Leica C-Lux vs Leica Q3

In this article, we will be looking at the Leica C-Lux vs Leica Q3, both Large Sensor Compact cameras and both of them are manufactured by Leica. There exists a large gap among the sensor resolutions of the C-Lux (20MP) and Q3 (60MP) and the C-Lux (1") and Q3 (Full frame) use different sensor size.

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The C-Lux was unveiled 6 years before the Q3 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Large Sensor Compact).

Before diving through a full comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the C-Lux matches up against the Q3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Leica C-Lux & Leica Q3. The full galleries are available at Leica C-Lux Gallery & Leica Q3 Gallery.

If you're intending to travel with your camera frequently, you'll need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Leica C-Lux provides outside measurements of 113mm x 67mm x 46mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.8") along with a weight of 340 grams (0.75 lbs) and the Leica Q3 has dimensions of 130mm x 80mm x 93mm (5.1" x 3.1" x 3.7") accompanied by a weight of 743 grams (1.64 lbs).

Check the Leica C-Lux vs Leica Q3 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have at the time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the C-Lux compared to the Q3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the C-Lux and Q3 is 85 and 60 respectively.

Sometimes, it is tough to imagine the contrast in sensor dimensions purely by going through a spec sheet. The image below may give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the C-Lux and Q3.

As you can see, both of the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The C-Lux with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting bokeh trickier and the Leica Q3 will produce greater detail having an extra 40MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The more aged C-Lux will be behind in sensor technology.