The Q3 43 is the first Q-series camera to feature this unique focal length, which approximates the field of view of the human eye for a very realistic, distortion-free, and natural perspective compared to wider or longer focal lengths. This versatile focal length is well-suited to everything from landscapes to portraits to street subjects and, like its sister model, the Q3, also includes a dedicated Macro position for close-up shooting down to 10.4" away.
Beyond the unique focal length, Leica also took the opportunity to create a new APO lens. This APO-Summicron 43mm f/2 ASPH. has an apochromatically corrected design that yields extremely high color accuracy that is void of fringing or other color aberrations. The lens design also includes aspherical elements for high sharpness, low distortion, and high contrast. It's a well-corrected lens offering a very usable combination of a versatile focal length, bright f/2 maximum aperture, impressive color rendering, and high sharpness.
Leveraging the powerful processing and updated sensor design, the Q3 43 sports a hybrid AF system that utilizes phase-detection focusing along with contrast-detection and depth from defocus (DFD) AF for faster, more accurate focusing when working with moving subjects or in mixed lighting conditions. The addition of phase-detection focusing also enables an intelligent subject recognition system that can detect and track eyes, faces, bodies, and animals in the frame.
With more attention given to video recording Like the original Q3, a lot of design attention has been given to the video performance of the Q3 43; it's a well-rounded multimedia camera with video performance that rivals the exceptional stills capabilities.
- DCI 8K recording is supported at up to 30p with 4:2:0 10-bit color when recording internally or at 8-bit when recording externally via the micro-HDMI port.
- 4K recording is also possible, with 4:2:2 10-bit color, at up to 60p with support for recording internally or externally. When shooting Full HD, the frame rate can be pushed to 120p for slow motion playback and all resolutions also support a true 24p frame rate for cinematic rendering.
- ProRes 422 HQ recording can be done internally with a Full HD resolution at frame rates up to 60p.
- Micro-HDMI and USB-C ports provide greater access to accessories like external recorders, gimbals, power banks, and more to benefit using the Q3 43 as a tool for video creators.
- The Q3 43 is also introducing the ability to work with RODE external microphones via USB-C connection for improved audio quality while recording video.
Two key physical improvements from the Q3 are, again, staple features for the the Q3 43—a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and the versatile tilting touchscreen rear LCD:
The Q3 43 is a compact camera meant for everyday shooting and its design remains similar to previous generations, but with some notable updates for improved usability: