Leica launches 24-million-pixel SL2-S

Leica has announced the SL2-S, a 24MP full-frame mirrorless camera that’s based on its existing 47MP SL2 and designed to provide pro-level video features. As such, it’s capable of 10-bit 4K recording with no time limit other than that imposed by the available storage space. It offers both C4K (4096 x 2160)  and UHD (3840 x 2160) resolutions with 4:2:2 colour encoding, along with built-in Leica L-Log and integrated LUT support. The firm is promising additional video features via future firmware updates, including a waveform monitor, automatic Follow Focus, and support for HEVC compression.

The camera isn’t shy of photographic features, though. Its full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor works with the firm’s Maestro-III processor to provide sensitivities up to ISO 100,000. Full-resolution shooting is available at a remarkable 25 frames per second, while its built-in 4GB buffer enables continuous JPEG shooting at 9 fps until you run out of battery power or card space.

In-body image stabilisation helps keep images sharp with any lens, while facilitating a high-resolution multi-shot mode that combines eight exposures to give 96MP images. The SL2-S is also compatible with tethered shooting from a computer using either Capture One 21 or Lightroom Classic.

In terms of design, the SL2-S looks essentially the same as its higher-resolution sibling. It’s a big, chunky SLR-shaped camera with Leica’s signature minimalist controls, a top-plate status screen, and a fixed touchscreen on the back. The robust metal body is weathersealed to the IP54 specification, and weighs in at a hefty 931g without a lens. Thanks to its L mount, the SL2-S can be used with more than 40 native autofocus lenses from Leica, Panasonic and Sigma, and a huge array of further optics via mount adapters. The Leica SL2-S is available now for £3,975 body-only.