Leica announces highly anticipated Leica M EV1 with electronic viewfinder
Leica has announced the Leica M EV1, a long-rumoured model based on the Leica M11 body and M-mount but with an electronic viewfinder instead of the rangefinder. I have called for this feature for some time, and I expect the demand will be high.
Leica users will immediately notice the similarity between the existing Leica M and the Leica Q models, the latter being a fixed lens model with an electronic viewfinder and based on the rangefinder-equipped Leica M. The new Leica M EV1, therefore, is a synthesis of two models and features the full-frame 60MP BSI-CMOS sensor with Triple Resolution Technology (60, 36 or 18 megapixels) of the Leica M11 models, and the 5.76 megapixel EVF of the Leica Q3 models.
From the supplied technical data sheet, the EVF has a 5,760,000 dots resolution, 60 fps refresh rate, 0.76x magnification, 100% frame coverage and 20.75 mm exit pupil position (aka “eye-point”). The dioptre setting range is -4/+2 dpt, and, naturally, there’s an eye sensor for automatic switchover between the viewfinder and LCD panel. One downside of using the EVF, though, is that the BP-SLC7 battery (the same as on the Leica M11) doesn’t last as long. CIPA standard figures indicate the battery can power 237 shots using the EVF compared to 700 for the rangefinder-based Leica M11. That’s just a third of the rangefinder version; however, that is to be expected.
Bizarrely, the small (secondary) rangefinder window found on the M11 remains; according to my contact at Leica, it has been repurposed to house a flashing LED for the self-timer.
As for the rumour that the Leica M EV1 may include in-body image stabilisation, readers will be disappointed. The new camera features the same sensor and mechanical vertical-running shutter of the Leica M11 models (the shutter is a variant of that used in the Leica R8 35mm SLR). That and the compact body make In-Body Image Stabilisation (IBIS) unworkable. Film users will recall that “analogue” Leica M cameras feature a horizontally running cloth shutter, which goes some way in explaining the shape and small size of the Leica M bodies, past and present. However, in a future model, IBIS might be achievable with a sensor featuring a fully electronic shutter.
No new lenses have been announced alongside the new camera. However, to take advantage of the EVF, new models are expected to follow in the not-too-distant future with the new closer focusing distance feature seen in the upgraded 35mm and 50mm F1.4 Summilux-M models.
The new Leica M EV1 is available from 23rd of October 2025 at the retail price of £6,840.00 / €7,950.00 / $8,995.00 incl. VAT. A hand grip is also available for £340.00 / €395.00 / $460.00 incl. VAT.
Key features
- Full-frame 60MP BSI-CMOS sensor with Triple Resolution Technology ( 60, 36 or 18 megapixels)
- 5.76 megapixel EVF
- Focus peaking and focus assist (zoom) can adopt “ bright line frame” lever
- Supports Content Credentials
- 64 GB internal memory (and single SD slot)
- Connectivity via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or cable
- Available from 23rd of October 2025.
- Retail price is £6,840.00 / €7,950.00 / $8,995.00 incl. VAT
- Hand grip available for £340.00 / €395.00 / $460.00 incl. VAT.
- No new lenses announced
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Read our review of the Leica M11
Technical Data
| Manufacturer | Leica | Leica |
| Model | Leica M11 | Leica M EV1 |
| Web | www.leica-camera.com | www.leica-camera.com |
| Lens Mount | Leica M | Leica M |
| Sensor | 60 MP full-frame (35.8 x 23.9 mm) CMOS sensor | 60 MP full-frame (35.8 x 23.9 mm) CMOS sensor |
| ISO sensitivity | ISO 64 to 50,000 | ISO 64 to 50,000 |
| Shutter | Mech. shutter: 60 min to 1⁄4000 s Electronic shutter function: 60 s to 1⁄16000 s Flash Sync: up to 1⁄180 s |
Mech. shutter: 60 min to 1⁄4000 s Electronic shutter function: 60 s to 1⁄16000 s Flash Sync: up to 1⁄180 s |
| AF/MF | MF only, rangefinder coupled, from 0.7m | MF only via EVF |
| Continuous shooting | Up to 4.5 frames per second (fps) | Up to 4.5 frames per second (fps) |
| Video | N/A | N/A |
| Viewfinder | Optical, 0.73x mag all lenses | Electronic, 0.76x mag all lenses |
| Display | 2.95-inch touchscreen LCD with 2.33 million dots | 2.95-inch touchscreen LCD with 2.33 million dots |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi dual-band and Bluetooth v4.2 BR/EDR/LE for remote control and image transfer via free app. USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-C | Wi-Fi dual-band and Bluetooth v5 LE for remote control and image transfer via free app. USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-C |
| Battery | BP-SCL7, 700 shots per charge (with EVF, CIPA standard), approx. | BP-SCL7, 237 shots per charge (with EVF, CIPA standard), 244 (with LCD), approx. |
| Body | Weather-sealed body with magnesium alloy and aluminium top and bottom plates. Silver finish has a brass top plate. | Weather-sealed body with magnesium alloy and aluminium top and bottom plates. |
| Memory | SD card slot (compatible with UHS-II). 64GB internal memory | SD card slot (compatible with UHS-II). 64GB internal memory |
| Dimensions (wxdxh) | 139 x 38,5 x 80mm. (5.47 x 1.52 x 3.15 inches) | 139 x 38,5 x 80mm. (5.47 x 1.52 x 3.15 inches) |
| Weight | Black: 530 grams (1.17 pounds) inc battery and card Silver: 640g (1.41 pounds) inc battery and card |
Black: 484 grams (1.06 pounds) inc battery and card |
Press Release
Next Milestone for the Leica M-System
Leica M EV1 – the first M-Camera with an integrated electronic viewfinder
Wetzlar, 23rd of October 2025 – Leica Camera AG has reached the next milestone in its history and, with the arrival of the new Leica M EV1, is introducing a new segment to the Leica M-System. In addition to the digital and analogue M-Camera with an optical rangefinder, Leica is welcoming a new member to the M family in the form of an M-Camera with an integrated electronic viewfinder (EVF), combining the advantages of an EVF with the traditional values of the M-System. Not only does it make joining the world of M photography easier, but it also enables reliable and comfortable focusing irrespective of visual acuity – in particular when using the fast Leica Summilux and Noctilux lenses at very shallow depths of field, and when composing images with ultra wide-angle, telephoto and macro lenses.
As a photography pioneer, Leica Camera AG has been bravely treading new paths for 100 years now. As the first series-produced 35mm camera, the Leica I revolutionised photography back in 1925. The Leica M is considered its successor and exemplifies the essence of the Leica philosophy like no other. With iconic design, precision craftsmanship “Made in Germany” and uncompromising quality, it has embodied the values and legacy of the brand for over 70 years by harnessing innovation and forward-looking technology. Since its introduction, the Leica M has been systematically refined with each new generation, such as in 2006, when Leica transported the soul of the analogue M-Camera to the digital age with the M8. The current models – such as the M11 Monochrom with its black-and- white sensor, the M11-D with no display, the M11-P with Content Credentials Technology, and the analogue M6, MP and M-A – all demonstrate the ingenuity and individuality of the M-System.
By introducing an EVF to the M-Camera, Leica is fulfilling a frequent customer request and expanding the range of applications for seasoned M users. Thanks to its intuitive operation, new customers will also find it easier to delve into the world of the M-System. The M EV1 continues the M-Camera’s long tradition of timeless, functional and iconic design. Handmade in Germany using high-quality material, it speaks the familiar, clear and cultivated design language of an M. The leatherette covering featuring a diamond pattern and the purist front deliberately set it apart from the traditional rangefinder M-Camera.
The image in the Leica M EV1’s viewfinder is shown exactly as it will be when the shutter snaps – in line with the lens used, focal length and aperture. The direct preview of the field of view and plane of focus is very advantageous, especially when it comes to composing images with ultra wide-angle and telephoto lenses. The precise real-time exposure preview provides additional certainty and unleashes new creative possibilities though targeted under, and over, exposure. With the integrated dioptre compensation, the viewfinder can be adapted to the user’s own visual acuity. A setting wheel allows an adjustment between -4 and +2 dioptres.
The high-resolution 5.76 megapixel EVF provides brilliant image quality with exceptional clarity and natural colour rendering. If desired, relevant exposure data – such as shutter speed, ISO and exposure value – can be shown around the image, which remains completely uncovered. The automatic switch between viewfinder and touch panel is carried out by an eye sensor.
The integrated focus assist, already found in other Leica cameras, is particularly user friendly. Focus peaking highlights the active plane of focus with overlaid colour, allowing precise adjustment of the desired image area in real time. The focus zoom also makes manual focusing easier by means of two freely selectable magnification factors, either automatically by turning the focus ring or manually via one of the function buttons. This enables precise focusing, in particular when using fast lenses at a shallow depth of field and in the macro range. The lever at the front of the camera, which is used in rangefinder M-Cameras to preview bright-line frames, has been given a useful function on the Leica M EV1: this control can be assigned to one of the focus assists or the 1.3× or 1.8× digital zoom. With a simple touch to the right or left, the focus assist can be activated or deactivated quickly and comfortably as the situation requires.
The new M-Camera has been engineered based on the Leica M11 and its full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor with Triple Resolution Technology, which is admired for its precise colour rendering, impressive detail resolution, high dynamic range and excellent noise behaviour. Images can be saved in either DNG or JPEG format at a resolution of 60, 36 or 18 megapixels. 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. Thanks to seamless connectivity via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or cable, the camera can be quickly and conveniently connected with the Leica FOTOS App. Images can also be sent to smartphones energy efficiently in the background using Bluetooth Low Energy technology. Just like the M11-P and M11-D, the new Leica M EV1 supports Content Credentials. With this groundbreaking technology by the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI), a digital signature is added to images, which verifies their origins and any post-processing in a tamper-proof manner.
The Leica M EV1 will be available worldwide at Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store and authorised dealers from the 23rd of October 2025. The recommended retail price is £6,840.00 / €7,950.00 / $8,995.00 incl. VAT. For comfortable handling and additional hold, a hand grip with a matching leatherette covering is available for £340.00 / €395.00 / $460.00 incl. VAT.
