Leica M-E ‘Budget-Friendly’ Rangefinder Announced

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.