Leica Super-APO-Summicron-SL 21mm F2 ASPH

Leica L-Mount

Review

The Leica Super-APO-Summicron-SL 21mm F2 ASPH lens is a remarkable addition to the lineup of wide-angle lenses available for L-Mount cameras. Designed with precision and performance in mind, this lens is not only a testament to Leica's commitment to optical excellence but also an invaluable tool for photographers who seek to capture stunning landscapes, architectural details, and dynamic environmental portraits.

One of the standout features of the Super-APO-Summicron-SL 21mm F2 is its exceptional sharpness and contrast across the entire frame. Even at wide-open apertures, images exhibit remarkable clarity, allowing for fine details to shine through. The aspherical elements incorporated into the lens design effectively minimize distortion and chromatic aberrations, resulting in clean, crisp images that can be printed at large sizes without any loss in quality.

Another excellent attribute of this lens is its fast F2 maximum aperture. This not only facilitates shooting in low-light conditions without sacrificing shutter speed but also enables beautiful subject isolation with its shallow depth of field. Photographers can creatively manipulate focus to highlight their subjects effectively, making this lens versatile for both stills and video work.

The build quality of the Super-APO-Summicron-SL 21mm F2 is also worth mentioning. It features a robust, weather-sealed construction that ensures durability and reliability in various conditions. This rugged design, combined with the luxurious feel of the materials, makes the lens a pleasure to handle and use. For outdoor photographers and those who often find themselves in challenging environments, this lens offers peace of mind.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The price point of the Super-APO-Summicron-SL 21mm F2 is on the higher side, which may be a barrier for some photographers. Additionally, due to its wide-angle nature, some users might notice subtle barrel distortion, especially at extreme angles, even if it’s less pronounced than in some competing lenses.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional sharpness and clarity throughout the frame
• Fast F2 maximum aperture for low-light shooting and subject isolation
• Robust, weather-sealed construction
• Minimal distortion and chromatic aberrations

Cons

• High price point may be a barrier for some photographers
• Subtle barrel distortion noticeable in certain compositions

Verdict

In conclusion, the Leica Super-APO-Summicron-SL 21mm F2 ASPH is an outstanding lens that delivers exceptional performance, making it an ideal choice for photographers seeking top-tier optical quality and versatility. While its high price tag may give some pause, the results it produces justify the investment for those who prioritize image quality and build durability. Whether you are a landscape photographer, an architectural enthusiast, or a videographer needing a reliable wide-angle lens, the Super-APO-Summicron-SL 21mm F2 is hard to beat.