Leica introduced a full-frame mirrorless camera SL3-S with a 24-megapixel sensor for $5,300

Leica has introduced a versatile professional full-frame mirrorless camera, the SL3-S, which supports high-speed photo shooting and is also capable of recording high-quality video in 6K resolution. At the same time, the new product has a very compact body with a strict Leica signature design.

Image source: Leica

Leica SL3-S received a 24 MP sensor that allows you to shoot video in a resolution of 5952 × 3968 pixels (6K) with 12-bit color at up to 30 frames per second or in a resolution of 3840 × 2160 pixels (4K) at up to 60 frames per second, and recording can be done to an external SSD via the USB Type-C port.

The relatively low resolution of photography (the regular SL3 has a 60-megapixel sensor) is more than compensated for by a high shooting speed of 30 frames per second and phase focusing with 779 points, which is more than double the 315 points of the SL3.

The camera has improved algorithms for detecting and tracking objects, and the high shooting speed allows you to take 48- and 96-megapixel high-resolution multi-frame compositions without using a tripod.

Leica SL3-S is equipped with two memory card slots – UHS-II SD and CF Express Type B. The compact body of the new product with a 3.2-inch tilting touch display is similar to the SL3.

The camera received a backlit touch power button, controversial in its functionality, similar to the SL3, and a menu with accents that change color depending on the mode – red for photos, yellow for video.

The SL line is initially aimed at professionals, so it makes sense that Leica would implement the Adobe Content Authenticity Initiative for copyright protection in the SL3-S, as is already implemented in the M11-P. Surprisingly, this feature is not available on the standard SL3, which was released less than a year ago, and will not be added later via a firmware update. A Leica spokesperson explained that the SL3’s hardware “does not meet Leica’s standard for encrypting this sensitive data.”