Tag: electronic viewfinder

  • Leica M EV1: First Digital M-Series Camera with Built-in EVF

    Leica M EV1: First Digital M-Series Camera with Built-in EVF

    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.


     

  • Leica M11-V: Compact Full-Frame Camera with EVF and Simple Design

    Leica M11-V: Compact Full-Frame Camera with EVF and Simple Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. Leica is expected to release a new version called the M11-V, replacing the traditional rangefinder with an electronic viewfinder.
    2. The design of the M11-V closely resembles the Leica M11 but lacks the rangefinder openings.
    3. The new camera will have customizable functions for the electronic viewfinder display.
    4. The M11-V may be priced lower than the current Leica M11, which is $8,995, partly due to reduced memory from 256GB to 64GB.
    5. The M11-V is expected to feature a 60-megapixel full-frame sensor and the Leica Maestro III processor, similar to the M11.


    For several months, there have been whispers that Leica is set to unveil a new version of the Leica M11 before the year wraps up. This new iteration is said to swap the traditional rangefinder for an electronic viewfinder. Recently, the online retailer M&K Kamera shared a somewhat blurry screenshot on Instagram, which seems to show part of the product listing for the Leica M11-V.

    Similar Design, New Features

    Even though the image of the new Leica camera was not very clear, it is noticeable that its design closely resembles that of the Leica M11. However, as anticipated, the two openings for the rangefinder are absent. The front slider, which typically selects the rangefinder frame lines, is rumored to offer two customizable functions to modify the electronic viewfinder’s display. M&K Kamera has mentioned that the Leica M11-V is expected to be available starting in November, and pre-orders are already being taken, although pricing details have yet to be confirmed.

    Pricing Expectations

    The Leica M11-V might come at a lower price than the standard Leica M11, which is currently priced at $8,995. This could be due to the absence of the rangefinder, which is one of the more costly parts of the camera. Furthermore, Leica is reducing the memory to 64GB from the 256GB found in the pricier M11-P model. The electronic viewfinder, featuring built-in diopter correction, is speculated to utilize a 0.5-inch panel with a resolution of 5.76 million dots. In addition, the Leica M11-V is said to support Content Credentials. It is anticipated that the 60-megapixel full-frame sensor and the Leica Maestro III processor will be taken directly from the Leica M11.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Leica M11-V Leak: Full-Frame Sensor, EVF, Compact & Affordable

    Leica M11-V Leak: Full-Frame Sensor, EVF, Compact & Affordable

    Key Takeaways

    1. Leica is set to introduce the M11-V with an electronic viewfinder, moving away from the traditional rangefinder design.
    2. The new electronic viewfinder features a 0.5-inch screen and upgraded resolution of 5.76 million pixels.
    3. The M11-V retains the 60 MP full-frame sensor from the standard M11 and is produced in Germany.
    4. The camera is expected to be more affordable due to the removal of the costly rangefinder and the inclusion of 64 GB of flash storage.
    5. It will use the Leica Maestro III processor and is aimed at appealing to a broader audience while maintaining Leica’s quality and craftsmanship.


    Rumors have been floating around for quite some time that the German camera maker Leica is set to introduce the Leica M11-V, marking a shift to an electronic viewfinder from the traditional rangefinder in its M series. The official announcement is expected in October. Recently, LeicaRumors has shared some promotional materials that outline several important specifications for the new camera.

    Key Specs Revealed

    The electronic viewfinder is equipped with a 0.5-inch screen and features integrated diopter correction, similar to the Visoflex 2 that can be attached to the standard Leica M11. However, the resolution has seen an upgrade from 3.68 million to 5.76 million pixels. The camera retains the same 60 MP full-frame sensor found in the standard Leica M11 and is set to be produced in Germany. A newly added function button is rumored to allow for the display of digital frame lines within the viewfinder, and the overall design is said to be more streamlined now that the optical viewfinder has been removed.

    Changes in Design Features

    According to earlier speculations, the dedicated ISO dial has been left out, likely to save space since it would be positioned right next to the viewfinder. By swapping the rangefinder, which is the most costly component, for an electronic viewfinder, Leica is likely to cut down on production expenses significantly. The positioning of the Leica M11-V as an entry-level model is suggested by its inclusion of 64 GB of flash storage, in contrast to the 256 GB storage found in the Leica M11-P. Nonetheless, it will still support Content Credentials. The Leica Maestro III processor will be the same as that used in the Leica M11.

    Conclusion

    So, as we anticipate the official unveiling of the Leica M11-V, it’s clear that Leica is making some notable changes to its camera lineup. With its new features and specifications, it aims to appeal to a broader audience while maintaining the quality and craftsmanship that the brand is known for.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Leica M11-V Launching in October: 60 MP Full-Frame EVF Rumors

    Leica M11-V Launching in October: 60 MP Full-Frame EVF Rumors

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Leica M11 version, likely called M11-V, may debut in October with an electronic viewfinder (EVF).
    2. The M11-V will not have a dedicated ISO dial and will replace the traditional rangefinder with an EVF for enhanced functionality.
    3. The switch to an electronic viewfinder is expected to make the camera more affordable and address limitations of the rangefinder system.
    4. The M11-V will feature a 60-MP full-frame sensor, 256 GB of internal storage, and a 2.95-inch sapphire crystal touchscreen, similar to the M11-P.
    5. Leica aims to balance tradition and innovation with the M11-V, appealing to both classic enthusiasts and modern photographers.


    Rumors have been floating around for quite some time about Leica working on a new version of the Leica M11 that will include an electronic viewfinder. The latest scoop from LeicaRumors indicates that this camera could make its public debut in October. Although the final name hasn’t been confirmed yet, it’s likely to be called the Leica M11-V.

    Differences from M11-P

    Insider information hints that this new model will share some similarities with the Leica M11-P, but there are two key changes. Firstly, the camera will not feature a dedicated ISO dial, likely to accommodate the second significant update: the electronic viewfinder. Leica intends to swap out the traditional rangefinder for an EVF. Previously, if users wanted an electronic viewfinder, they had to purchase a separate accessory, the Visoflex 2, which attaches to the M11 series but blocks the hot shoe, preventing the use of both the EVF and flash simultaneously.

    Enhanced Affordability

    Transitioning from a rangefinder to an electronic viewfinder is expected to make the camera more budget-friendly, while also allowing Leica to bypass some of the rangefinder’s limitations, such as the 70-centimeter minimum focusing distance. Similar to the Leica M11-D, which completely removes its display, the new Leica M with an electronic viewfinder is simply another choice for buyers; models like the Leica M12 will still retain the traditional rangefinder. As per LeicaRumors, the Leica M12 won’t hit the market until at least the end of 2026. Additionally, the Leica M11-V is set to feature specifications similar to the M11-P, including a 60-MP full-frame sensor, 256 GB of internal storage, and a 2.95-inch touchscreen that’s protected by sapphire crystal.

    Final Thoughts

    The developments around the Leica M11-V are creating a buzz, as photographers eagerly await its release. With these advancements, Leica is looking to balance tradition with innovation, catering to both classic enthusiasts and modern users.

    Source:
    Link

  • Sony FX2 Compact Full-Frame Camera Launches at Lower Price

    Sony FX2 Compact Full-Frame Camera Launches at Lower Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Sony FX2 features a new electronic viewfinder with a 0.5-inch OLED screen and 3.68 million dots resolution, allowing for angled viewing.
    2. It has a 33MP full-frame sensor, capable of shooting 4K video at 60 fps and supports Super 35 format, with high data rates up to 600 Mbps.
    3. The camera excels in low-light conditions with a dual base ISO of 800 and 4,000, and offers a dynamic range exceeding 15 stops using S-Log3.
    4. It weighs 1.5 lbs, has a battery life of approximately 90 minutes for video recording, and features two SD card slots, including compatibility with CFexpress Type A cards.
    5. The Sony FX2 is set to release in July 2025, priced at €3,199 or £2,699 without the handgrip, and €3,699 or £3,149 with the handgrip.


    The new Sony FX2 might resemble its predecessor, the Sony FX3 (priced from $3,898 on Amazon) at first glance, but there are important differences. One of the key updates is the inclusion of an electronic viewfinder featuring a 0.5-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 3.68 million dots. This viewfinder can be angled upwards, making it easier to capture images from various positions.

    Enhanced Sensor and Video Capabilities

    The camera boasts a 33MP full-frame sensor that can work with a mechanical shutter to take photos, which can also be saved as RAW files. Yet, the main focus of the FX2 is on video recording. It can shoot 4K video at 60 frames per second and supports the Super 35 format. The full sensor area is only usable for 4K at either 30 or 24 fps, or for recording 1080p slow-motion footage at 120 fps. The videos are captured in XAVC S-I format with data rates reaching up to 600 Mbps, and the S-Log3 feature allows for a dynamic range exceeding 15 stops.

    Low-Light Performance and Battery Life

    Using S-Log3, this sensor operates with a dual base ISO of 800 and 4,000, which helps to minimize noise in low-light situations. Weighing 1.5 lbs, this camera relies on the Sony NP-FZ100 battery, which is anticipated to last for about 90 minutes of video recording. Additionally, users can power the camera through USB-C. The FX2 is also equipped with two SD card slots, one of which is compatible with CFexpress Type A cards.

    Pricing and Availability

    Anticipation for the Sony FX2’s release is high, as it is set to debut in July 2025, with a price tag of €3,199 and £2,699 excluding a handgrip. If you opt for the kit that includes the handgrip, the cost is expected to be €3,699 and £3,149. For more information about this new camera, check out the official product page.

    Source:
    Link


  • Leica M11-V Launching Soon: Compact Full-Frame Camera Details

    Leica M11-V Launching Soon: Compact Full-Frame Camera Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. Leica is developing a new camera model, the M11-V, derived from the M11-P, featuring an electronic viewfinder (EVF) instead of a traditional rangefinder.
    2. The EVF offers benefits like displaying precise image area, depth of field, and exposure settings before capturing a photo, along with potential lower pricing and maintenance costs.
    3. The M11-V will sacrifice some advantages of the classic viewfinder, such as the ability to see outside the frame and manual focusing efficiency.
    4. The camera is expected to maintain key specifications from the M11-P, including a 60.3 MP full-frame sensor, 256 GB internal storage, an SD card slot, and dedicated dials for shutter speed and ISO.
    5. Growing anticipation for the Leica M11-V highlights its appeal to both professional and amateur photographers, combining modern features with Leica’s traditional craftsmanship.


    According to some recent updates from LeicaRumors, the well-known German camera brand Leica is working on a new model derived from the Leica M11-P, but it won’t have the classic rangefinder. Instead, this new camera is expected to include an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which was previously available only as an extra add-on through the Leica Visoflex 2.

    Benefits of the EVF

    Using an electronic viewfinder brings many important benefits compared to the traditional rangefinder. For instance, the viewfinder’s display lets photographers see the precise image area, depth of field, and exposure settings before they take a shot. Furthermore, the upcoming Leica M11-V might come at a more affordable price since the costly rangefinder feature is being eliminated. This change could also lead to lower maintenance costs, as electronic viewfinders don’t need the readjustment that rangefinders do.

    Trade-offs to Consider

    On the flip side, switching to an electrical viewfinder means that the Leica M11-V will forfeit some perks of the classic viewfinder, like being able to see outside the frame or manually focusing rapidly and accurately. There are already hints about the Leica M11-V within the Leica Photos iPhone app, leading LeicaRumors to believe that the camera’s release is just around the corner. Besides the viewfinder, it seems that the camera will still be based on the Leica M11-P, so it’s likely that Leica will once again include a 60.3 MP full-frame sensor, 256 GB of internal storage, an SD card slot, and separate dials for shutter speed and ISO settings.

    Anticipation for the New Model

    The anticipation around the Leica M11-V is growing, especially with the promise of advanced features and a competitive price. As technology continues to evolve, this new camera could attract both professional and amateur photographers alike. The combination of modern features with Leica’s traditional craftsmanship might just make this new model a must-have for enthusiasts.

    Source:
    Link

  • New Leica M Camera: Compact Design, EVF, Full-Frame Sensor Launch

    New Leica M Camera: Compact Design, EVF, Full-Frame Sensor Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Leica is reportedly developing a new M-series camera with an electronic viewfinder, but it will not replace the Leica M11.
    2. The new camera may feature a hybrid viewfinder option, combining electronic and optical elements, as suggested by customer feedback.
    3. The upcoming model will have a new design, including a larger 3.9-inch touchscreen replacing rear buttons and a smaller overall size compared to the M11.
    4. The introduction of an electronic viewfinder could improve focusing capabilities, especially for subjects closer than 27 inches and with long telephoto lenses.
    5. Changes in design and features may lower costs and maintenance but could compromise the unique characteristics of the M series.


    For several years now, there have been some unclear whispers about Leica working on a new M-series camera that would feature an electronic viewfinder. These whispers may actually hold some truth, as LeicaRumors has reported that this new camera could be released later this year. However, it will not directly replace the Leica M11 but will instead be an additional model within the Leica M series.

    Features and Unique Selling Points

    This news isn’t overly shocking because the rangefinder has always been a key characteristic of the Leica M series and a major draw for buyers. At the moment, besides the Leica M series and the Pixii, there are no other digital rangefinder cameras available. It’s still uncertain if Leica plans to completely remove the rangefinder, or if they will create a hybrid viewfinder like the one found in the Fujifilm X100 VI. Such a hybrid would combine an electronic and optical viewfinder by showing EVF information within the user’s sight. Insights from a customer survey conducted by Leica indicate that they might have looked into both a full EVF and a hybrid option during the development phase.

    New Design and Specifications

    LeicaRumors also mentioned that this upcoming camera will showcase an entirely new design, featuring a larger 3.9-inch touchscreen that will take the place of all the buttons on the rear. The new model is expected to be somewhat smaller than the Leica M11 and will swap out the ISO dial for an extra programmable dial. The introduction of an electronic viewfinder could help overcome some limitations of a rangefinder, particularly when trying to focus on subjects closer than 27 inches or while using long telephoto lenses. Additionally, the EVF could simplify the camera’s design, potentially lowering both its cost and maintenance requirements. Nonetheless, in making these changes, Leica could also sacrifice the most crucial and distinctive feature of the M series.

    Source:
    Link