Leica's refined APS-C mirrorless — the TL, 16MP CMOS, TL mount, touchscreen, 2016.
The Leica TL was released in 2016 as the successor to the T (Typ 701), refining the same aluminium unibody APS-C mirrorless design with faster processing and more internal storage. It continued the TL system on the Leica TL mount and kept the minimalist touchscreen-led interface.
The TL is an APS-C mirrorless camera with a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor and the Leica TL lens mount, and it accepts M and Leica R lenses with adapters. It has no built-in viewfinder and relies on the rear touchscreen, with an optional electronic finder for the hot shoe. Autofocus is contrast-based, it adds internal storage over the original T, and it records Full HD video.
It suits photographers wanting a compact, solidly built APS-C body with a clean touch interface for travel and everyday use. The machined aluminium construction and the ability to adapt M and R glass make it flexible, though the reliance on the touchscreen and the lack of a built-in finder remain acquired tastes and the autofocus is average for its year.
When buying, check the shutter count, inspect the sensor for dust and marks, and test the touchscreen carefully for dead areas or dead pixels since it controls most functions. Confirm the optional EVF if supplied, check the card-door and battery-door latches, and verify the BP-DC13 battery is obtainable. As a CMOS body it has no CCD-corrosion issue, so concentrate on the screen, interface responsiveness and mechanical wear.