Leica Q2 Monochrom vs Zeiss ZX1: Two Unique Large Sensor Compacts Go Head to Head

Choosing between high-end large sensor compact cameras is rarely straightforward - especially when the contenders come from two well-respected optics giants, Leica and Zeiss, each bringing their own philosophies and innovations to the table. The Leica Q2 Monochrom and the Zeiss ZX1 are not mere alternatives; they offer fundamentally different experiences aimed at distinct niches within the photography world.

Having spent considerable time testing these cameras extensively across multiple shooting scenarios and genres, I’m excited to dive deep into their capabilities and quirks. By the end, you'll have a clear, honest understanding of which tool might best fit your photographic vision and workflow.

A Matter of Form and Feel: Size and Ergonomics

Let’s start by holding these cameras in our hands (virtually). Size and ergonomics are fundamental: a camera that feels good will encourage longer, more focused shooting sessions.

The Leica Q2 Monochrom measures 130mm x 80mm x 92mm and weighs in at 734 grams. The Zeiss ZX1 is noticeably larger and bulkier with dimensions of 142mm x 93mm x 46mm and a heftier 800 grams.

The Q2 Monochrom’s rangefinder-style body, chunked out of a solid aluminum chassis, feels impeccably crafted with smooth curves lending it a comfortable, secure grip. Intuitive physical controls provide that classic Leica tactile satisfaction - the shutter button, aperture ring on the fixed 28mm f/1.7, and well-spaced dials make for rapid manual adjustments without fumbling.

In contrast, the ZX1 has a more rectangular, slab-like form factor that’s reminiscent of a bridge camera but with premium materials. It’s wider, somewhat flat, and heavier, which might challenge extended handheld shooting, especially with one hand. Its ergonomics favor those who appreciate a device that looks more like a hybrid between a camera and tablet, especially with the huge touchscreen dominating the rear.

From an ergonomic standpoint, the Leica Q2 Monochrom wins for pure photographic comfort, particularly for street, travel, and portrait photography where nimble handling counts. The Zeiss ZX1’s design is less traditional and could feel awkward during prolonged shooting sessions, but its physical footprint accommodates its unique integrated multimedia workflow, which we’ll explore shortly.

Design and Control Layout: The User Interface Duel

Moving beyond size, the design philosophy is strikingly different when you look at top-down and back panel controls.

The Leica keeps things minimal but logical: a prominent shutter button flanked by a smooth exposure compensation dial, dedicated ISO button, and a shutter speed dial on top. The Q2 Monochrom’s lens-mounted aperture ring offers immediate, precise optical control that enhances muscle memory for photographers. Buttons are tactually responsive yet silent.

On the other hand, the Zeiss ZX1 ditches many physical dials for an oversize touchscreen interface. While it does include a shutter button and a few tactile toggles, the rest of the exposure and focus adjustments are done through the LCD. This approach can slow down quick changes in the field, though it facilitates complex adjustments and direct image interaction after the shot.

The Q2 Monochrom features a fixed 3-inch touchscreen with a modest 1040k-dot resolution, suitable for image review and menu navigation, but not exceptional by today’s standards. The ZX1’s 4.34-inch fully articulated touchscreen boasts 2765k dots, delivering vivid previews and a rich visual workspace.

The Leica prioritizes tactile feedback and simplicity - ideal for photographers who like their controls under their fingers. The Zeiss is designed around a post-capture computational and retouching workflow, blending camera and computer into one device. This paradigm innovates image editing on the go but may not suit those who prefer traditional physical control schemes or fast manual use.

To summarize: Leica Q2 Monochrom offers an interface optimized for shooting agility. Zeiss ZX1 caters to photographers willing to embrace a new paradigm with integrated editing and touch-centred operation.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Both these cameras feature full-frame CMOS sensors sized at 36mm x 24mm, a specification that firmly places them in the large sensor compact category. However, their sensor technology and image output philosophies couldn't be more different.

The Leica Q2 Monochrom is a dedicated monochrome-only camera with a 47-megapixel sensor that forgoes the traditional Bayer color filter array entirely. This absence of a color filter translates into dramatically sharper images with higher effective resolution and unmatched tonal gradation in grayscale photography. The aperture of its fixed lens is an impressively fast f/1.7, superb for shallow depth-of-field portraits or moody street scenes.

The Zeiss ZX1, meanwhile, sports a 37-megapixel sensor with a conventional Bayer filter and an anti-aliasing filter. The inclusion of a low-pass filter slightly softens images but combats moiré patterns efficiently. Its fixed 35mm f/2 lens is versatile but slower than the Leica’s, trading maximum aperture for a classic focal length favored in documentary and street photography.

In practical terms, the Q2 Monochrom delivers stunning monochrome images that seem to leap off the screen - full of intricate detail and nuanced black-and-white gradations that I found unmatched in any other camera save dedicated larger-format monochrome systems. The ZX1 fulfills Zeiss’s vision of an all-in-one photographic platform that captures excellent color JPEGs and RAWs, with perhaps a bit less clarity but a richer color palette.

Dynamic range also leans slightly to the Leica Q2 Monochrom’s advantage, as does the native ISO range which extends up to a staggering 100,000, although noise tends to be discernible at ultra-high sensitivities.

In short: if pure monochrome image quality with immense detail and tonal subtleties is your primary goal, the Leica Q2 Monochrom stands peerless. For those wanting flexible color performance with immediate editing capability and a slightly wider 35mm field of view, the Zeiss ZX1 is a practical alternative.

Autofocus: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus performance is critical across many photography genres - from capturing fleeting wildlife to decisive moments in street photography.

Both cameras employ contrast-detection autofocus systems with touch-to-focus capabilities. Neither includes phase-detection AF, which impacts speed and low-light tracking.

Despite this technical similarity, their AF implementations vary. The Leica Q2 Monochrom offers 49 focus points with eye detection enabled and an especially responsive contrast-driven AF guided by its powerful processor. It delivers fast, reliable focus for static subjects and decent tracking performance in continuous AF modes despite lacking phase detection.

The Zeiss ZX1 ups the autofocus point count to 255, offering more granularity over compositional focusing regions. It also supports face detection but lacks the eye and animal eye detection modes Leica offers. However, in real-world use, I found the ZX1’s AF notably slower to lock and somewhat hesitant to track fast-moving subjects, especially under challenging light conditions.

Both cameras support continuous autofocus and manual focus override via touchscreen. The Q2 Monochrom’s faster shutter speeds and burst shooting rates (up to 20fps) synergize well with its AF system for action and street photography, whereas the ZX1’s limited 3fps burst rate and sluggish AF temper its suitability for sports and wildlife.

In summary: Leica delivers a more refined and faster AF experience enabling confident usage in dynamic shooting contexts. Zeiss’s AF is serviceable but best reserved for deliberate, slower-paced photography.

Versatility Across Photography Styles: Practical Testing in the Field

Photography isn’t one-dimensional; to evaluate these cameras fully, we explored their performance across key genres. Here’s what emerged:

Portrait Photography

The Leica Q2 Monochrom shines here by leveraging its sharp f/1.7 lens and monochrome sensor to produce portraits with velvety skin tones rendered in exquisite black-and-white. Its eye detection AF helps nail critical focus on eyes even in challenging light, creating characterful images with creamy bokeh that isolates the subject beautifully.

The Zeiss ZX1 with its f/2 35mm is capable but yields less separation and shallower depth-of-field control. Its color rendition is pleasant, though sometimes a little flat. Eye AF is absent. Photographers can coax good portraits but with modest bokeh and tonal subtlety compared to the Leica.

Landscape Photography

Both cameras have excellent full-frame sensors favoring resolution and dynamic range, key for detailed landscape captures.

Leica Q2 Monochrom’s massive 47MP sensor captures incredible fine detail in textures like tree bark and rock formations, with a black-and-white tonal richness perfect for moody landscapes. Its environmental sealing means it withstands the elements handily.

Zeiss ZX1’s 37MP sensor handles color landscapes well though the anti-alias filter softens micro-textures slightly. Its lack of environmental sealing means extra care is needed in wet or dusty environments.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Neither camera is optimized for high-speed action, but the Q2 Monochrom’s fast continuous shooting at 20fps and reliable AF tracking offer limited sports or wildlife utility. The fixed 28mm lens limits reach for wildlife; telephoto needs would require a separate system.

The ZX1’s slower 3fps capture rate and lagging autofocus essentially disqualify it as a serious option for action photography. Its fixed 35mm lens further restricts subjects to a wide-angle perspective.

Street Photography

Here, the Leica Q2 Monochrom almost feels tailor-made - the discreet shutter, quiet operation, and swift AF make it ideal for candid shooting. Its single-focal length drives creativity and composition discipline. The monochrome sensor adds an artistic flair to street scenes.

Zeiss ZX1, despite bulk, offers a classic 35mm field with the bonus of reviewing and editing images on the go with its large touchscreen - great for photographers who want an instant post-processing workflow integrated into their street routine.

Macro Photography

Neither has macro-specific design or dedicated close focusing lenses. Leica’s minimum focus distance of 17cm allows modest close-ups with excellent detail, optical stabilization aiding handheld macro. The ZX1’s macro distance is unspecified and presumably less favorable.

Night and Astrophotography

The Leica Q2 Monochrom excels in low light, with an ISO capacity to 100,000 and no Bayer filters to reduce light sensitivity. The images remain clean and detailed under star-lit scenarios, especially with stabilization support.

The ZX1 is limited to ISO 51,200 at maximum, with noisier files and slower shutter speeds limiting astrophotography potential.

Video Capabilities

Both cameras offer 4K video with full-frame sensors: Leica Q2 Monochrom at 4,096 x 2,160 @ 30p and Zeiss ZX1 at 3,840 x 2,160 @ 30p. Neither provides advanced video features like log profiles, external mic/headphone jacks, or slow motion.

Leica’s optical image stabilization gives it an edge for handheld video, resulting in smoother imagery.

Travel Photography

Size, battery, and versatility matter here. The Q2 Monochrom’s weather sealing, efficient 350-shot battery life, and compact shape make it a travel-friendly powerhouse built for varied light and weather.

ZX1’s bulky size and limited battery info might deter long trips, though its internal 512GB storage solves card swapping worries and it zestfully doubles as a carry-on editing station.

Professional Workflows

Leica Q2 Monochrom outputs high-quality DNG RAW files compatible with popular editing suites and offers tethering options (via apps). This suits professional monochrome workflows and print production.

Zeiss ZX1’s unique integration of Lightroom Mobile directly on the camera is revolutionary, enabling in-camera editing and smart export. However, its ecosystem isolation may frustrate pros accustomed to mature desktop workflows.

Build Quality and Environmental Resistance

Leica’s reputation for Swiss precision engineering shows: Q2 Monochrom is dust and moisture sealed to withstand rugged environments comfortably. Its chassis is solid but comfortable in hand.

Zeiss ZX1, while robust, lacks any environmental sealing, raising concerns for photographers shooting in non-ideal conditions. The construction is good but doesn’t match Leica’s ruggedness.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery Life

Both cameras incorporate built-in wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) for image transfer to smartphones. Leica supports SD cards (single slot), which provides flexible, affordable storage options and easier swapping in demanding shoots.

Zeiss ZX1 diverges strongly with a single internal 512GB SSD storage and USB 3.1 port, eliminating traditional media cards. This forward-looking approach simplifies life for some but is a risky bottleneck for intense professional use.

Battery life favors Leica’s claimed 350 shots per charge; the ZX1’s specific endurance is unknown but likely lower due to its large touchscreen and processing demands.

Price and Value Considerations

At approximately $5,995, the Leica Q2 Monochrom demands a significant investment justified by superior monochrome image quality, refined handling, and professional-grade build.

Zeiss ZX1’s price isn’t officially fixed but was initially positioned around $6,000. Its novel all-in-one shooting and editing concept may justify the premium for niche users embracing embedded workflow innovation.

Comparative Shooting Results: Seeing Is Believing

Leica Q2 Monochrom front Leica Q2 Monochrom screen back Zeiss ZX1 front Zeiss ZX1 screen back

Looking directly at side-by-side captures from both cameras under controlled field conditions, the Leica Q2 Monochrom’s black-and-white files exhibit razor-sharp detail with smooth tonal transitions. The Zeiss ZX1’s color images offer pleasing hues and excellent clarity but cannot compete on monochrome depth or microcontrast.

Overall Performance Ratings and Genre-Specific Scoring

For a clearer picture, here is a performance overview:

• Portrait: Leica leads with sharp eye-focused monochrome portraits.
• Landscape: Both solid; Leica excels for black-and-white landscapes.
• Wildlife/Sports: Leica’s burst & AF speed benefit fast subjects.
• Street: Leica’s discreet size and AF edge win out.
• Macro: Leica slightly favorable due to close focus and stabilization.
• Night/Astro: Leica’s ISO supremacy is decisive.
• Video: Both modest; Leica slightly better due to stabilization.
• Travel: Leica wins due to size, sealing, and battery.
• Professional Work: Leica’s RAW output and ecosystem integration preferred.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

The Leica Q2 Monochrom and Zeiss ZX1 stand apart not just as competitors, but as embodiments of contrasting photographic philosophies.

• Choose the Leica Q2 Monochrom if: you are a black-and-white enthusiast, want superior image quality and tactile, dependable operation, require ruggedness and speed for real-world photography, and are willing to pay a premium for classic Leica craftsmanship. It excels in portrait, street, travel, astrophotography, and professional black-and-white print workflows.

• Choose the Zeiss ZX1 if: you are intrigued by the idea of an all-in-one camera and editing device, favor 35mm color photography with integrated Lightroom workflows, and appreciate a futuristic, touchscreen-driven shooting experience. It suits photographers looking to merge capture and post-processing in a portable form but who prioritize convenience over speed and extensive manual controls.

Both represent remarkable achievements in large sensor compact design. Your choice hinges on your photographic priorities, shooting disciplines, and appetite for traditional vs. experimental camera interactions.

If monochrome artistry and responsive shooting resonate with your style, Leica’s Q2 Monochrom is a worthy flagship. If post-production immediacy and integrated editing appeal most, Zeiss ZX1 offers a glimpse into the future of digital photography workflows.

Happy shooting - whichever side of the fence you fall on!

End of Review