Leica Summarit-M 50mm F2.4 ASPH

Leica M-Mount

Review

The Leica Summarit-M 50mm F2.4 ASPH is a prime lens that epitomizes the blend of classic craftsmanship and modern optical engineering. Designed specifically for the Leica M mount, this lens offers a compact profile and delivers exceptional performance, making it a sought-after choice for photographers seeking a versatile 50mm lens with character.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Summarit-M is quintessentially Leica. Constructed from high-quality materials, it has a solid, well-balanced feel in hand. Its metal body not only adds weight but also gives it an elegant charm that is characteristic of Leica lenses. The compact size and relatively lightweight design mean it won’t weigh down your camera bag, making it an excellent choice for street photography or travel.

The lens features a sleek matte finish that minimizes glare while the focus and aperture rings are smoothly integrated, providing a tactile experience during adjustments. The aperture range of f/2.4 to f/16 allows for striking shallow depth-of-field images while still enabling adequate performance in low-light conditions.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the Summarit-M 50mm F2.4 ASPH shines brightly. It showcases impressive sharpness across the entire frame, even wide open at f/2.4. The lens’ aspherical elements work wonders in reducing aberrations and distortion, resulting in crisp images with fantastic detail. Color rendition is vibrant, and contrast levels are rich, making it a joy to shoot in various lighting conditions.

Bokeh quality is another strong point; the lens produces pleasantly smooth backgrounds, making it an excellent option for portrait photography. Whether capturing environmental portraits or detailed close-ups, the Summarit-M delivers images that exude a classic Leica aesthetic.

Usability and Performance in the Field

Focusing with the Summarit-M is a genuinely rewarding experience. The focus ring is well-damped, allowing precise adjustments, which is essential for adapting to changing scenes, especially in spontaneous shooting situations. However, being a manual focus lens, it may present a challenge for those accustomed to autofocus systems, particularly in fast-paced scenarios.

The lens also handles flare quite well, thanks to its advanced optical design, but it is still wise to use a hood or be mindful of bright light sources just outside the frame. Chromatic aberration and vignetting are negligible, adding to the overall performance of the lens.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality with a classic design
• Sharp images across the frame, even at wide apertures
• Beautiful color rendition and contrast
• Smooth, pleasing bokeh quality
• Compact and lightweight for a 50mm lens

Cons

• Manual focus may not suit everyone, especially in fast-paced environments
• Some users may prefer a faster maximum aperture for low-light shooting

Verdict

The Leica Summarit-M 50mm F2.4 ASPH is a remarkable lens that stands out for its exceptional optical performance and build quality. It embodies the ethos of Leica, providing users with a high-quality, tactile experience that encourages thoughtful photography. While it may not be the best choice for those who prefer the convenience of autofocus, its image quality and character make it a compelling addition to any Leica M system—a true classic in a modern package.