With an impeccable design, a heavyweight build, and now faster than ever, the Leica SL3-S Mirrorless Camera arrives with a bundle of features that continue to prove the brand's Midas touch. At the core of this release is the hybrid autofocus system with 779 AF points with phase, contrast, and object detection available in all burst modes, even up to 30 frames per second. Its 24 MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor sports an ISO range of 50 to 200,000 and allows 48 and 96MP in handheld Multishot mode. The video capabilities are equally impressive, providing unlimited 6k Open Gate internal recording while utilizing the full size of the sensor in its native 3:2 aspect ratio. Securely protected by an IP54-certified solid all-metal body, Leica combines the latest generation of phase detection with optimal autofocus support, making it the fastest Leica system to date. Additionally, to give the SL line an extra boost, the SL3-S arrives with content credentials technology in accordance with the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI).
Spearheading this launch is the 24MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor with fast PDAF. Compared to its predecessor, it sports an impressive ISO range of 50 to 200,000. When combined with the Maestro IV processor and 8GB of buffer memory it provides exceptional low-light performance and incredible color output at a file size ideal for sharing. Fast transmission rates for CFexpress type B are supported for video production in up to 6K quality with efficiency codecs and in the L-Log color space lauded by professionals worldwide. This system allows for DNG and JPEG format at 24MP and handheld Multishot modes at 48 and 96MP, all while providing optimal compatibility with Leica M, R, S, and Leitz Cine lenses.
The SL3-S sensor boasts 779 autofocus points, which is three times more than the SL-2S and over two times more than the SL3. Additionally, this system uses the latest technology in phase detection, combining Phase Detection AF with Object Detection AF and Contrast Detection AF to enable continuous shooting up to 30 fps with full autofocus support. Tracking, in general, has never been easier for Leica users.
This system's video capabilities were meant to match its photo counterpart, with unlimited 6K Open Gate internal recording the user gains new creative possibilities when it comes to postproduction while using the full size of the sensor in its native 3:2 ratio. 5.9K RAW external recording provides the best post-production flexibility, offering malleable files with incredible dynamic range and color grading support. Additionally, you can now use larger storage options thanks to SSD recording via USB-C. Plans for 2025 include the ability to share footage directly to the cloud via Frame.io.
The SL3-S is the first camera in the SL system with Leica Content Credentials and dedicated CAI-compliant hardware. You can have each image signed with tamperproof metadata and receive access to verification tools that provide content, production, and editing process history.
Complementing this camera's powerful sensor is a 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization IBIS system that provides up to 5 stops of shake reduction, allowing you to capture sharper handheld images.
- Reframing flexibility allows cropping and adjusting framing without losing quality.
- UX design adapts based on orientation of camera body and has a tiltable screen with enhanced touch and gesture control.
- Records HDMI-Raw in 5.9K at 30 fps to external display recorders.
- Unlimited 5.9K Internal ProRes 422 HQ recording.
- Fast CFexpress type B interface allows ProRes 4:2:2 HQ in 5.8K at 30 fps or C4K at 60 fps, both can be recorded without time limit.
- Upgraded Cine Mode specifically for professional video production.
- Durable magnesium and aluminum construction withstands tough weather conditions and is IP54 rated to be splash and dust resistant.
- Video recording capabilities include 6K OG, C6K, 6K, C4K, 4K, FHD, and MP4 + MOV
- Optimal compatibility with Leica M, Leica R, Leica S and Leitz Cine lenses.
- Mechanical shutter speed of 30 minutes up to 1/8000 of a second.
- Electronic shutter function of 60 seconds up to 1/16000 of a second.
- Flash sync speed up to 1/200 of a second.
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi with MIMO technology enable fast, stable connection to the Leica FOTOS app, enabling full resolution DNG images to be transferred in seconds.
Image Sensor
Full-Frame BSI CMOS
Image Stabilization
Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
ISO Sensitivity Range
100 to 100,000 in Auto Mode (Extended: 50 to 100,000)
Video I/O
1x Micro-HDMI (Unspecified Signal) Output
Audio I/O
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Stereo Headphone Input
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TS Mono Headphone Output
Power I/O
1x USB-C Input/Output
Other I/O
No
Wireless
5 GHz MIMO Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.0
Display Type
Tilting Touchscreen LED
Battery Type
1x BP-SCL6 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion, 2200 mAh
Media/Memory Card Slot
Slot 1: CFexpress Type B
Slot 2: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
