Leica takes on Fujifilm with the compact D-Lux 8

With small and stylish compact cameras like Fujifilm’s X100 VI all the rage for influencers, Leica has decided to jump back into the game. The German brand just unveiled the $1,595 D-Lux 8, a followup to the D-Lux 7 released way back in 2018. While substantially restyled compared to the last model, it carries the same 17-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor and 24-75mm (35mm equivalent) f/1.7-2.8 lens as before.

The original was effectively a rebadge of Panasonic’s LX100 II, but it’s not clear if the D-Lux 8 is using exactly the same sensor or an updated version. Other features, like video, autofocus and more have yet to be revealed.

From the images released, we can see some substantial differences from the previous model. It has an all-black finish and leather-style wrap, much like Leica’s full-frame Q3 compact. The interface has also been simplified, with only a “play,” “menu” and d-pad type control on the rear, along with two unlabeled buttons. On top, there’s a power switch in place of the “4K” button. All of this is inspired by the Q lineup, the company said.

The new camera supports RAW file capture, which is a first for the D-lux lineup. Leica also unveiled new accessories including carrying straps, leather protectors, a flash and a hand grip. It also showed off a new app, without saying exactly what it does.

It would be a bit disappointing if the D-Lux 8 is just a spruced up version of the D-Lux 7, launched to take advantage of compact camera craze created by Fujifilm’s X100 series. The old model was a solid camera for its time, but offers contrast-detect instead of phase-detect autofocus, along with tame photo and video specs by today’s standards.

It certainly does look good, though, and that’s been a key element in the compact camera renaissance —and the accessories may also tempt style-conscious shooters. For those attracted to the Leica’s storied history and that iconic red dot, $1,595 is as low a price as you’ll ever see for a new camera from the brand.