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Leica X1 12.2MP APS-C CMOS Digital Camera (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
Brand | Leica |
Model Name | Leica X1 |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 12.2 MP |
Photo Sensor Size | APS-C |
Image Stabilization | Digital |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/2000 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 30 seconds |
Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
Form Factor | Large sensor compact |
Effective Still Resolution | 12.2 |
About this item
- Exceptionally fast wide angle, Leica Elmarit 1:2.8/24 ASPH Lens.
- 12.2 megapixels, large APS-C size CMOS Sensor, 23.6 x 15.7 mm.
- 3 Frames per second shooting speed- RAW & JPEG Capture, fastest in its class.
- Fast autofocus with simple, intuitive controls and image stabilizer, as well as, automatic and maual options, plus built-in pop-up flash.
- Made in Germany with a 2-year international warranty.
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What's in the box
Product Description
Product Description
A 12.2 megapixels digital compact camera with a Leica Elmarit lens, 1:2.8/24 ASPH. Made in Germany, the Leica X1
From the Manufacturer
Leica Camera AG presents a new generation of Leica digital cameras--the Leica X1. The Leica X1, made in Germany, is equipped with a CMOS sensor in APS-C format, similar to those used in semi-professional DSLR cameras. Together with an all-purpose Leica Elmarit 1:2.8/24 mm lens, the particularly large sensor for this class of camera offers outstanding picture quality that need not fear comparisons with professional cameras. In addition to its technical specifications and a broad spectrum of setting options ranging from manual operation to automatic functions, the Leica X1 is an ideal companion for quality-conscious and creative photographers. The camera’s compact form makes it a constant companion for spontaneously capturing the unique moments in life.
The X1 features a 12.2-megapixel CMOS image sensor; as each individual pixel has a large sensor area and receives more light, this guarantees low noise levels, a high dynamic range and accurate color differentiation. The crop factor of the sensor is 1.5 in comparison with 35-mm film format, meaning that the fixed-mount Leica Elmarit 1:2.8/24 mm lens of the Leica X1 is transformed into a universal reportage lens with an effective (35-mm equivalent) focal length of 36 millimeters. This is a true classic among prime lenses and has captured innumerable iconic images.
The Leica X1 is characterized by clear lines and an intensely focused design. The straightforwardness of its design, with a focus on pure essentials and a compact, handy form, is strongly reminiscent of the legendary M cameras. In combination with its famed aesthetic, the robust, all-metal construction and the tactile experience of its high-quality leather trim make the X1 a true Leica camera.
The Leica X1 has clear, intuitive functions thanks to its simple operating concept. For uncomplicated photography, the X1 offers numerous automatic functions ranging from precise autofocus to automatic exposure. When set, these functions guarantee photographers perfectly exposed, sharp images by simply pressing the shutter release. This lets the user concentrate on the creative aspects of composition and framing.
Thanks to its numerous automatic functions, the X1 remains quick and versatile in any situation. Photographers have additional creative freedom with the camera’s manual control options - both aperture and shutter speed can be selected manually to influence the final image by using the dials located in familiar positions on the top deck of the camera. Even the plane of focus can be set manually, along with white balance and various other image capture parameters. In this way, the X1 offers photographers complete manual control of the creative process while simultaneously guaranteeing rapid reaction ability with its automatic functions when required.
The large size of its image sensor, a maximum sensitivity of ISO 3200 and its large aperture make the Leica X1 an ideal choice for ‘available light’ photography when only the last rays of natural light are exist. Whether in adverse lighting conditions, or for conscious manipulation of depth of focus--the X1 offers numerous options for individual and creative composition.
The brilliant 2.7-inch display practically fills the entire back of the camera and reveals the finest details even in bright surroundings. The live-view function replaces an optical viewfinder and shows an accurate preview with all essential image information. Its "Live Mode" also makes the X1 particularly versatile for shots taken from unusual perspectives.
The Leica X1 offers a comprehensive range of accessories that expand the abilities of the camera and adapt it to the photographer’s personal photographic style: a 36-mm bright-line accessory, for instance, can be inserted in the camera’s accessory shoe and ensures a clear view without unnecessary power drain. If required, the camera display can be turned off when an accessory finder is used. In this case, a prominently placed LED indicates successful automatic focusing. In addition to the LED, there is an accessory handgrip that aids the safe and secure handling of the camera. A comprehensive range of camera cases is also available: the ever-ready case offers sufficient room for the camera (with handgrip) and features a small case attached to the carrying strap to hold the accessory finder. The high-quality transport case offers perfect protection for the camera, while the attractively designed system case has space enough for the camera and all its accessories.
The Leica X1 features a retractable flash that, in addition to simply replacing other sources of light, serves as a fill-in flash that can be synchronized to the second shutter curtain. If more power and flexibility is required, the Leica SF 24D and SF 58 system flash units are also compatible with the X1.
The Leica X1 is supplied with a battery charger and a high-performance battery, and also includes a comprehensive software package. Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, a professional digital workflow solution for Apple Mac OS X and Microsoft Windows, is also one of the standard features provided with the X1. The software is available as an online download for all registered Leica X1 customers. This also ensures that the latest release is always readily available. Adobe Photoshop Lightroom offers a vast range of functions for the management, processing and presentation of digital images, quite independent of whether the images are in space-saving and fast jpeg format or in DNG format to preserve all image information. If the images from the X1 are saved as raw data in the standardized and future-proof Adobe Digital Negative Format (DNG), Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, with its sophisticated and precise processing options, guarantees direct and extremely high-quality image processing with maximized image quality.
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Product information
Auto Focus Technology | Single, Live View, Contrast Detection |
---|---|
Display Resolution Maximum | 230,000 |
Photo Sensor Size | APS-C |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
Effective Still Resolution | 12.2 |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 12.2 MP |
White balance settings | Flash torch |
JPEG quality level | Fine |
Camera Flash | Built-In |
Image Stabilization | Digital |
Video Capture Resolution | 2160p |
Video Standard | AVCHD |
Viewfinder Type | Optical |
---|---|
Screen Size | 2.7 Inches |
Display Fixture Type | Fixed |
Model Name | Leica X1 |
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Brand | Leica |
Model Number | X1 |
Customer Reviews |
3.3 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #773,007 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #5,526 in Digital Point & Shoot Cameras |
ASIN | B002NX13QC |
Color | Grey, Stainless Steel |
Included Components | Battery Charger, Battery, Instruction Manual |
Assembly Required | No |
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 4.88 x 1.26 x 2.36 inches |
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Item Weight | 0.67 Pounds |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Lens Type | Wide Angle |
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Optical Zoom | 2.8 x |
Maximum Aperture | 2.8 Millimeters |
Minimum Aperture | 2.8 |
Autofocus Points | 11 |
Compatible Mountings | Leica CMOS |
Focus Type | Autofocus & Manual |
Maximum Focal Length | 35 Millimeters |
Minimum Focal Length | 35 Millimeters |
Expanded ISO Maximum | 3200 |
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Max Shutter Speed | 1/2000 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 30 seconds |
Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
Batteries Required? | No |
---|---|
Number of Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. |
Are Batteries Included | No |
Rechargeable Battery Included | No |
Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
Battery Description | BP-DC8 Li-ion battery pack (included) |
Battery Weight | 2 Grams |
Removable Memory | Secure Digital Card |
Target Gender | Unisex |
Connectivity Technology | USB, HDMI |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 3 |
Wireless Communication Technology | Yes |
Flash Memory Type | SD/SDHC card |
Memory Storage Capacity | 50 MB |
Skill Level | Professional |
Form Factor | Large sensor compact |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
Read about our customers' top-rated cameras on our review page: Point-and-Shoot Cameras
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the appearance, size and ease of use of the digital camera. For example, they mention that the images are sharp and crisp, the depth makes them look 3D and that it fits well in their hands. They also appreciate the controls, and convenience. That said, some disagree on autofocus, value, and sturdiness.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the appearance of the camera. They mention that the images are sharp, crisp, and 3D-like. They also say that the camera is sleek and not boxy. Customers also mention that images taken in low light are exceptional, and the color is real. They say it's the best camera in its class.
"...Most of these cameras produced reasonable quality images, especially those which offered a RAW image processing option, but nothing to compare with..." Read more
"...Image Quality: Judging on the basis of my raw images, the lens is sharp but has considerable barrel distortion...." Read more
"...Makes me wish I had the M9 versus the M8 (yes, just for looks!). Very nice and sleek, definitely not boxy and boring as the online reviews made it..." Read more
"...I always use RAW for work and expected to do so here. The RAW images are spectacular and easy to work with in photoshop. The jpegs had mixed results...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the size of the digital camera. They mention that it is easy to bring along, and unobtrusive. They also say that it fits well in their hands and is a good mid-size camera. However, some customers have reported issues with the aperture and speed dials.
"...Its compact size is convenient and the controls remain intuitive and easy-to-use...." Read more
"...The other buttons and the flash are easy to use, nice and fits well on the camera.Features are not overwhelming...." Read more
"...'s near grain-free, high ISO shooting at night is incredible, its compact size will make you happy you aren't lugging a backpack of dslr gear, its..." Read more
"...In many ways this is the most romantic camera ever made, small, portable, handsome, very lightweight, incredibly sharp, perfect colors, simple but..." Read more
Customers find the digital camera easy to use. They mention that the images are spectacular and easy to work with in Photoshop. They also appreciate the easy installation of the auto lens cap and the flash. Customers also mention that setting the shutter speed and ISO is simple.
"...The controls are incredibly intuitive and the easiest to use of any digital camera I have ever owned...." Read more
"...This is subpar. The other buttons and the flash are easy to use, nice and fits well on the camera.Features are not overwhelming...." Read more
"...The RAW images are spectacular and easy to work with in photoshop. The jpegs had mixed results...." Read more
"...Setting the aperture, the shutter speed and the ISO is very easy...." Read more
Customers find the controls of the digital camera incredibly intuitive and easy to use. They appreciate the simple but perfect menus and buttons. Overall, customers are happy with the controls and features of the camera.
"...The controls are incredibly intuitive and the easiest to use of any digital camera I have ever owned...." Read more
"...The menus and buttons are easy to use, although I would like a toggle button (versus button/menu) for AF/Macro similar to the D-Lux 4...." Read more
"...handsome, very lightweight, incredibly sharp, perfect colors, simple but perfect menus, you found it...." Read more
Customers find the digital camera easy to bring along, unobtrusive, and sleek. They also say it's subtle and doesn't disturb people when you pull it out.
"...Very nice and sleek, definitely not boxy and boring as the online reviews made it appear...." Read more
"...It is subtle, it doesn't disturb people when you pull it out like an SLR can do...." Read more
"...The compact size is easy to bring along, and unobtrusive. No one is bothered by the little thing, the t2i 7d, 5d etc becomes a project...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the autofocus of the camera. Some mention that the manual focus is great with the loupe on-screen to help them, and the auto focus is unbelievably true. However, others say that it's a little slow and the minimum focusing distance is far.
"...accurate, resolution and acuity are exceptional, the autofocus is unbelievably true and images taken in low light are exceptional...." Read more
"...AF: The minimum focusing distance is far, almost two feet for accurate focusing. Ensure AF Macro is enabled for those "close-up" situations...." Read more
"...It's a very slow camera from every point of view: slow LCD refresh rate, slow LCD playback, slow autofocus that tends to fail in low light...." Read more
"...Addressing the amazon review cons lastly: FOCUS:the focusing isn't slow, it's accurate...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the value of the digital camera. Some mention that it's a great camera and worth every penny, while others say that the price is expensive, and it'd not be a good camera for a budget.
"...In the end, like most Leicas, the X1 is definitely not a camera for the budget, quick shooter...." Read more
"Great camera...expensive but worth every penny...." Read more
"...The price makes it seem expensive but after using it I am happy to have paid the price and think it is well worth it...." Read more
"...after using it I am happy to have paid the price and think it is well worth it...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the sturdiness of the camera. Some mention that it's sturdy for a point and shoot, while others say that the build is very disappointing.
"...I tested the dials. They are not flimsy on my camera as has been mentioned in previous internet reviews...." Read more
"...So it's not entirely perfect!" Read more
"Great photo quality and solid camera body..." Read more
"...The design and appearance is nice. The build is very disappointing. The whole thing is made of plastics. Feels like a disposable toy camera...." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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I've owned at least a dozen of them, including cameras from Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Olympus and Casio. I also have a Panasonic GF-1 with the 20mm pancake lens and two Lumix zoom lenses - 7 to 14 and 14 to 140. Most of these cameras produced reasonable quality images, especially those which offered a RAW image processing option, but nothing to compare with my Nikon D300. The GF-1 is a gem but a bit "in betwixt and in between," as it not pocket size (even with the 20mm pancake lens) and not IMO the equal of the D300 in terms of image quality.
This fall, before a trip overseas, I began considering the purchase of a new pocket-sized camera to replace my Olympus XZ-1. I stumbled onto the Leica X1, read a few reviews and was intrigued, but was put off by the high price and did not purchase the camera. Shortly before I left I began dreading the thought of lugging my entire Nikon kit around, so broke down and purchased the X1, vowing to return it if it did not meet my high [price-based] expectations.
My initial observation was that the packaging for the camera was quite over-the-top, rather like the box in which a fancy watch would come, and a real waste of money. The camera itself was small enough to fit into the pocket of my jacket and lightweight, perhaps a bit too lightweight. I was intrigued but not impressed.
All of this changed when I went to actually take pictures with the camera. The controls are incredibly intuitive and the easiest to use of any digital camera I have ever owned. One need not read the instruction manual to determine how to shoot in program mode, aperture priority mode or shutter priority mode, it is that intuitive. As others have noted, the LCD screen is not as bright or large as one might hope, the controls have an unfortunate habit of moving inadvertently, and there is no zoom lens. The images, however, are remarkable. Coloration is subtle and extremely accurate, resolution and acuity are exceptional, the autofocus is unbelievably true and images taken in low light are exceptional.
While on my trip I shot some identical test images with both my D300 (with the 18 to 200 zomm set at 24mm) and the X1. I also shot some additional test images on my return, using a tripod and self-timer to ensure that I had a set of images, taken under various conditions, that would provide an accurate basis for comparison. I imported the RAW images into Lightroom without any processing and compared them side by side using Lightroom's "compare" function. In every single case the Leica images were chosen in blind tests (I removed all of the identification data from the screen images and then asked colleagues to tell me which of the two they preferred). At higher magnification the Leica X1 images were, unbelievably, sharper than those captured by the D300. Frankly, I still cannot believe the quality of these images and am stunned that they are at least as good, if not better, than those produced by the D300.
One other point that may be arcane but is important to me - I take a fair number of images for HDR processing using the Photomatix program exported through Lightroom. I have obtained some really excellent images using the HDR approach. With the D300, I always use a tripod because it simply is not feasible to hand-hold the camera for three successive exposures. While playing around with the X1, I noticed it has an auto bracketing option, so I tried that while hand-holding the camera and then exported them through Lightroom into the Photomatix HDR program. I created several really stunning HDR images just by pressing the shutter button while hand-holding the camera. Unbelievable.
So while it is true that this camera has some fairly significant constraints, if high-quality images are your goal, then I would say it literally has no peer. I am blown away by this little gem.
One last comment - I purchased through Amazon the Rainbowimaging Auto Lens Cap, which installed easily and works well. I recommend that accessory for this camera.
Lastly, these are my subjective personal opinions, not based on any scientific study. I am simply an avid long-time photographer in love with this camera!
UPDATE --
After two months of intensive use of this camera, I like it more than ever. Its compact size is convenient and the controls remain intuitive and easy-to-use. Best of all, the images are fantastic, significantly better than I ever expected for a camera of this size and ease of use. I just took some pictures of the white ice crystal frost that developed last night where I live, and the detail is amazing. I then took three differently exposed pictures for an HDR output (simple to accomplish in the X1), and with a minimum of processing in Lightroom 3 and Photomatix Pro 4, obtained a stunning result worthy of framing. Quite simply, this is the greatest camera, pound for pound and dollar for dollar, I've ever owned.
SECOND UPDATE --
For my next book shoot, I just acquired a Nikon D700 (full frame 24 x 36 sensor) with 16-35 and 24-120 FX lenses. I wanted the new D800 but didn't think I would be able to obtain one before I leave. The D700 is a superb camera; however, based on my standard [non-scientific] test of shooting a set of HDR images off my back deck, it is no sharper than the X1 -- and the D700 shots were taken on a tripod while the only stabilization I used for the Leica was a SteadePod. Maybe I just got a "production perfect" sample with X1, but it is extraordinary.
As another reviewer noted, apparently the black covering on these cameras is prone to lifting; the black cover on mine is beginning to lift near the LCD screen. So it's not entirely perfect!
Hard to imagine, Amazon sold me a leica with quality problem, this camera also signed with quality assurance , It has destroyed the entire photographic journey .
I have returned it and got a new X1.
It's a very slow camera from every point of view: slow LCD refresh rate, slow LCD playback, slow autofocus that tends to fail in low light. Anyone who's considering buying this camera knows that there is no OIS or built-in viewfinder: I am sick of those "old fashioned" photographers who claim that such things aren't needed by "real photographers". Again - with such a price-tag - I would expect Leica to keep up with technology in terms of both optics-electronics interface and firmware, and I do think that OIS and built-in, high-resolution, electronic viewfinder would further expand the camera's capabilities in low light and also provide feedback on the current exposure/ISO,aperture settings without having to check the LCD/wheels and compose again. I am also disappointed by the manual focus control: I would have been happier with a ring on the barrel and with the possibility of further zooming on my subject to adjust focus (GF1 allows two levels of zoom, X1 only one level, which sometimes is not sufficient).
Some of the button I use often (ISO) are on the left hand side of the LCD. This makes changing the setting tricky when holding the barrel with my left hand and have my right index finger on the shutter: having these buttons on the right hand side would allow me to change these settings while holding the camera ready to shoot.
Image Quality: Judging on the basis of my raw images, the lens is sharp but has considerable barrel distortion. The sensor is capable of producing usable images at ISO as high as 3200.
In conclusion, I am still waiting for "my camera", a tool that I could truly feel as an extension of my brain and heart. This camera is not the X1.
Top reviews from other countries
Wie oft ist es schon so gewesen, dass der an sich gelungene Schnappschuss mangels Potenzial der Kamera dann doch gelöscht wurde? Wem die Bildqualität wirklich wichtig ist, kann die Leica X1 nur empfohlen werden. Aber sie hat nicht nur diesen (entscheidenden) Vorteil:
+ überragende Bildqualität
+ schnelle und treffsichere Bedienung; kein Hangeln in Menüs, direkter Zugriff zu allen wichtigen Einstellungen; merkt sich die Einstellungen, mehrere Profile möglich
+ zuverlässig, bisher keine Fehlbelichtungen o.ä.
+ lichtstark: auch bei hohen ISO sehr gute Bildqualität; dto bei Blitz
+ hervorragende Verarbeitung und Anmutung (was angesichts des Preises auch zu erwarten ist)
+ handlich, passt problemlos in die Jackentasche (wesentlich handlicher als die Systemkameras)
+ leise
+ schnell (außer s.u.)
+/- Akku nur durchschnittlich
+/- Fokus sehr zuverlässig und präzise, aber (deshalb?) etwas langsam
- Drehräder verstellen sich leicht bei Transport in der Jackentasche; das ist durch einen schnellen Blick beim Herausziehen aber leicht beherrschbar
- kein echter Bildstabilisator; ist in der Praxis aber noch nicht aufgefallen, da s.o.
Wer diese Kamera kauft, kauft Qualität made in Germany.