Hi All,Finally found a CL that is just right for my budget. My dillema is, just got a guy from FB that offer me same price for TL2 and a 23mm Summicron.The no EVF doesnt really bother me.The TL2 is better deal right? It will basically same image quality for both and the only difference are the physical controls, no evf and UI, correct?Thanks

I have both T and CL.CL works better than T in the following ways:1: EVF is built-in, easier to put in the bag, unlike T that needs to take EVF on and off when in and out the bag.2: It is knob operated, more intuitive, does not need to watch LCD to operate, unlike T that essentially is touch screen operated.T/TL is better than CL in the following way, assuming you have the external EVF1: TL2 + EVF is usually cheaper than CL.2: With EVF, you get angle finder and GPS. It is extremely convenient for low angle or waist level  shooting, especially if you only have a short tripod or table pod.If you don't care angle finder and GPS, go with CL, otherwise, T/TL/Tl2 is for you.

Jonjonfr wrote:Hi All,Finally found a CL that is just right for my budget. My dillema is, just got a guy from FB that offer me same price for TL2 and a 23mm Summicron.The no EVF doesnt really bother me.The TL2 is better deal right? It will basically same image quality for both and the only difference are the physical controls, no evf and UI, correct?ThanksYou’re asking for opinions so mine is - They aren’t the same shootingexperienceat all.  The TL2 experience (to me) is like using a cell phone and the CL is like using a professional Leica camera. I prefer the camera-to-eye shooting vs. holding the camera up in front of you like you would your phone. Additionally, since the cameras don’t have IBIS, you get much more stability holding the camera tight to your eye/head than holding your arms out in front of you to see the LCD panel.  Ease and speed of use, unless you’re okay with happy-snapping like a cell-phone, goes to the CL.  Image sensor and lenses are the same so the image quality will be the same.  If you do a Google search of “Leica CL vs TL2” there are numerous DP threads on this exact question.  I have never read one where someone preferred the TL2 - although I’m sure someone exists who does.  The TL2 doesn’t give you any size or weight savings so - for me - there’s no way I would use the TL2 over a CL.  If you want to shoot Leica, like a Leica, get the CL.It's just my educated opinion. Don't get bent out of shape. Steve

I should clarify myself about the touch screen on TL. It only affects to access manual or choosing the focus point. If you only need to push the shutter button, and if you have EVF, TL can be operated like CL.

DenverSteve wrote:Jonjonfr wrote:Hi All,Finally found a CL that is just right for my budget. My dillema is, just got a guy from FB that offer me same price for TL2 and a 23mm Summicron.The no EVF doesnt really bother me.The TL2 is better deal right? It will basically same image quality for both and the only difference are the physical controls, no evf and UI, correct?ThanksYou’re asking for opinions so mine is - They aren’t the same shootingexperienceat all.Very trueThe TL2 experience (to me) is like using a cell phone and the CL is like using a professional Leica camera.I don't know about that. I oscillate between a TL2, a CL, and my Leica S system (after having sold my M stuff). Very different interfaces, haptics, etc., but they all require care and respect in use.I prefer the camera-to-eye shooting vs. holding the camera up in front of you like you would your phone. Additionally, since the cameras don’t have IBIS, you get much more stability holding the camera tight to your eye/head than holding your arms out in front of you to see the LCD panel.Good point.Ease and speed of use, unless you’re okay with happy-snapping like a cell-phone, goes to the CL.Bit of a misnomer. The happiness factor of the iPhone for example is mostly attributed to people snaps in bars or events or what have you. Someone unfailingly smiles when you lift your phone and take a picture. Most pictures (see below) with the T (and the TL2) have absolutely nothing to do with cell phone type photography.Image sensor and lenses are the same so the image quality will be the same.Not exactly actually, but close enough.If you do a Google search of “Leica CL vs TL2” there are numerous DP threads on this exact question. I have never read one where someone preferred the TL2 - although I’m sure someone exists who does.Yep, guilty as charged. I preferred my TL2 to my CL and the S for my trip to Europe over the Christmas/New year holidays.The TL2 doesn’t give you any size or weight savingsActually, it does. It's noticeable, too. The 18 Elmarit mounted on the T body is something you can stuff into the outer pocket of a Belstaff jacket. The CL, not really.so - for me - there’s no way I would use the TL2 over a CL. If you want to shoot Leica, like a Leica, get the CL.Hmmm...probably true...the T is like nothing Leica ever built. My theory is that it was mainly an exercise in styling (and a very inspired one at that). I always hated the styling of the CL actually, and only bought the CL in its most silly of iterations: the Paul Smith edition. The garish colors distract from the viewfinder hump and the brutish three knobs on the top plate. I now use the PS CL a lot, and with great pleasure. Couple of TL2 samples. Used within its own performance envelope, it's a very capable camera.Note the very decent reds here. Leica didn't get red right until the M10 arrived. Original T Original T ___________________________ http://hahn.zenfolio.com/

If you can find the $$ get both, decide which body you prefer and sell the other keeping the 23mm. You will need a lens for the CL if you pick that and this could get an excellent Leica one at a discount price.Otherwise if you are not fussed about using an EVF and like the 35mm focal length getting the leica TL2with the 23mmis a great deal.A couple of things to look out for. One is the TL2 has a very specific battery where as the CL battery is the same as in some other cameras and also used by Panasonic. With both the CL and the TL2 discontinued batteries could be an issue for the TL2 going forward.The other is lens compatibility. Check the Leica user forums regarding using the newer sigma L mount lenses on the TL2 as I have seen some reports of compatibility issues with newer L mount lenses. Not an issue if you just want the 23mm but if you want to expand and get non Leica lenses its something to  check on and consider.I have the CL as a used one came up at the right time but would have got a T or TL2 if I hadn't found the CL.  I'm very pleased with the CL but it really is a personal thing.cheers

Hmmm...probably true...the T is like nothing Leica ever built. My theory is that it was mainly an exercise in styling (and a very inspired one at that). I always hated the styling of the CL actually, and only bought the CL in its most silly of iterations: the Paul Smith edition. The garish colors distract from the viewfinder hump and the brutish three knobs on the top plate. I now use the PS CL a lot, and with great pleasure. Couple of TL2 samples. Used within its own performance envelope, it's a very capable camera.___________________________ I LOVE that edition, you can carry it anywhere and no one will even think you're taking their photo.I ended up buying another "special edition" CL used and it makes me laugh. It's not as loud as the PS which is too bad, but I got a decent deal.As to the OP question, I've never handled the TL but the little top plate screen on the CL that is absent in the TL is very, very handy. It enables me to turn off the EVF via an assigned function button and still see what aperture or PASM mode I'm shooting. Especially good when you use one of the Sigma Contemporary lenses with a clicky aperture dial. You basically have a film-sized modern camera that you can operate instinctively (for those of us who developed those instincts before digital), or if you choose, as a point and shoot.

I would like to say Thank you to everyone. Every points and opinions is really helping me on my decision. Especially regarding the batteries.

I also have owned and used both.I must say lately I have used the cl more often, but the TL2 user interface and feel also is special. I wouldn't say one is better than the other. The TL2 UI is very similar to Hassy x1d/x2d which I also really like. If you have the chance take both in your hands and check them out.The big display of the TL2 is also nice if you sometimes shoot "from the hip" or with out EVF.