{"id":668448,"date":"2025-12-05T10:52:06","date_gmt":"2025-12-05T15:52:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/erickimphotography.com\/blog\/?p=668448"},"modified":"2025-12-05T10:52:10","modified_gmt":"2025-12-05T15:52:10","slug":"leica-q-q2-q3-vs-panasonic-lumix-image-sensor-comparison","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/erickimphotography.com\/blog\/2025\/12\/05\/leica-q-q2-q3-vs-panasonic-lumix-image-sensor-comparison\/","title":{"rendered":"Leica Q, Q2, Q3 vs Panasonic LUMIX: Image Sensor Comparison"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Leica Q (Typ 116 \u2013 2015)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The original Leica Q (Typ 116) features a 24-megapixel full-frame (36\u00d724 mm) CMOS sensor. Notably, Leica confirmed this sensor was neither made by Sony nor CMOSIS . Instead, strong evidence points to TowerJazz (an Israeli firm in joint venture with Panasonic) as the sensor manufacturer . In fact, an industry insider reported that the Q\u2019s CMOS sensor was co-designed by TowerJazz and Panasonic, and the camera\u2019s electronic system was developed with Panasonic\u2019s expertise . This close Leica\u2013Panasonic collaboration even extended to shared components like batteries and production know-how. The Leica Q\u2019s Summilux 28mm f\/1.7 lens was designed by Konica Minolta and produced by Panasonic, highlighting how much of the Q\u2019s internals benefitted from Panasonic\u2019s involvement .<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite these Panasonic ties, the Leica Q\u2019s 24 MP sensor was essentially unique to Leica at the time \u2013 no Panasonic LUMIX model in 2015 shared this sensor. Panasonic did not yet produce full-frame LUMIX cameras then, so there was no direct Lumix equivalent. (Panasonic\u2019s own full-frame 24 MP model, the Lumix S1, arrived later in 2019 and is believed to use a different 24 MP sensor, possibly a Sony design, rather than the Leica Q\u2019s sensor.) In short, the Leica Q\u2019s imaging chip \u2013 a high-quality 24 MP full-frame CMOS made via Panasonic\u2019s TowerJazz partnership \u2013 did not have a twin in Panasonic\u2019s lineup. The Q delivered Leica\u2019s trademark image quality and color rendition, aided by Leica\u2019s tuning on the Maestro processor. If compared hypothetically, Panasonic\u2019s color science tends to differ; however, since no Lumix camera used this exact sensor, any differences in output come down to Leica\u2019s own processing choices. (Leica\u2019s JPEG colors are often regarded as distinct, but without a Lumix twin camera, direct comparison isn\u2019t possible for the Q.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leica Q2 (2019)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Leica Q2 received a major upgrade: a 47.3-megapixel full-frame sensor (8368\u00d75584 pixels effective). This high-resolution CMOS chip was developed in partnership with Panasonic and turned out to be the same sensor used in the Panasonic LUMIX S1R full-frame mirrorless camera . In other words, Leica\u2019s fixed-lens Q2 and Panasonic\u2019s S1R (2019) share an identical 47.3 MP sensor, a unit often attributed to TowerJazz\/ Panasonic\u2019s sensor fab (not a Sony-made sensor) . Panasonic even stated these were \u201cnewly developed\u201d sensors for the S series, and a Panasonic rep indicated the 47 MP sensor was designed by TowerJazz (with Panasonic) rather than sourced from Sony . The sensor itself is a 35mm full-frame CMOS with no optical low-pass filter, delivering roughly 14 stops of dynamic range and 14-bit color depth, similar in core specs between the two cameras.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Confirmed Shared Sensor: Multiple credible sources note that the Q2\u2019s imaging sensor is the very same 47.3MP unit inside the Lumix S1R . For example, PhotonsToPhotos tests of the Q2 were described as \u201cour first look at the new Panasonic 47.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor that will also be used in the Lumix S1R\u201d . Likewise, Leica\u2019s own SL2 (2019) adopted this 47 MP sensor as well, indicating a shared component across the L-Mount alliance members. This is a Sony-alternative sensor (designed via Panasonic\u2019s 49% stake in TowerJazz), distinguishing it from other 45\u201347 MP sensors on the market at the time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Resolution & Size: The Q2\/S1R sensor has ~50.4 MP total (47.3 MP effective) on a full-frame 36\u00d724 mm area . It outputs very large 14-bit RAW files and allowed Leica to introduce in-camera crop modes (35mm, 50mm, 75mm frames) while still delivering usable resolution. Panasonic\u2019s implementation in the S1R similarly enabled a 187 MP pixel-shift high-resolution mode.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tuning and Performance Differences: Even though the hardware is the same, Leica and Panasonic tuned their implementations differently. The Leica Q2 has a base ISO of 100 (with an extended pull to ISO 50), whereas the Lumix S1R natively starts at ISO 100. In testing, the Lumix S1R showed slightly stronger sensor performance at base ISO and high ISO, likely due to Panasonic\u2019s image pipeline tweaks. For instance, DxOMark measured the S1R\u2019s dynamic range at about 14.1 EV, versus 13.5 EV on the Q2 (at base ISO) . Likewise, the S1R achieved a higher low-light ISO rating (ISO 3525 vs ISO 2491 for Q2) . These numbers suggest Panasonic may have optimized analog gain or noise reduction differently \u2013 effectively the Lumix S1R eked out roughly 0.5\u20131 stop better dynamic range and high-ISO noise performance than the Q2. This aligns with reports that \u201cthe S1R is basically the Q2\u2019s sensor tuned for a base ISO of 100 with added noise reduction at high ISOs\u201d . Leica\u2019s tuning, by contrast, might prioritize a more filmic noise texture and avoid aggressive noise reduction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another difference is in color science and JPEG processing. The Leica Q2 produces images with Leica\u2019s signature color balance (often a touch warmer with distinct tonality), courtesy of Leica\u2019s Maestro II image processor and profiles. Panasonic\u2019s S1R, using their Venus Engine, has its own default color rendering. While both are excellent, users often note Leica\u2019s out-of-camera JPEG colors and tones have a unique character compared to Panasonic\u2019s output. For example, Leica tends to restrain default noise reduction and sharpening to preserve a more natural look, whereas Panasonic might apply slightly stronger processing by default (geared toward maximum crispness and low noise). These subtler differences in the image pipeline mean that, even with identical sensors, a RAW file from the Q2 and one from the S1R could look somewhat different when processed in-camera by each manufacturer. Nevertheless, when shooting RAW the files contain the same data, and any differences boil down to profiles \u2013 the shared sensor gives both cameras fundamentally similar imaging potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In summary, the Leica Q2 and Panasonic S1R definitively use the same 47.3 MP full-frame sensor . Credible reports (and the subsequent identical performance in lab tests) confirm this shared component. The manufacturer is believed to be TowerJazz\/Panasonic (not Sony) . Any divergences in output stem from Leica\u2019s vs. Panasonic\u2019s tuning: e.g. slight differences in base ISO calibration, noise reduction, and color profiles. Both cameras deliver excellent resolution and dynamic range, with the Lumix edging out a bit more technical performance while Leica offers its bespoke color rendition and lens-specific tuning (the Q2\u2019s built-in 28mm lens is matched to the sensor with its own image pipeline adjustments). Importantly, both implementations lack on-sensor phase-detect autofocus \u2013 they relied on contrast-detect AF (Panasonic used DfD contrast AF in S1R). This changed with the next model, the Q3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leica Q3 (2023)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Leica Q3 introduces a new 60.3-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor \u2013 a substantial jump in resolution. This sensor is backside-illuminated (BSI) for improved low-light efficiency and, crucially, it integrates phase-detection autofocus (PDAF) pixels, making it the first Q model (and first full-frame Leica) with PDAF capability . The Q3\u2019s sensor is in fact very similar to the 60 MP sensor used in the Leica M11 (2022) \u2013 Leica indicates it\u2019s a \u201cmodified version\u201d of the M11 sensor, tailored for the Q3\u2019s needs . In practice, that likely means the underlying silicon is the same, but the Q3\u2019s version enables on-sensor PDAF and is coupled with a different microlens array (since the Q3\u2019s optical design is different from the rangefinder M11) .<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Origin and Panasonic Comparison: There has been much speculation about who makes this 60 MP sensor. Many industry observers believe it is based on a Sony design \u2013 specifically the 61MP Exmor R sensor first seen in Sony\u2019s A7R IV (2019) \u2013 with Leica customization . Thorsten Overgaard, for example, notes that the M11\u2019s 60MP chip is \u201clikely the Sony sensor from 2020\u201d which originally included PDAF pixels, but Leica \u201cremoved\u201d or didn\u2019t use the AF layer for the M11 . In the Q3, those PDAF pixels are active, implying Leica utilized the full capability of that sensor. This suggests the Leica Q3\u2019s sensor is effectively the same 60MP Sony BSI CMOS (with PDAF) that other brands have used, albeit tuned to Leica\u2019s requirements . Indeed, the Q3\u2019s resolution (60.3 MP), pixel count, and BSI tech align with known Sony IMX455 specs, lending credence to this theory. Leica, as usual, does not officially disclose the sensor supplier, but credible sources point to Sony for the Q3\/M11 generation, rather than the Panasonic\/TowerJazz of prior models .<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If true, this marks a shift in Leica\u2019s sensor sourcing \u2013 moving from TowerJazz (Panasonic-backed) for the 47 MP chip back to a Sony-based design for the 60 MP chip. Notably, Panasonic itself did not have a 60 MP full-frame sensor in any Lumix camera as of 2023\u20132025. Panasonic\u2019s highest-resolution full-frame model by 2025 is the Lumix S1R II, which instead uses a new 44.3 MP sensor (also with PDAF) rather than adopting a 60 MP chip . Early rumors had assumed Panasonic would put the 60MP (Q3) sensor into an S1R Mark II or S1H Mark II, given the L\u00b2 Technology alliance, but Panasonic chose a different path. In fact, analysts at the Q3\u2019s launch speculated \u201cthis 60MP sensor will likely be selected for the upcoming Lumix S1R II\u201d and that the Q3 offered a preview of Panasonic\u2019s next-gen capabilities (8K video, PDAF, etc.). However, when Panasonic released the Lumix S1R II (early 2025), it featured a 44 MP PDAF sensor (not 60 MP) . This 44.3MP sensor is a new design (possibly from another supplier or Panasonic\u2019s own development) and is different from the Q3\u2019s. Thus, as of 2025 no Panasonic Lumix model uses the Leica Q3\u2019s 60 MP sensor \u2013 the Q3\u2019s chip remains exclusive to Leica cameras (the Q3 and M11, and likely the Leica SL3 in the future).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shared Technology and Features: Although Panasonic didn\u2019t directly use the 60MP sensor, the Leica Q3 still exemplifies the ongoing Leica-Panasonic collaboration on technology. The L\u00b2 partnership means Leica\u2019s bodies often incorporate Panasonic\u2019s cutting-edge digital components. For example, the Q3 gained advanced video features uncommon in prior Leicas: it can record 8K video (up to 8K\/30p) and even offers internal ProRes 422 HQ recording . These are capabilities clearly paralleling Panasonic\u2019s video-oriented developments. Indeed, one analysis quipped that \u201cthe Q3 is 85% a Panasonic full-frame camera under the hood\u201d, with Panasonic providing the sensor and processing pipeline and Leica contributing the optics and design . The Q3 uses Leica\u2019s new Maestro IV processor, but the presence of ProRes codec and PDAF suggests Panasonic\u2019s influence (Panasonic\u2019s Lumix S5II\/S5X also introduced PDAF and ProRes in 2023). In short, even if the exact sensor isn\u2019t in a Lumix, the technology in the Q3 aligns with Panasonic\u2019s roadmap \u2013 it foreshadows what an L-mount partner can do. It\u2019s expected that Leica\u2019s 60MP\/PDAF sensor will also appear in the Leica SL3, and Panasonic could in the future opt for a higher-MP sensor in a video-centric S1H II \u2013 but that remains speculation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tuning and Image Pipeline: Since we cannot directly compare Q3\u2019s sensor to a known Panasonic model (no 60MP Lumix yet), we consider general differences in Leica vs Panasonic processing. Leica\u2019s approach with the Q3, as with prior Q cameras, emphasizes a specific color rendition and tonal curve. The Q3 introduced \u201cLeica Looks\u201d profiles (film-style color presets) in-camera, underscoring Leica\u2019s focus on delivering a particular out-of-camera look. Panasonic, on the other hand, would likely tune a 60MP sensor for slightly different priorities \u2013 for instance, Panasonic might bin pixels for low-light 15MP modes or optimize rolling shutter for video. If the Q3\u2019s sensor were in a Lumix, Panasonic might leverage Dual Native ISO or other tricks for video performance, whereas Leica\u2019s Q3 tuning is more still-photo-centric (e.g. its 8K video is limited in frame rate due to heat constraints, whereas a Lumix body might have active cooling or higher frame rates) . We already see that the Q3\u2019s rolling shutter in electronic shutter mode is a bit slower than the Q2\u2019s was (due to the higher resolution) \u2013 Panasonic might have mitigated that with a different sensor choice (indeed, the 44MP in S1R II was perhaps chosen for faster readout). In terms of color science, Leica\u2019s JPEG engine in the Q3 continues to produce the \u201cLeica look\u201d \u2013 pleasing colors with a subtle tonal response \u2013 whereas Panasonic\u2019s color science (while much improved in recent models) tends to be more neutral\/accurate out-of-camera. These differences are somewhat subjective, but they echo the general notion that Leica cameras output images with a distinct character even if the silicon is shared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In summary, the Leica Q3\u2019s 60MP BSI sensor is a cutting-edge chip (very likely Sony-made) that so far has no direct Panasonic Lumix counterpart. It delivered Leica\u2019s first foray into PDAF autofocus and ultra-high resolution on a compact full-frame camera. Official reports of shared components here are less concrete than with the Q2, but the L\u00b2 alliance virtually guarantees that Leica and Panasonic coordinated on this sensor\u2019s integration. If Panasonic decides to use a 60MP sensor in the future, it could well be the same unit \u2013 and we can expect differences in implementation akin to earlier models (Leica\u2019s color\/tuning vs. Panasonic\u2019s). Until then, the Q3 stands apart: it marries Leica\u2019s lens and styling with a sensor and feature set that strongly hint at Panasonic\u2019s DNA (8K, PDAF, ProRes) even if Panasonic chose a different path for their own flagship sensor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

References: Leica Rumors and forum reports on Leica Q sensor manufacturing ; PhotoRumors on the Q2\/S1R 47.3MP sensor ; DxOMark comparison of Q2 vs S1R performance ; EOSHD and others on the Q3\u2019s 60MP sensor and Panasonic partnership ; Panasonic product info for S1R II confirming its 44.3MP sensor choice . All these sources corroborate the shared sensor components and shed light on the behind-the-scenes collaboration and tuning differences between Leica\u2019s Q series and Panasonic\u2019s Lumix cameras.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Leica Q (Typ 116 \u2013 2015) The original Leica Q (Typ 116) features a 24-megapixel full-frame (36\u00d724 mm) CMOS sensor. Notably, Leica confirmed this sensor was neither made by Sony nor CMOSIS . Instead, \u2026<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"advanced_seo_description":"","jetpack_seo_html_title":"","jetpack_seo_noindex":false,"jetpack_seo_schema_type":"","_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_ek_photo_artist_note":"","_ek_photo_thesis":"","_ek_photo_camera":"","_ek_photo_place":"","_ek_photo_human_moment":"","_ek_photo_sequence":"","_ek_photo_question":"","_ek_photo_canonical_claim":"","_ek_photo_ai_summary":"","_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[17],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-668448","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-posts"],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/erickimphotography.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/668448","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/erickimphotography.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/erickimphotography.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/erickimphotography.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/erickimphotography.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=668448"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/erickimphotography.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/668448\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":668449,"href":"https:\/\/erickimphotography.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/668448\/revisions\/668449"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/erickimphotography.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=668448"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/erickimphotography.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=668448"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/erickimphotography.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=668448"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}