I’m a hobby photographer and I don’t shoot video at all. In the past few years, all the other major Japanese manufacturers are putting so much emphasis on video capabilities that I don’t need. I greatly appreciate Leica’s focus on serving the photographic community even though I don’t have the money to afford one.
I wish there was a brand that would make a non-BS camera with manual focus, let's say three or four quality lenses, and a very simple overall design. No video, no wireless connectivity, no IBIS. If Leica made that camera for let's say $2000 to $3000, I'd get one.
@@Rafa-yw8nu You kinda get that with Fuji. Good manual controls and you can get some manual lenses. You can easily ignore the wireless and the video modes, which are standard in any modern camera. Otherwise you'll have to grab a 40 year old film camera and forget about digital.
There is no way I can afford an M11, but it may give me the opportunity to get a used M10 or maybe M10-P at a reasonable price. Thanks for (as always) a detailed overview and opinion.
Agreed. Here in NZ the price tag would be somewhere between $15000 to $20000NZD depending upon markup, duties & tax. Sign of the times I guess. Most manufacturers top tier products are now grossly more expensive than the majority of us can afford.
I hace the same approach to my M6 (despite the light meter, but I can live without it if it breaks). What I am worried about is how long till we see film disappearing, rendering those cameras useless.
I have been shooting with Leica all of my life. Starting with the iiic, M4 , M8, and SL. After watching this video I will now purchase the M11. Thankyou for the very informative video!
I always enjoy your camera reviews because you’ve taken the time to shoot with the camera that is your subject. A shooter’s guide is far more beneficial than one merely listing the camera’s features. I do miss your analysis of the work of various, gifted photographers and hope to see more of them.
UA-cam algorithm brought me here. I loved the video and hyped up for the camera. Checked the price (8000 bucks) and now leaving depressed. Thank you Leica.
One day, I'll appreciate the Leica. I just love the looks and body style of Leica range style. With 3 active young kids, I'll stay with my Sony A1 and GM primes for now. Thank you Ted.
Great review of the features and updates Ted! It would certainly be a dream setup especially for personal work. It seems it’s where cameras, art, quality and design, and photography all meet. Just for fun, I added an M11 and 3 or 4 lenses I would want to my cart at B&H and it came to $47,500. Maybe someday…
All I have to say is... OMG. So much for an M... electronic shutter, battery life with USB-C charging and data transfer, internal memory, actual off-sensor metering. That friggin SENSOR... It's totally like having my M10 and M10-R at the same time. The color science seems EVEN better. Thanks, Ted. I will be shifting around some of my cameras to pick this up.
Nice review. As a Nikon shooter, I paused for a second when you talked about the tri-resolution sensor and that it's a first. I hope you mean it's a "first for Leica" maybe, but not for the industry. The D850 from 5 years ago has this exact same feature; the ability to choose from three different resolution settings. That was a first for the industry I believe.
Also having used Nikon I was also wondering. Also Nikon Z-lineupt does allow you to choose the resolution. Or is there anything really different? In this video it sounds as if there is just a algorithm that decides how the lower resolution file is create based on the higher resolution sensor. So the only difference would be that algorithm (not sure if it is better/worse than Nikon)
Oh wow it sounds like a great camera, then again LEICA has been a prestigeous brand for decades! Its great seeing how companies are moving forward with Digital technology as well as improving on it. This item is in my list for if I win LOTTO for sure. Thanks Ted Forbes for all the great content you make for your wonderful channel!
Thank you, I just bought an M11 and you have an excellent way of explaining the camera and the systems. I tend to buy before I think and then look at the details afterwards. I have bought every standard M camera since 8 and your statements on where the 11 is is very interesting as there were lots of years of them finding their niche and resolving small design. now with USB C, connectivity and the new sensor it looks like a positive next step.
I'm not really in the market for such a camera but watched the video anyway since I'm a regular viewer. Honestly I like your videos best when you display a lot of your images because I think they're great. Would love to see more of them in your yt content 😊
Very nice upgrades, although I miss the bottom plate (and the exposed USB hopefully is weatherproof!). Seriously good job by Leica, there's a lot of thoughtful updates with this one. Im still going to stick with my M10 though, new Leica prices are something else! Maybe in 4-5 years I'll upgrade to this one.
In my opinion you can just reduce the resolution of any digital photo in post production in order to reduce the noise. I think the only magic with the in-camera-reduction of resolution is Leica's talent of selling it.
Do you know where I can get more info on this? I'm pretty sure this is different because it's lowering the resolution but using the entire sensor whereas if you were to take a higher resolution image and lower it in post you are actually cropping. No?
Nice review, great camera (which I'll never be able to afford), but most importantly - great photos, Ted! Those low-light indoors shots are just stunning.
The colours you're getting from the M11 are really superb. The new sensor tech is truly groundbreaking and impressive, especially for Leica. All of it in a M body, with a combination of rangefinder and EVF focusing, makes the M11 incredible.
Great review. Obviously beautifully executed and crafted camera... and here comes the "but". All that impressive technology that Leica have implemented is still incorporated into what is essentially a very niche camera system which will only really appeal to photographers who are hooked on the M experience. This is of course fine as it is the business template that Leica choose to use and it has proven highly successful for them. For me, foregoing the massive sensor resolution and incorporating the visoflex (ugly things as they are!) into the viewfinder in the form of a hybrid would have been a far better improvement. Maintain the rangefinder abilities and yet have the option to have the lens view. This to me would expand the appeal, and also the practicality of the M system, once you've overcome the not insignificant obstacle of the price. C'mon! Using an M for macro work? At that price? There are far superior tools with which to do that.
I've looked at what seems like hundreds of reviews of the M11. I've ordered one--hope it doesn't take months and months to arrive. Anyhow, I found your review to be one of the best. You're knowledgeable, and present the main points quite clearly. I learned more about the M11 from yours than most others. (An M rangefinder shooter since the M2!.)
I'm allergic to hype, but from your review it's clear that this M11 offers a whole list of real-life upgrades. I need to see how much kidneys go for these days because upgrading from my M262 is definitely worth it now.
X-series cameras are focus by wire. X100 and X-Pro have *rangefinder style* but it's software and simulation, just like the simulation film. You don't have compact lenses on the X-Pro, and can't change to a different focal length on the X100. It's not the same thing.
@@dereksnyder_4244 If you've used m-mount lenses and m-mount bodies (Leica or otherwise) or any decent real rangefinder camera, you'll know that you can use the scale on the lens to zone focus. And if it has a focus tab, you don't even necessarily need to look down at the camera to see where your focus is. You cannot do that on any X-series camera - short of adding a tab to the Fuji lens. Yes, you can adapt an m-mount lens to an x-series body (not X100 though, without hacking your camera) but even then, your 28mm becomes a 35mm, and your 35mm becomes a 50mm. So in instances where the user doesn't have time, or doesn't want to compose/focus by looking through the VF, a real rangefinder has a significant advantage over X-series. And even if there's no tab on the rangefinder lens, the throw is usually quite short (compared to other types of camera lenses). This is an inherent advantage of most rangefinders - a short throw - assuming the user is prioritising quick throw, of course. Then again, very fast lenses having longer throw to aid precise focus is down to preference. It's not easy to manually focus precisely at shallow depth of field on any system - even using peaking. So no, this is not "splitting hairs". Some people are oblivious to how a real rangefinder operates. Some people don't care about the difference. That doesn't mean there isn't a difference. Your original post is inaccurate, which is why three people have told you so. A manual rangefinder (with exceptions) generally has more compact lenses and bodies than other types of camera (e.g. SLR) and this is true with both 35mm/FF and MF. This is one of the inherent advantages of the design of the focus mechanism (just as all types of camera have pros and cons depending on the priority of the user). The X100 is compact because the lens is fixed and optimised for the body. Just as all X-series bodies and sensors are understandably optimised for X-series lenses, so too are Leica sensors optimised for Leica lenses. It's great at what it does, but it has several limitations compared to an m-body. Of course, limitations can be good for the user, depending on their preferences.
Awesome review. Probably the only reason I want is because the aesthethics, which of course pretty much the same like all M film bodies we camera geeks love. But, even if I had the money, probably would skip it and go for a medium format instead, which offers more modern conveniences... including autofocus and IBIS. Yes GFX, I'm looking at you. Still, if someone is not happy with their M11, just immediately send to me for disposal... :D
Ted, thank you for the nice and informative review on what the M11 is bringing to the table. Seems Leica is pushing the boundaries of what is possible while being true to their range-finder format, and this is great. Having said that, I am over-all stunned at some of the comments below complaining about the price of entry, declaring it is "elitism" to review such an expensive item, and bashing Leica for their existence compared to more "affordable" brands. Absurd. I am a reasonably new shooter, and am running an X100v. I both love and struggle with my Fuji, but I am understanding what it is, what it is capable of, and what it is not. It is a great tool for me and is helping me learn the craft. Will I ever be willing/able to afford a Leica? Who knows, but I have no issues with seeing them, seeing that others own and use them, and especially, seeing what images they are capable of capturing. Keep up the good work, Ted.
I own both a Leica M 240 and the Fuji X100V. I can change lenses on the Leica and I get better quality pictures, but the lighter Fuji with autofocus and, tilting rear screen, let me get more street photo then the Leica. So you don't have to regret what you have.
@@philippebernard8987 Thanks for the input. Absolutely no regrets with the Fuji. It is a great camera and the fixed lens is forcing me to focus on the important stuff, including using the camera in manual and learning to frame the shot properly. My rant was mostly against those who dump on Leica for being a Leica. Funny... one of the complainers below has left the exact same comment, word for word, at another users review of the M11 here at Utube. Strange.
Like others... there's no real way I can afford (or should afford) a Leica, and I just don't work with manual focus, but your passion for photography and your interpretation about what Leica enables you to do really, really makes me think otherwise! Maybe one day... and on an unrelated note, is that Sar Deitschy sounds like Peachy in some of your sample shots?
Man I would LOVE to return to M-cameras (an M6 and then M7 were my primary camera for a dozen years). I went Canon 5D when that came out, upgraded to the 5DM2 when that came out and then switched to Sony A7R after that. I have had every Sony A7R since and have been enjoying the A7R4, also with 61 mPx. My experience has been that two things are required to achieve the resolution promises of 30 mPx let alone 60+ mPx: (1) electronic first curtain and (2) some form of image stabilization. I don't know if the M11 has e-first curtain (assume so, because it now uses the sensor for metering), but the absence of IBIS seems like a huge negative to me for achieving the full 60 mPx resolution capability. It would be one thing if the camera was intended for tripod use only (like some medium format box cameras), but the M-cameras are supposed to be handheld. Heck, Leica positioned the tripod mount so close to the battery release, they are almost discouraging the use of a tripod and certainly L-plates. What has been your experience? Do you feel you have full 60 mPx resolution on your handheld photos, or are they ever so slightly unsharp? Thank you and great video, as usual.
Damn you, Leica… I wasn’t expecting a triple resolution sensor on this. I wasn’t expecting a new (and more expensive) battery with 65% more capacity, I wasn’t expecting simple Apple compatibility. But, then, Leica has always come up with the unexpected ever since Oscar Barnak turned 35mm movie film sideways and created 35mm photography back in the very early 20th Century. I was expecting a modest improvement over my M10-R… I was expecting to keep my M10-R forever. After all, 40 megapixels should be good enough, right. Now, I’m just going to have to pony up 10 Large (as Hugh Brownstone would say…) and bite the bullet. After all, it IS a Leica.
After chasing the latest and greatest over the last 3 years I am thinking of something like this might bring some joy back to my photography. The reason being the cameras being so big with so many buttons and lens so heavy that I never want to have them with me.
Wonderful video. One thing though in reference to your comment about Leica being the only one making rangefinders: check out the PIXII from France. It’s a very interesting camera, and is a true M mount rangefinder that is in production (albeit on a small scale).
The USB-C port is said to be weatherproof, as it is on mobile devices. The M11 is supposed to be the most weather sealed M there is. The new 35mm APO f/2 is also more sealed on the mount ring than previous versions, so I guess that is the direction Leica are heading in for future M and M lenses.
I’m biased on Leica . Kind of hate it,yet kind of don’t. The buffering between shots is maddening ,especially during a concert and it’s still reading to memory card.it’s completely math oriented. Know your focal distance,manually and slowly line the viewfinder up. More blurry . When it functions it’s good but Manuel drives me nuts. The Fuji seems more fun. I have an m9 the M2 is nice,but you have too be accurate no guessing.
Thank you Ted Forbes. I bought a new M10 less than a year ago. It is the regular M10; not R or P. I think that you have done a good job in justifying an M11 purchase one day. When? Not now for sure. [Raid Amin]
Thanks for the detailed explanation of the capabilities and features of the M11. No doubt a lot of its cost is for the brand, but you showed that there's a lot more (features, capabilities, details, and a ton of thought) that went into this camera that puts it in a category that most cameras can't reach. I'm still not going to buy one (for many reasons), but Leica is clearly not just sitting on the laurels of the brand.
For the higher price, hope the M11's QC is better. I had to send my M10 to Germany to repair the misaligned rangefinder mechanism. Took them 4 months to complete the repairs.
this used to be one of my go to channels.....I discovered so many good photographers, good content,.now ypu talk about megapixels....but hey I guess you had to evolve, I respect that.
I borrowed a brand new M11 with 35mm lens a few days ago. I wanted to see what was so different about Leica and the always talked about ' Leica Look'. I have compared very detailed shots of the new M11, a Sony A7iii and Fujifilm XPro3. Aside from resolution, i seriously cannot fathom the extra $10000 price tag for the Leica. Sure the image is much higher in megapixels, but honestly all 3 cameras produced roughly the same quality photo. I appreciate that people like to purchase high end brands as they like prestige gear, but......i do not see it being worth it. For anyone stuck on the fence about getting a Leica camera, I can honestly say that if you have the money do what you want. i have the money to purchase a few of these M11's but to be brutally honest I cannot see any reason aside from social image status to own one. i have tested dynamic range and processed the photos like any normal consumer would and I would bet nobody reading this could determine which camera made which photo. Note to newcomers, DO NOT get caught up in the leica hype. Like all other mirrorless bodies, they are just sensors and a lens like any other mirrorless camera. After shelling out $10,000 plus for a leica, you are kidding yourself if you think your photos are superior to anything else a fifth the price on the market. Dont believe me?......rent one and see for yourself. I have leica raws and I could tell you they came from a sony a7iv and you would believe me as they look like any other camera. UA-camrs seem to pushing the Q2 at the moment, avoid it at all costs. You are not getting a camera that is superior in any way. Leica cameras do have once strength that none of the other brands have yet to achieve. Their bodies and lenses drain your wallets very quickly with no noticeable benefit to the owner. Maintenance on leica is insanely offensive too along with accessories. I dare you to prove me wrong.
I don’t get the hype about the digital side, maybe it’s nice due to simplicity. But I get it when it comes to the film cameras. The experience when using one over any other camera I’ve played around with is hard to explain. Furthermore it’s quick, easy and quiet, it gets me out, getting better more.
I’m a working photographer and have an M11. It’s a completely different experience to my R5’s and has its place in my kit for certain jobs. Technically all new cameras are comparable but whether it’s the glass or something Leica is doing with their sensor interpretations, the images look different. I use the R5 + 24TSE + 50 for all my architecture work & my M11 for anything people based. I definitely agree it’s not worth the price tag over other bodies in terms of overall IQ, but there also isn’t anything else like it.
It’s about the user experience, I own m11, Fuji, and Sony too but the built quality and handling, simplicity, gives me something different than Sony, I feel more joy and chill when I’m sitting in a cafe with my m11, taking photos of my coffee and friends
Ended up getting a M11 monochrom because there wasn't a monochrom A7R. I needed a high resolution camera for low light and situations where colour was not needed, and it was the only thing that fitted the niche. The manual focus was not a detriment either because autofocus wouldn't work in low contrast situations to begin with.
Many things don't make sense here. I know it's an old video, but there has since been many tests to show that 1. The m10-R is cleaner at medium high iso (until about 6400), look at reid reviews 2. You can get the same down-sampling effect that the m11 has, in the m10-R by doing it in post (with even better result than leicas in camera mode on the m11). You can of course also do this with the m11 and get a better result than the in-camera downsampling 3. The M11 is cleaner at super high iso (do we really need to be shooting at 12800?), mostly due to less banding. 4. The M10-R performs better than the m11 when it comes to sharpness in corners with high end glass like the 35mm apo 5. The M10-R has less purple fringing If Leica would lower the price of the M10-R I'd take that over the M11
Higher megapixel counts do not increase noise on any camera. That is a misconception. It's neat that you can choose smaller file sizes and still have a native file though.
Picked an M camera up for the first time today (m10) and I totally get it. First thing that I noticed was the build quality and heft. Immediately it was apparent this camera was BUILT. I thought my TL2 was a solid camera, it doesn’t even compare to how solid the M10 feels. Not that I intentionally would, but it honestly feels like you could just throw it in a bag, no special padding or white glove treatment, and travel the world without second thought. Deserts, mountains, megalopolises, etc…it’ll survive it all. Even the base plate that comes off is incredibly built and solid. I wanted to try out an M camera so I could decide between an M10 or M11. Being someone who doesn’t own either, would you suggest getting a good condition M10 for near half the price of the M11, or as someone who doesn’t own either one it’s better to get the M11 from the get go? Honestly, I’m intending to keep the camera for at least 5-10+ years or longer. Also, do you think the black aluminum M11 would be as durable as the brass silver?
I can’t argue about the Leica image quality. My question is what is the advantage of using a range finder camera vs using a DSLR or Mirrorless camera? John Free uses a Nikon F because what you see in the view finder is what you get on the image not what is in an outline rectangle. How does the range finder show if the subject is in focus? Does the Leica have image stabilization? How do you do macro photography? You are not looking through the lens you are looking off to the side of the lens. Nikon came up with the Z series camera and lenses which is supposed to allow more light on the sensor at a closer distance. With the new Z9 sensor it is supposed to have better low light capability. I guess the range finder is a good light weight camera that works for street photography or landscape photography. I never heard of one being used for sports photography. Leica has been known for great lenses. Ted can you do an episode on the quality of lenses and what makes one manufacturer better than another? Thanks for you informative programs!
I’ve been considering selling my M10 and SL type 601 to buy an M11. I realized that I prefer to shoot on my M10 rather than my SL. I’m just gonna wait till all the quirks and bugs are worked out. Then I will probably get one. I will miss my SL though 😅
Let's the sensor doesn't rot on this one😊. Seriously though it looks like a fabulous camera.. which is exactly what it should be given the asking price.
Sounds like a truly wonderful digital street camera but I think I will go a little more old school and buy the new M6 and keep my Nikon D850 system for everything else because it's just so versatile.
Great video and a terrific camera but I can hardly wait for the M12 which I understand is full frame and equally good for stills and video, has a multi-angle screen and can be switched between digital and film at the flick of a lever and takes 35mm film as well as dual SD cards. Happy New Year Ted.
2:56, it's not completely without function. To wit, you can swap out the removable base plate with one that has has a handle, or even a built-in Arca-Swiss compatible base plate (from Really Right Stuff). I realize there are other ways to accomplish these things, but the different base plate method is the lightest and most compact. In general though, yes, even I find it to be a hassle, and probably won't miss it if I even get an M11.
Canon has the same thing with their 33mp APS-C cameras where you can drop it to medium size to get full raw almost 16mp files with improved low light. Fuji does something similar and with the new 40mp output of the XH2, medium size will be closer to 20mp while having increased performance in terms of noise. I'm not sure, but I think that was the point of the new MFT sensor in the GH6 too. For video resolutions you get information processed from the 26mp sensor creating a cleaner result. I actually prefer APS-C, then MFT, then Full frame last. I know Leica fanboys love to hate on anyone that enjoys a TL camera (APS-C Leica), but I quite like the CL I lucked into locally for a MASSIVE price cut from a client. I just wish there were a couple reasonably priced TL lenses, you can use any L Mount, but that's full frame bulk on an APS-C body (TL are just APS-C Leica lenses) so I use the L mount APS-C Sigmas that go for a good price and work great for the lower priced but sharp and fast 3 primes and solid 2.8 zoom. I wanted an X-E4 or even an X100V to replace the X-T3 I sold, but the prices resellers have driven them up to are absurd (I say resellers, official Fuji stores had X100V's listed for 2200 a bit back, really feels like a cash grab at that point, I know supply and demand, but maybe don't massively upsell to your fans even though you know they'll buy it as a sign of good faith for having stock problems well before the pandemic even hit).
Ted, excellent review that emphasizes all of the most-important points that many seem to be missing. My question: how much delay does the now-required closing of the shutter before each exposure introduce?
Don’t know why I’m compelled to comment you look like the drunk poet Bukowski or Jeff bridges in the big Lebowski … that opening scene … 😵💫 Love the content !!
This camera sounds very exciting. I just wish I could understand WHY manufacturers keep increasing megapixels instead of focusing on all the OTHER important characteristics you speak of. It’s almost like they have to work HARDER to improve the sensor because of the high pixel count! Good vid!
It's always nice to see a reviewer who actually takes great pictures to. What a delight!
Great to see again Ted.
I’m a hobby photographer and I don’t shoot video at all. In the past few years, all the other major Japanese manufacturers are putting so much emphasis on video capabilities that I don’t need. I greatly appreciate Leica’s focus on serving the photographic community even though I don’t have the money to afford one.
Preach it, friend! The emphasis on video drives me nuts!
I wish there was a brand that would make a non-BS camera with manual focus, let's say three or four quality lenses, and a very simple overall design. No video, no wireless connectivity, no IBIS. If Leica made that camera for let's say $2000 to $3000, I'd get one.
@@Rafa-yw8nu You kinda get that with Fuji. Good manual controls and you can get some manual lenses. You can easily ignore the wireless and the video modes, which are standard in any modern camera. Otherwise you'll have to grab a 40 year old film camera and forget about digital.
@@Rafa-yw8nu YES!!!!!!
Hear Hear
There is no way I can afford an M11, but it may give me the opportunity to get a used M10 or maybe M10-P at a reasonable price. Thanks for (as always) a detailed overview and opinion.
Agreed. Here in NZ the price tag would be somewhere between $15000 to $20000NZD depending upon markup, duties & tax. Sign of the times I guess. Most manufacturers top tier products are now grossly more expensive than the majority of us can afford.
I’m thinking along the same lines but looking more towards an M240/246🍻
At reasonable $8000.
Same with me. I’m waiting for discounting used M10 lol that is enough for me.
@@ralphmckenzie8802Nz$ 15250 at Progear,
Hello from Westport...
I didn't think I would want this camera until I had a go at both the GRiiiX and X100V. So my M11 cost me a lot more to buy in the end. Lesson learnt.
I have both M2 and M3, both made in the 1950s, and used weekly at least. I am willing to bet they will both outlive me and the M11.
I hace the same approach to my M6 (despite the light meter, but I can live without it if it breaks). What I am worried about is how long till we see film disappearing, rendering those cameras useless.
Same here but with a Leica iiic made in 1941-1942. Works like a champ.
I don’t know. Considering that we see new films coming to market and a very lively film scene generally I’d guess there’s still time.
@@haimtoeg thats also true, especially if you shoot black and white
@@adamkrupa1039 Start stockpiling film now
I have been shooting with Leica all of my life. Starting with the iiic, M4 , M8, and SL. After watching this video I will now purchase the M11. Thankyou for the very informative video!
I always enjoy your camera reviews because you’ve taken the time to shoot with the camera that is your subject. A shooter’s guide is far more beneficial than one merely listing the camera’s features. I do miss your analysis of the work of various, gifted photographers and hope to see more of them.
UA-cam algorithm brought me here. I loved the video and hyped up for the camera. Checked the price (8000 bucks) and now leaving depressed. Thank you Leica.
Your sample photos are serious works of art.
Thanks!!!
True. These colors are splendide. Is this JPEG? What Colo ur settings did you use for Sarah's portraits?
I’m Brazilian, I live in Brazil… Serious your canal is very, very good… Is a inspiration for me…Nice video!!!
One day, I'll appreciate the Leica. I just love the looks and body style of Leica range style.
With 3 active young kids, I'll stay with my Sony A1 and GM primes for now. Thank you Ted.
I couldn't make much use out of this gem but I'm fascinated watching people who can.
Great review of the features and updates Ted! It would certainly be a dream setup especially for personal work. It seems it’s where cameras, art, quality and design, and photography all meet. Just for fun, I added an M11 and 3 or 4 lenses I would want to my cart at B&H and it came to $47,500. Maybe someday…
All I have to say is... OMG. So much for an M... electronic shutter, battery life with USB-C charging and data transfer, internal memory, actual off-sensor metering. That friggin SENSOR... It's totally like having my M10 and M10-R at the same time. The color science seems EVEN better. Thanks, Ted. I will be shifting around some of my cameras to pick this up.
We need to go shoot Bil! Hope all is well!
I really appreciate your no nonsense review of this camera. Very refreshing for sure.
Great in depth review. And can I say how much I enjoyed seeing your photos? I'd love to see more of your photography, Ted.
Nice review. As a Nikon shooter, I paused for a second when you talked about the tri-resolution sensor and that it's a first. I hope you mean it's a "first for Leica" maybe, but not for the industry. The D850 from 5 years ago has this exact same feature; the ability to choose from three different resolution settings. That was a first for the industry I believe.
Also having used Nikon I was also wondering. Also Nikon Z-lineupt does allow you to choose the resolution. Or is there anything really different? In this video it sounds as if there is just a algorithm that decides how the lower resolution file is create based on the higher resolution sensor. So the only difference would be that algorithm (not sure if it is better/worse than Nikon)
Oh wow it sounds like a great camera, then again LEICA has been a prestigeous brand for decades! Its great seeing how companies are moving forward with Digital technology as well as improving on it. This item is in my list for if I win LOTTO for sure. Thanks Ted Forbes for all the great content you make for your wonderful channel!
Thank you, I just bought an M11 and you have an excellent way of explaining the camera and the systems. I tend to buy before I think and then look at the details afterwards. I have bought every standard M camera since 8 and your statements on where the 11 is is very interesting as there were lots of years of them finding their niche and resolving small design. now with USB C, connectivity and the new sensor it looks like a positive next step.
quite the collection!
I'm not really in the market for such a camera but watched the video anyway since I'm a regular viewer. Honestly I like your videos best when you display a lot of your images because I think they're great. Would love to see more of them in your yt content 😊
There goes my plan to get the SL2S alongside the M10P. M11 is sick! Biggest update of Leica M bodies
Very nice upgrades, although I miss the bottom plate (and the exposed USB hopefully is weatherproof!). Seriously good job by Leica, there's a lot of thoughtful updates with this one. Im still going to stick with my M10 though, new Leica prices are something else! Maybe in 4-5 years I'll upgrade to this one.
By then you’ll be thinking about the M12…
It’s an exciting day when a new m launches. Even though I can’t even afford a service on one of these
In my opinion you can just reduce the resolution of any digital photo in post production in order to reduce the noise. I think the only magic with the in-camera-reduction of resolution is Leica's talent of selling it.
So a good smartphone is enough to do it ?
No. But you can reduce the noise of a Leica M10 too in postproduction by lowering the resolution. It's no magic.
Do you know where I can get more info on this? I'm pretty sure this is different because it's lowering the resolution but using the entire sensor whereas if you were to take a higher resolution image and lower it in post you are actually cropping. No?
@@ezrashantiyou are merging neighbouring pixels when you lower resolution
Thats what m11 does on the sensor too,
Nice review, great camera (which I'll never be able to afford), but most importantly - great photos, Ted! Those low-light indoors shots are just stunning.
The colours you're getting from the M11 are really superb. The new sensor tech is truly groundbreaking and impressive, especially for Leica. All of it in a M body, with a combination of rangefinder and EVF focusing, makes the M11 incredible.
Great review. Obviously beautifully executed and crafted camera... and here comes the "but". All that impressive technology that Leica have implemented is still incorporated into what is essentially a very niche camera system which will only really appeal to photographers who are hooked on the M experience. This is of course fine as it is the business template that Leica choose to use and it has proven highly successful for them. For me, foregoing the massive sensor resolution and incorporating the visoflex (ugly things as they are!) into the viewfinder in the form of a hybrid would have been a far better improvement. Maintain the rangefinder abilities and yet have the option to have the lens view. This to me would expand the appeal, and also the practicality of the M system, once you've overcome the not insignificant obstacle of the price. C'mon! Using an M for macro work? At that price? There are far superior tools with which to do that.
Leicas aren't for taking photos. They are jewelry for doctors and dentists.
@@Whatsup_Abroad more like hipsters and famous people
@@Sebastian_Astudillo The average hipster can't really afford one of these though.
A Holga is a niche camera. This is just a very expensive one. It's niche-ness is related to one's budget only. It's a general purpose camera.
I've looked at what seems like hundreds of reviews of the M11. I've ordered one--hope it doesn't take months and months to arrive. Anyhow, I found your review to be one of the best. You're knowledgeable, and present the main points quite clearly. I learned more about the M11 from yours than most others. (An M rangefinder shooter since the M2!.)
Great video Ted and loved your intro / music choice too! The M11 looks impressive!
I'm allergic to hype, but from your review it's clear that this M11 offers a whole list of real-life upgrades. I need to see how much kidneys go for these days because upgrading from my M262 is definitely worth it now.
If you sold a kidney for your last Leica, you're running out of kidneys.
@@msandersen Lol, quite right! Luckily, I got my M262 on a significant discount so my kidneys are intact ;-)
The Chinese has dumped the prices of kidneys😄
this isn’t the only true rangefinder on the market today. the Fuji x100v has a real glass viewfinder. great camera.
I'm afraid the X100v is not a rangefinder
X-series cameras are focus by wire. X100 and X-Pro have *rangefinder style* but it's software and simulation, just like the simulation film. You don't have compact lenses on the X-Pro, and can't change to a different focal length on the X100. It's not the same thing.
@@Ruylopez778 ah, yeah that's a fair distinction. seems like splitting hairs to me but i get what you mean.
@@dereksnyder_4244 If you've used m-mount lenses and m-mount bodies (Leica or otherwise) or any decent real rangefinder camera, you'll know that you can use the scale on the lens to zone focus. And if it has a focus tab, you don't even necessarily need to look down at the camera to see where your focus is.
You cannot do that on any X-series camera - short of adding a tab to the Fuji lens. Yes, you can adapt an m-mount lens to an x-series body (not X100 though, without hacking your camera) but even then, your 28mm becomes a 35mm, and your 35mm becomes a 50mm. So in instances where the user doesn't have time, or doesn't want to compose/focus by looking through the VF, a real rangefinder has a significant advantage over X-series. And even if there's no tab on the rangefinder lens, the throw is usually quite short (compared to other types of camera lenses).
This is an inherent advantage of most rangefinders - a short throw - assuming the user is prioritising quick throw, of course. Then again, very fast lenses having longer throw to aid precise focus is down to preference. It's not easy to manually focus precisely at shallow depth of field on any system - even using peaking.
So no, this is not "splitting hairs". Some people are oblivious to how a real rangefinder operates. Some people don't care about the difference. That doesn't mean there isn't a difference. Your original post is inaccurate, which is why three people have told you so. A manual rangefinder (with exceptions) generally has more compact lenses and bodies than other types of camera (e.g. SLR) and this is true with both 35mm/FF and MF. This is one of the inherent advantages of the design of the focus mechanism (just as all types of camera have pros and cons depending on the priority of the user).
The X100 is compact because the lens is fixed and optimised for the body. Just as all X-series bodies and sensors are understandably optimised for X-series lenses, so too are Leica sensors optimised for Leica lenses. It's great at what it does, but it has several limitations compared to an m-body. Of course, limitations can be good for the user, depending on their preferences.
i dont why but i love the photos especially 0:14 . man there some special texture or emotıon . i dont know how to describe but it is amazing
Awesome review. Probably the only reason I want is because the aesthethics, which of course pretty much the same like all M film bodies we camera geeks love.
But, even if I had the money, probably would skip it and go for a medium format instead, which offers more modern conveniences... including autofocus and IBIS. Yes GFX, I'm looking at you.
Still, if someone is not happy with their M11, just immediately send to me for disposal... :D
Ted, thank you for the nice and informative review on what the M11 is bringing to the table. Seems Leica is pushing the boundaries of what is possible while being true to their range-finder format, and this is great. Having said that, I am over-all stunned at some of the comments below complaining about the price of entry, declaring it is "elitism" to review such an expensive item, and bashing Leica for their existence compared to more "affordable" brands. Absurd. I am a reasonably new shooter, and am running an X100v. I both love and struggle with my Fuji, but I am understanding what it is, what it is capable of, and what it is not. It is a great tool for me and is helping me learn the craft. Will I ever be willing/able to afford a Leica? Who knows, but I have no issues with seeing them, seeing that others own and use them, and especially, seeing what images they are capable of capturing. Keep up the good work, Ted.
I own both a Leica M 240 and the Fuji X100V. I can change lenses on the Leica and I get better quality pictures, but the lighter Fuji with autofocus and, tilting rear screen, let me get more street photo then the Leica. So you don't have to regret what you have.
@@philippebernard8987 Thanks for the input. Absolutely no regrets with the Fuji. It is a great camera and the fixed lens is forcing me to focus on the important stuff, including using the camera in manual and learning to frame the shot properly. My rant was mostly against those who dump on Leica for being a Leica. Funny... one of the complainers below has left the exact same comment, word for word, at another users review of the M11 here at Utube. Strange.
They are always here every Leica review. Complaining about the last one, complaining about the one before that, and before that
I have to say that the colors are freaking gorgeous!!!
I'd buy it if selling my car were enough... but it is not the case.
Like others... there's no real way I can afford (or should afford) a Leica, and I just don't work with manual focus, but your passion for photography and your interpretation about what Leica enables you to do really, really makes me think otherwise! Maybe one day... and on an unrelated note, is that Sar Deitschy sounds like Peachy in some of your sample shots?
Your videos have improved ever since you started slowing down your transitions and speaking.... Thank you!
I think this is most informative and interesting video about Leica M11 I have seen on UA-cam. Thank you 👍🏻
And now I finally have Leica M11 black!!
Man I would LOVE to return to M-cameras (an M6 and then M7 were my primary camera for a dozen years). I went Canon 5D when that came out, upgraded to the 5DM2 when that came out and then switched to Sony A7R after that. I have had every Sony A7R since and have been enjoying the A7R4, also with 61 mPx. My experience has been that two things are required to achieve the resolution promises of 30 mPx let alone 60+ mPx: (1) electronic first curtain and (2) some form of image stabilization. I don't know if the M11 has e-first curtain (assume so, because it now uses the sensor for metering), but the absence of IBIS seems like a huge negative to me for achieving the full 60 mPx resolution capability. It would be one thing if the camera was intended for tripod use only (like some medium format box cameras), but the M-cameras are supposed to be handheld. Heck, Leica positioned the tripod mount so close to the battery release, they are almost discouraging the use of a tripod and certainly L-plates. What has been your experience? Do you feel you have full 60 mPx resolution on your handheld photos, or are they ever so slightly unsharp? Thank you and great video, as usual.
Why is electronic first curtain required to your view?
Damn you, Leica… I wasn’t expecting a triple resolution sensor on this. I wasn’t expecting a new (and more expensive) battery with 65% more capacity, I wasn’t expecting simple Apple compatibility. But, then, Leica has always come up with the unexpected ever since Oscar Barnak turned 35mm movie film sideways and created 35mm photography back in the very early 20th Century. I was expecting a modest improvement over my M10-R… I was expecting to keep my M10-R forever. After all, 40 megapixels should be good enough, right. Now, I’m just going to have to pony up 10 Large (as Hugh Brownstone would say…) and bite the bullet. After all, it IS a Leica.
It doesn't take pictures all on it's own lol. Good images are 99% due to the person looking through the viewfinder.
After chasing the latest and greatest over the last 3 years I am thinking of something like this might bring some joy back to my photography. The reason being the cameras being so big with so many buttons and lens so heavy that I never want to have them with me.
Wonderful video. One thing though in reference to your comment about Leica being the only one making rangefinders: check out the PIXII from France. It’s a very interesting camera, and is a true M mount rangefinder that is in production (albeit on a small scale).
Love those shots in the Kimball.
Cool stuff! I'm getting one. And will spend the rest of my life learning how to use it. My buddy j marshall was a Leica man... its time! Thnx!
The USB-C port is said to be weatherproof, as it is on mobile devices. The M11 is supposed to be the most weather sealed M there is. The new 35mm APO f/2 is also more sealed on the mount ring than previous versions, so I guess that is the direction Leica are heading in for future M and M lenses.
Just amazing. I so hope that Leica will include this sensor in their upcoming Q3 in 2023! My Q2M needs a proper sidekick hahaha
I’m biased on Leica . Kind of hate it,yet kind of don’t. The buffering between shots is maddening ,especially during a concert and it’s still reading to memory card.it’s completely math oriented. Know your focal distance,manually and slowly line the viewfinder up. More blurry . When it functions it’s good but Manuel drives me nuts. The Fuji seems more fun. I have an m9 the M2 is nice,but you have too be accurate no guessing.
Want it but can’t afford it , great video . Have the converted 1st monochrome . It works . I want the larger sensor .
Thank you Ted Forbes. I bought a new M10 less than a year ago. It is the regular M10; not R or P. I think that you have done a good job in justifying an M11 purchase one day. When? Not now for sure. [Raid Amin]
A lucid and informative presentation of this new camera from Leica. Thank you so much!
I just completely lost my shit on that 'so serious' opening shot. Really needed that laugh, omg I'm crying.
Always worth watching your videos. Thanks for another great one.
Thanks for the detailed explanation of the capabilities and features of the M11. No doubt a lot of its cost is for the brand, but you showed that there's a lot more (features, capabilities, details, and a ton of thought) that went into this camera that puts it in a category that most cameras can't reach. I'm still not going to buy one (for many reasons), but Leica is clearly not just sitting on the laurels of the brand.
We ALL want one, but I can’t sell my car to buy a camera. If you have the means it’s a great investment that will keep its value
For the higher price, hope the M11's QC is better. I had to send my M10 to Germany to repair the misaligned rangefinder mechanism. Took them 4 months to complete the repairs.
Great review, one can dream as it's out of my budget....
I'm jealous!
Rushing out to buy one now!
( great review by the way )
Subscribed!
Leica V others (beside price ofc) “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” Lao Tzu. Great review.
this used to be one of my go to channels.....I discovered so many good photographers, good content,.now ypu talk about megapixels....but hey I guess you had to evolve, I respect that.
I borrowed a brand new M11 with 35mm lens a few days ago. I wanted to see what was so different about Leica and the always talked about ' Leica Look'. I have compared very detailed shots of the new M11, a Sony A7iii and Fujifilm XPro3. Aside from resolution, i seriously cannot fathom the extra $10000 price tag for the Leica. Sure the image is much higher in megapixels, but honestly all 3 cameras produced roughly the same quality photo. I appreciate that people like to purchase high end brands as they like prestige gear, but......i do not see it being worth it. For anyone stuck on the fence about getting a Leica camera, I can honestly say that if you have the money do what you want. i have the money to purchase a few of these M11's but to be brutally honest I cannot see any reason aside from social image status to own one. i have tested dynamic range and processed the photos like any normal consumer would and I would bet nobody reading this could determine which camera made which photo. Note to newcomers, DO NOT get caught up in the leica hype. Like all other mirrorless bodies, they are just sensors and a lens like any other mirrorless camera. After shelling out $10,000 plus for a leica, you are kidding yourself if you think your photos are superior to anything else a fifth the price on the market. Dont believe me?......rent one and see for yourself. I have leica raws and I could tell you they came from a sony a7iv and you would believe me as they look like any other camera. UA-camrs seem to pushing the Q2 at the moment, avoid it at all costs. You are not getting a camera that is superior in any way. Leica cameras do have once strength that none of the other brands have yet to achieve. Their bodies and lenses drain your wallets very quickly with no noticeable benefit to the owner. Maintenance on leica is insanely offensive too along with accessories. I dare you to prove me wrong.
Like you, I could easily afford a few, but I’ll stick with Sony.
I don’t get the hype about the digital side, maybe it’s nice due to simplicity. But I get it when it comes to the film cameras. The experience when using one over any other camera I’ve played around with is hard to explain. Furthermore it’s quick, easy and quiet, it gets me out, getting better more.
I’m a working photographer and have an M11. It’s a completely different experience to my R5’s and has its place in my kit for certain jobs. Technically all new cameras are comparable but whether it’s the glass or something Leica is doing with their sensor interpretations, the images look different. I use the R5 + 24TSE + 50 for all my architecture work & my M11 for anything people based. I definitely agree it’s not worth the price tag over other bodies in terms of overall IQ, but there also isn’t anything else like it.
It’s about the user experience, I own m11, Fuji, and Sony too but the built quality and handling, simplicity, gives me something different than Sony, I feel more joy and chill when I’m sitting in a cafe with my m11, taking photos of my coffee and friends
Ended up getting a M11 monochrom because there wasn't a monochrom A7R. I needed a high resolution camera for low light and situations where colour was not needed, and it was the only thing that fitted the niche. The manual focus was not a detriment either because autofocus wouldn't work in low contrast situations to begin with.
Many things don't make sense here. I know it's an old video, but there has since been many tests to show that
1. The m10-R is cleaner at medium high iso (until about 6400), look at reid reviews
2. You can get the same down-sampling effect that the m11 has, in the m10-R by doing it in post (with even better result than leicas in camera mode on the m11). You can of course also do this with the m11 and get a better result than the in-camera downsampling
3. The M11 is cleaner at super high iso (do we really need to be shooting at 12800?), mostly due to less banding.
4. The M10-R performs better than the m11 when it comes to sharpness in corners with high end glass like the 35mm apo
5. The M10-R has less purple fringing
If Leica would lower the price of the M10-R I'd take that over the M11
Such a cool camera. In 20 years I'll buy one.
I’ll get it in 19 years before people who buy In 20 creates Lack of cameras
Higher megapixel counts do not increase noise on any camera. That is a misconception. It's neat that you can choose smaller file sizes and still have a native file though.
First of all that is one beautiful camera 📷
Love the Elmar M you have! I had one and always have regretted selling it. I think this summer I am going to look for a silver chrome one like yours.
Amazing video once again my guy
Looking forward to seeing the Leica signed black paint brass model
Picked an M camera up for the first time today (m10) and I totally get it. First thing that I noticed was the build quality and heft. Immediately it was apparent this camera was BUILT. I thought my TL2 was a solid camera, it doesn’t even compare to how solid the M10 feels. Not that I intentionally would, but it honestly feels like you could just throw it in a bag, no special padding or white glove treatment, and travel the world without second thought. Deserts, mountains, megalopolises, etc…it’ll survive it all. Even the base plate that comes off is incredibly built and solid. I wanted to try out an M camera so I could decide between an M10 or M11. Being someone who doesn’t own either, would you suggest getting a good condition M10 for near half the price of the M11, or as someone who doesn’t own either one it’s better to get the M11 from the get go? Honestly, I’m intending to keep the camera for at least 5-10+ years or longer. Also, do you think the black aluminum M11 would be as durable as the brass silver?
I can’t argue about the Leica image quality. My question is what is the advantage of using a range finder camera vs using a DSLR or Mirrorless camera? John Free uses a Nikon F because what you see in the view finder is what you get on the image not what is in an outline rectangle. How does the range finder show if the subject is in focus? Does the Leica have image stabilization? How do you do macro photography? You are not looking through the lens you are looking off to the side of the lens. Nikon came up with the Z series camera and lenses which is supposed to allow more light on the sensor at a closer distance. With the new Z9 sensor it is supposed to have better low light capability. I guess the range finder is a good light weight camera that works for street photography or landscape photography. I never heard of one being used for sports photography. Leica has been known for great lenses. Ted can you do an episode on the quality of lenses and what makes one manufacturer better than another? Thanks for you informative programs!
Stunning review Ted and great pictures ;-)
Love the video. Can’t wait to get the M11! But man… that strap!! I need to know where to find it!!!!!!!
The sweater is kind of cool, too.
Great video, as always. And the music up top is bangin'.....
I knew it, you were invited in Germany for the presentation of M11 :D
Great photos at the Scat and MOMA!
I’ve been considering selling my M10 and SL type 601 to buy an M11. I realized that I prefer to shoot on my M10 rather than my SL. I’m just gonna wait till all the quirks and bugs are worked out. Then I will probably get one. I will miss my SL though 😅
Let's the sensor doesn't rot on this one😊. Seriously though it looks like a fabulous camera.. which is exactly what it should be given the asking price.
Great review! I do want this camera now
beautiful photography in this review Sir ! Great and objective review as well ! Bravo.
I love my Q2, and waiting for the Q3 with the benefits of M11, and a 35! But a M11…yea why not😁
When is that expected?
The Kodak Brownie is the best street photography camera ever made.
Good summary of the changes, but one minor correction: The M10 also had 14 bit color.
muy claro y conciso, lo felicito por su explicación,veo las laicas diferentes!
Excellent review Ted!
In fact I'm waiting for the Leica M12 or M13 : always Rangefinder, 100Million Pix and ..... AF! It will change my life!
Sounds like a truly wonderful digital street camera but I think I will go a little more old school and buy the new M6 and keep my Nikon D850 system for everything else because it's just so versatile.
Great video and a terrific camera but I can hardly wait for the M12 which I understand is full frame and equally good for stills and video, has a multi-angle screen and can be switched between digital and film at the flick of a lever and takes 35mm film as well as dual SD cards. Happy New Year Ted.
I want anything that says Leica on it LOL. Great vid Ted!
Awesome video on an awesome camera Ted!!
Outstanding review! Thanks.
2:56, it's not completely without function. To wit, you can swap out the removable base plate with one that has has a handle, or even a built-in Arca-Swiss compatible base plate (from Really Right Stuff). I realize there are other ways to accomplish these things, but the different base plate method is the lightest and most compact. In general though, yes, even I find it to be a hassle, and probably won't miss it if I even get an M11.
Canon has the same thing with their 33mp APS-C cameras where you can drop it to medium size to get full raw almost 16mp files with improved low light. Fuji does something similar and with the new 40mp output of the XH2, medium size will be closer to 20mp while having increased performance in terms of noise. I'm not sure, but I think that was the point of the new MFT sensor in the GH6 too. For video resolutions you get information processed from the 26mp sensor creating a cleaner result.
I actually prefer APS-C, then MFT, then Full frame last. I know Leica fanboys love to hate on anyone that enjoys a TL camera (APS-C Leica), but I quite like the CL I lucked into locally for a MASSIVE price cut from a client. I just wish there were a couple reasonably priced TL lenses, you can use any L Mount, but that's full frame bulk on an APS-C body (TL are just APS-C Leica lenses) so I use the L mount APS-C Sigmas that go for a good price and work great for the lower priced but sharp and fast 3 primes and solid 2.8 zoom. I wanted an X-E4 or even an X100V to replace the X-T3 I sold, but the prices resellers have driven them up to are absurd (I say resellers, official Fuji stores had X100V's listed for 2200 a bit back, really feels like a cash grab at that point, I know supply and demand, but maybe don't massively upsell to your fans even though you know they'll buy it as a sign of good faith for having stock problems well before the pandemic even hit).
excellent video, thanks!!!
Ted, excellent review that emphasizes all of the most-important points that many seem to be missing. My question: how much delay does the now-required closing of the shutter before each exposure introduce?
Thanks !! Would you choose the M 11 or your camera of 2021 the leica SL2-S?
I will buy soon. Nice review
I will stay with my 262 without a screen and all options available to take an excellent shot: aperture, shutter speed and ISO. That's it.
Anyone who knows a good British reviewer of cameras on YT, kindly recommend. Many thanks.
Nice review, Ted. I'm looking at my M10M and M10R and thinking....should I?
Don’t know why I’m compelled to comment you look like the drunk poet Bukowski or Jeff bridges in the big Lebowski …
that opening scene … 😵💫
Love the content !!
This camera sounds very exciting. I just wish I could understand WHY manufacturers keep increasing megapixels instead of focusing on all the OTHER important characteristics you speak of. It’s almost like they have to work HARDER to improve the sensor because of the high pixel count! Good vid!
I asked myself that 10 years - then ditched digital and went to real photography. There's no going back to digital for me.