Leica APO-Summicron-SL 35mm F2 ASPH

Leica L-Mount

Review

The Leica APO-Summicron-SL 35mm F2 ASPH is a remarkable lens that showcases the exceptional engineering and optical prowess that Leica is renowned for. It is designed for the L-Mount system, which opens up compatibility with a range of high-quality mirrorless cameras from various manufacturers. This lens is particularly favored by those who appreciate striking image quality in a compact form factor.

In terms of construction, the APO-Summicron-SL 35mm F2 ASPH features a robust and weather-sealed design, making it suitable for outdoor photography. The lens is made largely from metal, adding to its durability and professional feel. Additionally, the compact size and relatively lightweight nature of the lens make it an excellent choice for street and travel photography, allowing for easy handling without compromising on quality.

Optically, the lens performs exceptionally well across the frame. Its advanced optical design includes several aspherical elements and special glass types to minimize distortions and chromatic aberration effectively. The result is impressive sharpness and contrast, with plenty of detail evident even in challenging lighting conditions. The bokeh produced is smooth and creamy, contributing to a pleasing aesthetic in portrait and subject isolation photography.

Autofocus performance is another strength of the APO-Summicron-SL 35mm F2 ASPH. It features a fast and silent autofocus motor, capable of quickly locking onto subjects. Photographers will appreciate the accuracy and speed, particularly when capturing fleeting moments. Manual focusing is also a pleasure, thanks to the well-damped focus ring that provides precise control.

However, no lens is without its drawbacks. The price tag on the APO-Summicron-SL 35mm F2 ASPH is undeniably high, which could deter hobbyists seeking a more budget-friendly option. Additionally, while the lens is lightweight for its build quality, some might still find it slightly bulkier than other 35mm offerings from competitors, especially considering the compact nature of mirrorless systems.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional optical performance with sharpness and contrast.
• Smooth and pleasing bokeh for portrait photography.
• Fast and silent autofocus system.
• Durable, weather-sealed construction.
• Compact and lightweight design for a prime lens.

Cons

• High price point may not be suitable for all photographers.
• Slightly bulkier compared to some other 35mm lenses in the market.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Leica APO-Summicron-SL 35mm F2 ASPH is a lens that lives up to the Leica name, providing outstanding optical performance, robust construction, and user-friendly autofocus capabilities. It stands out as an excellent choice for photographers who need a versatile prime lens that excels in various conditions, particularly those working in the L-Mount ecosystem. While the cost may be a limiting factor for some, the quality and experience provided by this lens make it a worthwhile investment for serious photographers.