If you’re viewing the comments, you’ll see some debate regarding sensor type in this camera. Due to the way Leica reports tech specs it’s very hard to corroborate if there have been any actual changes in the D-Lux 8 vs the D-Lux 7. There is some evidence to suggest the LX100 II used a slightly different sensor, however I’m not sure I agree. Comparing images I took from the LX100 II with those I took for this review, I don’t see much difference. In addition there is lots of debate as to how different Panasonic Live MOS sensor is to a CMOS sensor - some articles reference these as basically the same thing, potentially it could just be marketing speak. Regardless, in terms of real world application, my experience with the LX100 II and D-Lux 8 is that the files are VERY VERY similar - to me I can’t really see a difference. Sorry if you feel offended by this; but I can only report on my experience, that’s what a review is…
I purchased this camera from a gentleman in California who ordered it, forgot he ordered it, and when he received it, didn’t want it. Still in the box. It’s only been a couple of weeks and weather and surgery has kept me from trying it out too much but so far I’m impressed and will definitely keep it. It is not going to replace my M or my Q2, but it will be a high quality camera in my pocket for small adventures.
Be aware that it is not exactly the same sensor. It is a 4/3 sensor with the same resolution, likely kept because the lense was optimized for that. But there is a significant change. The D-Lux 7 has a straight MOS sensor. The D-Lux 8 has a CMOS sensor. That is an improvement in two very important ways. The CMOS sensor produces less noise than a MOS sensor. This has implications for Dynamic Range, and so Image Quality. The CMOS sensor also is more energy efficient. This may provide for longer battery life, and lower heat. You will notice that the D-Lux 7 had a video recording limitation of 30 minutes, while the D-Lux 8 now has unlimited recording. Almost every internal and external part is now different. Including all the buttons and dials, USBC charging, image transfer, card slot, wireless communication, EVF, rear screen, and even the RAW file format produced. Likely the processor too considering the new firmware being run that implements the modern Leica user experience, and Menu system. Even the camera body is new as evidenced by different dimensions, and weight. Also be aware that many of the controls are customizable to many different functions, and operate differently depending on whether you are in video, stills, shooting or review modes. You are not at all limited by the default settings. The User Profiles are very useful in these customizations. So when examined closely although it looks initially much like a D-Lux 7 the changes are deep and broad. The camera is now fulling in alignment with the esthetics, workflow, and ergonomics of the rest of the current Leica camera line. The D-Lux 7 was not, nor was any camera ever sold by Panasonic. The sensor format M4/3, and the lens are really the primary things that actually remain the same. People should really look more closely at these things when doing reviews. Maybe have a more detailed look, and update your review?
@@stevendente9270 comparing the images to the LX100 II images I had on file from when I reviewed it, I really don’t see much difference. As for the video recording time, they killed any point of more than 30 mins by not having a microphone input… I don’t know why anyone would use this as a main video camera as a result. The video quality is actually great, just a shame about the audio, which is OK but not amazing. As for the sensor, everywhere I’ve come across references this as the same sensor. Both are CMOS as far as all my research showed. The LX100 II did too. I’m not sure what information you have, but comparing the images, and from research I did for this review, I can’t corroborate the information you’re sharing… I’d potentially buy the point that there’s an updated chip, but then surely Leica would have made more of a point about it on their own spec sheets? Which they don’t seem to have done. I mean just compare the two launch press releases for the D-Lux 7 and D-Lux 8… EDIT: Just want to reiterate one point, if you look at the July 2nd D-Lux 8 press release, you’ll see them reference the new OLED viewfinder. You get to the sensor and lens and there is no mention of ‘new’. It’s quite cleverly written. Compare the spec sheets on most of the other comparison websites and we see no real changes. So I’m afraid I stand by what I said.
@@stevendente9270 I also think I do cover off quite carefully that there are huge differences in design between the D-Lux 7 and D-Lux 8 and all are for the better. I touch on the customiseability - but saw little point in going in depth on that point as I truly believe that’s not the point of this camera to most of the people that will buy one. Those that can afford this, aren’t in it for full manual control all the time. I really do believe that. I also think this is a much better camera than the LX100 II as a result. But I said as much in this video 🙂
@@HamerReviews still, there IS a difference between a MOS and a CMOS sensor and it should have been mentioned! Since I do a lot of low-light photography, I see there is less noise between my previous DL7 and the 8 now.
@DAVCOHPHO correction on my part - so as far as I can tell the D-Lux 7 and 8 use the same sensor - as for the Lx100 II - different sources report different things some say MOS some CMOS… but honestly I can’t tell you either way. I honestly can’t see much difference in the actual files where I’ve taken images with the LX100 II and the D-Lux 8 🤷♂️
Thanks for your kind words! Hope it arrives soon, I was actually out with my dad yesterday taking some photos with it, and it was a nice reminder of how nice the D-LUX 8 is to use
Thanks for an excellent review. I love my Fuji X-30 and use it all the time. The articulating screen and manual zoom are fantastic and I use the control ring round the lens to set the ISO. I've used power zooms and don't like them but my question is: how does the output of the D-Lux 8 compare to the X-30? Is there much of a difference? How about in low light situations? Is it worth having both?
I have the new Fuji X-T50 and even with the smallest pancake of lenses, and other lenses, having toted it around with me for two weeks while travelling, I absolutely loved the 50, but I sometimes wished for my DL7's lightness and smaller size. I won't be getting rid of either any time soon.
Leica's competition is the X100VI or the Ricoh GR III. (and the now very old RX100 VII from Sony). All those three cameras also cost above 1000€. I am truly surprised by Leica's pricing. Any other camera of theirs is way above the competition. Thanks for telling how fast or slow the zoom is. Stuff like that is maybe the only thing that I don't like about the camera. This and the lack of the ability to save a focal length for the next re-start is what I am missing. But every camera has something one doesn't like. Regarding the missing mic connection or ability to use Bluetooth for mic: Leica Australia made a video and I asked them how they got that good audio. They used an external mic and synchronized it in DaVinci. That really works well and makes up for the lack of connectivity IMO, if you want to make vlogs with it.
Thanks for your comment. I largely agree. I bought my sister the GR III and have to say I probably prefer it over the D-Lux 8 however, you obviously give up the zoom, which is a significant cost. I do appreciate that audio synchronisation is great these days - I use it for many of my videos in Premiere which also automates it, however it does add further steps, which I do find a little frustrating. However, this is not a competitor to the ZV1 so it’s not the end of the world 🙂 Glad you found some of the review useful 🙂
Thankyou for your easy to follow review, Just received the camera and studying your video and reading the down loaded instructions. There is one niggling question I have and that’s the little blue light that flashes on and off,,,,, what is it signifying, lol, I have not seen anything in the instructions that relates to it. Regards Tom.
Hi Tom, the blue light usually denotes a connection to a smart device like your phone or a tablet. Did you sync the camera with your phone? That might explain it as I believe they auto connect it they are paired
I honestly have seen different things listed in different places, but comparing the files I took on the Lx100 II and the D-Lux 8 - I honestly cannot see much in it…. If anything
Just ordered mine and after viewing this had to see and a manual isn’t included but £14.99 extra ? Pretty mean and wondering all the extra profit from the less inside the box things like strap and should is relying the camera
(without haveing used it) my useability score would be 4 ou of 5. One important wish of many Panny LX100 users (is)was a titling LCD; that wouldn't have been too complex to build?? And something of a grip at the back & front.
I wonder if it’d have made the camera too thick? But I can see the potential benefit. Have to say I was using the OLED viewfinder so much I wasn’t as fussed by the screen. It’s a really good viewfinder for that level of camera.
In the beginning the missing tilt screen was really bothering me. I hoped after SL and Q Leica would put tilt screens on any new model (maybe except for Ms). Especially as the screen of the Q3 is basically the same size as the one on the D-Lux. Going by Sony's RX100 VII, which is several years old and even more compact, tilt screens can be made to fit into a small body without making it bulky. My personal theory on the D-Lux 8: Panasonic killed any new model of their sister-camera. Leica recognized how good the D-Lux 7 still was selling up until 2023. Seeing how small the competition right now in this segment is, I think they went for any changes that could be done in design and User Interface / Experience, *without* going into research and development (like for how to go about building a tiny tilt screen). Seeing how sold out it is after every new batch hits the stores tells me they did everything right. But I hope a possible D-Lux 9 will come with a tilt screen aswell.
What Leica is doing is giving you "the first one free." Leica is giving photographers a taste of the "Leica look" then once hooked, photographers are psychologically forced to purchase Leica Qs and Ms. Smart move Leica!
Being USB-C, I wouldn't need a charger in the box, I have my preferred charger and can use it for all my devices. Hopefully I can buy the next generation, maybe a D-Lux 9? Not sold on the very slow zooming, among other small issues mentioned here, at least for the price.
There is a reason Leica put an A after the same registration number as the DL7. In my opinion Leica was lazy, catering to those who are impressed with the “skin” of the 8, making it appear that it is a baby Q. Even Leica’s July marketing was aimed at the new skin, and acce$$ories. People took the bait. I was disappointed. There is nothing in the 8 that would make me upgrade from my 7. You can spin all the “did you know…” comments, but it’s a 7 in new clothing. I kept my 7 and bought the Fuji X-T50, which leaves both the 7 and 8 in the dust. I still love my 7 but Leica is playing the let’s keep people waiting game creating a false sense of importance. It’s turned me right off the company.
Thanks for your comment. Interesting perspective. I do have a few thoughts. With regards to the D-Lux 8, it genuinely is perfect for my dad, the simplified menu and controls are perfect. He just wants a nice camera that isn’t his phone. Something to replace his aging V-Lux. In that sense the D-Lux 8 is perfect. But you are right, it doesn’t offer that much over the D-Lux 7. And to be brutally honest, isn’t that because Panasonic hasn’t done anything new in the space? At the end of the day all of the compact cameras in the past decade or two by Leica have been based on Panasonic bones. And Panasonic has really dropped the ball, focusing on medium and full frame - (to me it even feels like their wider Micro 4/3 systems have lacked innovation)… Which is why I think we end up where we are now…
@@HamerReviews If I didn't already have a DL7, I agree, it is a great camera to tote around, especially for travelling. It produces spectacular results and is the epitome of compactness, elegance, and quality. However, as we both mentioned, as an upgrade it fails. In my opinion, Leica had a prime opportunity to produce a compact, fixed lens camera to battle with the Fuji 100V and VI in that price range, but it chose to regurgitate a camera that's, what, six years old now? It boggles my mind. However, having said all that, I won't be getting rid of my 7 any time soon, and as you say, it is perfect for your Dad, or anyone who wants a compact... but then, there are also a lot of Fuji X100Vs on the market now to look at in comparison. Thanks for your video.
Ich habe mir jetzt auch eine gekauft, in Germany wohne ich, es kommt ein großer Karton in dem eine kleine Minikamera, ein kleiner Blitz, ein Heft und weiter nichts raus. Sie haben sogar am Kameragurt gespart, unglaublich und dafür solch einen großen Karton zu benutzen ?? Nicht einmal die Gurtösen sind dabei, bei dem Preis 🤮😪
Made by Leica aus China? alles klar da braucht man auch keinen Kameragurt mehr, der ist eingespart und nicht im viel zu großen schwarzen Karton dabei. 😢
If you’re viewing the comments, you’ll see some debate regarding sensor type in this camera.
Due to the way Leica reports tech specs it’s very hard to corroborate if there have been any actual changes in the D-Lux 8 vs the D-Lux 7.
There is some evidence to suggest the LX100 II used a slightly different sensor, however I’m not sure I agree.
Comparing images I took from the LX100 II with those I took for this review, I don’t see much difference.
In addition there is lots of debate as to how different Panasonic Live MOS sensor is to a CMOS sensor - some articles reference these as basically the same thing, potentially it could just be marketing speak.
Regardless, in terms of real world application, my experience with the LX100 II and D-Lux 8 is that the files are VERY VERY similar - to me I can’t really see a difference.
Sorry if you feel offended by this; but I can only report on my experience, that’s what a review is…
I purchased this camera from a gentleman in California who ordered it, forgot he ordered it, and when he received it, didn’t want it. Still in the box. It’s only been a couple of weeks and weather and surgery has kept me from trying it out too much but so far I’m impressed and will definitely keep it. It is not going to replace my M or my Q2, but it will be a high quality camera in my pocket for small adventures.
Be aware that it is not exactly the same sensor. It is a 4/3 sensor with the same resolution, likely kept because the lense was optimized for that. But there is a significant change. The D-Lux 7 has a straight MOS sensor. The D-Lux 8 has a CMOS sensor. That is an improvement in two very important ways. The CMOS sensor produces less noise than a MOS sensor. This has implications for Dynamic Range, and so Image Quality. The CMOS sensor also is more energy efficient. This may provide for longer battery life, and lower heat. You will notice that the D-Lux 7 had a video recording limitation of 30 minutes, while the D-Lux 8 now has unlimited recording. Almost every internal and external part is now different. Including all the buttons and dials, USBC charging, image transfer, card slot, wireless communication, EVF, rear screen, and even the RAW file format produced. Likely the processor too considering the new firmware being run that implements the modern Leica user experience, and Menu system. Even the camera body is new as evidenced by different dimensions, and weight. Also be aware that many of the controls are customizable to many different functions, and operate differently depending on whether you are in video, stills, shooting or review modes. You are not at all limited by the default settings. The User Profiles are very useful in these customizations. So when examined closely although it looks initially much like a D-Lux 7 the changes are deep and broad. The camera is now fulling in alignment with the esthetics, workflow, and ergonomics of the rest of the current Leica camera line. The D-Lux 7 was not, nor was any camera ever sold by Panasonic. The sensor format M4/3, and the lens are really the primary things that actually remain the same. People should really look more closely at these things when doing reviews. Maybe have a more detailed look, and update your review?
@@stevendente9270 comparing the images to the LX100 II images I had on file from when I reviewed it, I really don’t see much difference.
As for the video recording time, they killed any point of more than 30 mins by not having a microphone input… I don’t know why anyone would use this as a main video camera as a result. The video quality is actually great, just a shame about the audio, which is OK but not amazing.
As for the sensor, everywhere I’ve come across references this as the same sensor. Both are CMOS as far as all my research showed.
The LX100 II did too. I’m not sure what information you have, but comparing the images, and from research I did for this review, I can’t corroborate the information you’re sharing…
I’d potentially buy the point that there’s an updated chip, but then surely Leica would have made more of a point about it on their own spec sheets? Which they don’t seem to have done. I mean just compare the two launch press releases for the D-Lux 7 and D-Lux 8…
EDIT: Just want to reiterate one point, if you look at the July 2nd D-Lux 8 press release, you’ll see them reference the new OLED viewfinder. You get to the sensor and lens and there is no mention of ‘new’. It’s quite cleverly written. Compare the spec sheets on most of the other comparison websites and we see no real changes. So I’m afraid I stand by what I said.
@@stevendente9270 I also think I do cover off quite carefully that there are huge differences in design between the D-Lux 7 and D-Lux 8 and all are for the better. I touch on the customiseability - but saw little point in going in depth on that point as I truly believe that’s not the point of this camera to most of the people that will buy one.
Those that can afford this, aren’t in it for full manual control all the time. I really do believe that. I also think this is a much better camera than the LX100 II as a result. But I said as much in this video 🙂
@@HamerReviews still, there IS a difference between a MOS and a CMOS sensor and it should have been mentioned! Since I do a lot of low-light photography, I see there is less noise between my previous DL7 and the 8 now.
@DAVCOHPHO correction on my part - so as far as I can tell the D-Lux 7 and 8 use the same sensor - as for the Lx100 II - different sources report different things some say MOS some CMOS… but honestly I can’t tell you either way. I honestly can’t see much difference in the actual files where I’ve taken images with the LX100 II and the D-Lux 8 🤷♂️
m.dpreview.com/reviews/panasonic-dc-lx100-ii for instance they list CMOS …?
Perhaps the most comprehensive review of the deluxe 8, I’ve ordered mine about two months now. Was hoping I get it for Christmas. Nice job HR.
Thanks for your kind words! Hope it arrives soon, I was actually out with my dad yesterday taking some photos with it, and it was a nice reminder of how nice the D-LUX 8 is to use
Comprehensive review, thank you very much for this, enjoyed it a lot.
Thanks for an excellent review. I love my Fuji X-30 and use it all the time. The articulating screen and manual zoom are fantastic and I use the control ring round the lens to set the ISO. I've used power zooms and don't like them but my question is: how does the output of the D-Lux 8 compare to the X-30? Is there much of a difference? How about in low light situations? Is it worth having both?
I have the new Fuji X-T50 and even with the smallest pancake of lenses, and other lenses, having toted it around with me for two weeks while travelling, I absolutely loved the 50, but I sometimes wished for my DL7's lightness and smaller size. I won't be getting rid of either any time soon.
Leica's competition is the X100VI or the Ricoh GR III. (and the now very old RX100 VII from Sony). All those three cameras also cost above 1000€. I am truly surprised by Leica's pricing. Any other camera of theirs is way above the competition. Thanks for telling how fast or slow the zoom is. Stuff like that is maybe the only thing that I don't like about the camera. This and the lack of the ability to save a focal length for the next re-start is what I am missing. But every camera has something one doesn't like.
Regarding the missing mic connection or ability to use Bluetooth for mic: Leica Australia made a video and I asked them how they got that good audio. They used an external mic and synchronized it in DaVinci. That really works well and makes up for the lack of connectivity IMO, if you want to make vlogs with it.
Thanks for your comment. I largely agree. I bought my sister the GR III and have to say I probably prefer it over the D-Lux 8 however, you obviously give up the zoom, which is a significant cost.
I do appreciate that audio synchronisation is great these days - I use it for many of my videos in Premiere which also automates it, however it does add further steps, which I do find a little frustrating. However, this is not a competitor to the ZV1 so it’s not the end of the world 🙂
Glad you found some of the review useful 🙂
Thankyou for your easy to follow review, Just received the camera and studying your video and reading the down loaded instructions.
There is one niggling question I have and that’s the little blue light that flashes on and off,,,,, what is it signifying, lol, I have not seen anything in the instructions that relates to it.
Regards Tom.
Hi Tom, the blue light usually denotes a connection to a smart device like your phone or a tablet. Did you sync the camera with your phone? That might explain it as I believe they auto connect it they are paired
nice review. good work.
Thanks for your kind words 🙂
Great Review. Many Thanks (Subscribed)
Great review
I do believe this one uses a CMOS sensor, and the Panasonic uses a MOS sensor. Should give better low light noise and generate less heat.
I honestly have seen different things listed in different places, but comparing the files I took on the Lx100 II and the D-Lux 8 - I honestly cannot see much in it…. If anything
Just ordered mine and after viewing this had to see and a manual isn’t included but £14.99 extra ? Pretty mean and wondering all the extra profit from the less inside the box things like strap and should is relying the camera
I do agree. You can download the PDF Free but the lack of accessories in the box does feel egregious
(without haveing used it) my useability score would be 4 ou of 5.
One important wish of many Panny LX100 users (is)was a titling LCD;
that wouldn't have been too complex to build??
And something of a grip at the back & front.
I wonder if it’d have made the camera too thick? But I can see the potential benefit. Have to say I was using the OLED viewfinder so much I wasn’t as fussed by the screen. It’s a really good viewfinder for that level of camera.
In the beginning the missing tilt screen was really bothering me. I hoped after SL and Q Leica would put tilt screens on any new model (maybe except for Ms). Especially as the screen of the Q3 is basically the same size as the one on the D-Lux. Going by Sony's RX100 VII, which is several years old and even more compact, tilt screens can be made to fit into a small body without making it bulky. My personal theory on the D-Lux 8: Panasonic killed any new model of their sister-camera. Leica recognized how good the D-Lux 7 still was selling up until 2023. Seeing how small the competition right now in this segment is, I think they went for any changes that could be done in design and User Interface / Experience, *without* going into research and development (like for how to go about building a tiny tilt screen). Seeing how sold out it is after every new batch hits the stores tells me they did everything right. But I hope a possible D-Lux 9 will come with a tilt screen aswell.
I can’t wrap my mind around why they didn’t include Leica Looks with this. That’s precisely why I cancelled my order.
I agree it was an odd choice not to include them
Great review of this good looking camera but unfortunately its internals are way too old ..
It’s a shame isn’t it 🙁 I wish it had a new sensor
What Leica is doing is giving you "the first one free." Leica is giving photographers a taste of the "Leica look" then once hooked, photographers are psychologically forced to purchase Leica Qs and Ms. Smart move Leica!
You don't get a charger with a 2000k point and shoot... That's pretty cheap..
It blew my mind a bit
Being USB-C, I wouldn't need a charger in the box, I have my preferred charger and can use it for all my devices. Hopefully I can buy the next generation, maybe a D-Lux 9? Not sold on the very slow zooming, among other small issues mentioned here, at least for the price.
There is a reason Leica put an A after the same registration number as the DL7. In my opinion Leica was lazy, catering to those who are impressed with the “skin” of the 8, making it appear that it is a baby Q. Even Leica’s July marketing was aimed at the new skin, and acce$$ories. People took the bait. I was disappointed. There is nothing in the 8 that would make me upgrade from my 7. You can spin all the “did you know…” comments, but it’s a 7 in new clothing. I kept my 7 and bought the Fuji X-T50, which leaves both the 7 and 8 in the dust. I still love my 7 but Leica is playing the let’s keep people waiting game creating a false sense of importance. It’s turned me right off the company.
Thanks for your comment. Interesting perspective. I do have a few thoughts.
With regards to the D-Lux 8, it genuinely is perfect for my dad, the simplified menu and controls are perfect. He just wants a nice camera that isn’t his phone. Something to replace his aging V-Lux. In that sense the D-Lux 8 is perfect.
But you are right, it doesn’t offer that much over the D-Lux 7. And to be brutally honest, isn’t that because Panasonic hasn’t done anything new in the space? At the end of the day all of the compact cameras in the past decade or two by Leica have been based on Panasonic bones. And Panasonic has really dropped the ball, focusing on medium and full frame - (to me it even feels like their wider Micro 4/3 systems have lacked innovation)…
Which is why I think we end up where we are now…
@@HamerReviews If I didn't already have a DL7, I agree, it is a great camera to tote around, especially for travelling. It produces spectacular results and is the epitome of compactness, elegance, and quality. However, as we both mentioned, as an upgrade it fails. In my opinion, Leica had a prime opportunity to produce a compact, fixed lens camera to battle with the Fuji 100V and VI in that price range, but it chose to regurgitate a camera that's, what, six years old now? It boggles my mind. However, having said all that, I won't be getting rid of my 7 any time soon, and as you say, it is perfect for your Dad, or anyone who wants a compact... but then, there are also a lot of Fuji X100Vs on the market now to look at in comparison. Thanks for your video.
Ich habe mir jetzt auch eine gekauft, in Germany wohne ich, es kommt ein großer Karton in dem eine kleine Minikamera, ein kleiner Blitz, ein Heft und weiter nichts raus. Sie haben sogar am Kameragurt gespart, unglaublich und dafür solch einen großen Karton zu benutzen ?? Nicht einmal die Gurtösen sind dabei, bei dem Preis 🤮😪
I complete agree, it’s kind of mad how little you get for the money.
Made by Leica aus China? alles klar da braucht man auch keinen Kameragurt mehr, der ist eingespart und nicht im viel zu großen schwarzen Karton dabei. 😢