Leica Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH

Leica M-Mount

Review

The Leica Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH is a classic lens that embodies what Leica is all about: precision, quality, and a superb optical performance. With its fast maximum aperture of f/1.4, it excels in low-light conditions and provides stunning results with shallow depth of field, making it a great choice for portraits, street photography, and even landscapes.

One of the standout features of this lens is its sharpness. At f/1.4, you may notice some softening around the edges, but the center remains remarkably sharp. Stopping down to f/2 or f/2.8 yields an impressive sharpness across the frame that rivals even the most modern lenses. The lens also features an aspherical element which helps in reducing distortion and spherical aberrations, resulting in a clean and lovely bokeh that makes backgrounds beautifully smooth.

The build quality is distinctly Leica. The lens is made of high-quality materials, giving it a solid and luxurious feel in your hands. The focus ring is smooth, allowing for excellent manual focusing precision, which is crucial for street and portrait photography.

However, it's not without its drawbacks. The price point is quite high, which may deter some potential users, especially those who are just getting started in photography. Additionally, the size and weight might be excessive for those who prefer a compact lens for their daily carry, making it less portable than smaller alternatives. Some users might also feel the need for autofocus, which isn't an option here.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent sharpness, especially when stopped down
• Beautiful bokeh and low distortion
• Robust, high-quality build
• Smooth manual focus operation

Cons

• High price point
• Larger and heavier compared to other 50mm options
• No autofocus feature

Verdict

The Leica Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH is a lens that offers incredible image quality and a unique rendering that is typical of Leica's artistry. For those who can appreciate and afford it, this lens is a masterpiece that will undoubtedly elevate any photographer's work. While it may not be for everyone due to its price and weight, it remains a timeless choice for enthusiasts and professionals seeking the very best in lens performance.