Leica SL (Typ 601) review

The Leica SL (Typ 601) is a seriously powerful camera that's competing head-on with Sony's A7-series mirrorless models.

Leica SL (Typ 601)

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Dynamic range is a measure of the sensor's ability to capture extremes of brightness. Dynamic range is measured in EV (exposure values), and the higher the dynamic range the better the camera will be at holding on to detail in extreme shadow and highlight areas.

Leica SL lab tests

JPEG dynamic range analysis: Disappointingly, the Leica SL falls some way behind the rest, which are pretty close together up to ISO 3200. This is more of a reflection of the Leica's JPEG image processing than the sensor's capabilities.

Leica SL lab tests

Raw dynamic range analysis: The results for raw files are much closer, and here the Leica SL is pretty much the equal of all its rivals. The Sony A7R II's figures are slightly lower, which is likely to be due to its sensor's higher resolution and hence smaller photosites.