Leica M EV1: the First M-Camera With an Integrated EVF

The new Leica M EV1 essentially expands the company's M-Series to include a third category: digital M-Cameras with EVF.

The new Leica M EV1 sits alongside the existing analogue and digital rangefinder models in the M series cameras, and represents what the company refers to as "the next milestone in its history," as a result. Certainly the lack of a rangefinder window is a bit of an eye-opener.

5.76 megapixel EVF

A high-resolution 5.76 megapixel EVF provides the pivot between storied Leica M design and modern mirrorless technology. It provides a direct real-time preview of how the image will appear when the shutter snaps, allowing for the lens used, focal length and aperture. All relevant exposure data – such as shutter speed, ISO and exposure value – can be shown around the image, which remains completely uncovered.

An individually configurable eye sensor enables what Leica says are smooth transitions between the viewfinder and touch panel, while the dioptre adjustment from -4 to +2 fine tunes the viewfinder image to suit your vision.

Building on an M11 Base

The new M-Camera has been engineered based on the Leica M11 and its full-frame 60MP BSI-CMOS sensor. Images can be saved in either DNG or JPEG format at a resolution of 60, 36 or 18 megapixels, each of which uses the full sensor area. The Maestro III chip processes image data at the highest resolution quickly and saves them either on the 64 GB internal memory or an SD card.

To the rear there is a fixed 2.36-million dot LCD screen, while on the front the classic M-camera frame selector takes on a new function. With the M EV1 it can be individually configured to activate one of the focus assist functions, such as focus peaking or focus magnification, and 1.3x or 1.8x digital zoom modes. Moving the lever to the left or right allows you to switch swiftly and intuitively between functions, ensuring your subject remains in view throughout.

It weighs slightly less than other M-series camera at 495 g / 7.46 oz, but just like the M11-P and M11-D supports Content Credentials to add a digital signature to all images, which verifies their origins. 

Leica M EV1 Pricing and Availability 

The Leica M EV1 is available globally now everywhere apart from the US for $8995 or equivalent. US availability is currently pending expected FCC authorization.