Leica APS-C CL release date news, features: Latest compact mirrorless camera arriving this November

Official render of a Leica CL cameraLeica

Leica is adding another special camera in its CL collection. The latest snapper, called the APS-C class CL, impresses with its high-quality image sensors and features that the professional photographers will find helpful. Although, the latest Leica CL camera stands out due to its lighter and more compact mirrorless body.

According to Engadget, the new Leica mirrorless CL camera bears a resemblance to the TL2, which was released earlier this year. However, the APS-C model has the classic Leica camera design unlike the TL2's futuristic appearance. Just like the TL2, the compact CL has the 4K video support, although the latter separates itself from the rest with its 24.2-megapixel mirrorless sensor. The other distinct features of the new CL is the 2.36MP display positioned on the top left portion of the camera and the integrated electronic viewfinder.

The compact Leica CL camera does not necessarily have the best electronic viewfinder. As per The Verge, Leica's other professional 4K camera, Q, has better viewfinder functionalities. Although, the CL improves upon the TL2's viewfinder, which some users find to be a bit problematic due to its detachable design that slides into the camera's mounting top.

The Verge also noted that the new Leica CL features control dials and a small LCD panel on top of the camera, which the other Leica premium snappers do not have. If there are any other similarities with the TL2, those would be the customizable control dials that can be programmed according to the user's preferred control parameter. The Leica CL has a special button on top of the two control dials, which can toggle a secondary function and switch from one control scheme to another.

Regarding the price, the compact CL continues the streak of Leica's more affordable cameras, starting with the TL2's $1,950 price tag. The new CL comes a bit more expensive at $2,795, although it is still way cheaper compared to the latest Leica flagship camera, the M10 rangefinder.

The compact Leica CL mirrorless camera is expected to hit the market by the end of November.