Leica Unveils Stunning M11 Camera, Marrying Flexibility With Tradition
By Ell Ko, 14 Jan 2022
Leica has just revealed the new M11, combining the best of both traditional and contemporary worlds.
This camera’s design remains consistent with the iconic look of the Leica M, but with an improved, renewed focus on “efficiency and ergonomics,” according to the firm.
Boasting a triple resolution sensor, expanded ISO range, and dual memory, the firm calls the M11 a “new benchmark in digital history” as it’s the most flexible M-System camera Leica has produced to date.
This sensor enables users to capture raw image files in DNG format, with JPEGs recorded at 60, 36, or 18 megapixels. When shooting at lower resolution, the camera will use the full sensor area rather than cropping it, a feature noted by Engadget.
But features like autofocus remain elusive to the camera. Its shooting is manual-only, and focusing requires the use of a rangefinder. Sure, convenience might not be the forefront of the design here, but this enables the user to get right down to the traditional image-capturing, photo-taking process.
It also contributes to the compact build of the camera, since space doesn’t need to be made for autofocus motors, for example.
Even with all these nostalgic elements, though, there are elements that hint to the present day like a USB-C port at the base of the camera, which enables easier battery charging and a less painful experience transferring images from camera to computer.
Its three-inch back screen boasts more than 2,330,000 pixels, which is more than double the amount on its predecessor, the 2017 M10. Plus, 64GB of storage is available, so photographers will be able to store images on the internal memory as well as an external memory card.
The M11 is now available in black and silver colorways, and retails for US$8,995. It might be a pretty hefty price tag for a small camera, but it does give us a lot to appreciate.