Leica CL

Superb, rock-solid build quality ; Large, clear electronic viewfinder ; Cleverly conceived control setup ; Excellent RAW image quality

No image stabilisation ; No live view during continuous shooting ; Touch-focus conflicts with viewfinder use ; Limited exposure control during video

Like the Leica TL2 before it, the CL relies on contrast detection for autofocus, and the focus point can be set anywhere in the frame. There’s a broad range of AF area selection methods on offer, including two freely positionable modes called Field and...

Compact body with integrated EVF. Touch LCD. 24MP APS-C image sensor. 4K video. Mechanical and electronic shutter options. 9.8fps burst shooting. Wi-Fi.

Some interface quirks. Locked video frame rates. No in-body flash. Expensive.

Rumors have swirled about a digital version of the Leica CL for years, but most have pointed to a compact, full-frame M-mount camera with an EVF rather than an optical one. That's not what we got. Instead the CL is an extension of the company's...

Small size and weight ; Simple handling ; Excellent image quality

Painful price tag ; Screen is fixed ; Touchscreen handling niggles

The CL is a pricey street shooter, but that classic red dot means two things: superb image quality and intuitive handling

The Leica CL produces sharp photos with neutral colors, at least in winter light, has a great viewfinder, good performance and streamlined shooting controls.

Price, of course. But also design decisions, including no grip, no connectors and no way to lock navigation buttons, plus missing capabilities like manual exposure controls for video.

The Leica CL might be forgiven some of its oddities and omissions at a lower price. But if you've been waiting for a Leica mirrorless that looks like a traditional Leica and consider its quirks part of the experience, then go forth and spend.

Small size and weight ; Simple handling ; Excellent image quality

Painful price tag ; Screen is fixed ; Touchscreen handling niggles

The CL is a pricey street shooter, but that classic red dot means two things: superb image quality and intuitive handling