Leica reveals the V-Lux 4 and D-Lux 6 [Video]

by Tim Gee, Bridge cameras at Photokina 2012 20/09/2012

What is the V-Lux 4?

The V-Lux 4 is a super-zoom bridge camera aimed at hobbyists wanting to capture sports, travel and wildlife. The V-Lux 4 has a 24X zoom with a large focal length of 24-600mm and aperture of f/2.8.

It has a 12.1Mp CMOS sensor, an ISO range of 100-6,400 and can take 12 photos a second at full resolution. It can also record video in full HD resolution.

What is the D-Lux 6?

The D-Lux 6 is a compact digital camera with a large (for a compact) sensor measuring 1.7-inches which provides 10.1 effective megapixels. It has a 3.8X optical zoom with a focal length of 24-90mm.

It has an ISO range of 80-6,400 and can record video in full HD resolution.

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Tim’s impressions of the Leica V-Lux 4 and D-Lux 6

The V-Lux 4 has some fairly impressive specs for a super-zoom bridge camera, where it falls down is the price. Like all Leicas, the V-Lux 4 costs twice as much as another brand’s camera with similar features – costing a hefty £690.

Leica argue that this price includes access to their studios and training courses so they still offer value – although I would be surprised if the majority of users made full use of these services.

The V-Lux 4 also doesn’t feel as premium as some other Leica models and the electronic viewfinder in particular didn’t seem up to the quality you might expect.

The D-Lux 6 on the other hand does feel very nicely made and really gives off the impression of a premium product – although it still costs £600 and doesn’t have the specs of the V-Lux 4.

Ultimately, it is very expensive for a compact camera without any spectacular features – but you do get access to Leica’s services as well as getting a luxury branded product.

When can I buy them?

Both will go on sale in November 2012 with the V-Lux 4 costing £690 and the D-Lux 6 available for £600.

Do you think its worth paying a premium for the Leica brand and services? Would you rather buy a higher spec camera for the same money or pocket the saving by going for an equivalent model? Let us know in the comments below.