Legendary Leica Cameras You Need to See Right Now

By Tati Taylor 11 days ago, Cameras & Lenses

The Leica camera is a mix of timeless style and the latest tech innovations.

Leica cameras take a trip down memory lane, offering the vibes of the 35mm film pictures era. They produce crystal-clear images with the utmost precision and sharpness. Whether you're just starting out or you're a photography pro, capturing fleeting moments will be easy with these cameras.

I get that some of you may be a bit wary because of a steeper price tag (the least expensive one goes for about $1,500) compared to other brands. But considering that Leica mirrorless cameras are designed to stand the test of time, thanks to their solid parts and careful craftsmanship, investing in one of these cameras will surely pay off in the long run.

Top 8 Leica Cameras

IMAGE
NAME
FEATURES
leica m11 camera
Leica M11
VERSATILE
  • Full Frame, Rangefinder
  • 18MP
  • 1080p

leica sl2-s camera
Leica SL2-S
PROFESSIONAL
  • Full Frame, Mirrorless
  • 24MP
  • 1080p

leica v-lux 5 camera
Leica V-Lux 5
SUPERZOOM
  • Compact
  • 20MP
  • 2K DCI 1080p

leica sl2 camera
Leica SL2
4K VIDEO
  • Full Frame, Mirrorless
  • 47MP
  • 4K

leica cl camera
Leica CL
CLASSIC STYLE
  • Mirrorless
  • 24MP
  • 1080p

leica q2 camera
Leica Q2
FIXED LENS
  • Compact
  • 47.3MP
  • 1080p

leica mp camera
Leica MP
OLD-SCHOOL
  • Film, Rangefinder
  • 35mm film

leica m10-r camera
Leica M10-R
SILENT
  • Compact, Rangefinder
  • 40MP

The Leica digital camera lineup is basically divided into three main categories: Leica mirrorless cameras, Leica M rangefinders, and compact models.

leica cameras types

In the Leica mirrorless family, you'll find some standout players like the Leica SL2 and the wallet-friendly Leica CL. These cameras adopted the L-mount system presented in Sigma and Panasonic products, packing powerful, high-res sensors to guarantee impeccable photo quality.

Leica M rangefinders harness a manual focusing system with multiple lenses. Getting the hang of such a camera may take a bit of practice, but the unique experience it brings is second to none. Leica M11 takes the lead in this series, boasting a triple-resolution sensor that really sets it apart.

The Leica compact series includes cameras that are made with the same level of care as any other Leica digital model, and the standout Leica Q2 is a shining example of this prowess. This camera brings together a high-res full-frame sensor and a super sharp 28mm f/1.7 lens. Its superb ease of use and robust build quality totally justify a slightly higher price.

1. Best Versatile Camera — Leica M11

leica m11 camera review

Type: Full Frame, Rangefinder | Resolution: 18MP | Video Quality: 1080p | Lens Mount: Leica M

  • ✚ Small size and weight
  • ✚ Class-leading sensor
  • ✚ High ISO range
  • ✚ On-board storage
  • Lacks AF
Rating

The Leica M11 comes with a top-of-the-line sensor that can easily recover highlights and shadows. Therefore, you can preserve minute details in the bright and dark parts of your photos. What's more, the electronic shutter is a real lifesaver when it comes to fixing inevitable exposure blunders.

Unlike cameras with autofocus, the M11 follows a different approach to shooting with its split-image rangefinder, visible in the optical viewfinder. It may not be as pinpoint accurate as autofocus, but it opens up the door to some creative framing that's a bit challenging to pull off with DSLRs or mirrorless cameras.

leica m11 digital camera

This rangefinder camera packs in some cool new features. For instance, you'll find a triple-resolution sensor housed in a classy, familiar body. Despite a couple of downsides, like a somewhat lengthy two-second startup time that can be irksome when you're chasing a fast-moving subject, this camera guarantees good photo quality.

In fact, with such a feature set, it can be called the best Leica camera for black-and-white photography and photographing breathtaking landscapes.

2. For Professionals — Leica SL2-S

leica sl2-s camera review

Type: Full Frame, Mirrorless | Resolution: 24MP | Video Quality: 1080p | Lens Mount: L-mount

  • ✚ Works great in low light
  • ✚ 4GB internal buffer memory
  • ✚ Embedded GPS for geotagging
  • ✚ External controls can be adjusted
  • System errors
  • Not for those seeking a reliable autofocus
Rating

The Leica SL2-S is a real all-rounder, shining bright in both photography and videography. It has a 24-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, pleasing users with fantastic image quality and detail.

Moreover, this Leica mirrorless camera comes with a built-in GPS for geotagging, and you can easily pair it with your smartphone for easy sharing and remote control using the proprietary App. It's made to seamlessly fit into professional setups, supporting external recorders and timecodes. Plus, the HDMI output makes it a breeze to start live streams.

leica sl2-s digital camera

Even though the camera's menu system takes time to understand, especially for those just starting out, the camera performs well across various photography styles — from street and landscape to product and night photos. This is especially true when you consider a broad range of Leica lenses.

3. Superzoom — Leica V-Lux 5

leica v-lux 5 camera review

Type: Compact | Resolution: 20MP | Video Quality: 2K DCI 1080p | Lens Mount: Leica V

  • ✚ Awesome zoom range
  • ✚ Revamped OLED electronic viewfinder
  • ✚ Cinematic footage quality
  • ✚ Impressively fast AF
  • A bit of softness in the lens
  • No online documentation for novices
Rating

If you're into capturing moments on the move without lugging around a big DSLR, the Leica V-Lux 5 is the best Leica camera you can find. With its integrated flash and vibrant OLED viewfinder, you can frame your shots very precisely. Besides, thanks to a zoom lens on this compact camera, you can take mesmerizing close-ups and wide pictures.

It does a fantastic job even when the lighting isn't ideal, serving as an excellent pick for outdoor photography. An AF is very agile, focusing on subjects in just 0.1 seconds. Therefore, you can snap up speedy-moving moments without a problem.

leica v-lux 5 digital camera

It also impresses when it comes to shooting videos. It can record footage in 4K, imbuing your videos with a cinematic vibe. However, the camera doesn't support RAW format, which may bum out some pro photographers who like to have more control over their shots.

4. 4K Video Footage — Leica SL2

leica sl2 camera review

Type: Full Frame, Mirrorless | Resolution: 47MP | Video Quality: 4K | Lens Mount: Leica L

  • ✚ Great image quality
  • ✚ High-quality optics
  • ✚ Amazing results in low-light conditions
  • ✚ Integrated body image stabilization
  • Expensive
  • Fixed, non-tilting rear touchscreen
Rating

What really impresses me about the Leica SL2 is the awesome picture quality it delivers. The manufacturer added a top-tier sensor that churns out high-res shots with many details and a wide dynamic range.

Another cool thing about this Leica mirrorless camera is that it works nicely with Leica's own L-mount lenses, and you can also attach lenses from the Leica M, S, and R-systems by using adapters. So, photographers can mix and match a bunch of lenses to fit exactly what they're going for.

leica sl2 digital camera

The camera is also equipped with a fast autofocus and can surely satisfy photographers looking for a compact, full-frame mirrorless camera with autofocus they can count on. As for photo sessions in low-light situations, this camera stands out, producing eye-pleasing shots.

5. Classic Style — Leica CL

leica cl camera review

Type: Mirrorless | Resolution: 24MP | Video Quality: 1080p | Lens Mount: Leica TL

  • ✚ Space-saving design
  • ✚ Big LCD display
  • ✚ Amazing photo quality at lower ISOs
  • ✚ Understandable menu
  • Issues at higher ISOs
  • Few shooting modes
Rating

The Leica CL is smartly crafted, ditching the stuff most photographers won't use. It has a large LCD display, so checking out settings is very easy.

The autofocus is quick and dependable, so you will surely get amazing photos. In general, this camera with high dynamic range offers outstanding color reproduction.

leica cl digital camera

But there are a couple of drawbacks I should point out. When you crank up the ISO, especially hitting around ISO 25,000, the camera takes a hit in resolution, and there appears noticeable noise, which can be a bit distracting. So, keep this in mind if you frequently work in low-light conditions.

6. Fixed Lens — Leica Q2

leica q2 camera review

Type: Compact | Resolution: 47.3MP | Video Quality: 1080p | Lens Mount: Fixed 28mm, f/1.7

  • ✚ Manifold helpful crop modes
  • ✚ Good buffer size
  • ✚ Water-resistant and dustproof build
  • ✚ Integrated Wi-Fi
  • ISO issues at high settings
  • High price
Rating

The Q2 is one of the best Leica digital cameras that feel good to handle and produce fantastic photos. The way they've paid attention to every little detail when making this camera for art photography is really something. The manufacturer even went the extra mile when designing dials.

The autofocus is top-notch, letting you lock onto your subject in a blink of an eye. The pictures come out super crisp, and the backgrounds acquire lovely bokeh.

leica q2 digital camera

You get a whole array of manual controls and can enjoy total command over your shots. Just keep in mind, that the Q2 is aimed at taking stills. The video side is more of a bonus. If you're seriously into videography, the fixed display and limited video settings may feel restricting.

7. Old-School — Leica MP

leica mp camera review

Type: Film, Rangefinder | Resolution: 35mm film | Lens Mount: Leica M7

  • ✚ Beautiful, all-metal design
  • ✚ Special lenses for shooting in scarce lighting
  • ✚ Vibration-free shutter
  • ✚ Simple to maintain and find replacement parts
  • Lacks autofocus
  • No built-in flash
Rating

This is a real old-school rangefinder, and it's one of the rare film cameras that Leica still makes. It's a gorgeous piece, crafted entirely from metal, making it feel hefty and sturdy when you hold it. Besides, it's surprisingly compact for a big-format film camera.

The Leica MP really stands out when it comes to shooting in low light. The special lenses it comes with give deep contrast and work well at any aperture. Plus, the optical rangefinder makes focusing extremely precise. With the vibration-free shutter, you can snap quick shots with spot-on accuracy. Put all that together, and you get the best Leica camera from the M lineup that handles challenging lighting conditions with ease.

leica mp film digital camera

Using this camera is a breeze – pick your lens, get focus and aperture right, and you're ready to take pictures. It's a fantastic tool for diving into photography and honing your skills. Sure, not having a built-in flash might be a downside, but that's a hiccup you can easily tackle with an external flash unit.

8. Silent Mechanical Shutter — Leica M10-R

leica m10-r camera review

Type: Compact, Rangefinder | Resolution: 40MP | Lens Mount: Leica M

  • ✚ Remarkable photo quality
  • ✚ Customizable ISO sensitivity
  • ✚ Rangefinder-style design
  • ✚ Touch-sensitive display for quick control
  • No way to record videos
  • Takes time to master
Rating

The highlight of the Leica M10-R is its image sensor. With it, you’ll receive detailed pictures no matter whether you're into taking JPEGs or uncompressed raw shots. The image quality is striking, particularly at high ISOs, when many other Leica digital cameras fail to deal with noise and banding.

Another advantage of the M10-R is its variety of capture settings. You can tweak the ISO sensitivity in full-stop increments and switch to a Bulb mode for taking cool long exposure images. When you attach Leica's renowned lenses, the image quality is genuinely magnificent.

leica m10-r digital camera

The design of this model is reminiscent of the M10-P and the M10 Monochrom, including a quiet mechanical shutter and a touch-sensitive screen on the back. It packs some additional features for still photography, such as a double-axis level indicator and an enhanced live view mode with different metering patterns and a focus peaking function.

How to Choose the Best Leica Camera?

Leica cameras are well put together and have the signature build quality we’ve come to expect from this manufacturer. Leica chooses prime-quality materials like brass, aluminum, and leather in their cameras. Therefore, cameras not only acquire a timeless vibe but also stay reliable even in rough shooting situations.

If compared to their competitors, such as Voigtlander or Zeiss, they deliver better performance regardless of the weather conditions. With the Leica camera, you don’t need to worry about getting caught in the pouring rain.

Photography genres. When choosing the best Leica camera, you need to consider your specific photography type and preferences. I went through Leica camera reviews, noting the genres when Leica cameras excel, and put together a handy table.

Best Leica Camera Genre

Leica M11

Black&White, Landscape, Fine Art

Leica SL2-S

For all genres

Leica V-Lux 5

Portrait, Close-Up, Landscape

Leica SL2

Night, 4K Video

Leica CL

Everyday, Street

Leica Q2

Street, Travel

Leica MP

Nature, Street, Travel

Leica M10-R

Street, Landscape, Nature

the best leica camera how to choose

Lens compatibility. When selecting a camera, pay attention to its compatibility with different lenses. M-series cameras can be paired with bayonet-mount lenses, which can be twisted on and off the body more swiftly and easily than screw-mount glass.

On the other hand, the S-series represents Leica's medium-format digital models. These cameras come with larger, high-resolution sensors compared to those in the M-mount.

The Q-series cameras are equipped with fixed prime lenses on the front and pack a full-frame, high-resolution sensor inside.

As for the SL-series, these are standard mirrorless cameras that give you the flexibility to switch out lenses using the L-mount.

!

FixThePhoto Experts’ Tip: Leica R lenses can be used on Leica M cameras but Leica M lenses can’t be used on Leica R camera (You have to zone focus Leica R lenses on M bodies as not rangefinder coupled). This works better with wide lenses such as 21mm etc., via Leica M-R adapter.

how to choose the best leica camera

Camera type – film or digital? Digital Leica cameras are more popular than other digital options, and interestingly, film Leicas tend to become even more coveted over time. The choice of a camera ultimately depends on your preferences.

Ability to take B&W photos. If you're on the lookout for a Leica digital camera that can naturally shoot in black and white, choices are slim. There are several medium format options or you can check out the Leica Monochrom cameras.

These cameras have purpose-built monochrome sensors, eliminating the need for colored filters. Leica offers both an M-series Monochrom and a Q2 Monochrom, giving you the option of a rangefinder or a fixed-lens rangefinder.

Features and controls. Evaluate the features and controls offered by a camera. Look for features like image stabilization, autofocus performance, shooting speed, ISO range, and video capabilities. Leica cameras often prioritize manual controls and a straightforward user interface.

FAQ

  • • Are Leica cameras suitable for beginners?

Leica cameras can be suitable for beginners, but they often cater to experienced photographers who appreciate the craftsmanship and precision of the brand. Even though the brand does offer models with autofocus, Leica cameras are famous for their manual controls, so those new to photography, may need to spend some time mastering a chosen device.

  • • Which famous photographers used Leica cameras?

Many renowned photographers chose Leica cameras for work. Some notable examples include Henri Cartier-Bresson, known for his pioneering street photography; Sebastião Salgado, acclaimed for his powerful documentary work; and Annie Leibovitz, celebrated for her iconic portraits.

These photographers, among others, have recognized the exceptional quality and reliability of Leica cameras in capturing their artistic vision.

  • • Which Leica camera do pros prefer?

Professional photographers choose Leica cameras because of their exceptional build quality and cutting-edge features.

The top choices for professionals at the moment are the Leica SL2-S and Leica SL2-S. Both Leica mirrorless cameras are robust and feature-rich. The SL2 can also be utilized for recording cinematic videos in 4K.

  • • What is the best Leica camera for novices?

If you're just starting out, it's recommended to go for a model with autofocus, like the Leica V-Lux 5. Plus, it's the most budget-friendly option among Leica cameras in the market.

  • • Why are Leica cameras so expensive?

The main reason for that is top-notch quality. Leica lenses manage to successfully unite two significant characteristics. Firstly, it is extremely sharp glass that requires no “fake” software sharpening on the camera's side. Secondly, the fall-off from the in-focus to non-focused parts of the shot are consistent and appear natural.

SAVE UP TO 65% OFF SAVE UP TO 65% OFF