20 November 2025 at Leica Stores, in the Leica Online Store and from authorised dealers. The recommended retail price is EUR 6,750 including VAT.