Q3 Monochrom: Versatility in Black & White

Bringing monochrome-only imaging to the beloved all-in-one Q3 platform, the Leica Q3 Monochrom is a multimedia camera with a unique mixture of versatility and decisiveness. Distinguished by its black-and-white-only 60MP full-frame sensor and a newly styled body design, the Q3 Monochrom retains the other key assets of the series, including a fixed 28mm f/1.7 lens, 8K video recording, a high-res EVF and LCD, and intuitive, streamlined operation.

Full-Frame Sensor and Maestro IV Processor

60MP Black & White BSI CMOS Sensor

Taken from the M11 Monochrom, the Q3 Monochrom features the same 60MP full-frame CMOS sensor that has been modified to solely record black-and-white imagery. By removing the color filer array (CFA), the sensor only records monochromatic imagery using luminance values for enhanced clarity, depth, and resolution. By omitting this CFA, the Q3 Monochrom also achieves a higher sensitivity range (compared to color-enabled Q3 cameras) of ISO 100-200000.

This high-resolution sensor features a back-illuminated (BSI) design that offers improved noise performance and faster readout speeds, which benefits both photo and video applications. The higher resolution suits more detail-oriented applications, like landscape and architectural subjects, and the noise-reduction benefits of the BSI design improves clarity and sharpness when working in low-light conditions with higher ISOs.

The added resolution of the 60MP sensor also enables unique digital zoom capabilities to simulate working with different focal length lenses: a 1.25x crop simulates a 35mm focal length, a 1.8x crop simulates a 50mm focal length, a 2.7x crop simulates a 75mm focal length, and a 3.2x crop simulates a 90mm focal length.

Triple Resolution Technology

Also like the M11 and other Q3-series cameras, the 60MP sensor in the Q3 Monochrom enables the use of Triple Resolution Technology. This unique pixel binning process allows photographers to select 60MP, 36MP, or 18MP output, with each resolution making use of the full sensor area and providing rich 14-bit imagery and a wide dynamic range.

Maestro IV

The Maestro IV processor, along with 8GB of buffer memory, suits the multimedia-intended use of the Q3 Monochrom and enables speedy performance when shooting stills or recording video. The faster processing also benefits using Triple Resolution Technology, helps achieve a wider sensitivity range from ISO 100-200000, allows continuous shooting up to an impressive 15 fps, and facilitates smooth operation when working with the EVF and LCD.

Leica Content Credentials + Content Authenticity Initiative

The Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) is a collaborative effort initiated by Adobe in partnership with various other organizations, including The New York Times and Leica. Its primary goal is to develop a standard for digital content attribution.

In the Q3 Monochrom, this technology shows up as Leica Content Credentials. By using a secure processing chip, the camera will encrypt image metadata at the point of capture. This information can then be independently verified and even appended to when using compatible applications, such as Adobe Photoshop. Viewers can then verify the provenance of the image and confirm the veracity of the image. The aim is to give viewers more confidence in the images they are looking at and provide creators with another way to maintain credits.

Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH. Lens and Autofocus

Summilux Optics

Using the proven design from the past Qs, the Q3 Monochrom inherits the Summilux 28mm f/1.7 wide-angle prime lens that provides a broad field of view and fast performance to suit working in a variety of environments and lighting conditions.

As a lens designed specifically for the Q cameras, the optical design has been refined for high sharpness and low distortion along with a compact, functional profile that's discreet while providing room to make tactile adjustments to focus, aperture, and to switch to the dedicated macro focusing range for working with subjects as close as 6.7" away. Additionally, optical image stabilization helps to compensate for the effects of camera shake for sharper handheld shooting.

Contrast-Detection Autofocus

One distinction of the Q3 Monochrom, compared to other Q3-series cameras, is the sole use of contrast-detection autofocus. Whereas the other cameras offer phase-detection AF, which requires the color filter array over the sensor for use, the Q3's monochromatic-only sensor requires the use of contrast-based focusing. Despite the difference, the focusing system remains speedy, accurate, and still supports Eye Detection AF for ensured sharpness in portraits.

8K Monochromatic Video and ProRes Recording

With more attention given to video recording, the Q3 Monochrom is 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 sampling 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 sampling, 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 Monochrom as a tool for video creators.
• The Q3 Monochrom also supports using RODE external microphones via USB-C connection for improved audio quality while recording video.

Camera Design

Hi-Res EVF and Tilting LCD

Two key physical improvements for the Q3-series of cameras include a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and the versatile tilting touchscreen rear LCD:

• 5.76m-dot OLED EVF offers a high-resolution eye-level means for composing and features a 120 fps refresh rate for more realistic motion rendering. This finder has a 0.79x magnification, an adjustable diopter, and an eye sensor for automatic switching between the EVF and LCD.
• Debuting with the Q3 series, the LCD screen has a tilting design that can face both upward and downward to suit working from a variety of shooting positions. This 3" 1.84m-dot LCD is also a touchscreen for more intuitive settings control.

Portable, Weather-Sealed Design

The Q3 Monochrom is a compact camera meant for everyday shooting and its design remains similar to previous generations, but with some notable updates for improved usability:

• Distinguishing itself from the original Q3 and Q3 43, the Q3 Monochrom has a unique black paint finish, pebbled leatherette, and a minimalist design with no red dot or top plate text, resulting in a very stealth-like appearance.
• Magnesium alloy body is sealed to protect against dust and moisture (IP52-rated) for use in harsh environmental conditions.
• BP-SCL6 lithium-ion battery is rated to provide 302 shots per charge and uses the same physical design as its predecessor, the BP-SCL4, which can also be used with this camera.

• USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 port can be used for transferring, tethering, power delivery, in-camera battery charging, and for connecting RODE external microphones. The Q3 Monochrom is also Made for iPhone certified to enable a direct, wired connection to an iPhone.
• Micro-HDMI port facilitates working with an external monitor and recorder as well as previewing footage from the camera directly on a TV.
• Accepts one SD-type memory card and supports the UHS II protocol.
• Physical design remains nearly the same as the original Q3/Q3 43 and all of the accessories can be shared between the two cameras, including the Thumb Supports, the HG-DC1 Wireless Charging Handgrip, and the Multifunction Protector, among other accessories.

Newly Designed User Interface

Helping to improve usability and simplify the shooting experience, the Q3 Monochrom is ushering in a new user interface design to the Q series with redesigned icons borrowed from the SL3 series, as well as faster navigation, optimized legibility, and a Control Center that can be customized to users' needs for easier access to oft-used settings and menu options.

Expanded Wireless Connectivity

• Improved wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi 2.4 & 5 GHz and Bluetooth 5.0) and an updated Leica FOTOS app enable wireless transfer speeds up to 10x faster than the previous generation; transfer speeds up to 35MB/s are now possible, enabling moving a full-resolution DNG from the camera to your mobile device in just 2 seconds.
• FOTOS app also supports adding GPS information to your files using locational data from your mobile device.

Dedicated Optional Accessories

A trio of dedicated, optional accessories can improve your shooting experience with the Q3 Monochrom:

• Being a true black-and-white camera, traditional colored contrast filters can be used. The 49mm Slim Red Filter is a perfect match for the Q3 Monochrom; its slim design maintains compatibility when the lens hood is attached and the deep red color enhances contrast between clouds and blue skies, darkens green tones, and can smooth skin tones in daylight conditions.
• An updated HG-DC1 Hand Grip has been released with a Q3 Monochrom-matching leatherette texture; all other functions of this new grip match the previous version, including its compatibility with Qi chargers for wireless charging of the camera's BP-SCL6 battery.
• The Drop XL Wireless Charger is a perfectly sized Qi-type wireless charger for the Q3 Monochrom when the HG-DC1 is attached

Key Specs

Sensor Resolution	Actual: 62.39 Megapixel Effective: 60.3 Megapixel (9520 x 6336)
Image Sensor	35.8 x 23.9 mm (Full-Frame) CMOS
Image Stabilization	Optical in Integrated Lens
Focal Length	28mm
Aperture	Maximum: f/1.7 Minimum: f/16
ISO/Gain Sensitivity	Photo/Video Native in Manual Mode: 100 to 2000 Native in Auto Mode: 200 to 200,000
Internal Recording	H.264 ALL-Intra/MOV 4:2:2 10-Bit DCI 4K (4096 x 2160) at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/47.95/48.00/50/59.94 fps [400 to 600 Mb/s] UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/47.95/48.00/50/59.94 fps [400 to 600 Mb/s] 1920 x 1080 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/47.95/48.00/50/59.94/100/120 fps [200 to 400 Mb/s] H.264 Long GOP/MP4 4:2:0 8-Bit UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) at 23.98/25/29.97 fps [100 Mb/s] 1920 x 1080 at 23.98/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps [20 to 28 Mb/s] H.265 Long GOP/MOV 4:2:0 10-Bit DCI 8K (8192 x 4320) at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97 fps [300 Mb/s] UHD 8K (7680 x 4320) at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97 fps [300 Mb/s] 1920 x 1080 at 100/120 fps [100 Mb/s] H.265 Long GOP/MP4 4:2:0 10-Bit UHD 8K (7680 x 4320) at 23.98/25/29.97 fps [300 Mb/s] UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) at 50/59.94 fps [100 Mb/s] MOV/ProRes 422 HQ 4:2:2 1920 x 1080 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps [181 to 454 Mb/s]
Media/Memory Card Slot	Single Slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
Wireless	Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) / Bluetooth 5.0
Display Type	Tilting 3" Touchscreen LCD
Built-In Flash/Light	No
Battery	1x BP-SCL6 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion, 7.2 VDC, 2200 mAh (Included)  • Approx. 302 Shots
Dimensions (W x H x D)	5.1 x 3.2 x 3.6" / 130 x 80.3 x 92.6 mm (With Protrusions)
Weight	1.5 lb / 662 g (Body Only) 1.6 lb / 746 g (With Battery)

Imaging

Sensor Resolution	Actual: 62.39 Megapixel Effective: 60.3 Megapixel (9520 x 6336)
Image Sensor	35.8 x 23.9 mm (Full-Frame) CMOS
Image Stabilization	Optical in Integrated Lens

Lens

Focal Length	28mm
Digital Zoom	3.2x Maximum
Aperture	Maximum: f/1.7 Minimum: f/16
Focus Range	Normal 11.8" to Infinity / 30 cm to Infinity Macro 6.7" to Infinity / 17 cm to Infinity
Optical Design	11 Elements in 9 Groups
Filter Size	49 mm (Front)

Exposure Control

Shutter Speed	Electronic Shutter 1/16000 to 60 Seconds Mechanical Shutter 1/2000 to 1 Second Up to 60 Minutes
Bulb/Time Mode	Bulb & Time Mode (Up to 60 Minutes)
ISO/Gain Sensitivity	Photo/Video Native in Manual Mode: 100 to 2000 Native in Auto Mode: 200 to 200,000
Metering Method	Center-Weighted Average, Highlight Weighted, Multi, Spot
Exposure Modes	Aperture Priority, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority
Exposure Compensation	-3 to +3 EV (1/3 EV Steps)
Continuous Shooting	Up to 15 fps at Maximum Resolution for up to 63 Frames (Raw) / 67 Frames (JPEG)
Interval Recording	Yes
Self-Timer	2/12-Second Delay

Still Image Capture

Aspect Ratio	1:1, 3:2, 4:3, 16:9
Image File Format	DNG, JPEG
Bit Depth	14-Bit

Video Capture

Internal Recording	H.264 ALL-Intra/MOV 4:2:2 10-Bit DCI 4K (4096 x 2160) at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/47.95/48.00/50/59.94 fps [400 to 600 Mb/s] UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/47.95/48.00/50/59.94 fps [400 to 600 Mb/s] 1920 x 1080 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/47.95/48.00/50/59.94/100/120 fps [200 to 400 Mb/s] H.264 Long GOP/MP4 4:2:0 8-Bit UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) at 23.98/25/29.97 fps [100 Mb/s] 1920 x 1080 at 23.98/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps [20 to 28 Mb/s] H.265 Long GOP/MOV 4:2:0 10-Bit DCI 8K (8192 x 4320) at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97 fps [300 Mb/s] UHD 8K (7680 x 4320) at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97 fps [300 Mb/s] 1920 x 1080 at 100/120 fps [100 Mb/s] H.265 Long GOP/MP4 4:2:0 10-Bit UHD 8K (7680 x 4320) at 23.98/25/29.97 fps [300 Mb/s] UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) at 50/59.94 fps [100 Mb/s] MOV/ProRes 422 HQ 4:2:2 1920 x 1080 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps [181 to 454 Mb/s]
Video Output	4:2:0 8-Bit via HDMI DCI 8K (8192 x 4320) at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97 fps UHD 8K (7680 x 4320) at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97 fps 4:2:2 10-Bit via HDMI DCI 4K (4096 x 2160) at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps HD (1920 x 1080) at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/50/59.94/100/120 fps
Recording Limit	30-Minute Maximum
Broadcast Output	NTSC/PAL
IP Streaming	No
Built-In Microphone	Stereo
Audio Recording	MP4: 48-Bit 16 kHz AAC Audio MOV: 28-Bit 24 kHz LPCM Audio

Interface

Media/Memory Card Slot	Single Slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
Internal Storage	No
Video I/O	1x Micro-HDMI Output
Audio I/O	No
Power I/O	1x USB-C Input
Other I/O	1x USB-C (USB 3.2 / 3.1 Gen 2) Data Input/Output (Shared with Power Input)
Wireless	Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) / Bluetooth 5.0
Mobile App Compatible	Yes: Android & iOS App Name: Leica FOTOS Functionality: Access Stored Files, Adjust Settings, Firmware Update, Remote Control, View Live Feed
Global Positioning (GPS, GLONASS, etc.)	No

Monitor

Display Type	Tilting 3" Touchscreen LCD
Resolution	1,843,200 Dot

Viewfinder

Type	Electronic (OLED)
Resolution	5,760,000 Dot
Coverage	100%
Magnification	Approx. 0.79x
Diopter Adjustment	-4 to +2

Flash

Built-In Flash/Light	No
External Flash Connection	Shoe Mount

General

Operating Conditions	32 to 104°F / 0 to 40°C
Battery	1x BP-SCL6 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion, 7.2 VDC, 2200 mAh (Included)  • Approx. 302 Shots
Shoe Mount	1x Hot Shoe
Dimensions (W x H x D)	5.1 x 3.2 x 3.6" / 130 x 80.3 x 92.6 mm (With Protrusions)
Weight	1.5 lb / 662 g (Body Only) 1.6 lb / 746 g (With Battery)

• 60MP Full-Frame B&W BSI CMOS Sensor
• No Color Array or Low Pass Filter
• Leica Content Credentials Technology
• Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH. Lens
• 8K30, 4K60 & 4:2:2 10-Bit, FHD ProRes HQ
• Contrast-Detection AF & Optical IS
• 5.76m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder
• 3" 1.84m-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD
• ISO 100-200000, Up to 15-fps Shooting
• SD UHS-II Slot; USB-C and HDMI Ports

• Leica Q3 Monochrom Digital Camera
• Leica BP-SCL6 Battery (2200mAh)
• USB-C Cable
• Lens Cap
• Lens Hood
• Hot Shoe Cover
• Carrying Strap