X100V or Leica Q

“Well, it offers a superior lens and a FF sensor. The choice regards focal and size. For IQ Leica wins.”

Theoretically a FF sensor should best an aps-c one in specifically dynamic range, high iso, and shallow depth of field. However the Q’s sensor is a couple of gens behind the V’s.

Testing I’ve seen shows them to be about equal in high iso with a slight DR advantage to the Q. My experience with both cameras reflects that.

The lens on the Q is better. No doubt about it. It gives certain shots from the Q a ‘pop’ that the V could never achieve.

The Q’s autofocus is very good considering it’s only contrast detect. However the V’s autofocus has finally become a strength of the x100 camera line. Finally.

The manual focus on the Q and the built in macro extension tube are absolutely wonders of engineering. Almost worth the price of admission just for this. But the V counters with the magic ovf/evf switcheroo which is a pretty impressive party trick, too.

The shell/coating of the Q is soft as butter. With any kind of real world use your $2500 (used) Leica is going to quickly look like a battle scarred veteran. Same with the V, but the psychological aspect is not nearly as profound.

Both are joyful machines, a blast to use, and make one just want to go take pictures. Or just pick them up and play with them.

The V is 100% grab and go. The Q is bulky and awkward. Going to a bar? Concert? Restaurant? Birthday party? Wedding? Beach? Walking the dog? You will feel much more comfortable taking the V.

28 vs 35 is a wash. Sometimes one is better, sometimes the other, but both are pretty versatile. The Qs 35 crop mode is pretty damn useful, but not as good a conversion solution as the V’s wcl which is small and easy to carry and use.

so bottom line the V gets you 90+% of the iq of the Q in a much more grabable and unobtrusive package. I miss the Q I sold and have some great memories and images to show for my time with it. But the V is much more likely to see action in my life.

My colleague has a gorgeous porsche. i park my wrangler next to it every day. I would never trade him.

The Q is a super model (albeit a smart one like Paulina or Gisele). The V is the girl (guy) next door.