Leica S3 Medium Format Camera
The Leica S3 is a 64MP (9280 x 6208) Medium Format medium format camera — with 4K video. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Leica S3 Medium Format Camera
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Overview — Leica S3
Key Features — Leica S3
64MP Medium Format Sensor: The 9280 x 6208 pixel sensor delivers exceptionally large files with fine detail, making it well-suited for large-format printing and high-end commercial work.
Leica Maestro III Processor: Handles the S3's high-resolution files and broad ISO 100–50000 range, providing substantial exposure flexibility across a wide range of lighting conditions.
Optical Pentaprism Viewfinder: Provides a bright, optical view of the scene for accurate composition without the lag or color shift associated with electronic viewfinders.
CS Lens Flash Sync to 1/1000s: When paired with compatible CS lenses, the leaf shutter enables flash synchronization up to 1/1000s — significantly faster than a typical focal plane shutter allows.
Dual Storage Slots: Supports both CFast 2.0 and SD UHS-II cards simultaneously, allowing fast write speeds alongside flexible backup or overflow options.
Weather-Sealed Magnesium Body: Comprehensive dust and moisture sealing on a 1,260g magnesium alloy chassis makes the S3 suitable for demanding outdoor shoots.
Specifications — Leica S3
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Studio, Fashion |
| Type | Medium Format |
| Sensor | Medium Format |
| Resolution | 64MP (9280 x 6208) |
| Processor | Leica Maestro III |
| ISO Range | 100 – 50000 |
| AF System | Phase Detection, Other |
| AF Points | 1 (central cross-type) |
| Max Photo Resolution | 64MP |
| Burst Rate | 3 fps fps |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K |
| Max Frame Rate | 30fps |
Description — Leica S3
The Leica S3 Medium Format Camera centers on a 64MP medium format sensor (9280 x 6208 pixels) with a 0.8x crop factor relative to 35mm full-frame, driven by the Leica Maestro II image processor. The ISO range of 100 to 50000 provides broad flexibility across lighting conditions, while the Leica S lens mount ensures compatibility with the S-system lens lineup. Color output can be configured across Adobe RGB, sRGB, EciRGB v2, and Gray Gamma 2.2 profiles.
The camera's optical pentaprism viewfinder pairs with a 3.0-inch TFT LCD at 921,600 dots for clear composition and review. Autofocus uses predictive TTL phase detection with a central cross-type sensor. The body is built from magnesium alloy, measures 160 x 80 x 120 mm, weighs 1,260g, and carries comprehensive weather and dust sealing.
Dual card slots accept SD (UHS-II) and CFast 2.0 media. Connectivity covers Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI, microphone jack, and headphone jack. For video, the S3 records DCI 4K at 24p and Full HD at up to 30p in 4:2:2 8-bit color.
Pros — Leica S3
- ✓64MP medium format sensor (9280 x 6208) provides exceptional image detail and file size for demanding workflows
- ✓ISO range of 100–50000 via the Leica Maestro II processor offers wide exposure flexibility
- ✓Comprehensive weather and dust sealing on a magnesium alloy body adds durability for field use
Cons — Leica S3
- ✗Single central cross-type AF point with no subject tracking or eye tracking limits autofocus flexibility for dynamic subjects
- ✗Burst rate of only 3 fps is restrictive for action or fast-moving subjects
- ✗No in-body or digital image stabilization of any kind
Reviews — Leica S3
Videos — Leica S3
$19,000 Medium Format DSLR - Leica S3 — Matt Granger
Frequently Asked Questions — Leica S3
What lenses are compatible with the Leica S3?+
The Leica S3 uses the Leica S lens mount. The flash system also makes specific reference to CS lens compatibility, including flash sync speeds up to 1/1000s when using CS lenses.
What storage cards does the Leica S3 use?+
The S3 features two storage slots: one for SD cards with UHS-II support and one for CFast 2.0 cards. This dual-slot setup allows for flexible backup or overflow shooting configurations.
What video formats and resolutions does the Leica S3 support?+
The S3 can record DCI 4K at 24p and Full HD at 24p, 25p, or 30p. All video is recorded in 4:2:2 8-bit color. The maximum video frame rate is 30fps.
Is the Leica S3 weather sealed?+
Yes. The specifications describe comprehensive weather and dust sealing. The body is constructed from magnesium alloy and measures 160 x 80 x 120 mm.
What is the ISO range of the Leica S3?+
The Leica S3 has a native ISO range of 100 to 50000, processed through the Leica Maestro II image processor.
Does the Leica S3 have Wi-Fi or other wireless connectivity?+
Yes, the Leica S3 includes Wi-Fi connectivity. It also has USB, HDMI output, a headphone jack, and a microphone jack, though Bluetooth is not listed in the specifications.