The Leica M EV1 is a landmark M-mount camera priced at $8995, distinguished by ditching the classic optical rangefinder entirely for a built-in electronic viewfinder, while sharing the same 60MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor and Maestro III processor as the M11-P. It is unavailable in the US pending FCC certification and features a redesigned diamond-textured leatherette body weighing 484g, lighter than rangefinder M models.

Its core EVF system is repurposed from the Leica Q3 line with 5.76 million dots and 0.76x magnification. Unlike traditional rangefinders, it delivers full real-time framing and exposure previews for ultra-wide and tele M lenses, paired with focus peaking and digital magnification to boost manual focus precision for fast prime lenses. A front two-way function switch replaces the old frame-line selector to toggle focus aids and digital zoom, while the top plate loses the dedicated ISO dial to make space for the EVF assembly. The camera adds 64GB internal storage, retains Bluetooth and dual-band Wi-Fi, and uses the same BP-SCL7 battery as the M11 series with a modest CIPA rating of 244 shots via LCD and 237 via EVF.

Image quality matches the M11-P perfectly, outputting Raw/JPEG files at 60MP, 36MP or 18MP resolutions, and supports CAI Content Credentials digital image authentication, though it has no video recording functions. Shutter speeds range from 1/4000 mechanical to 1/16000 electronic with a 1/180 flash sync speed. When stacked against competitors, the Sony a7CR uses an identical sensor at less than half the cost and adds autofocus and full video support, yet lacks Leica’s compact M body and premium build quality.

Operationally, the camera sacrifices the iconic rangefinder shooting experience long beloved by Leica enthusiasts. Manual focus relies solely on live view tools without subject tracking recognition; repositioning the focus point requires slow four-way controller or touchscreen input, which is prone to accidental shifts when viewing through the EVF. Focus peaking performance varies heavily by lighting and aperture, forcing frequent magnification to hit precise focus on its high-resolution sensor. The menu system includes an extra mandatory Content Credentials step that adds unnecessary friction to daily shooting.

The camera’s biggest tradeoff abandons the rangefinder’s unique intuitive shooting rhythm for standard mirrorless live view manual focus, which testers found slower and more tedious despite EVF technical perks. Its main selling points cater to newcomers, users with poor eyesight, and shooters of wide/tele M lenses who struggle with traditional frame lines, while alienating loyal rangefinder fans who value the optical viewfinder’s distinct workflow. Battery life is mediocre for all-day outdoor shooting, requiring spare power sources.

Overall, the M EV1 broadens the M system’s accessibility by solving classic rangefinder limitations but fails to justify its ultra-premium price for most photographers. It suits users prioritizing live view preview over traditional rangefinder shooting, while dedicated Leica rangefinder shooters will still prefer the M11-P for its signature shooting feel.