In 2015, Leica debuted two new full-frame camera series that have become lodestones in their range: the point-and-shoot Q Series and the SL mirrorless. Last year, with the SL3, the German company threw a bunch of impressive specs into an even more compact frame, including improved noise reduction, a hybrid autofocus system with phase, object, and contrast detections, and a programmable dial.
Now, Leica builds on that platform with the new SL3-S has been optimized for open-gate 6K video and capturing stills of moving objects.
Optimized for Video
While the regular SL3 could technically shoot up to 8K (as many cameras can do), it was with diminishing returns (and lower quality footage). However, the fact that the SL3-S has been optimized for 6K is big, considering you can now utilize the full 3:2 native ratio at up to 30fps (60fps in 4K).
Previously, the 60MP sensor’s purpose was for still photography but has now been retooled a bit. You can also use the anamorphic lens without losing any information in the process and can get “creative” with the aspect ratios with a 4:3 option as well. Best of all, the 6K 12-bit raw footage can be written onto your SSD card directly through a USB-C cable.
Take the Good with the Bad
On the other hand, the still photography here has been given somewhat of a downgrade, down to 24MP from 60MP before. However, the camera will still operate with continuously tracking autofocus featuring 779 phase-detection points (way up from 315 points of the SL3), which helps with shooting objects on the move.
Also returning is the 3.2-inch tilting LCD touchscreen and menu configuration. Just as compact as before, the weight of the two cameras is virtually the same as well (literally the difference of 1g). Visually, the only real difference is the branding on the front, replacing the white text with a blacked-out version.
The other big addition to the SL3-S is the Content Credentials, an image verification feature that comes with models in other ranges, such as the M Series.
Spec Sheet
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: Full-frame BSI CMOS
Resolution: 24MP
ISO Range: 100 to 200,000
Display: Tilting 3.2-inch LCD screen
Video Capability?: Yes, 6K at 30fps
Pricing & Availability
Notably cheaper than the nearly-$7k SL3, the Leica SL3-S is a mere $5,295. You can find it now from retailers such as B&H.
Recap
Leica SL3-S Mirrorless Camera
Leica made a version of its flagship compact SL Series camera that’s optimized for video with 6K capability and better motion detection.
