Leica X Vario (2013)
A digital compact camera combining an APS-C sensor with a built-in zoom lens, announced in 2013.
Overview
The Leica X Vario is a digital large sensor compact camera, officially announced on June 11, 2013. It holds the distinction of being the world's first compact camera to combine a large APS-C format CMOS image sensor with a built-in zoom lens. Marketed as the Leica X Vario (Typ 107), it features a fixed Leica Vario-Elmar 18–46mm f/3.5–6.4 ASPH. lens, equivalent to 28–70mm in 35mm format. The camera has a compact size and a construction that includes metal and leather, with an aluminum top plate. It lacks a built-in electronic viewfinder. The model was discontinued as of 2016, with black and silver variants available at launch.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Leica Camera |
| Product type | Compact camera |
| Sensor | CMOS |
| Sensor size | APS-C (23.6 x 15.8 mm) |
| Effective pixels | 16.1 megapixels |
| Sensor photo detectors | 17 megapixels |
| Lens | Leica Vario-Elmar 18-46 mm f/3.5-6.4 ASPH. |
| Lens equivalent | 28-70mm (35mm format) |
| Image resolution | 4928 x 3272 |
| Display | 3 inches with 920,000 dots |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 133 x 73 x 95 mm |
| Weight | 679 g (including battery) |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 450 shots |
| Construction | Metal and leather, aluminum top plate |
| Order numbers | 18 430 (black), 18 431 (silver) |
| Original price | $2,849 |
| Status | Discontinued |
Design
The Leica X Vario integrates an APS-C CMOS sensor into a compact body with a fixed zoom lens, a first for its class at launch. It uses a metal construction with an aluminum top plate and leather covering, contributing to its solid feel. The camera does not include a built-in electronic viewfinder.
Context
Announced on June 11, 2013, the Leica X Vario was positioned as a high-end compact with a unique combination of a large sensor and zoom lens. It had a controversial reception due to its high retail price and was later described as an underappreciated model that continued to confound critics. The camera was discontinued by 2016.
Market
The Leica X Vario launched with a recommended retail price of $2,849. It was marketed as a premium compact and, despite initial criticism over its pricing, gained recognition as a capable and under-loved model in the used market.
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