Leica TL2 announced with 24MP sensor and 4K video
Leica Camera has announced the Leica TL2 APS-C mirrorless interchangeable lens camera.
Build from a single block of aluminium, the new TL2 comes with a newly developed 24-megapixel CMOS sensor and Maestro II series high-performance image processor.
Leica TL2 specs also include 4K video recording (30p), 20fps continuous shooting using the new electronically controlled shutter. It also gains a Type-C USB 3.0 connector and HDMI output. Leica also claims faster startup times, faster focus and an eight-fold increase in touchscreen responsiveness.
The new camera remains compatible with the Visoflex Typ 020 2.36M-dot EVF and all the company’s existing TL and SL lenses. The Leica TL2 will be available in either Silver or Black anodized finish. The mirrorless camera will sell for around $1,950.
Leica TL2 mirrorless camera announced with 24MP sensor and 4K video
Leica TL2 specs
- 24.2MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
- Leica Maestro II Image Processor
- UHD 4K30 and Full HD 1080p60 Video
- Up to 20 fps Shooting and ISO 50000
- 3.7″ 1.3m-Dot Touchscreen LCD Monitor
- 49-Point Contrast-Detect AF System
- Electronic Shutter Function: 1/40000 Sec
- MyCamera Menu; Faster Touch Controls
- 32GB Memory and UHS-II SD Card Slot
- Integrated Wi-Fi and USB 3.0 Type-C Port
Leica Camera Unveils the Evolution of the TL-System with the Leica TL2
Perfected features and persuasive performance meet nuanced design in this new generation
At first shot, photographers will notice the refinement of the TL2. A new sensor, developed specifically for this camera, and high-performance image processor work in tandem to guarantee outstanding picture quality with higher dynamic range, excellent contrast, and color definition, along with exceptional sharpness and the finest resolution of details. Even the smallest components stand out, allowing users to shoot any subject and make the photos their own. The Leica TL2 impresses similarly with its video capabilities. The camera’s various video recording modes, up to 4K resolution, make the TL2 a formidable tool for video capture as well.
Connectivity with and without a cable
Photos and videos can be conveniently transferred by wireless connection to smartphones, tablets and desktop PCs thanks to the integrated Wi-Fi module of the Leica TL2, which also allows for mobile hotspot setup and easy sharing via email and social media. Data can also be transferred lightning-fast by a wired connection, with the camera’s integrated HDMI 1.4 and USB Type C 3.0 ports. The USB-C port also enables recharging of the Leica TL2 without a battery charger – for example from a laptop computer or an external power bank.
With the Leica TL App, available for both iOS and Android devices, smartphones or tablets are transformed into remote electronic viewfinders and offer remote control of various exposure-relevant parameters such as the shutter speed and aperture. The Leica TL App also makes it much easier to capture photos and video from unusual angles, with a self-timer and longer shutter speeds.
Modern, intuitive and versatile controls
Leica’s commitment to eliminating distractions and focusing on the essentials is showcased in the TL2 camera controls. The MyCamera menu and user interface groups icons according to related functions and thus creates a seamless user experience. Photographers will notice that this function makes handling easier and more intuitive than ever while on the go. The menu can be further personalized to meet individual preferences and particular needs, meaning that the photographer always has fast access to all frequently used features and pre-sets.
Furthermore, as a continuation of Leica’s commitment, the TL2 features significantly increased touchscreen fluidity and responsiveness, to make using the camera even faster and more enjoyable. At the heart of this, a bright and clearly laid-out 3.7″ LCD touchscreen display enables both composition and reliable and convenient assessment of subjects before and after exposure. The only other controls are four ergonomically positioned physical elements that are intuitive in their operation.
The comprehensive portfolio of lenses in the Leica TL-System offers an ideal range of focal lengths for all situations and types of photography. The system currently comprises of six lenses – three prime lenses and three zoom lenses – that meet the needs of every photographic situation. The two fast prime lenses, the Leica Summicron-TL 23 mm f/2 ASPH. and the Summilux-TL 35 mm f/1.4 ASPH., are classic focal lengths for reportage photography, and the APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60 mm f/2.8 ASPH. complements them ideally as a lens for finely detailed close-up photography and portraits. The three compact zoom lenses, the Leica Super-Vario-Elmar-TL 11–23 mm f/3.5–4.5 ASPH., Vario-Elmar-TL 18–56 mm f/3.5–5.6 ASPH. and APO-Vario-Elmar-TL 55–135 mm f/3.5–4.5 ASPH. cover an entire range of focal lengths equivalent to 17 to 200 mm (equiv. in 35 mm format) and deliver exposures with rich contrast and sharpness from corner to corner of each frame.
Developed by optical design specialists in Wetzlar, Germany, all Leica TL-Lenses offer the exceptional imaging performance and iconic “Leica look” for which Leica lenses are famed. The combination of optical and precision engineering and use of the finest materials in their construction ensures their constant quality and reliability in use.
Sustainability guaranteed by cross-system compatibility
A major nuance and advantage of the TL2 – and a demonstration of Leica’s fundamental principles of cross-system compatibility and sustainability – is its compatibility across the Leica lens portfolio. The camera features an L-Bayonet mount, which allows it to fit seamlessly with all TL and SL lenses without an adapter. Should users choose to use lenses within the M or R systems, Leica has also created new adapters that make this possible, as well. This opens up the camera to an exciting range of lenses across Leica’s product portfolio – a veritable playground of lenses available to the user.