Leica introduced an up to date model of its Summilux-M 50mm F1.4 ASPH quick regular prime for its M lens mount in April 2023. The redesigned Summilux-M now has a better minimal focus distance of 45cm (17.7″), down from 70cm (27.6″), 11 aperture blades (up from 9) and beneficial properties a metallic hood that screws outwards, fairly than the push/pull model on the older lens.

Handbook focus can also be the one possibility for the lens, so whereas F1.4 is enticing, focusing extensive open is a take a look at of each eyesight and a gradual hand. Getting 100% excellent focus most likely is not lifelike for a rangefinder lens (however we tried with the EVF, rear display screen and with focus peaking on and off).

Additionally, a word about F-stop readings within the metadata: there isn’t a communication between the lens and the Leica physique so info throughout the EXIF file is just not at all times the precise F-stop used for a picture however fairly the digicam’s finest guess based mostly on the M11’s sensor readings.

Coupled with an Leica M11, we took the brand new lens out on the street for just a few weeks to see the way it performs.

View our Leica Summilux-M 50mm F1.4 ASPH pattern gallery