Leica is a renowned camera manufacturer based in Germany. Their M-series cameras have represented the pinnacle of design and quality since the 1950s. The Leica M10 continues this trend and is a high-end digital camera that has a similar design to traditional analog models. It is a compact and lightweight model that looks fantastic and is hugely stylish. Furthermore, it offers the ultimate photo quality.
The Leica M10 is suitable for professional usage – it has a hefty price tag and is not really a device that beginners would consider. Regardless, we have created an in-depth Leica M10 review for your benefit. We have analyzed its performance, design, and how it compares to other similar models.
Main Features
The Leica M10 has a brilliant range of features. Despite its retro design, it features the latest in technology and has some excellent modern additions. We have listed the basic specification of this exceptional camera below:
- Size: 139 x 39 x 80mm
- Weight: 660g (including batteries)
- Sensor: Full-frame CMOS sensor
- Image Processor: Maestro-II Processor
- Raw Images: Yes
- ISO Range: 100-50,000
- Connectivity: USB / WiFi
- Touchscreen: No
- Lens: M-Bayonet
As you can see, the ISO range of the Leica M10 is superb with a maximum ISO of 50,000. Moreover, it benefits from the advanced processing technology of the Maestro-II processor and a full-frame CMOS sensor. In addition to this, users can download photos to external devices using the WiFi connection. This camera really does have a great balance of retro design, together with modern functionality.
Design
The design of this camera is one of its best features. It looks amazing – Leica has stated that they wanted to create a functional camera that hails back to old analog models. They have certainly achieved this with the Leica M10. It is lightweight, easy to carry, and easy to hold too. Furthermore, it has a textured tactile grip covering the whole of the bottom section.
Building on this, the Leica M10 also has a great range of modern features like the high-quality viewfinder, and the crystal clear rear LCD screen. It also has a simple button system with minimal controls on the rear to ensure the operation is straightforward. There is also a couple of program dials on the top, including the new ISO control dial – this is a fantastic feature that adds additional functionality to the camera.
Performance
This rangefinder camera is built to produce the best quality images. It is a device that features the latest in Leica technology. This includes advanced lens elements, a high-quality sensor, and a powerful image processor. The resulting image quality is exceptional. At 24MP resolution, your images will have excellent detail and be sharp and consistent. Furthermore, distortion is nonexistent, and errors like chromatic aberration and ghosting will not appear in your photos.
The device itself is also highly durable. It utilizes special alloy coatings to ensure it is weather resistant. The LCD screen also has a special Corning Gorilla Glass which resists moisture and scratches. Leica has also created an efficient menu system that allows users to store favorite camera settings and quickly set up the M10 for a range of photography scenarios.
Leica M10 vs. Leica M10-P
Finally, let’s look at how this device compares to the Leica M10-P. These two models share many similarities and essentially are the same camera. There are minor differences that make the M10-P classed as the superior model, however.
For example, the M10-P is the first Leica device to feature a touch-screen display – this provides additional functionality. Furthermore, the M10-P features an improved shutter that allows for ultra-fast shutter speeds. In addition to this, the M10-P has several small design changes that alter its appearance in a positive way – this doesn’t make a difference to photo quality, however.
| Leica M10 | Leica M10-P | |
| Megapixel Count | 24MP | 24MP |
| Processor | Maestro-II | Maestro-II |
| Lens Mount | M-Bayonet | M-bayonet |
| Weight | 660g | 660g |
| Dimensions | 139 x 39 x 80mm | 139 x 39 x 80mm |
| Max ISO | 50,000 | 50,000 |
As you can see, the basic specifications of these two devices are virtually identical. The Leica M10 is certainly a top choice. If you care about the fine details and design changes, then you should consider purchasing the M10-P instead.
Should You Purchase the Leica M10?
If you are looking for an ultra-high-end camera with a stylish design and excellent performance, the Leica M10 is a top choice. You have to consider the price tag, however, as this is an expensive model. You could purchase a high-quality DSLR camera from Canon or Nikon, and a few prime lenses for a comparative price (if not less). If you want a camera for simple hobbyist use, the Leica M10 is not a suitable choice – it’s simply too expensive.
This device should only be considered for die-hard photography enthusiasts or professional photographers. If you are one of the above, the Leica M10 will prove rewarding. It is a pleasure to use and offers the ultimate photo quality. Your photos will be sharp and have excellent colors and contrast. Moreover, this camera is excellent for low-light photography with its specialized ISO control dial.
