Leica has officially unveiled the M EV1, the first model in its iconic M series to feature a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF). Announced in the Netherlands, this release marks a significant step in the company’s evolution from traditional rangefinders toward more advanced digital technologies while preserving the brand’s classic design and craftsmanship.
The Leica M EV1 introduces real-time exposure preview through its high-resolution EVF, offering photographers an accurate representation of the final image based on current ISO, aperture, and shutter speed settings. This feature is particularly beneficial when working with wide-aperture lenses such as the Summilux and Noctilux series, as well as ultra-wide and telephoto lenses, where precise manual focus and depth-of-field control are critical.
The electronic viewfinder itself delivers 5.76-megapixel resolution, providing natural color reproduction and exceptional clarity. Exposure information is displayed around the frame, and an eye sensor automatically switches between the EVF and the rear touchscreen display. A diopter adjustment dial allows users to fine-tune the viewfinder for optimal sharpness and comfort.
To assist with manual focusing, the M EV1 includes focus peaking and a 1.8x digital zoom, helping photographers achieve maximum precision in scenes with shallow depth of field. The traditional front selector lever, once used for frame line previewing, now activates these digital focusing tools, streamlining workflow and improving operational efficiency.
At the heart of the camera lies a full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor with Triple Resolution Technology, enabling image capture at 60, 36, or 18 megapixels. Processing is handled by the Maestro III engine, ensuring high-speed performance and detailed image rendering. The camera features 64 GB of internal memory, supports SD card storage, and offers compatibility with both DNG and JPEG formats. Connectivity options include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB, allowing seamless integration with the Leica FOTOS app and Content Credentials for image authenticity verification.
The Leica M EV1 will be available from October 23, 2025, through Leica Stores in Amsterdam and Lisse, as well as authorized dealers across the Netherlands. The retail price is set at €7,950 (approximately US$8,400), while an optional leather strap will be sold separately for €395 (around US$420). Prices for North America were not disclosed yet.
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