Leica M EV1 Digital Camera Body

The Leica M EV1 brings modern mirrorless precision to the M series as the first model with a built-in 5.76-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder. Its 60MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor with Triple Resolution Technology captures striking tonal range and detail, while the Maestro III processor with Leica Content Credentials ensures every frame carries verifiable authenticity. Designed with a minimal finish, it embodies Leica’s belief that less truly is more.

Leica M EV1 Digital Camera Body Key Features:

• First M-Camera with integrated 5.76-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder
• Full-frame 60 MP BSI CMOS sensor with Triple Resolution output (60/36/18 MP)
• Leica Maestro III processor with up to 15 stops of dynamic range
• No optical rangefinder - pure EVF composition and real-time exposure preview
• New programmable FN lever for peaking, magnified focus and digital zoom
• Simple, intuitive menu system with quick navigation and tactile control layout
• Manual focus aids for precision with wide-angle, telephoto and fast aperture lenses
• 2.95″ LCD with 2.33 million dots, touch control and Gorilla Glass protection
• ISO 64 - 50 000 and shutter speeds up to 1/16 000 s for creative flexibility
• 64GB internal memory plus SD UHS-II card support for up to 2TB expansion
• Dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 for connection via the Leica FOTOS app
• Durable magnesium-aluminium chassis with diamond-pattern leatherette
• Minimalist, compact 484g design for easy “pick-up-and-go” shooting

A Modern Take on the M-Series

The Leica M EV1 redefines how photographers engage with the M-System. By integrating a 5.76-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder directly into the body, it removes the need for an optical rangefinder entirely - a classic trait of the Leica M series. The EVF shows exposure, focus, and depth of field exactly as they will appear in the final image, transforming the use of legendary M lenses (especially extreme focal lengths like 21mm and 135mm) into a more accessible, precise experience. With exposure and focus aids visible in real time, composition remains seamless and immediate.

Sensor and Image Quality

At its core, the M EV1 features a full-frame BSI CMOS sensor using Leica’s Triple Resolution Technology, offering selectable outputs of 60, 36 or 18 megapixels without crop. Paired with the Maestro III processor, the camera produces images with up to 15 stops of dynamic range and exceptional low-light performance. The 0.76× magnification and -4 to +2 dpt dioptre adjustment support crystal-clear viewing, even for wide-angle or telephoto lenses. Leica Content Credentials also embed provenance data into every DNG file, ensuring authenticity throughout.

Preserve The Authenticity of Every Photo

With AI advancements and image manipulation dominating the creative industries, Leica are the first to make a statement by taking the steps needed to protect authenticity and photographic integrity. As part of the Content Authenticity Initiative, Leica focused on creating a standard framework for validating the legitimacy and origin of digital content. With this intent, Leica’s Content Credentials were born - offering a secure solution that assures authenticity.

This cutting-edge technology assures content integrity and provenance verification, setting a new standard for digital content protection. To complete this simple three-step process (Activate > Capture + Sign > Verify Image), users can visit contentcredentials.org/verify, or use the dedicated Leica FOTOS app.

Control and Handling

Simplicity defines the M EV1. The re-engineered FN lever, repurposed from the historic frame-line selector, grants instant access to focus peaking, magnification, and digital zoom (1.3x / 1.8x). Its uncluttered control layout and streamlined menu make it fast to learn and intuitive to operate, whether you’re shooting handheld or from a tripod. Without an articulating screen or complex dials, attention stays on the scene, not the settings.

Connectivity and Everyday Use

The M EV1 integrates Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 and USB-C for instant connection with the Leica FOTOS app, enabling background transfer, firmware updates and geotagging. The BP-SCL7 battery delivers around 240 shots per charge, and USB-C charging keeps it ready wherever you are. Easy to pick up, simple to navigate, and always ready to shoot - the M EV1 is built for photographers who value simple and direct shooting.

Design and Build

Every element of the M EV1 is crafted with purpose. The magnesium-aluminium body, finished in diamond-pattern leatherette, reflects Leica’s signature minimalism while improving grip and durability. At 484g (including battery), the camera balances perfectly with classic M lenses and feels reassuringly solid yet rugged enough for travel. Designed and assembled in Germany, it exemplifies precision engineering throughout.

What’s in the box?

• 1 × Leica M EV1 Camera Body
• 1 × BP-SCL7 Rechargeable Battery
• 1 × USB Type A-C Cable
• 1 × Leather Carrying Strap
• 1 × Quick Start Guide

Leica M EV1 Digital Camera Body Product Video:

FAQs

What makes the Leica M EV1 different from earlier M-series cameras?

The Leica M EV1 is the first M-Camera to include an integrated electronic viewfinder rather than a traditional optical rangefinder. This allows real-time exposure preview, precise focus aids and digital zoom while retaining the manual focus experience that defines the M-System.

Can I use all existing M-mount lenses with the M EV1?

Yes. The M EV1 retains the Leica M bayonet mount with 6-bit encoding, ensuring full compatibility with all Leica M lenses, past and present. The integrated EVF and focus aids make ultra-wide, telephoto and legacy lenses easier to use while preserving each lens’s authentic rendering.

Does the Leica M EV1 Camera Body record video?

No, the M EV1 is a stills-focused camera that prioritises image quality and manual engagement. Its design follows Leica’s belief in concentration on the photographic act rather than hybrid operation.

How does the camera connect to Leica FOTOS?

The M EV1 pairs via Bluetooth 5.0 or Wi-Fi to the Leica FOTOS app for background transfer, geotagging, and remote operation. USB-C connection is also available for direct file management or tethered use.

What power and storage options are available for the Leica M EV1 Camera Body?

Alongside 64 GB of built-in memory, the M EV1 supports UHS-II SD cards up to 2 TB. The BP-SCL7 battery provides approximately 240 shots per charge and can be powered or charged through USB-C when connected to mains, power bank or computer.