The Pixii Max’s biggest advantage over cameras like the Panasonic Lumix S9 is its built-in rangefinder. This rangefinder enables fast and accurate manual focusing, reflecting exposure settings directly into the viewfinder. Like the Leica M11, the Pixii Max lacks autofocus. The camera also lacks a display, but you can view captured photos through the associated smartphone app.
One drawback is that the Pixii still lacks an SD card reader. Photos are saved to either 32GB or 128GB of internal storage. If you already own a Pixii with an APS-C sensor, you can send it to the manufacturer for an update to the new full-frame sensor and viewfinder. Pixii hasn’t disclosed the pricing for this service yet.
Price and availability
The Pixii Max (A3410) can be pre-ordered on the manufacturer’s website (note: the product page is currently being updated and may not be available) starting Friday, July 5. At launch, the base model with 32GB of flash memory will cost 3,999 euros ($4,315), and the 128GB variant will cost 4,249 euros ($4,585). These prices exclude 19% VAT. The more affordable model with a smaller APS-C sensor will continue to be available.
Pixii Max: A Full-Frame Rangefinder Camera with Unique Features
The Appeal of the Pixii Max
The Pixii Max is a full-frame rangefinder camera that boasts a unique set of features, making it an intriguing option for photographers seeking a distinctive shooting experience. Let’s delve into the key aspects that set the Pixii Max apart:
Rangefinder Focus and Direct Exposure Feedback
A defining characteristic of the Pixii Max is its integrated rangefinder, a feature absent in many contemporary cameras, including the Panasonic Lumix S9. This rangefinder enables fast and precise manual focusing, a favored method for many photographers. Moreover, the Pixii Max uses the rangefinder to display exposure settings directly within the field of view, offering a more tactile and intuitive approach to exposure management. This direct feedback is similar to the experience found on classic rangefinder cameras like the Leica M11.
No Autofocus and No Display
In alignment with its classic rangefinder heritage, the Pixii Max forgoes autofocus, relying entirely on manual focus. The absence of autofocus might seem like a drawback to some, but it aligns with the camera’s focus on control and precision. Additionally, the Pixii Max does not feature a display screen. Instead, captured photographs are reviewed using a smartphone app, emphasizing a minimalist and tactile approach to photography.
Internal Storage and No SD Card Reader
A notable peculiarity of the Pixii Max is its lack of an SD card reader. Images are saved directly to the internal storage, which is available in 32GB or 128GB capacities. This design choice might raise concerns for some photographers, especially those accustomed to utilizing SD card storage.
Updating the Pixii with a Full-Frame Sensor
A unique feature of the Pixii Max is its upgrade path for existing Pixii camera owners. If you own a Pixii camera equipped with an APS-C sensor, you can send it to the manufacturer for an upgrade, replacing the APS-C sensor with a full-frame sensor and incorporating a rangefinder viewfinder. This upgrade possibility presents an interesting alternative to purchasing a new camera, although the pricing for this service has yet to be revealed.
Price and Availability
The Pixii Max is currently available for pre-order on the manufacturer’s website, with the base 32GB model costing €3,999 ($4,315) and the 128GB model priced at €4,249 ($4,585). These prices do not include 19% VAT. The Pixii Max is expected to be released in the coming months.
Key Takeaways
Pros
- Rangefinder focus: The built-in rangefinder provides fast and precise manual focusing.
- Direct exposure feedback: Exposure settings are displayed directly within the field of view.
- Full-frame sensor: Offers superior image quality compared to APS-C sensors.
- Upgrade path for existing Pixii owners: Enables existing Pixii users to upgrade to the full-frame sensor and rangefinder viewfinder.
Cons
- No autofocus: Requires manual focusing, which might not suit all photographers.
- No display: Images can only be reviewed using a smartphone app.
- No SD card reader: Images are saved to internal storage, potentially limiting storage capacity.
Who is the Pixii Max for?
The Pixii Max is primarily targeted towards photographers who value manual control, a tactile shooting experience, and the distinctive aesthetic of rangefinder photography. The camera’s focus on precision and control make it a good choice for street photographers, documentary photographers, and those who enjoy the deliberate approach of rangefinder photography.
However, the lack of autofocus and display, as well as the limited storage capacity, may not be suitable for all shooting styles. Photographers who require rapid autofocus, extensive storage, or frequent image review on-camera will likely find other camera systems more appropriate.
Conclusion
The Pixii Max is a unique camera with a distinctive approach to photography. Its rangefinder focus, direct exposure feedback, and full-frame sensor offer a compelling shooting experience for those who prioritize manual control and tactile engagement. However, its lack of autofocus, display, and SD card reader may limit its appeal to certain photographers. Ultimately, whether the Pixii Max is the right camera for you depends on your individual needs and shooting style.
