Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246)
Announced April 30, 2015
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246) serves as a specialized, high-performance tool for photographers dedicated to black-and-white work. While the manual rangefinder system and lack of color capture limit its versatility, the camera delivers exceptional detail and low-light performance that justifies its premium status.
Weighted from 12 reviewer scores
Pros
- Strong high ISO performance with usable low-light results
- Robust, premium build quality that feels like a traditional film camera
- Exceptional image quality with high detail and impressive dynamic range
- Reliable battery life and improved operational speed
- Access to a wide range of high-quality M-mount lenses
Cons
- Manual rangefinder focusing and viewfinder limitations are not suited for all users or subjects
- Strictly limited to monochrome capture and requires careful highlight management
- High cost and niche appeal
- Absence of internal image stabilization
- Potential for banding at high ISO settings
- Launch price $7,450 (USD)
- Sensor 24MP Full-Frame Monochrome CMOS
- Video 1080p 25p
- Stabilization None
- Burst 3 fps mechanical
What the Reviewers Say
All 12 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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[...] I’m very glad that I got to try this camera, but don’t expect to buy a Leica M Monochrom for myself any time soon. The camera does give excellent black and white results, and using it was a fun experience.
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Mention the Leica M Monochrom and the question most people ask is, ‘Why would you want to limit yourself to shooting black & white only?’ Well, aside from the personal preference argument, the big advantage comes from doing away with the colour filters.
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The Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246) will be a welcome update to those who want to shoot in black and white, and uses the Typ 240 camera body to bring all the latest features to the monochrome camera.
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The manual focus, black and white-only Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246) rangefinder camera isn't for everyone. But if it's for you, you'll love it.
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The Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246) is specialized and expensive, and its manual rangefinder focusing won't suit everyone. But the quality of the results justifies Leica's brave decision to use a monochrome sensor.
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The M Monochrom Typ 246 is the manufacturer’s second model to shoot just black and white, but is it more than an expensive gimmick? Find out in our Leica M Monochrom Typ 246 review.
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The Leica Monochrom is for a niche inside another niche. For those who always output their work in B&W, it can be the perfect camera.
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You have to LOVE and ADORE the art of B&W shooting to plunk down this kind of cash for a B&W only camera but if you do, you will NOT be disappointed in this new MM.
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Bottom line: there are no disadvantages to the CMOS-based MM246 Monochrom. Not from an image quality point of view, nor that of usability.
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[T]his is pretty much the king of digital black and white.
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The new Leica Monochrom (Typ 246) is a worthy and capable successor to the previous model, and it shows real improvements at every level; it’s faster, quieter, more flexible and has better image quality, especially at high ISO.
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I definitely know that this camera is for me. This is the M monochrome for me to go with my Q2 monochrome.
