Allendale, NJ—The new Leica M11 combines the experience of traditional rangefinder photography with contemporary camera technology. It features an exclusive triple resolution sensor; an expanded ISO range; dual memory; extended battery life; as well as a streamlined menu system.
In addition, the camera is the most flexible M system model in Leica’s history. At its core is a full-frame BSI (backside-illuminated) CMOS sensor with Triple Resolution technology.
“We are very proud of the new M11,” said Stefan Daniel, executive vice president, Technology and Operations. “This camera is another milestone for Leica. Its inner workings are a completely new development, while the exterior remains true to the iconic Leica M design.”
“As we all know,” added Dr. Andreas Kaufmann, chairman of the supervisory board of Leica Camera AG, Wetzlar, “the iconic Leica M system has accompanied dedicated photographers worldwide over decades; giving them a superior tool for witnessing their time and creating outstanding pictures. The new M11 will continue this legacy with outstanding technology, based on the experience since 1925.”
Leica M11 Specs
The camera records RAW image files in DNG format, and JPEGs are recorded at 60, 36 or 18 megapixels—using the full sensor area. Moreover, the 60MP option exploits the full optical potential of Leica’s latest APO lenses for the M system. In addition, the lower resolutions enable faster camera performance, extended burst lengths and also smaller files.
Furthermore, a special IR + UV cut filter effectively corrects oblique rays of incident light. The filter comprises two extremely thin, cemented layers of glass. What’s more, thanks to a new color filter array, the camera offers improved, more natural color reproduction.
While maintaining the iconic look of a traditional Leica M, the design of the Leica M11 is focused on efficiency as well as ergonomics. The controls are arranged in a unique layout around the 2.3–million-pixel, high-resolution touch screen. In addition, the menu structure of the M11 remains consistent with that of the Leica SL2 and Q2, for a user-friendly experience.
The Leica M11 also has a sensitivity range of ISO 64 to 50,000; records a 14-bit color depth; and has a dynamic range of up to 15 stops. And its Maestro III processor provides fluid, responsive operation, even at the highest resolution.
Moreover, its optional electronic shutter features a shutter speed of up to 1/16000 of a second. As a result, photographers can work with wide open apertures, in bright light, without ND filters. In fact, the M11 marks the first time multi-field metering in rangefinder mode is available, affording photographers a tool to curate light.
Other Features
In addition, the black-finish version of the Leica M11 has a top plate made of high-quality aluminum with a scratch-resistant coating. As a result, the body is 20% lighter than its silver-chrome counterpart. By comparison, the silver-chrome M11 features a classic brass top plate and weighs in at 1.4 pounds.
Also unique to the M11 is the omission of the traditional base plate. Consequently, photographers have direct access to the battery and SD card. In addition to the SD card slot, the Leica M11 also provides 64 gigabytes of internal storage capacity. As a result, it is the first M model to save image files simultaneously to two different storage media.
Further, its 1800mAh battery stores 64% more energy than before. Plus, the newly added universal USB-C port also serves to charge the camera’s battery, using most USB-C chargers.
Leica also announced that it will make upgraded connectivity features available through a new firmware version in the second half of 2022. Subsequently, the M11’s connectivity capabilities will elevate users’ mobile workflows. They will enhance the Leica FOTOS app with the possibility of embedding location data; accessing images via Bluetooth; and allowing increased transfer rates. Moreover, the M11 is an Apple “Made for iPhone and iPad” certified accessory.
Accessories
Leica also added new accessories to enhance the rangefinder experience. The Visoflex 2 electronic viewfinder features 3.7MP resolution to provide image control in live view mode. With a metal exterior, the Visoflex 2 matches the M11 in terms of design and functionality. The Visoflex 2’s large diopter adjustment range of -4 to +3 and 90º tilt function support full-frame viewing as well as the focusing of Leica lenses.
Additionally, to improve ergonomics without obstructing access to the battery and SD card, photographers can complement the M11 with a newly designed handgrip. The handgrip also doubles as a tripod mount; photographers can attached the Leica M11 to Arca-Swiss-standard tripod heads without the need for any additional equipment.
The Leica M11 is now available in both black and silver versions. It has a suggested retail price of $8,995.