Leica Q2vs A7S
GearScore™ Verdict — Which should you buy?
Street, Travel, Documentary — Leica Q2 (2019): The most capable fixed-lens full-frame camera at its launch. Leica quality without compromise.
Astrophotography & Low-Light — A7S (2014): The original A7S pioneered the concept of a camera optimised entirely for low light. Its 12.2MP sensor has enormous photosites — extraordinary high-ISO performance that still holds up. Lacking IBIS and limited to 1080p internally (4K requires external recorder), it is a specialist tool. For astrophotography, event videography, or any scenario where light is genuinely scarce, it remains outstanding.
Who should buy what
Leica Q2 (2019)
- Street and travel photographers who want full-frame quality in a compact form
- Photographers who prefer one lens and no system complexity
A7S (2014)
- Astrophotographers
- Low-light event videographers
- Filmmakers needing clean high-ISO footage
Quick take: The leica q2 has the highest resolution at 47mp; the a7s is the most affordable. Scroll down for the full spec breakdown.
Full specifications
| Specification | Leica Q2 (2019) | A7S (2014) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £3,750 | £600 |
| Sensor | Full-frame CMOS 35mm | 12.2MP Full-Frame BSI CMOS |
| Resolution | 47.3MP | 12.2MP |
| Video | 4K 30fps, 1080p 120fps | 1080p/60p internal, 4K via HDMI (external recorder) |
| Autofocus | Contrast-detect AF with manual override | Phase-detect / contrast-detect hybrid AF |
| Stabilisation | Optical IS | None |
| Burst Rate | 10fps | 5fps |
| Battery Life | 340 shots (CIPA) | ~370 shots (CIPA) |
| Weight | 718g | 474g (with battery and card) |
| Dimensions | 130.0 × 80.0 × 91.0mm | 126.9 × 94.4 × 48.2mm |
| Weather Sealed | Yes | Yes |
| Viewfinder | EVF 0.79× 3.68M-dot | Electronic, 2.36M dots, 0.71× magnification |
| Screen | 3.0" fixed touchscreen, 1.04M-dot | 3.0" tilting LCD, 1.23M dots |
| Mount | Fixed 28mm f/1.7 Summilux-C ASPH | Sony FE (full-frame E-mount) |
| Memory Cards | Single SD UHS-II | Single SD / MemoryStick PRO Duo slot |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C, HDMI | Multi/Micro USB, Wi-Fi, NFC |
Suitability by genre
| Genre | Leica Q2 | A7S |
|---|---|---|
| Street | ||
| Travel | ||
| Landscape | ||
| Portrait | ||
| Casual | — | |
| Architecture | — | |
| Astrophotography | — | |
| Vlogging & Video | — | |
| Sports & Action | — |
GearScore™ suitability scores are based on aggregated purchaser reviews weighted by photography genre. See how scores are calculated →
More comparisons with Leica Q2
Camera family history