Leica’s SL3-P: A $6,690 Camera Offering 44MP Stills and 8K Video Capabilities

Following the debut of the SL3 in 2024 and the speed-optimized SL3-S from last year, the new SL3-P has been unveiled, combining standout features from both models. True to Leica’s tradition with its “P” variants, the SL3-P forgoes the signature red dot badge but compensates with a robust 44-megapixel sensor, a step up from the 24-megapixel SL3-S. While it doesn’t quite reach the 60-megapixel resolution of the original SL3, it matches that model’s impressive 8K video capabilities and introduces a new hybrid autofocus system that promises to surpass both predecessors.

The SL3-P is now available for purchase at $6,690, making it a more affordable option than the original SL3, which launched at $6,995 and has since seen a price hike to $7,485 due to US tariffs. It is also slightly pricier than the SL3-S, which debuted at $5,300 and is currently priced at $5,665. Keep in mind, this price is for the camera body alone, so if you don’t already own L-mount lenses, you’ll need to budget for those as well.

The SL3-P features a full-frame back-side illuminated sensor capable of capturing still images with 14 stops of dynamic range at an impressive 40 frames per second, complete with autofocus and subject tracking. Its new hybrid autofocus system merges contrast detection and depth mapping with 819 phase-detection autofocus points, enhancing subject tracking capabilities. For comparison, the SL3-S had 779 points, while the original SL3 offered just 315. If you’re after higher resolution, the SL3-P includes a Multishot mode that can create stunning 176-megapixel images by combining multiple shots.

While the SL3-S was limited to 6K video, the SL3-P can shoot open-gate 8.1K (8064 x 5376) footage using the full 3:2 sensor at up to 24fps, with 8K capabilities maxing out at 30fps. Lowering the resolution to 5.9K allows for frame rates of up to 60fps, and it can capture 120fps slow-motion footage at either 4K or 1080P.

The SL3-P boasts a full metal body crafted from a blend of magnesium and aluminum, finished with a textured leatherette material and rated IP54 for dust and splash resistance—though it’s best to avoid shooting in the rain. On the back, you’ll find a 5.7 million dot viewfinder and a 3.2-inch LCD display with anti-fingerprint and anti-scratch coatings. The rear screen can tilt up and down but doesn’t flip 180 degrees for selfies. Leica continues with the user-friendly interface from its previous SL3 models, featuring a color-coded menu system—red for photos and yellow for video. Additionally, there’s a 1.28-inch reflective monochrome screen on top that displays essential shooting information like shutter speed and f-stop settings.

Another feature carried over from the SL3-S is support for the Content Authenticity Initiative’s Content Credentials, allowing photographers to safeguard their images by optionally embedding tamper-proof metadata that identifies their intellectual property.