Leica announces new lightweight L mount 28-70mm F2.8 zoom

Key Features

• Slightly lower zoom range (28–70mm) for size and weight benefits
• Weighs 572 g, measures 102mm by 73mm (lxd)
• Maintains the physical dimensions of Summicron-SL primes
• Same 67mm filters
• Durable all-metal (magnesium and aluminium) exterior
• High image quality
• 16 elements in 12 groups, with three aspherical elements (five aspherical surfaces)
• Fast, accurate and reliable autofocusing
• £1,650.00 /€1,950.00 incl. VAT (hood additional £145.00)
• Available now

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Leica has announced a new lightweight zoom lens for the SL range of mirrorless cameras, the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 28–70 f/2.8 ASPH.

Weighing in at just 572 g and measuring 102mm by 73mm (lxd), the new lens is the most compact and lightweight zoom in the SL range to date, and yet features a durable all-metal (magnesium and aluminium) exterior.

Significantly, the new lens maintains the physical dimensions of the Summicron-SL primes, including the 67mm filter thread, so it will accommodate any video rigging and filters you have for those lenses without the additional expense of acquiring replacements or using step rings.

While there’s no mention of the AF drive motor construction specifically, the new lens is said to offer “fast, accurate and reliable” autofocusing.

Optical construction consists of 16 elements in 12 groups, with three aspherical elements, two of which are double-sided, meaning there are five aspherical surfaces to achieve the lower weight and compactness whilst mitigating various aberrations.

While it does not replace the existing, higher-priced and wider range Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH, this new compact and lighter alternative lens offers several worthwhile benefits for users of the Leica SL cameras.

The lens is available immediately at the recommended retail price for the lens is £1,650.00 /€1,950.00 incl. VAT, however, the lens hood is an additional £145.00. The lens is also available as a kit with the SL3-S. The recommended retail price for the SL3-S Vario Kit 28–70 is £5,590.00 / €6,500.00 incl. VAT.

 

 

Technical Data

Manufacturer	Leica
Model	Vario-Elmarit-SL 28–70 f/2.8 ASPH
Web	leica-camera.com
Elements/construction	16 elements in 12 groups
Angle of view (d/h/v)	91.7°/81.2°/59.5°  to 35.4°/29.8°/20.1°
Max aperture	F2.0
Min aperture	F22
Min focus distance	0.19 to 0.38 m / 7.48 to 14.96″
Mount	L mount
Filter size	E67 (67mm)
Length	102 mm / 4 in
Diameter	73 mm / 2.9 in
Weight	572 g / 1.26 lb
Price	£1,650.00 /€1,950.00

 

Press Release

Wetzlar, 12th of June 2025 – With over 150 years of expertise, Leica has built a legacy in developing precision optical instruments. Today, Leica Camera AG introduces the new Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 28–70 f/2.8 ASPH., which sets a new standard as the most compact and lightweight zoom lens for the SL-System. Seamlessly blending versatility with exceptional imaging performance, it enriches the L-Mount portfolio with a premium, fast standard zoom lens designed for everyday use.

The innovative optical design and incorporation of aspherical elements enable the new SL-Lens to deliver exceptional performance while maintaining a constant f/2.8 aperture across its entire focal-length range. Thanks to its constant aperture throughout the zoom range, this lens is an ideal choice for both photography and videography. Featuring Leica’s globally renowned craftsmanship, the new Vario-Elmarit-SL is a premium lens that meets the exacting standards of ambitious photographers, providing them with the support they need to bring their creative visions to life.

The focal length, that spans from 28 to 70 mm, allows the lens to transition from wide angle to slight telephoto, making it particularly well-suited for capturing landscapes, travel scenes and portraits. The fast autofocus system consistently delivers precise and reliable focus. Cutting-edge coatings on the lenses ensure optimal colour rendition and contrast, these optimise light transmission while effectively minimising reflections. The sophisticated optical construction, comprising 16 lenses arranged in 12 groups, delivers exceptional performance. Three of these lenses feature aspherical surfaces on both sides, in order to enhance image quality and precision.

The advanced internal technology is securely shielded from external elements, such as dust and splash water, thanks to its durable metal housing. Despite this metal housing, the lens remains lightweight at just 572 g. Its compact dimensions – 102 mm in length with a maximum diameter of 72 mm – ensure excellent portability and versatility for both photography and videography.

The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 28–70 f/2.8 ASPH. will be available worldwide in Leica Stores, in the Leica Online Store and from authorised dealers from the 12th of June 2025. It can be purchased individually or as part of an attractive kit with the SL3-S. The recommended retail price for the lens is £1,650.00 /€1,950.00 incl. VAT, whilst the lens hood is an additional £145.00. The recommended retail price for the SL3-S Vario Kit 28–70 is £5,590.00 / €6,500.00 incl. VAT.