Leica has announced the Q3 Monochrom, a fixed-lens full-frame compact camera that captures only black-and-white photos and video. The new model is a monochrome-only version of the existing Leica Q3 and is aimed at photographers who want dedicated grayscale imaging quality. It is available to order from November 20, 2025, through Leica Stores, the Leica website, and authorized dealers.
The Q3 Monochrom uses a 60MP full-frame sensor designed specifically for black-and-white photography. Because the sensor does not include a color filter array, it records only brightness data for each pixel. This design improves light gathering and reduces image noise, particularly at higher ISO settings, which helps produce detailed results in low light.
Leica notes that removing the color filter array eliminates the need for interpolation algorithms that normally reconstruct color images. This can lead to sharper files and finer tonal transitions in grayscale images. The company highlights this as a key reason some photographers choose monochrome-only cameras despite losing the option to shoot in color. The camera’s 60MP sensor also supports Leica’s Triple Resolution Technology. Photographers can select to capture images at 60MP, 36MP, or 18MP, depending on their needs for resolution, file size, and workflow. An ISO range of 100 to 200,000 provides flexibility for shooting in bright outdoor conditions as well as very low-light environments.
For video, the Q3 Monochrom records black-and-white footage at up to 8K resolution. This makes it suitable for creators who want high-resolution monochrome video from a compact full-frame system. The camera’s processing pipeline is tuned for grayscale output, aligning both stills and video features around black-and-white capture.
The lens on the Q3 Monochrom is a built-in Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH. This fast fixed lens is designed to work closely with the sensor to deliver high sharpness and contrast. A selectable macro mode reduces the minimum focus distance to 17cm, enabling close-up work with small subjects.
To provide framing flexibility, Leica includes a digital zoom function. Users can crop in-camera to fields of view equivalent to focal lengths up to 90mm. This allows tighter compositions while still working with the fixed 28mm optical lens. On the hardware side, the camera features a 5.76MP OLED electronic viewfinder for composing images. It also includes a tilting touchscreen display on the rear for flexible shooting angles and touch control of menus and focus. These components are consistent with a modern compact full-frame design.
As far as the pricing is concerned, pricing positions the Q3 Monochrom as a high-end camera. It starts at 7,790 dollars in the US, 5,800 pounds in the UK, and 12,090 Australian dollars. Leica also launched several accessories alongside the camera, including a handgrip with wireless charging support, carrying straps, and a red filter.
