The new Leica M11 – A legend reinvented.

The new Leica M11 combines the unique experience of traditional rangefinder photography with the latest camera technology. The heart of the new M generation is a full-format BSI CMOS sensor with triple resolution technology. Raw files in DNG format or JPEGs can be created with a resolution of 60, 36 or 18 megapixels. 60 megapixels mean a level of detail and image quality previously unattainable with the M, while the lower resolutions mean the camera works faster, and it can take longer series of images and produce smaller files. 

A combined IR and UV blocking filter made of two particularly thin glasses cemented together corrects even extremely obliquely incident light rays particularly effectively. A new color filter array ensures improved and more natural color reproduction. The sensitivity ranges from ISO 64 to 50,000, the color depth is recorded with a resolution of 14 bits and the dynamic range reaches up to 15 f-stops. 

With the Maestro III processor, the Leica M11 achieves a smooth and responsive operation even at the highest resolution and image quality. Anyone who takes photos with the Leica M11 now benefits in practice from an optional electronic shutter. This enables extremely short exposure times of up to 1/16000 second for images with a wide open aperture in bright light and, for the first time in an M, also enables multi-field exposure metering in rangefinder mode for visibly better image results.

The handling of the Leica M11 has also been greatly improved in many respects compared to its predecessor. Newly arranged and designed controls frame the new high-resolution touch display with 2.3 million pixels and a brightness of 800 nits. The M11 is also based on the tried and tested operating concept and menu structure of the Leica SL2 and Q2, which are praised for their clarity.

In the black version of the Leica M11, the top cap is made of high-quality aluminum with a particularly scratch-resistant finish, which results in a weight saving of around 20% or 100 grams compared to brass. The top cap of the classic silver chrome-plated version, which weighs 640 grams, is made of brass as before. The battery and memory card can now be removed directly and are no longer hidden under a removable base plate. In addition to the SD card slot, an internal memory of 64 gigabytes is available, enabling image data to be stored on two storage media in parallel with an M camera for the first time. With 1800mAh, the battery stores 64 percent more energy than before and, together with its energy-saving mode of operation, helps the camera to achieve much longer recording sessions without changing the battery. In addition, the new USB-C port can also be used to charge the battery with most USB-C chargers.

Improved connectivity features for the Leica M11 will be available in the second half of 2022 with a new firmware version. This will provide the new M11's enhanced connectivity features that optimize the photographer's mobile workflow and extend the Leica FOTOS app with the ability to embed location data, access images via a Bluetooth connection, and ensure higher transfer rates. In addition, the Leica M11 is already a certified Apple "Made for iPhone and iPad" accessory and as such offers unique possibilities with the included Leica FOTOS cable. 

The new Visoflex 2 viewfinder is available as an accessory for the Leica M11. With a resolution of 3.7 megapixels, it enables perfect image control in live view mode. The Visoflex 2, housed in a metal housing, is functional and designed to perfectly match the M11. It offers a wide diopter adjustment range from -4 to +3 and can be swiveled by up to 90 degrees. The optional handle for the M11 improves ergonomics while keeping access to the battery and memory card free. It is also shaped so that the Leica M11 can be mounted on tripod heads that comply with the Arca-Swiss standard without any additional accessories. 

“We are very proud of the development of the new M11,” says Stefan Daniel, Executive Vice  President Technology and Operations, "the camera is another milestone for Leica. The interior of the camera is a completely new development, while the exterior remains true to the iconic Leica M design." 

"As we all know," says Dr. Andreas Kaufmann, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Leica Camera AG, Wetzlar, "the legendary Leica M system has accompanied passionate photographers all over the world for decades and provided them with a first-class tool to witness their time and create outstanding images. The new M11 will continue this legacy with outstanding technology, based on our experience since 1925."

The Leica M11 will be available worldwide from January 13, 2022. The recommended retail price is 8,350 euros including VAT. 

Leica Camera – Partner of Photography

Leica Camera AG is an international premium manufacturer of cameras and sports optics products. The legendary reputation of the Leica brand is based on a long tradition of excellent quality, German craftsmanship and German industrial design, combined with innovative technologies. The company's diverse activities to promote photography are an integral part of the brand culture. In addition to the Leica Galleries and Leica Academies represented worldwide, these include the Leica Hall of Fame Award and in particular the Leica Oskar Barnack Award (LOBA), which is one of the most innovative awards for photography today. Leica Camera AG, with its headquarters in Wetzlar, Hesse, and a second production site in Vila Nova de Famalicão, Portugal, also has a worldwide network of its own country organizations and Leica retail stores.