Leica M EV1 Marks a New Era for the Legendary M-System

The year 2025 brings in another feather in Leica‘s cap, a new M-series that changes the history of the lineup. The company has introduced a new M camera, the M EV1, which combines the benefits of an EVF camera with the traditional values of the M series viewfinder. This marks a new beginning and promises to deliver improved performance compared to before. Here is a look.

The Leica M model exemplifies the company’s philosophy. The M series has continually redefined itself with every generation, with 2006 marking a new era with the introduction of the Leica M8. In more current times, Leica announced the M11 series, which offers features such as different resolutions, no display, and Content Credentials technology.

Now, with the introduction of M EV1, the company is helping customers, especially those who have low vision, to get the best out of their photography. The device viewfinder showcases the scene exactly as it appears outside of the camera. In fact, with the new model, you no longer see the viewfinder window, which the Leica M series was famous for. The direct preview of the depth of field will be helpful to photographers, especially those working with macro or ultra-wide-angle lenses. There is also an integrated diopter compensation, which can be adjusted between -4 and +2 diopters.

The M EV1 features a 5.76MP EVF, which measures a standard 0.5 inches and has a 0.76x magnification. For those who want to view settings such as shutter speed, ISO, and exposure value, they can find this information around the image itself. Leica has also included an automatic switch between the viewfinder and the touch panel, which works with the eye sensor.

For those using manual lenses from the company, they now have the option of relying on focus assist, as seen with other Leica cameras. The peaking has a color overlay, which is highlighted when everything in the frame is tack sharp. The focus zoom feature also aids further, as you can choose between two magnification levels. The lever at the front of the Leica M EV1 can help as a focus assist or offer 1.3× or 1.8× digital zoom. And with a simple touch, you can activate or deactivate it.

Otherwise, the M EV1 features the same 60MP full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor as the M11. Additionally, it supports Content Credentials. The M EV1 has been a long time coming, and this has only been possible because Leica listened to its customers. The device will be available worldwide (except the U.S.A.) starting October 23 at $8,995, along with a hand grip featuring a matching leatherette covering for just $460. However, for the US availability, the Leica representatives said:

FCC authorization pending: This product is not available for sale in the United States at this time. Information is intended for international audiences.

In other words, you will have to wait until Leica officially announces the camera’s launch specifically for the American market. Until then, take a look at our review to see how the device fares.