The Leica M-E (Typ-240) is a new rangefinder model, which Leica promotes with an “exceptionally favourable retail price” of $3,995.
While $4,000 may be a bit of a stretch for most to consider “budget-friendly,” it is priced substantially less than the Leica M-P at $7500, along with other M-series models in the $5k-$8k range.
Leica M-E Key Features
- 24MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
- Leica Maestro Image Processor
- Optical 0.68x-Magnification Viewfinder
- 3.0″ 920k-Dot LCD
- Full HD 1080p Video Recording
- ISO 200-6400, up to 3 fps Shooting
- 2GB Buffer and Integrated Spirit Level
- Magnesium Alloy Body and Brass Top Plate
- Anthracite Paint Finish & Black Leather
From Leica’s press release:
The Iconic M Design
Visual and Tactile Perfection
The Leica M-E (Typ 240) is distinguished by a timelessly elegant aesthetic and high-end construction; each model is handcrafted in Germany. The compact camera body is dust and spray water resistant, while the genuine leather trim offers both a sophisticated appearance and a safer grip on the camera. Top and base plate are finished in an anthracite grey paint which has been developed especially for the M-E.
As with all Leica M models, owners of the new M-E benefit from the comprehensive system compatibility that distinguishes the Leica M series: thanks to the M bayonet mount, the M-E is compatible with nearly every M lens ever produced — and so represents a particularly sustainable investment.
24-Megapixel CMOS Sensor
Image Quality without Compromise
The new Leica M-E ranks among the most compact full-frame camera systems in the world. Its 24MP CMOS sensor offers a high light sensitivity of up to ISO 6400 – facilitating outstanding image results even in low-light situations. Its 2GB buffer memory ensures that the Leica M-E is always ready to shoot, even when capturing a rapid succession of frames – so you can rest assured that you will never miss out on the decisive moment.
Integrated Video Function
Leica Look in Full-HD
Thanks to its exceedingly high resolution and light sensitivity, the Leica M-E delivers photographs imbued with the classic ‘Leica look’, characterized by a unique bokeh rendition. Owners of the new Leica M-E are also able to apply this distinctive quality to their moving images: the Leica M-E features a 1080p, full-HD movie mode — allowing you to capture stunning videos using a dedicated recording button, adding yet another dimension to your creative pursuits.
The new Leica M-E will ship in July 2019. Check it out here at B&H Photo.
Now, if they would make a lower-priced Monochrom version, I might be interested…
What??? Only 24Mp and 3FPS? No 4K video, no dual card slot, no tilt screen, no bluetooth/wifi, no selfie screen, no ISO to 2 Billion? If this were a DSLR it would be pronounced DOA. But hey, at least it’s mirrorless :-)