Leica X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver)

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

Great camera. Beautiful to hold. Haven't used it yet get back to you soon.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I used to be a landscape photographer(amateur). However I found my four-year-old DSLR too heavy and sometimes awkward to pick up and snap a shot. Thus I bought this Leica X2 and found it great for street photography, also I am going to try it with landscape later when I had a chance to go to Yosemite.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

Truly amazing! I've had a Canon 50D for a few years but eventually it became to big to bring around, so when amazing things happened I had to pull out my iphone and take pictures. I then bought the Fuji X100. nice camera overall but it is still a bit too big to fit in a jacket pocket and i don't like the "blur filter" effect produced by the lens. I then switched to the X2, super sharp image. Small enough to bring it with me all the time. I've heard 2 major criticism about the camera and i hesitated before buying it, but here are my feedbacks after using it for a few weeks. 1. people complain about not having a viewfinder. I can live with not having it but i also love using viewfinders so i bought a 35mm brightline viewfinder and it works great, i also like the ability to not install it so i look like a silly tourist and no one pays attention to me taking photos of them. 2. people complain about the low res screen. After shooting on the x2 and you pull out your iphone to check something, your iphone screen does look like a heavenly gift by contrast; but you do get used to it, it's not that big of a deal afterall! image quality is the key to a camera and the x2 does it so well that I'll never bring out my 50D with a 24mm lens anymore!

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I did not buy this product from B&H but I will write the review here. First of all the design is excellent. A piece of art to watch for hours.
As far as the photographic performance is concerned, the color loyalty to the true situation is excellent too. Sharpness is wonderful. In B&W photography the detail range is wonderful. Out of camera JPEG quality is formidable.

And then you may ask me than what my problem is ? Here it is:

1) First of all the auto focus is doing a lot of mistakes in the low light, and sometimes it doesn't even lock into the target no matter what you do.
2) Although it is said that this camera cannot focus to the distances closer than 30 cm, if you are in the low light this can go further away as long a few meters.
3) ISO performance is horrible after 800 level. In 1600 level you start seeing real hard grain.

4) For this kind of performance the price is too high. This is a camera which should be used under ideal or "close to ideal" light conditions only.

5) Another thing that really got on my nerves is that, the LIVE VIEW is NOT a real live view that we are used from other cameras. What I mean is this: First of all, what you see from the back lcd screen never changes dynamically; the only way to see what your picture is gonna look like is to HALF PRESS the shutter release button but even that shows only for 1 or 2 seconds and even if you keep pressing that button it doesn't continue to show the real situation to you. So live view is almost useless. So if you will buy this camera just because you fell in love iwth its heart tocuhing artistic design (just like me!) then buy the original Leica EVF too. Otherwise DON'T! If you are going to buy it without an eVF like me, consider it like an old school film camera which you will never see what you got until you bring to the shot to he screen with the PLAY button. Actually that's how I was using it. But it is not practical of course.

6) The image stabilization system doesn't help but may even be causing problems for the image quality. So DON'T USE IT!

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

I recieved this camera two weeks ago. Im so impressive.Really strong assembly, light and make great quality images.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

This made handmade (in Germany) Leica is like a mini M. It handles like a Lieca and, of course, produces images with that signature look and feel. I am very impressed. I was not sure at first that I had made the right decision, but I'm more than convinced after seeing the images. The lens/sensor combination on this camera is worth the purchase price alone. And, that is what you're paying for (along with the Leica red dot). Can you get capable cameras for less than this, yes, but you're not getting a Leica. This camera is very light (compared with the M but somewhat heavy for a compact) and well made. It travels very easily and is especially discreet. I use it on assignment for reportage and the results are always stunning with very, very little PP needed. I use it with the optical viewfinder (which is also of Leica quality). Some may prefer the live view EVF, but I like the optical feel of the OVF which reminds me of using my rangefiner. Especially fine when zone focusing. If you use the AF you will need to train yourself a little to get this spot on... but it's doable with some practice. There is a little green light strategically placed at the top of the camera near the OVF so that you can see when focus is loced. Using single point central focus, you nail it quite quickly. Much like a rangefinder. This is a no-nonsense camera. Unlike many cameras today that feel as though they were designed by computer guys, this camera was designed by a photographer. There is no zoom, no movie mode and no scene modes. No submenus and sub-sub-menus. This camera will not be for the average consumer who wants more from a camera than simply good still photographs. Also, sound knowledge in photography (like the exposure triangle) would allow someone to get the most from the X2 experience. Out of camera jpegs are superiour to most all compact cameras but raw (DNG format) is even better. And, Lightroom 4 is included for processing. I also recommend the leather half-case as a good option. A screen protector is also needed, the Giottos 2.7" optical german glass is a good choice. Don't buy this camera and then stick some cheap plastic on the back of it. Go the full mile, you'll be glad you did.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

I use the Leica for street photography. What I like about the camera is the easy to use menue, I can set and save my personal camera settings which I can access quickly, and I like the aperture and shutter speed dials on top of the camera for quick changes. Excellent color photos, and impressive black and white which I shoot frequently. I rarely need the flash as the camera shoots well in low light. I have yet to charge the battery since purchasing the Leica three weeks ago. I also bought the camera wrist strap which I like, and the camera case. The camera fits nicely in the hand, and can be covert when needed. It would be nice if the lens cap were attached, but that is a minor thing. Someday I will purchase the Leica M, but for now I am pleased with the X2.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

Converted from DSLR system to X2 looking for lighter and easier to carry since my 3 kids won't help carrying the heavy camera bag. Very easy and quick enough to take snaps and the picture is always good quality. High ISO grain is even film-like. Fixed 35mm focal length is nothing one can complain about. I would add a EVF for under bright sunlight and a flash for indoor very soon. Go for it, daddy!

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I have been using an X1 since May 2010. I have enjoyed using this camera despite the well known faults (slow auto focus being foremost). I was on the verge of buying the X2 when I read of the new Sony RX1 full-frame camera being available toward the end of this year. The RX1 seems like it will be a terrific tool.However, I decided to go ahead with the X2 anyway. The main reason is I am very familiar with the simple and basic menus of the X1 and read that the menus of the X2 are almost identical. Also, the Sony will be about [$] more than the X2 and I didn't think the step up to a full frame sensor was all that important at this time (since the X2 has at least an APS-C sensor and not the miniature 4/3 sensor).I also splurged and bought the Leica electronic viewfinder (I did this not so much for the X2, but in anticipation of buying the new Leica "M" next year). An electronic view finder for the RX1 will be about the same price as the Leica electronic view finder (and thus a wash if price is a consideration) and I won't be able to use this on the new Leica "M".All that being said, I've been using the new X2 a lot over the past two weeks. The images are superb! I think a little more crisp and detailed than my X1. Also, the colors are better, particularly when using the auto white balance. With the X1 everything tended to be on the cool side. X2 RAW images need very little tweaking in Photoshop while with the X1 I always needed to adjust white balance.Finally, using the electronic viewfinder on the X2 adds an extra dimension of flexibility to the camera that is missing from the X1. Not having the electronic view finder would not be a deal killer in my opinion. However, it's nice to have and use.The X1 and now the X2 have been excellent travel companions. The X2 is very light weight (but a taste bit heavier and frankly more solid feeling than the X1) and compact. It fits in my brief case or the center storage compartment of my F150 without any problems.I have not taken enough pictures with the X2 to comment on battery life. However, I will say having the top dials with more resistance has been a nice bonus.My only complaint with the X2 (and the X1 as well) is that they ship with only a lens cap up front. That makes it mandatory to remember to remove the lens cap, otherwise you can damage the camera when turning it on. As a result of this design failure by Leica, I have bought for my X1 and now X2 the simple and fairly inexpensive replacement front piece for these cameras that features three little doors that spring open when the camera is turned on and spring closed when the camera is turned off. Well worth the [$].If the price does not scare one off and interchangeable lenses is not a requirement, the X2 with it's built in Leica lens (and the quality that Leica glass has) will reward you with excellent images for years to come.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I have the Canon 5d Mark II, Fuji X100. Fuji X-Pro & Leica M9. For the size the Leica X2 camera is incredible. Only the M9 takes cleaner shots. The size is perfect for Street Photos. THe Fuji's are good but this camera has much better saturation and detail. After two days of use, I think most of my gear will collect dust. Posted some shots so you can see how it performs. Hats off to BH Photo they excellent to deal with !

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I have been working with Canon's 1D systems for years and wanted a small walk around camera with horsepower. I went with the X2. I know there are many people thinking I could have purchased Nikon or fuji for less $$$ and get large files with more camera bells and whistles.I played with them all and found the X2's simple functionality and spot on quality images right out the camera the key for me. The lens is sharp and images have great contrast and accurate color. I almost feel like I'm shooting a film camera. There is no doubt the X2 is a strong well built camera, Except.....The plastic latch that holds the battery in place popped off when I opened the battery/card door. The latch shot out of the camera like a Jack in the box. You don't expect this from Leica. Thankfully, B&H made an easy exchange for a new camera. I take this camera everywhere now.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

I use it to take pics for kids daily life. It is convenient. imagine is very sharp. Camera is easy to operate, straightforward!

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

Great to shoot in auto mode when you are running about, but enough manual control to set up a shot.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

Very like camera

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I have owned an X1, a Fuji X100, a Sony Nex-7... this camera is in a league of it's own. The only camera that compared, was the X1, but the X2 is even crisper and faster. The biggest reason to buy an X1 or X2 is their incredible low light ability. You can shoot hand held pics of cities at night, without grain. This camera is the perfect travel cam! I would highly recommend it. Nothing compares for low-light photography... not even my Canon 7D! For its sensor size, nothing is lighter or smaller. Great camera. i even owned a Leica M9 and its low-light ability was horrible. The X1 and X2 are the best low-light cameras hands down. If you travel quite a bit (like me), a camera's ability to shoot in low-light is essential.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

The X2 is a good camera, but not perfect. The build quality is obvious and it feels good and solid in the hand. The operation is straightforward and quite simple. Leica's approach to keeping things simple is obvious with navigation through menus and changing of camera settings quite easy. I especially like the mechanical dials on top of the camera for adjusting shutter speed and aperture, as I tend to shoot manually. This was one of the aspects I was looking for in a point and shoot camera. I feel that most cameras have too much and can be too completed in use. Auto focusing is fairly quick and the ability to change the focus points uncomplicated. The approach to manual focus is also very simple, and I quite like it. However, this is where Leica should have improved the camera over the X1 with a better display as this would make focusing manually much easier. Especially, this is impossible if one requires reading glasses, which makes manual focusing pretty much impossible if you don't have your glasses. Hence, the need for the EVF viewfinder, or auto focus. I find the image quality good, but with obvious noise at higher ISO settings. Yes, this camera is expensive and no doubt you are paying for the Leica brand name, but also you're getting a well-built product. I was looking for a compact camera to have with me all the time, and I felt the X2 was what I was looking for in a point and shoot.As for improvements, a higher quality display and a built-in viewfinder would be considerable improvements.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

German quality has proven to be everything I ever heard it is, and then some.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I broke my wrist right after receiving my Nikon D800. So, spent time reading. Fell in love with the M9P, but couldn't quite justify the cost. Had a pocket film Leica in the early '90s that was spectacularly good for size. I had to get the grip accessory, and now love the X2. Sharp, flexible, simple manual controls.I got the EVF, but surprisingly don't use it much. I have had a half dozen mini Canon's and a Sony or two. This is just different, it makes me feel like I have a camera with some soul... instead if the next in the long line of 6 month evolutions. I think this is of sufficient resolution that nothing to come soon is likely to best it sufficiently as to need to upgrade for a very long time. If your a "spec-man", this may not be your camera, but if get what I said above, this is a great choice.

Great for street photography, backup, travel. The button functions are not specacularly intuitive, but you had better not be buying this for only a few months until your next generation of sensors. That would be the wrong reason to buy.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

Use this product mainly for street and portraits. The images obtained are crisp and has great colors. Handling is very simple, straightforward and fun.

The autofocus is kinda slow but the manual focus is pretty good. If you dont mind the high price point its a good buy. The camera feels good during use.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

As a high quality camera for the days when I don't feel like hauling a DSLR around, the X2 cannot be beat.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

Great camera. Beautiful to hold. Haven't used it yet get back to you soon.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I used to be a landscape photographer(amateur). However I found my four-year-old DSLR too heavy and sometimes awkward to pick up and snap a shot. Thus I bought this Leica X2 and found it great for street photography, also I am going to try it with landscape later when I had a chance to go to Yosemite.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

Truly amazing! I've had a Canon 50D for a few years but eventually it became to big to bring around, so when amazing things happened I had to pull out my iphone and take pictures. I then bought the Fuji X100. nice camera overall but it is still a bit too big to fit in a jacket pocket and i don't like the "blur filter" effect produced by the lens. I then switched to the X2, super sharp image. Small enough to bring it with me all the time. I've heard 2 major criticism about the camera and i hesitated before buying it, but here are my feedbacks after using it for a few weeks. 1. people complain about not having a viewfinder. I can live with not having it but i also love using viewfinders so i bought a 35mm brightline viewfinder and it works great, i also like the ability to not install it so i look like a silly tourist and no one pays attention to me taking photos of them. 2. people complain about the low res screen. After shooting on the x2 and you pull out your iphone to check something, your iphone screen does look like a heavenly gift by contrast; but you do get used to it, it's not that big of a deal afterall! image quality is the key to a camera and the x2 does it so well that I'll never bring out my 50D with a 24mm lens anymore!

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I did not buy this product from B&H but I will write the review here. First of all the design is excellent. A piece of art to watch for hours.
As far as the photographic performance is concerned, the color loyalty to the true situation is excellent too. Sharpness is wonderful. In B&W photography the detail range is wonderful. Out of camera JPEG quality is formidable.

And then you may ask me than what my problem is ? Here it is:

1) First of all the auto focus is doing a lot of mistakes in the low light, and sometimes it doesn't even lock into the target no matter what you do.
2) Although it is said that this camera cannot focus to the distances closer than 30 cm, if you are in the low light this can go further away as long a few meters.
3) ISO performance is horrible after 800 level. In 1600 level you start seeing real hard grain.

4) For this kind of performance the price is too high. This is a camera which should be used under ideal or "close to ideal" light conditions only.

5) Another thing that really got on my nerves is that, the LIVE VIEW is NOT a real live view that we are used from other cameras. What I mean is this: First of all, what you see from the back lcd screen never changes dynamically; the only way to see what your picture is gonna look like is to HALF PRESS the shutter release button but even that shows only for 1 or 2 seconds and even if you keep pressing that button it doesn't continue to show the real situation to you. So live view is almost useless. So if you will buy this camera just because you fell in love iwth its heart tocuhing artistic design (just like me!) then buy the original Leica EVF too. Otherwise DON'T! If you are going to buy it without an eVF like me, consider it like an old school film camera which you will never see what you got until you bring to the shot to he screen with the PLAY button. Actually that's how I was using it. But it is not practical of course.

6) The image stabilization system doesn't help but may even be causing problems for the image quality. So DON'T USE IT!

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

I recieved this camera two weeks ago. Im so impressive.Really strong assembly, light and make great quality images.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

This made handmade (in Germany) Leica is like a mini M. It handles like a Lieca and, of course, produces images with that signature look and feel. I am very impressed. I was not sure at first that I had made the right decision, but I'm more than convinced after seeing the images. The lens/sensor combination on this camera is worth the purchase price alone. And, that is what you're paying for (along with the Leica red dot). Can you get capable cameras for less than this, yes, but you're not getting a Leica. This camera is very light (compared with the M but somewhat heavy for a compact) and well made. It travels very easily and is especially discreet. I use it on assignment for reportage and the results are always stunning with very, very little PP needed. I use it with the optical viewfinder (which is also of Leica quality). Some may prefer the live view EVF, but I like the optical feel of the OVF which reminds me of using my rangefiner. Especially fine when zone focusing. If you use the AF you will need to train yourself a little to get this spot on... but it's doable with some practice. There is a little green light strategically placed at the top of the camera near the OVF so that you can see when focus is loced. Using single point central focus, you nail it quite quickly. Much like a rangefinder. This is a no-nonsense camera. Unlike many cameras today that feel as though they were designed by computer guys, this camera was designed by a photographer. There is no zoom, no movie mode and no scene modes. No submenus and sub-sub-menus. This camera will not be for the average consumer who wants more from a camera than simply good still photographs. Also, sound knowledge in photography (like the exposure triangle) would allow someone to get the most from the X2 experience. Out of camera jpegs are superiour to most all compact cameras but raw (DNG format) is even better. And, Lightroom 4 is included for processing. I also recommend the leather half-case as a good option. A screen protector is also needed, the Giottos 2.7" optical german glass is a good choice. Don't buy this camera and then stick some cheap plastic on the back of it. Go the full mile, you'll be glad you did.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

I use the Leica for street photography. What I like about the camera is the easy to use menue, I can set and save my personal camera settings which I can access quickly, and I like the aperture and shutter speed dials on top of the camera for quick changes. Excellent color photos, and impressive black and white which I shoot frequently. I rarely need the flash as the camera shoots well in low light. I have yet to charge the battery since purchasing the Leica three weeks ago. I also bought the camera wrist strap which I like, and the camera case. The camera fits nicely in the hand, and can be covert when needed. It would be nice if the lens cap were attached, but that is a minor thing. Someday I will purchase the Leica M, but for now I am pleased with the X2.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

Converted from DSLR system to X2 looking for lighter and easier to carry since my 3 kids won't help carrying the heavy camera bag. Very easy and quick enough to take snaps and the picture is always good quality. High ISO grain is even film-like. Fixed 35mm focal length is nothing one can complain about. I would add a EVF for under bright sunlight and a flash for indoor very soon. Go for it, daddy!

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I have been using an X1 since May 2010. I have enjoyed using this camera despite the well known faults (slow auto focus being foremost). I was on the verge of buying the X2 when I read of the new Sony RX1 full-frame camera being available toward the end of this year. The RX1 seems like it will be a terrific tool.However, I decided to go ahead with the X2 anyway. The main reason is I am very familiar with the simple and basic menus of the X1 and read that the menus of the X2 are almost identical. Also, the Sony will be about [$] more than the X2 and I didn't think the step up to a full frame sensor was all that important at this time (since the X2 has at least an APS-C sensor and not the miniature 4/3 sensor).I also splurged and bought the Leica electronic viewfinder (I did this not so much for the X2, but in anticipation of buying the new Leica "M" next year). An electronic view finder for the RX1 will be about the same price as the Leica electronic view finder (and thus a wash if price is a consideration) and I won't be able to use this on the new Leica "M".All that being said, I've been using the new X2 a lot over the past two weeks. The images are superb! I think a little more crisp and detailed than my X1. Also, the colors are better, particularly when using the auto white balance. With the X1 everything tended to be on the cool side. X2 RAW images need very little tweaking in Photoshop while with the X1 I always needed to adjust white balance.Finally, using the electronic viewfinder on the X2 adds an extra dimension of flexibility to the camera that is missing from the X1. Not having the electronic view finder would not be a deal killer in my opinion. However, it's nice to have and use.The X1 and now the X2 have been excellent travel companions. The X2 is very light weight (but a taste bit heavier and frankly more solid feeling than the X1) and compact. It fits in my brief case or the center storage compartment of my F150 without any problems.I have not taken enough pictures with the X2 to comment on battery life. However, I will say having the top dials with more resistance has been a nice bonus.My only complaint with the X2 (and the X1 as well) is that they ship with only a lens cap up front. That makes it mandatory to remember to remove the lens cap, otherwise you can damage the camera when turning it on. As a result of this design failure by Leica, I have bought for my X1 and now X2 the simple and fairly inexpensive replacement front piece for these cameras that features three little doors that spring open when the camera is turned on and spring closed when the camera is turned off. Well worth the [$].If the price does not scare one off and interchangeable lenses is not a requirement, the X2 with it's built in Leica lens (and the quality that Leica glass has) will reward you with excellent images for years to come.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I have the Canon 5d Mark II, Fuji X100. Fuji X-Pro & Leica M9. For the size the Leica X2 camera is incredible. Only the M9 takes cleaner shots. The size is perfect for Street Photos. THe Fuji's are good but this camera has much better saturation and detail. After two days of use, I think most of my gear will collect dust. Posted some shots so you can see how it performs. Hats off to BH Photo they excellent to deal with !

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I have been working with Canon's 1D systems for years and wanted a small walk around camera with horsepower. I went with the X2. I know there are many people thinking I could have purchased Nikon or fuji for less $$$ and get large files with more camera bells and whistles.I played with them all and found the X2's simple functionality and spot on quality images right out the camera the key for me. The lens is sharp and images have great contrast and accurate color. I almost feel like I'm shooting a film camera. There is no doubt the X2 is a strong well built camera, Except.....The plastic latch that holds the battery in place popped off when I opened the battery/card door. The latch shot out of the camera like a Jack in the box. You don't expect this from Leica. Thankfully, B&H made an easy exchange for a new camera. I take this camera everywhere now.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

I use it to take pics for kids daily life. It is convenient. imagine is very sharp. Camera is easy to operate, straightforward!

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

Great to shoot in auto mode when you are running about, but enough manual control to set up a shot.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

Very like camera

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I have owned an X1, a Fuji X100, a Sony Nex-7... this camera is in a league of it's own. The only camera that compared, was the X1, but the X2 is even crisper and faster. The biggest reason to buy an X1 or X2 is their incredible low light ability. You can shoot hand held pics of cities at night, without grain. This camera is the perfect travel cam! I would highly recommend it. Nothing compares for low-light photography... not even my Canon 7D! For its sensor size, nothing is lighter or smaller. Great camera. i even owned a Leica M9 and its low-light ability was horrible. The X1 and X2 are the best low-light cameras hands down. If you travel quite a bit (like me), a camera's ability to shoot in low-light is essential.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

The X2 is a good camera, but not perfect. The build quality is obvious and it feels good and solid in the hand. The operation is straightforward and quite simple. Leica's approach to keeping things simple is obvious with navigation through menus and changing of camera settings quite easy. I especially like the mechanical dials on top of the camera for adjusting shutter speed and aperture, as I tend to shoot manually. This was one of the aspects I was looking for in a point and shoot camera. I feel that most cameras have too much and can be too completed in use. Auto focusing is fairly quick and the ability to change the focus points uncomplicated. The approach to manual focus is also very simple, and I quite like it. However, this is where Leica should have improved the camera over the X1 with a better display as this would make focusing manually much easier. Especially, this is impossible if one requires reading glasses, which makes manual focusing pretty much impossible if you don't have your glasses. Hence, the need for the EVF viewfinder, or auto focus. I find the image quality good, but with obvious noise at higher ISO settings. Yes, this camera is expensive and no doubt you are paying for the Leica brand name, but also you're getting a well-built product. I was looking for a compact camera to have with me all the time, and I felt the X2 was what I was looking for in a point and shoot.As for improvements, a higher quality display and a built-in viewfinder would be considerable improvements.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

German quality has proven to be everything I ever heard it is, and then some.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

I broke my wrist right after receiving my Nikon D800. So, spent time reading. Fell in love with the M9P, but couldn't quite justify the cost. Had a pocket film Leica in the early '90s that was spectacularly good for size. I had to get the grip accessory, and now love the X2. Sharp, flexible, simple manual controls.I got the EVF, but surprisingly don't use it much. I have had a half dozen mini Canon's and a Sony or two. This is just different, it makes me feel like I have a camera with some soul... instead if the next in the long line of 6 month evolutions. I think this is of sufficient resolution that nothing to come soon is likely to best it sufficiently as to need to upgrade for a very long time. If your a "spec-man", this may not be your camera, but if get what I said above, this is a great choice.

Great for street photography, backup, travel. The button functions are not specacularly intuitive, but you had better not be buying this for only a few months until your next generation of sensors. That would be the wrong reason to buy.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Silver):

Use this product mainly for street and portraits. The images obtained are crisp and has great colors. Handling is very simple, straightforward and fun.

The autofocus is kinda slow but the manual focus is pretty good. If you dont mind the high price point its a good buy. The camera feels good during use.

Comments about X2 Digital Compact Camera With Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens (Black):

As a high quality camera for the days when I don't feel like hauling a DSLR around, the X2 cannot be beat.