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Leica D Lux 8 Review | 108 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£1,450
Avg. price in US: ~$1,920
Sensor size: four thirds
Lens mount: N/A
Main camera pixel size: 3.32 µm
Weight: 397 g
Battery life (CIPA): 300 shots

Leica D Lux 8 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

6.1

Good

6.1

Good

?

5.0
Professional photography
Score components:
25.0%
8.2
Sensor size
20.0%
6.0
Main camera megapixels
20.0%
1.0
Dual card slots
15.0%
3.0
N. of focus points
10.0%
10
RAW photo capture
10.0%
1.0
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
4.1
Travel
Score components:
35.0%
7.5
Weight
30.0%
3.8
Battery life (CIPA)
20.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
15.0%
1.0
GPS
6.1
Beginners
Score components:
30.0%
2.9
Price
20.0%
7.5
Weight
20.0%
10
AF tracking
20.0%
3.8
Battery life (CIPA)
10.0%
10
Touchscreen
6.2
Landscape photography
Score components:
30.0%
6.0
Main camera megapixels
25.0%
8.2
Sensor size
20.0%
5.9
Main camera pixel size
15.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
10.0%
10
RAW photo capture
6.4
Street photography
Score components:
30.0%
7.5
Weight
25.0%
6.0
Thickness
20.0%
7.7
AF low-light sensitivity
15.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
10.0%
10
Eye detection AF (human)
6.9
Portraits
Score components:
30.0%
8.2
Sensor size
25.0%
5.9
Main camera pixel size
20.0%
10
Eye detection AF (human)
15.0%
6.0
Main camera megapixels
10.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
4.0
Hiking
Score components:
30.0%
7.5
Weight
25.0%
3.8
Battery life (CIPA)
20.0%
2.8
Min operating temperature
15.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
10.0%
1.0
GPS

No image

No image

Best prices in UK

N/A~ £1,450

Best rankings

#12 in Best Cameras for Travel
#15 in Best Leica Cameras
#28 in Best Compact Cameras
#28 in Best Point & Shoot Cameras
#103 in Best Cameras for Street Photography
#175 in Best Cameras for Portraits
#188 in Best 4K Cameras
#259 in Best Cameras
#259 in Best Digital Cameras
#853 in Best Travel Cameras
#858 in Best Cameras for Hiking

Verdict

The Leica D-Lux 8Go to product viewer dialogue for this item. is a premium enthusiast compact camera featuring a 21MP (17MP effective) Four Thirds CMOS sensor paired with a fast 24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 stabilized zoom lens. Its main characteristics include an iconic minimalist design inspired by the Leica Q3, an upgraded 2.36M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder, a 1.84M-dot rear touchscreen, and a physical aspect ratio switch for 4:3, 3:2, 16:9, and 1:1 formats. Key pros are its bright optics for shallow depth-of-field, the addition of native DNG raw support, seamless integration with the Leica FOTOS app, and a robust magnesium alloy build. However, common cons include a slow and somewhat laggy power-zoom operation, the lack of a tilting rear screen or weather sealing, a dated contrast-detect autofocus system that lacks modern subject tracking, and a relatively high price point for its aging sensor technology.

Technical Specifications of Leica D Lux 8

Overall score

6.1

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.

Sensor & Image

6.8

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Sensor size

What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

Main camera megapixels

What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). A higher resolution can capture more detail.

When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

Main camera pixel size

What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.

When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

Base ISO

What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.

When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

Max ISO

What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

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Photo Features

5.6

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Lens mount

What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.

When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Built-in focus motor

What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.

When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

N. of focus points

What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.

When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.

When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

AF tracking

What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.

When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Video & Audio

4.9

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Max video resolution

What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.

When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

Video bitrate

What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.

When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

Video bit depth

What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.

When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

Video chroma subsampling

What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.

When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

Video codecs

What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.

When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264

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Display & Design

6.8

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Type

What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.

When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

compact

Weight

What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.

When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

Width

What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.

When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

Height

What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.

When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

Thickness

What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.

When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

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Battery & Power

5.5

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Battery life (CIPA)

What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.

When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

Battery capacity

What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).

When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

Removable battery

What it is: Indicates whether the camera battery can be removed and replaced by the user.

When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly during a long shoot or replace an aging battery.

Importance: LOW

USB Power Delivery (PD)

What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.

When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

Connectivity & Storage

7.1

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Wi-Fi connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.

When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

Wi-Fi version

What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.

When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

Bluetooth connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.

When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

Bluetooth version

What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.

When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

USB Type-C

What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.

When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

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Leica D Lux 8 vs the average camera

Why is Leica D Lux 8 better than the average camera?

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Human eye AF
Leica D Lux 8 supports human eye-detection AF, the average camera does not.
What it is: Autofocus detection designed to identify and prioritize human eyes for portrait and action shooting.
When it matters: When you shoot portraits, weddings, or events and want the camera to prioritize people’s eyes automatically.
Importance: LOW
Leica D Lux 8 supports human eye-detection AF, the average camera does not.
5.3 fps faster mechanical burst
Leica D Lux 8 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (11 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 10 fps
Leica D Lux 8 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (11 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.11 fps vs 5.7 fps
Better viewfinder type
Leica D Lux 8 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).
What it is: The type of viewfinder the camera uses to frame the shot, such as optical, electronic, hybrid, or none.
When it matters: When you strongly prefer the clarity of an optical finder, the preview benefits of an electronic one, or no viewfinder at all.
Importance: MEDIUM
Leica D Lux 8 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).electronic vs none
18600 ISO higher maximum sensitivity limit
Leica D Lux 8 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (25000 ISO vs 6400 ISO). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6400 ISO.
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least ISO 25,600
Leica D Lux 8 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (25000 ISO vs 6400 ISO). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6400 ISO.25000 ISO vs 6400 ISO
Has USB Type-C
Leica D Lux 8 has a USB Type-C port, the average camera does not. 14.5% of cameras use USB-C.
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.
Importance: LOW
Leica D Lux 8 has a USB Type-C port, the average camera does not. 14.5% of cameras use USB-C.
1920 px higher video resolution
Leica D Lux 8 records higher-resolution video than the average camera (3840 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
UHD 4K
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: At least 3840 px
Leica D Lux 8 records higher-resolution video than the average camera (3840 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.3840 px vs 1920 px
Has a touchscreen
Leica D Lux 8 has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
What it is: Indicates that the display acts as an input device, recognizing touch gestures.
When it matters: When you interact with your device using intuitive taps and gestures.
Importance: LOW
Leica D Lux 8 has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
1770 s longer maximum exposure
Leica D Lux 8 supports a longer maximum exposure than the average camera (1800 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
What it is: The longest exposure time the camera can set, useful for night photography and intentional motion blur.
When it matters: When you shoot night scenes, light trails, or creative long-exposure images without external accessories.
Importance: LOW
Leica D Lux 8 supports a longer maximum exposure than the average camera (1800 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.1,800 vs 30
Better viewfinder type
Leica D Lux 8 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).
Has a touchscreen
Leica D Lux 8 has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
18600 ISO higher maximum sensitivity limit
Leica D Lux 8 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (25000 ISO vs 6400 ISO). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6400 ISO.
11 newer
Leica D Lux 8 is newer than the average camera (2024 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
5.3 fps faster mechanical burst
Leica D Lux 8 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (11 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
Human eye AF
Leica D Lux 8 supports human eye-detection AF, the average camera does not.
1770 s longer maximum exposure
Leica D Lux 8 supports a longer maximum exposure than the average camera (1800 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
Supports touch autofocus
Leica D Lux 8 supports touch autofocus, the average camera does not. 34.9% of cameras support touch autofocus.
26 more AF points
Leica D Lux 8 has more focus points than the average camera (49 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
1920 px higher video resolution
Leica D Lux 8 records higher-resolution video than the average camera (3840 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
70 Mbps higher video bitrate
Leica D Lux 8 has a higher video bitrate than the average camera (100 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
Built-in timelapse
Leica D Lux 8 includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
Supports 24p cinema mode
Leica D Lux 8 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
USB Power Delivery
Leica D Lux 8 supports USB Power Delivery, the average camera does not.
Has USB Type-C
Leica D Lux 8 has a USB Type-C port, the average camera does not. 14.5% of cameras use USB-C.
Has Bluetooth
Leica D Lux 8 supports Bluetooth, the average camera does not. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
Leica D Lux 8 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
Smartphone remote control
Leica D Lux 8 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
Newer USB version
Leica D Lux 8 supports a newer USB version than the average camera (USB 3.2 Gen 1 vs USB 2.0). The average camera uses USB 2.0.

Display & Design

Battery & Power

Connectivity & Storage

Why is Leica D Lux 8 worse than the average camera?

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No flash
Leica D Lux 8 does not have a built-in flash, the average camera does. 73.4% of cameras have a flash.
Bundled external flash, not built in.
10.1 mm wider
Leica D Lux 8 is wider than the average camera (130 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
5.1% lower magnification
Leica D Lux 8 has a lower viewfinder magnification than the average camera (0.7x vs 0.78x). The average camera has a viewfinder magnification of 0.78x.
16 mm thicker
Leica D Lux 8 is thicker than the average camera (62 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
Lower RAW bit depth
Leica D Lux 8 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
Smaller sensor
Leica D Lux 8 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (four thirds vs APS-C).
Worse low-light autofocus
Leica D Lux 8 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (-3 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
30 shots fewer shots per charge
Leica D Lux 8 has shorter battery life than the average camera (300 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
95 mAh smaller battery capacity
Leica D Lux 8 has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (1025 mAh vs 1120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1120 mAh.
Lower RAW bit depth
Leica D Lux 8 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
What it is: The number of bits used to encode color and tonal information in RAW files captured by the camera.
When it matters: When you heavily edit RAW photos and want more tonal information for aggressive adjustments.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 14-bit
Leica D Lux 8 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.12-bit vs 14-bit
Smaller sensor
Leica D Lux 8 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (four thirds vs APS-C).
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: Full frame or larger
Leica D Lux 8 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (four thirds vs APS-C).four thirds vs APS-C
No flash
Leica D Lux 8 does not have a built-in flash, the average camera does. 73.4% of cameras have a flash.
Bundled external flash, not built in.
What it is: Indicates the presence of an integrated light source to illuminate subjects in low-light conditions.
When it matters: When you need a quick built-in light for fill flash or simple low-light shots.
Importance: LOW
Leica D Lux 8 does not have a built-in flash, the average camera does. 73.4% of cameras have a flash.
Worse low-light autofocus
Leica D Lux 8 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (-3 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
What it is: The lowest light level at which the autofocus system is rated to work reliably.
When it matters: When you shoot in dim environments and need autofocus that still locks confidently after dark.
Importance: MEDIUM
Leica D Lux 8 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (-3 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.-3 vs -4
21.6% worse value for money
Leica D Lux 8 has a worse value-for-money score than the average camera (5.12 vs 6.224).
What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.
Leica D Lux 8 has a worse value-for-money score than the average camera (5.12 vs 6.224).5.12 vs 6.22
5x more expensive
Leica D Lux 8 is more expensive than the average camera (£1450 vs £290).
Leica D Lux 8 is more expensive than the average camera (£1450 vs £290).£1,450 vs £290
30 shots fewer shots per charge
Leica D Lux 8 has shorter battery life than the average camera (300 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 400 shots
Leica D Lux 8 has shorter battery life than the average camera (300 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.300 shots vs 330 shots
95 mAh smaller battery capacity
Leica D Lux 8 has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (1025 mAh vs 1120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1120 mAh.
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.
Importance: LOW
Good value: At least 1,500 mAh
Leica D Lux 8 has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (1025 mAh vs 1120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1120 mAh.1025 mAh vs 1120 mAh

Display & Design

Battery & Power

Graphic comparison of Leica D Lux 8 and

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Leica D Lux 8?

Iconic minimalist design and premium build quality similar to the Leica Q series
Compact and lightweight, making it an excellent everyday carry or travel camera
High-quality OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) that is sharp and bright
Intuitive user interface with a simplified, modern menu system
Versatile 24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 zoom lens with excellent color rendering
Physical controls for aperture, shutter speed, and aspect ratio on the lens
Produces high-quality DNG RAW files that are easy to post-process

What customers dislike about Leica D Lux 8?

Uses an aging 17MP sensor shared with the previous generation (D-Lux 7)
Slow power-up and lens zoom operation compared to modern competitors
Autofocus performance, especially tracking and continuous AF, can be inconsistent
Rear touchscreen is fixed and does not tilt or flip for varied shooting angles
Poor video capabilities with dated autofocus and no microphone input
High 'Leica tax' price point compared to similar compact cameras
Lacks weather sealing for use in harsh environments

Expert reviews

pcmag.com

02/07/2024

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 Review - PCMag

The Leica D-Lux 8 is a stylish, premium compact camera featuring a Four Thirds sensor and a bright f/1.7-2.8 zoom lens, offering excellent image quality, a high-quality EVF, and an intuitive, tactile shooting experience. It serves as an accessible entry point into the Leica ecosystem, boasting durable construction and modern smartphone connectivity via the Leica FOTOS app. However, the camera is limited by a fixed rear screen, a basic contrast-detection autofocus system that lacks modern AI subject tracking, and a lack of weather sealing. Video capabilities are also restricted, offering only cropped 4K at 30fps without in-body stabilization, making the technology feel slightly dated compared to rivals.

macfilos.com

16/08/2024

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 Review: Redesigned compact becomes a full member of the Leica family

The Leica D-Lux 8 heavily revamps the compact camera line by adopting iconic Leica-style menus, minimalist physical controls, and a grippy Q3-style body covering that firmly integrates it into the Leica family design language. On the positive side, it features an improved, highly sharp 2.36m dot OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF), intuitive layout configurations that mimic premium platforms like the SL3 and Q3, and standard DNG RAW file support. Its unchanged, bright 24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 Summilux optical zoom lens also delivers excellent, sharp image quality, outperforming fixed-lens compacts at telephoto lengths by maintaining its full 16.8MP resolution up to 75mm without digital cropping.

ephotozine.com

25/08/2024

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 Camera Review - ePHOTOzine

The Leica D-Lux 8, lauded by ePHOTOzine as a "Highly Recommended" premium compact, offers excellent central image quality, a 17MP Four Thirds sensor, and a fast 24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 lens with effective macro capability. Praised for its robust magnesium alloy construction, stellar 2.36M-dot OLED EVF, and intuitive handling, it provides clean, low-noise performance up to ISO 3200. Conversely, the review notes the camera's high price point, absence of weather sealing, and soft lens edges compared to its sharp center. Additionally, the video specifications are considered basic by modern standards. Despite these limitations, its overall performance, reliable connectivity, and inclusion of a mini flash make it a strong, portable option. YouTube

photoreview.com.au

23/09/2024

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 - Photo Review

The Leica D-Lux 8 is praised as a premium, well-built compact camera featuring a magnesium alloy body, excellent ergonomics, and high-quality Adobe DNG RAW image output, earning a 9.2/10 rating for street and travel photography. Key advantages include its compact form factor, user-friendly interface, and the ability to produce exceptional still images, making it a versatile option for enthusiasts. However, the review notes the camera is primarily designed for still photography, offering only basic 4K/30p video capabilities and lacking an articulating rear LCD screen for flexible shooting angles. Furthermore, the D-Lux 8 inherits a similar sensor and lens, as well as some limitations, from its predecessor, the Panasonic LX100 II.

bythom.com

26/10/2024

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux8 Review | Cameras and Photography Explained

Leica D-Lux8 Review Summary The Leica D-Lux8 is a premium, pocketable compact camera based on a 22MP 4/3 image sensor that crops to around 17MP to maintain a consistent 24-75mm equivalent field of view across multiple aspect ratios. Its primary strengths lie in its excellent image quality, driven by a sharp, fast f/1.7-2.8 Leica Vario-Summilux zoom lens that outperforms competing compacts. Additionally, it features a highly improved, bright 2.36m-dot OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) that provides an excellent experience for glasses wearers, alongside a simplified, intuitive Leica user experience (UX) that reduces menu clutter through touch-screen icon controls. However, the camera comes with notable downsides, particularly a very poor battery life that drains even when powered off, requiring users to carry multiple spares. Its contrast-detect autofocus system lacks modern AI subject tracking and can "pulse" or hunt unpredictably in low light, making it ill-suited for action photography. Video features are highly compromised due to a heavy 4K crop, a fixed rear LCD screen, a 29-minute recording limit, and a total lack of microphone or headphone jacks. Furthermore, the physical lens barrel...

dpreview.com

10/12/2024

Summary of the review

Gear of the Year - Richard's choice: Leica D-Lux8

The Leica D-Lux 8 is praised by DPReview's Richard Butler for its exceptional portability and engaging, simplified user interface, which features dedicated physical controls that enhance the shooting experience. While not technically superior to competitors, its compact design ensures it is used frequently to capture spontaneous moments, offering a distinct advantage over larger systems. However, the camera faces limitations, including image quality that lags behind rivals like the Fujifilm X100 series due to a less sharp lens and lack of creative simulations. Additional cons highlighted in the review include a slow, motor-driven power zoom that causes frustrating responsiveness lag, alongside a high retail price.

rtings.com

07/02/2025

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 Camera Review - RTINGS.com

The Leica D-Lux 8 is a premium, highly portable point-and-shoot camera featuring a well-constructed body, an intuitive user interface, and a versatile 24-75mm equivalent zoom lens that delivers decent RAW image quality with good dynamic range. It serves as a solid choice for travel and everyday photography, utilizing effective optical image stabilization to assist with handheld shooting. RTINGS.com However, the camera is limited by poor continuous autofocus (AF-C) subject tracking, a slow maximum burst rate, and a slow zoom motor, making it unsuitable for fast-moving subjects. Additional drawbacks include a small buffer, lack of weather sealing, a fixed rear screen with poor glare resistance, and significant video limitations, such as cropped 4K and no microphone input. RTINGS.com

dpreview.com

10/02/2025

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 review: tempting new zoom compact? Not so fast

The DPReview evaluation of the Leica D-Lux 8 praises the compact camera's exceptional, high-end design, featuring a simplified user interface, robust build quality, and intuitive physical controls similar to the Leica Q series. Pros include a brilliant electronic viewfinder, a versatile manual lens with aspect ratio switching, and a satisfying, tactile shooting experience. However, the review highlights significant downsides, including underwhelming image quality from an aging Four Thirds sensor and limited dynamic range, especially considering its premium price point. Furthermore, the camera is hindered by a slow, laggy motorized zoom lens and a dated autofocus system, leading to a tempered recommendation despite its appealing form factor.

au.pcmag.com

02/07/2024

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 - Review 2024

The Leica D-Lux 8 is a luxury compact point-and-shoot camera featuring a Micro Four Thirds CMOS sensor paired with a bright, optically stabilized 24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 zoom lens. Priced at $1,595, it targets creators looking for a premium smartphone alternative or a lighter travel option. Major advantages highlighted in the review include its magnesium alloy chassis, straightforward dial-driven exposure controls, excellent lens sharpness when stopped down, and clean JPEG performance up to ISO 800. It also modernises its connectivity with a USB-C charging port and offers smooth integration with the Leica Fotos mobile app for quick wireless transfers. However, the review scores the camera a 3.5 out of 5 ("Good"), noting that its underlying focus and video technology feel dated compared to newer alternatives like the Fujifilm X100VI. Key disadvantages include a basic contrast-detect autofocus system that entirely lacks modern subject recognition or tracking capabilities. The video suite is heavily compromised, featuring cropped 8-bit 4K30 recording, no in-body image stabilization (IBIS), and no external microphone jack, making it poorly suited for vloggers. Additionally, the camera lacks weather protection, has a...

uk.pcmag.com

02/07/2024

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 - Review 2024 - PCMag UK

The Leica D-Lux 8 is a $1,595 premium compact digital camera designed for creators seeking a portable alternative to smartphones without the bulk of interchangeable lens models. Built with a durable magnesium alloy chassis, it features a Micro Four Thirds CMOS sensor paired with a bright, optically stabilized 24-75mm f/1.7-2.8 equivalent zoom lens. Key advantages include its excellent image quality with highly sharp central resolution, tactile physical exposure dials, a streamlined user interface matching Leica's high-end systems, and the convenient shift to USB-C charging. It also bundles a small external flash and offers seamless smartphone connectivity via the Leica Fotos app for quick JPEG and Adobe DNG RAW file transfers. However, the camera falls short due to several dated internal technologies and design limitations. It relies on a contrast-based autofocus system that lacks modern subject tracking or pet recognition, causing a noticeable focus flutter during video recordings. Video capabilities are highly restrictive, offering only an 8-bit, cropped 4K30 view without in-body image stabilization (IBIS), a microphone input, or a front-facing screen for vlogging. Additional drawbacks include a fixed 3-inch LCD...

photoscala.de

06/05/2025

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 review: A premium compact camera

The Leica D-Lux 8 is a premium compact camera that brings a modern layout and minimalist design to the enthusiast market. Key pros include its very bright and versatile f/1.7–2.8 DC Vario-Summilux zoom lens (24–75mm equivalent), built-in optical image stabilization, and the inclusion of a high-resolution 3.0-inch touchscreen. Additionally, it adopts the user-friendly menu system from the high-end Leica SL3, features 4K video capabilities, and natively records RAW data in the universally compatible DNG format. A useful clip-on flash is also included in the box at no extra cost to support on-the-go photography. However, the review highlights several prominent cons, most notably the lack of a tilting or articulating rear display, which makes low-angle composing difficult. On the technical side, the camera misses out on a modern phase-hybrid autofocus system, and its electronic viewfinder actually takes a step backward with a lower resolution than its predecessor. Lab testing also shows that the 17-megapixel Four Thirds sensor suffers from a noticeable loss of sharpness in image corners when utilizing the telephoto end of the zoom, and image noise becomes heavily visible...

photografix-magazin.de

06/02/2025

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 Hands-On: The Great Temptation

The Leica D-Lux 8 is a premium compact camera that prioritises tactile enjoyment and intuitive design over flawless laboratory specifications. Tested as a travel companion during a trip to Normandy, the camera stood out primarily due to its highly versatile and bright 10.9-34mm f/1.7-2.8 zoom lens (equivalent to a 24-70mm full-frame focal length). This lens acts as the "star of the show," offering a significant flexibility advantage over rival prime-lens compacts like the Ricoh GR III or Fujifilm X100VI. Additional prominent advantages highlighted by users and the reviewer include a high-quality electronic viewfinder, a redesigned user layout inspired by the high-end Leica Q3, intuitive physical controls, and modern USB-C charging capability. Conversely, the review and subsequent community discussions reveal several distinct disadvantages, most notably its hefty price tag for what many consider re-packaged technology. Under the sleek shell, the camera relies on a smaller Micro Four Thirds (MFT) sensor that crops down to a 17-megapixel output, resulting in noticeable image noise under low-light conditions. Critics frequently point out that the core internal specifications are nearly identical to the older Leica...

photographie.de

31/12/2024

Summary of the review

Test: Leica D-Lux 8 - PHOTOGRAPHY

The Leica D-Lux 8 premium compact camera balances a clever physical redesign with familiar internal hardware, leveraging the long-standing cooperation between Leica and Panasonic. Priced under €1,600, it features a 17-megapixel effective Four Thirds sensor coupled with a fast, optically stabilised Leica DC Vario-Summilux 24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 zoom lens. The review praises its overhauled handling, noting that the external controls have been streamlined and the menu system has been updated to align with the higher-end Leica Q3 series. Photographically, it stands out as an excellent "pocket camera" or secondary body, delivering great image quality, practical focal coverage, impressive low-light performance where noise only becomes an issue at ISO 6,400, and a reliable lens-based image stabiliser. Furthermore, a convenient physical aspect ratio slider on the lens allows users to instantly toggle creative formats like 16:9 widescreen. However, the review highlights several distinct disadvantages, emphasizing that under the hood, the camera relies on older technology that lags behind modern competition like the Fujifilm X100VI or Sony RX100 VII. The contrast-detect autofocus system feels outdated, slowing down significantly and "pumping" in low light,...

digitalkamera.de

02/09/2024

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 Review

The Leica D-Lux 8, analyzed by digitalkamera.de, is a premium compact camera featuring a high-quality, minimalistic magnesium design with dedicated physical controls and a 17-megapixel Four Thirds sensor. It excels with excellent sharpness and high dynamic range up to ISO 3,200, complemented by a responsive touchscreen, high-tier EVF, and seamless app integration. However, the camera shows significant vignetting at the wide-angle end, lacks a tilting or swiveling rear screen, and faces heavy "Leica tax" pricing compared to its capabilities. Furthermore, image quality drops at high ISOs, while the power-zoom and tracking autofocus underperform, particularly for video.

computerbild.de

26/10/2024

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8: Review of the premium compact camera - Computer Bild

The Leica D-Lux 8 is a premium, pocket-sized compact camera that serves as the brand's smallest and most affordable model, retailing for around €1,590. It features a large Micro Four Thirds (MFT) sensor that delivers high-contrast images and an attractive background blur, performing exceptionally well up to ISO 1600. A standout aspect of the camera is its intuitive operation, featuring dedicated manual physical controls like an aperture ring, shutter speed dial, and a physical switch on the lens to quickly toggle between photo aspect ratios (from 16:9 to 1:1). Its chief advantages include excellent overall daytime image quality, a fast Vario-Summilux f1.7-2.8 zoom lens, an exceptionally large and comfortable 0.74x electronic viewfinder for spectacle wearers, and an easy-to-use menu system. However, the camera falls short for action photography and video production. Because it relies on contrast-detection autofocus rather than phase-detection, the camera struggles to track fast-moving subjects and slows down to a sluggish burst rate of just 2 frames per second during continuous shooting with autofocus. On the video front, it is hindered by an old platform design, limiting 4K...

global.t3.com

07/04/2025

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 Review: The Best Leica Camera for Most People

The Leica D-Lux 8 is a compact, premium camera that delivers the brand's iconic image quality and sharp focus with an appealing bokeh, making it the most affordable entry point into the Leica ecosystem. Featuring a 21-megapixel Micro Four Thirds CMOS sensor paired with a fixed 24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 lens, it sports an elegant, full-metal magnesium alloy body with a layout inspired by the higher-end Leica Q3. Reviewers praise the camera for its compact footprint, user-friendly button and menu layout, and full manual control capabilities, which collectively deliver a distinctively rich, high-character photographic experience. However, the device compromises on several performance aspects to achieve its lower price point. Its primary drawbacks include a frustratingly slow motorized zoom speed, a burst shooting rate that lags behind modern standards, and an autofocus system that occasionally struggles to lock onto targets. Ergonomically, the camera's small size can make it feel somewhat cramped, and the lack of a built-in grip or a tilting mechanism for the large rear touchscreen limits its flexibility. Additionally, the physical lens barrel extends significantly upon powering up, which detracts...

phototrend.fr

25/09/2024

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 review: As attractive as it is outdated

Leica D-Lux 8 The Leica D-Lux 8 is a premium compact camera featuring a Micro Four Thirds sensor with 17 effective megapixels and a versatile 24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 zoom lens. It shines with its exceptional build quality, minimalist magnesium design, and highly intuitive physical controls. Photographers will particularly enjoy the outstanding Monochrome modes that deliver highly contrasted, rich JPEGs straight out of the camera. Additionally, the inclusion of a modern USB-C port for charging and data transfer, alongside a vastly improved OLED electronic viewfinder and solid battery life, makes it an enjoyable, stylish companion for casual day-to-day shooting. However, the camera is severely held back by an outdated technical foundation inherited from 2018 hardware. Image quality suffers from limited dynamic range and poor low-light performance, with digital noise becoming highly visible starting at just ISO 1600. Performance-wise, the contrast-detection autofocus struggles to accurately track moving subjects, burst shooting maxes out at a meager 2 frames per second when continuous autofocus is active, and the internal buffer locks the camera up after capturing only seven RAW images. Furthermore, the motorized lens...

leclaireur.fnac.com

04/12/2024

Summary of the review

LEICA D-LUX 8 Lab Test: An exceptional compact camera

The Leica D-Lux 8 is a premium compact camera that receives a 5-star rating for its exceptional optical quality and design, though it shows clear limitations in specific environments. The review highlights several major strengths, including its irresistible physical design, flawless color reproduction, and an irreproachable lens that delivers perfect edge-to-edge clarity. Testers awarded its optical quality a perfect 10 out of 10, noting that it produces images completely free of artifacts, vignetting, or chromatic aberration. The lens—a Leica DC-Vario-Summilux f/1.7-2.8 10.9mm—performs highly across all focal lengths, proving versatile for wide-angle landscape shots, standard daily use, and zoomed-in telephoto photography. The high-definition output allows for spectacular large-format prints, while user feedback confirms it weighs a portable 399.4 grams and features intuitive menus. Conversely, the camera suffers from notable drawbacks when it comes to raw sensor performance and low-light environments. The primary criticism centers on the sensor resolution, which is capped at 21 megapixels—a figure the review notes is subpar compared to other modern market options. Its low-light performance scored poorly at a 4 out of 10, meaning that taking photos...

global.techradar.com

16/09/2024

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8 Review: Leica, for Less

Leica D-Lux 8 Review Summary The Leica D-Lux 8 is a premium compact camera that brings the iconic German brand's design language, minimalist aesthetic, and tactile shooting experience to a more accessible price point of €1,590. Built around a 21-megapixel Four-Thirds sensor, it crops images to 17 megapixels to accommodate a unique physical aspect ratio ring (supporting 1:1, 3:2, 4:3, and 16:9) at the base of its Leica DC Vario-Summilux 24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 lens. The camera excels at delivering simple navigation via a streamlined 3-inch touchscreen menu and offers a highly responsive autofocus system with face and eye tracking. Performance highlights include excellent low-light image quality with minimal noise up to ISO 1600, signature Leica film styles, and a redesigned 2.36 million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) that completely resolves the color-tearing issues found in older sequential displays. Despite these refinements, the D-Lux 8 is fundamentally a minor refresh of the older D-Lux 7 and the 2018 Panasonic Lumix LX100 II, offering very little functional innovation for its steep price tag. Key disadvantages include a fixed, non-tilting rear screen that restricts...

yannmathias.fr

22/09/2024

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8: The Ultimate Visual Notebook

The Leica D-Lux 8 serves as a highly versatile and lightweight photographic notebook ideal for daily use, street photography, and travel. In his review, Yann Mathias highlights that while its image quality does not match the premium Leica Q or M series, it is more than sufficient for social media sharing, photo books, and print sizes up to A2. The reviewer notes several key strengths, including an intuitive and streamlined menu system identical to the Leica Q3, an enjoyable optical zoom that provides an appealing shallow depth of field, and impressively clean ISO performance up to 3200. Additionally, once the permanent Leica Fotos connection is disabled, the camera becomes quite responsive, offering solid battery life that comfortably handles over 200 shots a day without eco-mode enabled. On the downside, the reviewer criticises the poor placement of the "on/off" button, which sits too close to the shutter button and causes frequent accidental activations. He also points out that the zoom mechanism feels slightly slow (or "anaemic") and lacks the ability to program set focal distances directly. Another practical annoyance is the...

eldebate.com

29/06/2025

Summary of the review

The premium compact camera with classic DNA and modern muscle

The Leica D-Lux 8 is a premium compact digital camera designed for photography enthusiasts who value craftsmanship, tactile manual controls, and a deliberate shooting process. Heavily inspired by the high-end Leica Q3, this lightweight 397-gram camera features a strong magnesium chassis wrapped in elegant faux leather. At its core, it combines a 17-megapixel 4/3” CMOS sensor with a bright DC Vario-Summilux 24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 zoom lens. The camera provides high-quality imagery with excellent performance in low-light environments, supported by optical image stabilization, standard RAW (DNG) file capture, and crisp 4K video recording. It also updates the user experience with a 2.36-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder, a 3-inch touchscreen, and seamless wireless connectivity via the Leica FOTOS app. On the positive side, reviewers praise its outstanding premium build, compact pocketability, and clean, high-contrast imagery that carries the classic "Leica look" straight out of the camera. The simplified manual dials for aperture and shutter speed offer a nostalgic, analog-like experience that encourages creative framing. However, the camera falls short with a sluggish power-zoom mechanism, a fixed rear LCD screen that lacks any tilting...

matteoangeloni.it

18/08/2024

Summary of the review

Leica D-Lux 8: Initial Review

Leica D-Lux 8 Review Summary The Leica D-Lux 8 is a premium compact camera engineered for photographers seeking a balance between high-end performance and portability. Its standout specifications include a 17-megapixel Four Thirds CMOS sensor for sharp details and efficient noise handling, coupled with a fast, stabilized 24-75mm f/1.7-2.8 lens that excels in low-light conditions and delivers smooth background bokeh. Enhancing the user experience, this model introduces a revised, minimalist design with simplified ergonomics inspired by the Leica Q3, a much-improved 2.36 million-dot OLED viewfinder that eliminates color artifacts, a modern 5 Gbps USB-C port, and support for high-speed UHS-II memory cards. The camera excels with several notable pros, such as exceptional image quality, wide dynamic range, and the newly added ability to save RAW images directly in Adobe's open DNG format for seamless editing integration. The faster data transmission via USB-C and elevated burst shooting capabilities made possible by UHS-II support also mark major hardware upgrades. On the downside, the review notes a couple of constraints: its steep price tag makes it a significant financial investment, and the physical...

consumentenbond.nl

01/07/2024

Summary of the review

Consumentenbond: Leica D-Lux 8 - Test, Reviews & Prices

A breakdown of the specific strengths and weaknesses highlighted in consumer testing of the model includes: Pros: Outstanding physical build quality with premium grip, an adaptable 24-75mm optical zoom range (3.1x), a large 4/3-inch effective sensor, and integrated Wi-Fi connectivity for quick sharing. Cons: The premium Leica pricing (€1,650), restricted video frame rates/cropped 4K capabilities compared to newer models, and slower autofocus tracking speed when catching fast-moving subjects.

test-aankoop.be

01/07/2024

Summary of the review

LEICA D-LUX 8: review, prices and specifications

The Leica D-Lux 8 is a premium, high-end compact bridge camera with a Micro Four Thirds sensor size measuring 17.3 × 13 mm. It features a built-in lens with a 35-mm equivalent focal length range of 24 - 75 mm and a fast variable aperture range of f/1.7 - 2.8. The camera records up to a maximum 4K video resolution of 2160 pixels and offers a 16.8 megapixel image resolution sensor. For framing images, it is equipped with an electronic viewfinder alongside a 2.9-inch touchscreen display. Connectivity features include built-in Wi-Fi and an HDMI port. In terms of retail price, the device is marketed between €1,590 and €1,650 across various European retail outlets. The camera presents notable design benefits alongside several physical limitations. On the positive side, it features built-in optical image stabilization to minimize motion blur. It supports both High Dynamic Range (HDR) processing and the ability to save photos in uncompressed RAW format for extensive post-processing freedom. An external hot shoe adapter is also included to connect a flash. However, a major drawback is the complete absence of...

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