Leica Camera AG will release its new product, the Leica M EV1, on Saturday, November 1, 2025.
The Leica M EV1 introduces a new segment to the Leica M system: in addition to the digital and film M Leicas with optical rangefinders, it is now the first M Leica to feature a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF).
The Leica M EV1 is a model that combines the advantages of an EVF with the traditional values of the Leica M system. Not only does it make it easier to enter the Leica M system, it also enables more reliable and comfortable focusing regardless of eyesight. Its true value is particularly evident when using lenses with fast maximum apertures and shallow depth of field, such as Summilux and Noctilux, or when composing with ultra-wide-angle, telephoto, or macro lenses.
What is the Leica M EV1?
The Leica M EV1 responds to long-standing user feedback by incorporating an electronic viewfinder, offering new possibilities for existing Leica M users and a smooth, intuitive entry point for those new to the Leica M system.
The Leica M EV1’s viewfinder displays the exact image you will see when you press the shutter, depending on the lens, focal length and aperture you select. This direct preview of the image’s field of view and depth of field is a major advantage when composing your shot, especially when using ultra-wide-angle or telephoto lenses.
Precise real-time exposure preview not only provides added peace of mind, but also opens up new creative possibilities with intentional under- or overexposure. Furthermore, built-in diopter correction allows the viewfinder image to be adjusted to suit the user’s diopter. Selectable diopters are -4 to +2 with the turn of a dial.
The EVF
The 5.76 million-dot high-resolution EVF delivers crystal-clear image quality with exceptionally sharp and natural color reproduction. All relevant shooting data, such as shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation, is displayed outside the frame as needed, allowing you to always see the entire composition. An eye sensor automatically switches between the viewfinder and touch display.
This model also includes the Focus Assist feature found in other Leica cameras, making it incredibly easy to use: Focus Peaking displays the current focal plane with a color overlay, allowing you to precisely focus on the desired image area in real time.
The camera also features a focus zoom function, which allows for easier manual focusing with two levels of magnification. The magnification can be switched automatically by simply turning the focus ring, or manually by pressing one of the function buttons. This allows for pinpoint precision focusing, especially when using fast lenses with a shallow depth of field and shooting at close range.
The front lever, which was used for bright frame preview on rangefinder-type Leica M cameras, can now be used as a convenient support function on the Leica M EV1. This lever can be assigned to the focus assist function or 1.3x/1.8x digital zoom, and focus assist can be turned on and off quickly and smoothly by simply moving the lever left or right depending on the situation.
The Leica M EV1 continues the timeless, functional, and iconic design of the Leica M series. Crafted by hand in Germany from high-quality materials, the camera embodies Leica’s refined and beautiful design language. The diamond-pattern leather finish and minimalist front design distinguish it from traditional rangefinder Leica M models.
Technology Inside Based off the M11
In terms of technology, the Leica M EV1 is based on the Leica M11 and is equipped with a full-frame BSI CMOS sensor and triple resolution technology, which combines exquisite color reproduction, outstanding detail resolution, a wide dynamic range, and excellent noise immunity.
Image data can be recorded in DNG or JPEG format at resolutions of 60, 36, or 18 megapixels. The Leica Maestro III image processing engine quickly processes image data even at the highest resolution and can be saved to the 64 GB internal memory or an SD card. Seamless connectivity via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cable ensures smooth integration with the Leica FOTOS app. Utilizing Bluetooth Low Energy technology, image transfer to a smartphone can be performed in the background while saving power.
Additionally, the Leica M EV1 joins the Leica M11-P and Leica M11-D in supporting Leica Content Credentialing, an advanced technology compliant with the Content Authentication Initiative (CAI) standard that digitally signs images to irrevocably prove their origin and any subsequent modifications.
