Leica D-Lux 7 vs Ricoh GR III: The Ultimate Large Sensor Compact Showdown

When it comes to large sensor compacts, photographers often face a classic dilemma: should you prioritize flexibility and premium build or favor pocketable stealth with razor-sharp, fixed-focus lenses? Today, I’m diving deep into two stalwarts of that category - the Leica D-Lux 7 and the Ricoh GR III - both announced in 2018 and designed for serious shooters who want a high-quality photographic experience without packing a bulky DSLR or mirrorless rig. Through months of hands-on testing, field trials, and pixel-peeping, I’ll help you sort the hype from reality and suggest which one truly belongs in your camera bag.

Size and Ergonomics Face-Off: Leica D-Lux 7 vs Ricoh GR III

Hand Feel and Physical Build: Holding the Cameras

The Leica D-Lux 7 and Ricoh GR III may both be “large sensor compacts,” but their size and ergonomics have quite distinct philosophies. Take a look at the dimensions and weight in the photo above - it’s clear the D-Lux 7 is a heftier beast at 403 grams versus the GR III’s svelte 257 grams. The Leica feels substantial in hand, with a nice grip heft and a slightly chunky profile (118x66x64 mm), lending it a reassuring presence without turning bulky.

In contrast, the GR III’s 109x62x33 mm frame makes it a genuine pocket cruiser. It’s the kind of camera you could slip into your jacket or even a roomy pants pocket. If discreet street shooting or travel convenience are paramount, the Ricoh scores major points. But that slimness does come with trade-offs - the GR III’s flat body and smallish controls took some adjusting for me, especially for longer shoots where my fingers craved a firmer grip and more tactile dials.

Control Layout: Leica’s Classic Dials vs Ricoh’s Minimalist Setup

Looking from above, you’ll notice Leica’s classic approach: dedicated mode, shutter speed, and aperture rings alongside a finely tuned control wheel. The D-Lux 7 demands a bit of manual handling love, and I appreciated the direct access to exposure controls when shooting in aperture or shutter priority modes. Meanwhile, the GR III’s minimalist top plate with fewer physical dials streamlines operation but can frustrate those who prefer quick manual adjustments over digging through menu screens.

In short: Leica offers a more ergonomic and tactile experience, making it ideal for photographers who cherish direct control and prefer shooting by feel. The Ricoh is the go-anywhere stealth pro, best for those prioritizing ultra-compactness and subtlety.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Sensor Size and Specs: APS-C vs Four Thirds

Here, the Ricoh GR III leaps ahead with a larger APS-C sensor (23.5 x 15.6 mm) sporting 24 megapixels, compared to the Leica D-Lux 7’s Four Thirds sensor at 17 megapixels. The impact? Those extra pixels and sensor area mean more resolution room to crop and larger prints with finer details on the Ricoh.

During my side-by-side RAW shooting tests, Ricoh’s lack of an antialiasing filter allowed its images to maintain razor-sharp detail and pronounced microcontrasts, perfect for architectural and street photography. Leica’s Four Thirds sensor and anti-aliasing show slightly softer rendering, but it compensates with superb color fidelity, particularly in skin tones - a characteristic Leica enthusiasts crave.

Dynamic range - important for landscapes and high contrast scenes - swings gently in Ricoh’s favor. The APS-C sensor delivers slightly richer shadow details and cleaner high-ISO performance. While both cameras max out ISO around 25,600 (Leica) and 102,400 (Ricoh’s boosted ISO), practical ISO use tops much lower - around 3200 to 6400 for best image quality. The Ricoh’s sensor is more forgiving in low light, with less noise impinging on mid-tone gradations.

So if ultimate regard for resolution and low-light resilience is key, the GR III has an edge. If tactical color rendering and minimizing post-processing fuss for skin tones are your priority - especially in portraits - the D-Lux 7 shines.

Lens and Focal Range: Versatility vs Purity

The Leica D-Lux 7 sports a Leica-designed 24-75mm equivalent zoom with a fast aperture range of f/1.7 to f/2.8. This zoom range offers genuine flexibility - from wide-angle landscapes or street scenes to short telephoto portraits with convincing background separation. Moreover, its relatively bright aperture across the zoom range helps in lower light and creates a moderately shallow depth of field for subject isolation.

Conversely, the Ricoh GR III has a single 28mm equivalent f/2.8 fixed prime lens. This one-trick pony might seem limiting, but boy, does Ricoh make the most of it. The lens is incredibly sharp edge-to-edge, famously so for street and documentary photographers who prefer a natural field of view that feels “right.” While the fixed 28mm restricts framing options, it forces creativity - and in my shooting, it encouraged me to move more physically instead of leaning heavily on zoom.

For macro work, Leica’s D-Lux 7 allows focusing down to 3cm, versus Ricoh’s 6cm. The difference may seem trivial, but Leica’s slightly closer minimum focus distance and zoom flexibility provide a benefit for detailed close-ups. Both cameras feature optical (Leica) or sensor-shift (Ricoh) image stabilization, assisting handheld shooting in challenging conditions.

TL;DR: Leica offers more framing flexibility for versatile use, ideal if you want one camera for different genres. Ricoh nails the prime experience, great for shooters who prize ultimate image quality and simplicity over zoom.

Autofocus: Speed, Accuracy, and Usability

Both cameras rely primarily on contrast-detection autofocus, but the GR III brings hybrid autofocus with some phase-detection pixels thrown in to speed things up a bit. Leica’s 49-point contrast-detect AF system performs admirably in lighting good enough for contrast but can hunt a little in dimmer settings.

Tracking moving subjects isn’t the forte of either camera - they’re not designed as sports machines by any stretch. Continuous autofocus is available on both, but expect lag when shooting action. In practical shooting of fast-moving kids or pets, I found Ricoh’s hybrid AF slightly quicker to lock on, especially when using face detection.

Leica’s faster burst shooting mode at 11fps trumps Ricoh’s absence of a continuous shooting speed spec (though it can do around 4fps in real life) - a small advantage if you need to capture fleeting moments.

Neither system supports advanced animal-eye autofocus, meaning wildlife photographers might want to look elsewhere or consider dedicated telephoto setups.

Controls, Interface, and Usability: A Tale of Two UI Philosophies

Rear Screens and User Interface: Touchscreen Comparison

Leica’s D-Lux 7 offers a 3-inch, 1240k-dot touchscreen LCD and a bright 2.76M-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 0.7x magnification covering 100% frame. In bright sunlight or detailed composition work, the EVF proved a clear advantage, particularly for hunters of precise framing and subtle exposure adjustments.

Ricoh goes screen-only with a 3-inch, 1037k-dot touchscreen and offers an optional optical viewfinder accessory. Depending on preferences, optical finders give a more natural viewing experience but lack in real-time exposure preview and overlay info. For me, shooting through an EVF is more immersive and reliable for exposure-critical work.

Touch responsiveness on both cameras felt snappy, and both support flexible AF point selection via touch. However, Leica’s illuminated controls and intuitive dials give it the nod for manual exposure lovers. Ricoh’s menu system is logically laid out but less customizable - a small drawback for expert users who crave workflow optimization.

Practical takeaway: Leica’s UI and controls are tailored to enthusiasts and pros who want precise manual control, whereas Ricoh suits photographers who prefer quick operation and less complication.

Image Stabilization: Optical vs Sensor-Shift Wars

Both cameras sport image stabilization but via different approaches. The Leica D-Lux 7 uses optical image stabilization (OIS) built into the lens, providing a noticeable edge in reducing shake, especially with its longer telephoto reach.

Ricoh GR III relies on sensor-shift stabilization, a technology that moves the sensor itself to compensate. Sensor-shift is compact and effective, particularly for still scenes or video, but I found Leica’s OIS more consistent in low-light handhold scenarios, especially when shooting at 75mm equivalent.

If your shooting includes a lot of casual handheld zooming or dim environments, Leica’s optical system offers a slight advantage.

Video Capabilities: Who Wins the Moving Picture Battle?

Neither the D-Lux 7 nor the GR III are video-centric, but both offer useful features if you want decent casual footage. The Leica captures 4K video at 30fps with up to 100 Mbps bitrate in MP4 format, while the Ricoh maxes out at 1080p at 60fps.

Leica’s 4K resolution advantage will appeal to hybrid shooters who occasionally want crisp video for social media or travel logs. Audio options are limited on both - no microphone input or headphone jack - so serious videographers should look elsewhere.

Stabilization in video mode benefits both cameras, but Leica’s combination of lens-based OIS and higher resolution might produce smoother footage overall.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Considerations for Extended Use

Battery performance remains modest for both - Leica offers around 340 shots per charge, while Ricoh’s official battery life isn’t specified but usually hovers around 200-250 shots. For day-long excursions, especially travel or event work, packing spare batteries is wise.

Both support SD, SDHC, and SDXC UHS-I cards with a single slot - a standard configuration in this class. Leica’s battery is proprietary and charged via USB or dedicated charger; Ricoh also supports USB charging and has internal storage as a backup - a nice touch if cards are full.

Price and Value: Stretching Your Photographic Dollar

As of their launch, the Leica D-Lux 7 listed at roughly $1,200, while the Ricoh GR III was around $900. Both have trickled down in price since, but Leica’s premium positioning remains intact. You’re paying for a blend of Leica heritage, lens quality, and a more robust physical experience.

Ricoh’s value lies in its razor-focused approach: excellent APS-C sensor in a pocket rocket, with superb prime optics, at a friendlier price point.

The price difference might swing choices for enthusiasts balancing budget vs. versatility.

Shooting Genres and Real-World Performance

Now, the real acid test: how does each model fare across diverse photographic disciplines?

Leica D Lux 7 front Leica D Lux 7 screen back Ricoh GR III front Ricoh GR III screen back

Portraiture

Leica’s zoom range and fast aperture allow a flattering bokeh and smooth skin transitions, especially at 75mm equivalent focal length with f/2.8. Eye detection autofocus is solid but not as aggressive as modern mirrorless cameras. Ricoh’s fixed 28mm lens is less flattering for tight portraits but shines in environmental portraits that incorporate context.

Landscape

Both do well in daylight landscape shooting, but Ricoh's higher resolution sensor and wider dynamic range better capture shadow and highlight details, revealing more textures in foliage and skies. Leica’s lens distortion at 24mm could be more noticeable but easily corrected post-processing. Weather sealing is absent on both, so protection is necessary when shooting outdoors in adverse conditions.

Wildlife

Neither camera is ideal for wildlife due to lack of telephoto reach and autofocus tracking refinements. Leica’s longer zoom gives it a sliver of advantage, but fast-moving subjects often outpace both cameras’ AF capabilities. Consider pairing with long lenses or dedicated wildlife cameras.

Sports

Again, the lack of continuous autofocus sophistication and moderate burst rates (11fps for Leica, none specified but slower for Ricoh) limits their sports viability. Fast action shooters should look elsewhere.

Street Photography

Here’s where Ricoh GR III really excels. Its compact size, quiet operation, and ultra-sharp lens make it a preferred street tool for many professionals. Leica’s weight and zoom flexibility offer versatility but sacrifice stealth.

Macro

Leica edges out with 3cm focusing vs Ricoh’s 6cm, allowing finer close-ups. Neither feature focus bracketing or stacking, so achieving deep macro focus requires manual technique.

Night and Astro Photography

Ricoh's greater sensor size and higher max ISO, combined with sensor-shift stabilization, support better high-ISO, low-light work. Leica’s max electronic shutter at 1/16,000s facilitates shooting bright scenes but doesn’t compensate for ISO noise at night.

Video

Leica’s 4K advantage and optical stabilization make it more useful for casual videographers. Ricoh lags with only Full HD video and no HDMI port.

Travel

Good news on both fronts: Leica delivers versatility in one compact with zoom, while Ricoh offers pocket portability and image quality. Battery life could be a limiting factor on longer trips for both.

Professional Workflows

Leica’s support for 14-bit RAW files and more flexible manual controls caters better to professional workflows. Ricoh’s APS-C sensor and RAW output give plenty of editing latitude but fewer dedicated pro features like tethering or ruggedness.

Both cameras score respectably, but the Leica D-Lux 7 earns points for versatility, manual control, and video. The Ricoh GR III scores high for image quality, portability, and street credentials.

Final Verdict: Which Compact Large Sensor Camera Should You Buy?

After hundreds of shots in varied conditions, here’s how I see it:

• Choose the Leica D-Lux 7 if:
  You want a versatile zoom lens and premium tactile controls from a camera that feels substantial and is ready for a range of photographic assignments - from portraits to landscapes to occasional video. You appreciate the legendary Leica color science and don’t mind paying for the luxury and versatility compactness comes at. If you prize manual exposure dials and an EVF over absolute portability, this is your camera.

• Choose the Ricoh GR III if:
  Your priority is ultimate concealment and image sharpness in a fixed prime, especially suited for street, travel, and environmental photography. You want a punchy APS-C sensor that out-resolves most compact zoom cameras and don’t mind the 28mm limitation pushing you to “zoom with your feet.” Perfect for enthusiasts who prize image quality and pocket portability above all else, and who shoot mostly daylight or urban scenes.

Parting Shots: The Real-World Photography Companion

I’ve extensively used both cameras in my landscape and street projects, and each demands a different mindset. Leica’s D-Lux 7 is like having a Swiss army knife: versatile, solid, and classy. Ricoh GR III is a scalpel - sharp, precise, but intentionally simple.

In a world where smartphones constantly threaten compact cameras, these two models justify their existence by delivering tactile joy, superior image quality, and an approach to photography that smartphone shooters rarely match. Your choice depends largely on your shooting style preferences, portable needs, and preferred subject matter.

If you want the best zoom in a stylish package with video and manual control versatility, Leica’s your pal. If purity of image and stealth portability are king, the Ricoh GR III is the streetwise sage.

Regardless of choice, both cameras represent the best of large sensor compacts as of their era - truly camera-centric tools for photographers who want better than mobile phone quality but don’t want to become gear schleppers.

Happy shooting!

[Note: Prices and availability may have shifted since original release dates. Always check current user reviews and firmware updates for the latest compatibility and performance insights.]