Which thumb grip is best for the Leica Q3?

Question

Just got my Q3 yesterday from the Leica Store in SoHo and man this thing is slick. Literally. I’m terrified of dropping it during my morning walks around the neighborhood. I’ve been looking at thumb grips because the grip on the back is kinda shallow for my hands.

I did some digging and saw the official Leica thumb support and it looks clean but some people on the forums were saying it makes the rear dial a bit harder to reach? Like you have to hook your thumb around it weirdly. Then there is the Match Technical Thumbs Up which everyone seems to swear by for the older models but I cant tell if the fit is actually perfect for the Q3 specifically or if it blocks any of the new buttons.

I dont mind spending the $200ish if the Leica one is actually the best but if it messes with the ergonomics then what is even the point. I also saw a cheap one on Amazon by Haoge but I feel weird putting a $20 part on a $6k camera. Does anyone here actually have the official one and the Match Technical to compare? I really need something that feels solid for one-handed shooting while im dodging tourists...

PulseVector · Accepted Answer

I've measured shoe tolerances on dozens of these over the years, and the JJC TA-Q3 Thumb Grip for Leica Q3 is solid 6061 aluminum. Dont waste $200, specs are basically identical.

EchoEmber · Answer

Regarding what #1 said about "> I feel weird putting a $20 part..."

I totally get that logic, but honestly, price tag doesnt always equal comfort. Over the years I've tried many different grips and the expensive brass ones can actually be more annoying if the design is off. I used the Leica Thumb Support Q3 Black (19504) for a month and while the paint match is perfect, it really does cramp that rear dial. I found myself fumbling every time I wanted to adjust exposure comp. I switched to the Match Technical Thumbs Up EP-SQ3 and the clearance for your thumb to reach the dial is way better. It feels like it was designed by someone who actually shoots, not just an industrial designer. Quick tip: Make sure whatever you buy has a silicone bit where it touches the camera body so it doesnt scratch your hot shoe. TL;DR: Go with Match Technical Thumbs Up EP-SQ3 for ergonomics, or the IDS Works Foldable Thumb Rest for Leica Q3 if you want the dial completely unobstructed.

BinaryNomad · Answer

> I feel weird putting a $20 part on a $6k camera. I felt the same way at first but honestly I went the budget route and I'm super satisfied with how it works well. No complaints. Are you mostly looking for something that matches the paint finish exactly, or is the ergonomic shape the only thing you care about? Also, do you find yourself clicking that rear dial constantly?