Leica's original APS-C compact — fixed 36mm equiv f/2.8 Elmarit in premium body.
The Leica X1 launched in 2009 as Leica's first compact with an APS-C sensor, using a fixed Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 lens providing 36mm equivalent. It established the Leica compact concept that led to the X2, X Typ 113, and ultimately the Q series.
The 12.2MP APS-C sensor delivers good image quality for a compact — the APS-C size provides meaningful quality advantage over smaller sensors. The Elmarit f/2.8 lens is sharp from f/4. Manual focus ring. Full manual controls.
Premium metal body with Leica design. 2.7-inch fixed LCD — no viewfinder built in. Optional Visoflex EVF. Manual focus ring. No video recording. 286g. SD card. USB 2.0.
Available used at budget to mid-range prices — lower than later Leica compacts. The X2 improved to 16.2MP. The Q series transformed the concept with full-frame. Historical interest as the first Leica APS-C compact.