Photography Gear, VancouverMorten Byskov - 5050 TravelogJune 26, 2024Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 quick look, Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 first impressions, Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 sample images, Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 and Leica SL3, Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 and Leica SL2-S, Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 image qualityComment

Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 - A Quick Look

The Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 adapted to a Leica SL3

Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 on a Leica SL3 and SL2-S

A few weeks ago, I had fun testing a Leica SL3. Along with the SL3, I had a Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 that I adapted to the SL3 and my SL2-S using the Leica M to L adapter.

Leica also provided an SL 16-35mm zoom lens, but I was particularly interested in the Summicron-M 50mm f/2 due to its compact size. I was also interested in comparing the general build quality, handling, and image quality produced by this lens compared to my Voigtländer lenses.

A BMW Isetta. Sample image from a Leica SL3 and Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2. — BMW Isetta, Leica SL3, Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2

Build Quality and Handling

The focus ring feels amazing, but I cannot say the same about the aperture ring, which felt too loose for my liking and a tad flimsy. I am not a big fan of built-in lens hoods, but I may have to adjust this prenotion after using the built-in hood on the Summicron 50mm. It is indeed handy.

When using the Leica M to L adapter, the camera automatically recognizes the Summcron-M 50mm, so there is no need to set the lens information manually for correct EXIF information.

With a weight of 8.5 oz, 240 g, and dimensions of 1.7 x 2.1", 43.5 x 53 mm, the Summicron-M 50mm f/2 is easy to handle, and in there lies one of the biggest assets. It is a joy to use and takes very little room in your bag, and you could easily carry it in a jacket pocket.

My Voigtländer lenses are of equal, if not better, overall build quality.

BMW Isetta, Leica SL3, Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2

Image Quality

The Summicron-M 50mm f/2 is one of the easiest Leica lenses to get into when it comes to damage to your wallet, and yet, images have a very pleasing look. The colors come out to my liking, and the bokeh, while not mind-blowing, is still very good when shot wide open at f/2.

Compared to my Voigtländer Nokton 50mm f/1.2, the Summicron 50mm f/2 cannot obtain the same shallow depth of field, and it may also lack some of the character displayed by the Voigtländer lens. That said, the SL3/Summicron combination is more portable than my SL2-S/Voigtländer combination.

A landscape scene at Pitt-Addington Marsh near Golden Ears Provincial Park. Sample image from a Leica SL3 and Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2. — Pitt-Addington Marsh, Leica SL3, Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2

Final Thoughts

The Summicron-M 50mm f/2 is often one of the first Leica lenses you may acquire for a Leica M camera or to adapt to any mirrorless camera, but it is a considerable investment at $2,895.00. The lens has been on the market for some time now, so browsing your local buy-and-sell market may be a good option.

You may also consider more affordable options from Voigtländer or Zeiss. As I type this quick-look review, the Voigtländer Nokton 50mm f/1.5 II is on sale for $699.00, and the Nokton 50mm f/1.2 that I have is $899.00.

Please keep scrolling for a few more sample images.