Leica Summarit-M 50mm f/2.5
Announced September 11, 2007
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 Summarit-M 50mm f/2.5 is a compact, well-built standard lens that delivers sharp, high-contrast images with a modern rendering. While it lacks the speed of faster aperture options, it serves as a highly portable and capable entry point into the Leica M system.
Weighted from 6 reviewer scores
Pros
- Compact, lightweight, and highly portable design
- Superb optical performance featuring sharpness and good contrast
- Excellent build quality using high-grade materials
- Smooth bokeh and pleasant rendering
- Affordable entry point into the Leica M lens lineup
Cons
- Higher cost relative to some third-party alternatives
- Lack of an integrated lens hood
- Minimal vignetting and chromatic aberration in specific lighting
- Build and design limitations compared to more expensive Leica lenses
- Restricted minimum focus distance of 0.8 meters
- Launch price $1,250 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 50mm f/2.5
- Mount & coverage Leica M Full-Frame
- Filter thread 39mm
- Weight & size 230g (8.1 oz) · 51 x 33 mm (2.01 x 1.30 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 6 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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The Leica 50mm f/2.5 Summarit imposes very little if any character on the photos and is almost entirely neutral in the way it renders.
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The Summarit line makes it a little bit easier for us to own a real Leica lens without spending $3000+ for it. It’s a great performer if not a little soft in the edges and corners but stop it down and it will clean up nicely.
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So Leica Summarit-M 50mm f/2.5 is an excellent lens if you don't need the speed of an f/2 or an f/1.4.
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It’s got all the features that I want in a lens like great build quality, attention to the little details, and of course, superb image quality.
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For under a thousand dollar, I cannot think of a better 50mm from Leica to recommend or from any of the other brands.
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In my situation, if my choice is to keep a 50mm Leica rather, the Zeiss, Voigtlander, or one of the other lenses I tested, I am going to put my money where my mouth is, buy a Summarit, sell my Summicron, and live happily ever after with my perfect lens hood,
