Leica V-Lux Typ 114
Most of you are familiar with bridge cameras – they’re not quite DSLRs but still more superior to point-and-shoots. They’re also more affordable than owning high-end professional shooters that come with a variety of lenses. Our only camera review this month is the one and only Leica V-Lux Typ 114.
A Doppelganger
This camera bears an uncanny resemblance to the Panasonic FZ100 but the lens is Leica’s own – a non-detachable 25-400mm power zoom lens with a maximum f/2.8 aperture. However, there are some cosmetic differences such as the handgrip’s texture, the button layout, and that nice Leica logo. On the back, there’s a 3in LCD monitor and the EVF, while the top plays host to a built-in flash and hot-shoe for external flash.
Looks Familiar
DSLR users should be able to learn how to use this camera quickly, thanks to its familiar look and feel. You can zoom or focus using the zoom ring on the lens barrel. Nifty but I didn’t really use it much since the autofocus is faster for quick shots. For composing, the LCD and EVF are both great in that regard as they both update on-screen images fast whenever you make changes to the visual settings. I do lament the lack of touch-sensitivity though since that feels like a waste of the articulating LCD screen. I suppose any more would make it more expensive than it already is. Buttons are fine, except the few next to the mode dial; Leica should make those stick out more for easier access.
Lux-urious Snapper
I’ve been using the Leica V-Lux for some of my event assignments and it is a solid performer. It’s certainly a feature rich cam as it rocks a large 16x optical zoom and maximum ISO of 25,000. Due to the large 1in 20.1MP sensor, this snapper can produce quality images with great detail and very accurate colours. Software wise, it’s interesting to note that there’s a copy of Adobe Lightroom 5 bundled with this camera; useful since you can capture images in RAW format too. This could be Leica attempting to capture the market of beginners who are just getting into serious photography.
Awarded the PC.com Silver Award
Value: 8/10
Performance: 10/10
Features: 9/10
Design: 9/10
Usability: 9/10
Specs:
Dimensions: 137 x 99 x 131 mm
Weight: 830 g (with battery)
Imaging Processor: DIGIC 6
Resolution: Approx. 20.1 megapixels
Shutter Speed: 60 – 1/4000 sec (mechanical) 1 – 16,000 sec (electronic)
Aperture: f/2.8 (W) – 4.0 (T)
ISO: AUTO, ISO 100 – ISO 25000
Image Stabilisation: Optical and Mechanical
Additional Features: Adobe Photoshop Lightroom (Download), Image Shuttle App for Smart Devices
