If you’ve ever wished for a pocket-sized camera that feels like a vintage classic but still throws in the modern perks (hello OLED viewfinder), you might want to circle 2026 on your calendar. A new player, the Esquisse Camera, is all set to launch with a fresh blend of retro aesthetics and high-tech guts. And trust me, this one is aiming straight at those of us who crave minimalism without sacrificing performance.

Why the OLED viewfinder is the star of the show

Most compact cameras these days cut corners with electronic viewfinders or skip them entirely. But Esquisse is betting big with a 3.69-million-dot OLED viewfinder that promises clarity even in harsh light. It’s not just a tiny window to frame shots—it’s the kind of feature that makes you want to ditch your smartphone camera and feel like an actual photographer again.

The Esquisse design philosophy

Think of this as the spiritual cousin of those old-school Leica rangefinders. You’ve got a clean body made of aluminum plates, finished with black leather wraps, and a layout that screams simplicity but still gives you control. Three dials: one for ISO, one for exposure compensation, and a programmable one for whatever fits your style. It’s tactile, it’s analog-feeling, and it doesn’t overwhelm you with menus.

The size? Just about 4.1 × 2.7 × 1.3 inches. Translation: smaller than many competitors like Sigma BF or Panasonic Lumix S9. And yet, unlike them, it comes with that much-hyped OLED viewfinder.

Sensor and shooting power

At its core, Esquisse carries a 20-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor with a dynamic range of 13 stops. Not full-frame, sure, but considering the camera’s weight (just 350 grams) and size, it’s impressive. Plus, the Micro Four Thirds mount means access to hundreds of lenses. And if you’re adventurous, adapters even let you pair it with Leica M-mount lenses.

And yes—storage won’t be a headache. The camera packs 256GB internal memory. That’s a solid touch for folks tired of swapping out cards mid-shoot.

Screen and Usability

Apart from the OLED viewfinder, you’re also getting a 3-inch touchscreen. But here’s where the philosophy shines: Esquisse isn’t drowning you in touchscreen-only gestures. Instead, it balances tactile controls with digital ease.

Buttons on the back are kept minimal—two function keys and a playback button. Simple. Clean. Exactly what people tired of overcomplicated menus are begging for.

Battery and Practicality

No one wants a stylish camera that dies halfway through a day trip. Thankfully, the Esquisse is said to handle 300+ shots per charge. That’s not endless, but it’s practical for its size and weight. And honestly, for a 350-gram retro-styled device, that’s more than fair.

Release timeline and pricing

Now for the waiting game. Right now, the Esquisse is still in prototype phase. The company is eyeing a Q4 2026 release, with a price tag under $2,000. Of course, with development still in motion, both the timeline and price are subject to change. But the intent is clear: it wants to sit in that sweet spot where enthusiasts and semi-pros can take it seriously without it being as intimidating as a high-end Leica.

Who this camera is really for

This isn’t a device for everyone. Smartphone shooters who are happy with auto-modes may find it overkill. But if you:

• Love the retro vibe of rangefinder cameras

• Want something lighter than traditional mirrorless bodies

• Crave the OLED viewfinder experience instead of squinting at your phone screen in sunlight

• Appreciate real dials and controls that connect you to the craft

…then the Esquisse might just be your dream second camera.

Why I’m personally excited

To me, cameras like the Esquisse are about slowing down. Phones make it too easy to snap without thinking. But with a retro-styled body, mechanical dials, and a viewfinder that forces you to look—really look—you’re reminded why photography is more than just megapixels. It’s about the experience.

And honestly? Carrying something this light, with a design that makes people go “wait, is that vintage?”, sounds like fun.

Final thoughts

The Esquisse Camera with its OLED viewfinder, compact build, and Micro Four Thirds sensor feels like a nod to the past but built for the future. It’s not trying to compete with every high-end full-frame monster out there—it’s carving its own lane: a minimalist, stylish, lightweight companion for thoughtful photographers.

2026 might feel far away, but if the company pulls this off, Esquisse could be the kind of camera that earns a cult following the moment it lands.