Thursday, October 23, 2025

THE NEW LEICA M EV1




By Heinz Richter

My first digital Leica was the Digilux 2. It was a huge departure from the Leica M cameras that I had used up to that time and it brought up the idea of a Leica M camera, digital, with similar features, including the electronic viewfinder and, of course, the interchangeable M lenses. That was in 2004. Since them we have had several digital Leica M cameras and along with them, the call for Leica to offer an electronic viewfinder Leica m camera as well.

That day is now with the introduction of the Leica M EV1. Technically, the Leica M EV1 builds on the foundation of the M11, featuring its 60 MP BSI CMOS full-frame sensor with Triple Resolution Technology – one of the world’s most advanced. Precise color rendering, remarkable detail, and a high dynamic range lend images the unmistakable Leica Look, with vivid depth and striking presence. Images can be captured in DNG or JPEG format at resolutions of 60, 36, or 18 MP. The powerful Maestro III processor handles data swiftly and reliably, storing it either on the 64 GB internal memory or an SD card.

Future tests will reveal how well the electronic viewfinder works in comparison the time-proven rangefinder. To a long-time Leica rangefinder user, at first glance the camera does require getting used to.  The missing viewfinder gives me the impression of something missing. But I am sure that will change with time.

Let's take a look at this new addition to the Leica M range of cameras:



The big difference, of course, is the viewfinder. Acfcording to Leica the M EV1 offers a seamless entry into the world of M photography. This makes manual focusing a matter of pure precision. Focus peaking highlights the active focus plane with a colored overlay, offering real-time guidance to help you frame your composition. Used separately or additionally, the focus zoom with two levels of magnification ensures precise control. Particularly when using fast Summilux and Noctilux lenses with shallow depths of field and at close range, you can achieve sharp focus with the help of focus assist. 

The high-resolution 5.76-megapixel EVF delivers brilliant colors and outstanding clarity, capturing every detail of your subject. All shooting data – shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and exposure compensation – can be shown outside the image, allowing you to maintain full focus on your composition. An individually configurable eye sensor enables smooth transitions between the viewfinder and touch panel, while the diopter adjustment from -4 to +2 fine tunes the viewfinder image to suit your vision.

Yes, no autofocus. That would have required an entirely new camera and lenses. One of the big advantages of the M lenses is their size. Adding autofocus would necessitate the incorporation of an autofocus mechanism and electronics, which would greatly increase the size and weight of the lenses.

The Live View exposure preview displays every nuance – from brightness to image framing – in real time. Whether you’re working with ultra-wide-angle or super-telephoto lenses or creative photo filters, you maintain complete control over your composition, without ever taking your eye away from the camera. All settings are instantly visible, unlocking new creative possibilities with the Leica M. Using advanced tools like digital zoom, level gauge, and perspective control, you can compose your images with precision, freedom, and intuition.

The frame preview lever for the rangefinder would have no function with the electronic finder. Rather than eliminating it, another function has been created. It can be individually configured to activate one of the focus assist functions or the digital zoom for the EVF. Moving the lever to the left or right allows you to switch swiftly and intuitively between functions, ensuring your subject remains in view as you compose. Through this considered refinement, the M EV1 combines classic mechanics with contemporary functionality.



Thus, the new Leica M EV1 is a logical addition to the Leica M line of cameras, building on the far-sighted design of the Leica M3 from 1954.

For more info go to Leica M EV1



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