Leica’s fresh D-Lux 8 makes it to the trendy point-and-shoot party

Leica has a new $1,595 compact digital camera called the D-Lux 8 – a follow-up to the discontinued D-Lux 7, launched in 2018 for $1,195. There are many similarities between the two despite this price increase: they both house a non-removable Leica 24-75mm zoom lens, contain a 21-megapixel four-thirds CMOS sensor, and have a similar design. But now there’s new software under the hood and changes to the controls – more on that later.

Many of Leica’s flagship products come with premium prices (Exhibit A: the SL3 for $7,000). But with the D-Lux 8, the company continues its line of “budget” point and shoots. The new model comes at a time when sleek, easy-to-use cameras with film-like image quality, like the Fujifilm X100VI and Ricoh GR III, are gaining popularity.

Right now, products like the new Panasonic Lumix S9 are taking direct aim at Fujifilm’s $1,599 X100VI camera, and the new D-Lux 8 seems to be joining the fight now that it’s just as expensive. With its fixed lens and desirable film simulations, the X100V became a TikTok sensation that attracted a lot of attention from beginner and amateur camera users who might also want cool shooters with a vintage look.

At first glance, the D-Lux 8 looks like the 7, but with an all-black finish and the leathery shell of Leica’s expensive Q line of full-frame cameras. Leica is also selling new accessories in multiple colors for the D-Lux 8, including a handle, carrying straps, wrist straps and leather protectors. It comes with a flash in the box, like its predecessor. It also appears to have the same three-inch screen and Panasonic-sourced image sensor and likely supports the same 4K/30p video recording.

Leica says the D-Lux 8 now has a software interface “inspired” by the more expensive Q series. Additionally, DNG (a RAW file) format is now supported – a first for the D-Lux range. But the software change comes with fewer buttons, many of which are no longer labeled, and a simple dial compared to the 7. The mechanical on/off switch is also gone.

Camera makers are seeing the value in building cheaper, easier-to-use cameras, and it looks like D-Lux 8 is Leica’s move into this budget trend (as long as your budget is over $1,000 $). You can get the D-Lux 8 in Leica stores, the Leica website, and authorized resellers starting July 2, and you can also sign up to be notified of availability.