Key Takeaways
1. The Leica M EV1 is the first M-camera with a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF), featuring a 5.76 million dot display.
2. It employs a 60.3MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor and Maestro III processor, offering resolutions of 60, 36, or 18MP for DNG or JPEG files.
3. The camera maintains a classic design with manual focus only, using focus assistance tools like peaking and focus-zoom.
4. Continuous shooting is limited to 4.5 fps, with an estimated battery life of 244 shots using the rear monitor and 237 shots with the EVF.
5. The M EV1 will launch on October 23, 2025, with a retail price of €7,950, integrating an EVF into the M series for the first time.
Leica has welcomed a new addition to its M series: the Leica M EV1, which is the first M-camera equipped with a built-in electronic viewfinder. This new model features an EVF alongside the 60.3MP full-frame sensor and Maestro III processor, which are also found in the M11 line. These updates are designed to make shooting with the M series easier while still keeping the classic feel that users love.
Specifications and Features
The M EV1 utilizes the full-frame BSI CMOS sensor and Triple Resolution Technology from the M11. It can create DNG or JPEG files in resolutions of 60, 36, or 18MP. The camera is paired with Leica’s Maestro III image processor, offers 64GB of internal storage, and is compatible with UHS-II SD cards. Continuous shooting is capped at 4.5 fps, with a 3GB buffer that can hold around 15 L-DNG images or over 100 JPEGs, depending on the settings used. According to CIPA testing, the battery life is estimated to be about 244 shots when using the rear monitor and 237 shots with the EVF.
Design and Functionality
Leica has maintained the M’s traditional aesthetic and mechanical controls, while introducing an EVF that boasts 5.76 million dots and a diopter adjustment range from −4 to +2 dpt. The EVF allows for a real-time preview of exposure, depth of field, and framing, which is particularly helpful when using fast Summilux or Noctilux lenses at very shallow depths of field, as noted by Leica. Focus assistance options include peaking and a focus-zoom feature with two magnification choices; the lever on the front, which was previously used for rangefinder framelines, can now be reassigned for focus assists or the camera’s 1.3× / 1.8× digital zoom.
Autofocus and User Experience
Notably, the M EV1 does not include autofocus; focusing remains manual by design, supported by magnification and peaking to enhance precision. This choice upholds the thoughtful shooting style that many M users appreciate, but it is a significant detail for potential buyers to consider.
The built-in EVF of the M EV1 operates at a fixed 60 Hz, as per Leica’s specifications. Unlike previous digital M models like the M11 (currently priced at $10,120/€8,716 on Amazon), this model does not support external electronic viewfinders anymore, as Leica has eliminated the electronic contacts in the hot shoe that were used for the Visoflex 2. While the 60 Hz refresh rate should be adequate for most users capturing stills, those who are sensitive to display lag or motion judder may find it less smooth compared to the higher-refresh OLED viewfinders found in some mirrorless cameras.
Historical Context and Release Date
Leica is presenting the M EV1 as a natural evolution in a lineage that began with the Leica I in 1925, extending through the classic mechanical rangefinder models and into the digital M series. The M concept transitioned into the digital age with the M8 in 2006, followed by iterations like the M9, M10, and M11, as well as analog models such as the M6 and MP. What sets the M EV1 apart is its integrated EVF within an M-branded body, as earlier M users had to rely on external Visoflex EVFs. This should make the M line more appealing to photographers who favor an electronic viewfinder while maintaining the M’s signature manual focus experience.
The Leica M EV1 is set to launch on October 23, 2025, at Leica Stores, online, and through authorized dealers. The recommended retail price is €7,950, and an optional matching leatherette hand grip is available for €395.







































