Leica D-Lux (Typ 109) Review
Video
The video capabilities of the D-Lux are quite extensive regarding both the selection of resolution/frame rate and the manual controls available. The only shortcoming is on the audio side, where the recording volume only can be adjusted in four steps. There is no automatic gain control and no provision for an external microphone.
Recording is started by pressing the red button on the back. It is possible to take a still photo during recording.
The key video specifications are as follows:
| Overview of Movie Mode | |
| Video Modes, NTSC Model | 4K, 30/24 fps |
| Video Modes, PAL Model | 4K, 25/24 fps |
| Video Sound | Built-in stereo microphone |
| Manual Video Controls | Shutter speed, aperture, and EV compensation |
| AF During Video | Continuous |
4K recording requires a card with a fast guaranteed minimum write speed, which means a UHS-I class 3 card like this SanDisk Extreme card. Fortunately SD cards continue to drop in price and even fast cards are now reasonably priced.
24 fps recording is only available with 4K recording, and some users will probably miss 24 fps for full HD.
The shake reduction mechanism is audible when recording in a silent environment, more so than the autofocus motor. Shake reduction can of course be turned off.
The video quality is very good in the optical zoom range and good light. When using the digital zoom the image deteriorates visibly as one approaches 150 mm. To get the best sharpness when recording moving objects it is tempting to manually set the shutter speed to a short value like 1/250 s. That comes at the expense of an automatic increase in ISO as determined by the light meter and leads to visible noise unless the scene is well lit. The upper limit for auto ISO cannot be adjusted in movie mode.
The bottom line is that this camera has the best video we have seen from an enthusiast compact camera.
The first sample movie was shot in Full HD (1080p) at 30 fps and in Tv exposure mode with 1/125 s shutter speed. Focal length was 70 mm. YouTube has reduced it to 720p.
The second clip was also shot in full HD (1080p), but at 60 fps in P exposure mode. Most is shot at 75 mm focal length. Towards the end we zoomed in to 150 mm. YouTube may not render the movie at 60 fps. Click the link below the YouTube window to download the unedited, 1080p 60 fps original.
The original 1080P 60 fps movie can be downloaded here.
Verdict on Video
This camera has the best video we have seen from an enthusiast compact camera. We like that manual exposure controls and the continuous autofocus during recording. The auto ISO limit cannot be adjusted, though, and in low light the camera may set the ISO sensitivity all the way up to the maximum with significant loss of image quality as a result.
