Leica M-E (Typ 240)

The Leica M-E (Typ 240) is a distinguished entry into the revered Leica M System, blending traditional rangefinder photography with modern digital capabilities. Engineered for a pure, deliberate photographic experience, it’s a compelling choice for discerning photographers.

Target Audience

The Leica M-E (Typ 240) is for photographers valuing the classic, tactile experience of rangefinder shooting and manual control. It appeals to enthusiasts and professionals prioritizing image quality, robust build, and a minimalist approach. Ideal for a contemplative shooting style, focusing on composition and capturing moments. Its compact, durable construction also suits photographers needing a reliable, discreet camera.

Use Cases

The Leica M-E (Typ 240) excels where precision, discretion, and exceptional image quality are paramount. It is well-suited for street photography, with an unobtrusive design and manual focus for intimate captures. Its robust, weather-resistant build makes it an excellent companion for travel photography. The Leica M-E (Typ 240) is also an outstanding tool for documentary photography and portraiture, rendering rich tones and fine details with classic rangefinder focusing for unique aesthetic control. The camera’s emphasis on manual operation encourages a deliberate approach, perfect for photographers seeking to deepen their craft.

Key Benefits

The core strengths of the Leica M-E (Typ 240) include uncompromising image quality, durable construction, and its unique rangefinder experience. The full-frame 24MP CMOS sensor and Leica Maestro Image Processor produce high-resolution images with remarkable clarity, low noise, and smooth tonal gradations across an ISO 200-6400 sensitivity range (expandable to ISO 100), ensuring exceptional performance in challenging lighting. The magnesium alloy and brass body with rubber seals provides dust and weather resistance, guaranteeing reliability. The 0.68x magnification optical rangefinder with automatic parallax compensation offers precise manual focusing, fostering a deep connection between photographer and subject. The Leica M-E (Typ 240) also supports Full HD 1080p video recording.

Technical Highlights

At its core, the Leica M-E (Typ 240) features a 24MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor and the Leica Maestro Image Processor, delivering a sensitivity range of ISO 200-6400 (expandable to ISO 100). A 2GB internal buffer supports 3 fps continuous shooting. The Leica M-E (Typ 240) uses the Leica M lens mount, compatible with M-mount and R-mount lenses (via adapter). Focusing is exclusively manual. The viewing system includes a bright-line 0.68x-magnification optical rangefinder with automatic parallax compensation and a 3.0-inch 920k-dot LCD with Corning Gorilla Glass. Exposure controls include Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual modes, with exposure compensation from -3 to +3 EV. Shutter speeds range from 1/4000 to 60 seconds. Images are saved in DNG (RAW) and JPEG formats. For videography, the Leica M-E (Typ 240) records Full HD 1080p and HD 720p video. It includes a monaural microphone and an optional external microphone port. Storage is via a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot. The robust body features an anthracite gray paint finish and genuine black cowhide leather wrap. The Leica M-E (Typ 240) embodies Leica’s commitment to photographic excellence.