Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 ASPH
Announced May 6, 2021
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 Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 ASPH is a robust, weather-sealed standard zoom that delivers sharp, high-quality images and fast autofocus performance on L-mount bodies. Although it commands a premium price and lacks optical stabilization, it remains a well-balanced and highly capable choice for daily use.
Weighted from 8 reviewer scores
Pros
- Durable, weather-sealed all-metal construction
- Excellent image quality with sharp optics and natural color reproduction
- Versatile focal range with constant f/2.8 aperture and close-focusing capabilities
- Compact and ergonomic design that balances well on SL cameras
- Fast autofocus performance optimized for Leica bodies
Cons
- Higher cost relative to third-party L-mount alternatives
- Lacks integrated optical image stabilization
- Variable sharpness performance at specific focal lengths or close distances
- Absence of physical switches for AF/MF or focus limiting
- Operational quirks including an external zoom design and reversed zoom ring direction
- Launch price $2,795 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 24-70mm f/2.8
- Mount & coverage L-Mount Full-Frame
- Stabilization None
- Close focus 18 cm (0.34x)
- Filter thread 82mm
- Autofocus motor Autofocus
- Weight & size 856g · 88 x 123 mm (3.46 x 4.84 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 8 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- PetaPixel 8/10
Even though the "Made in Japan" on the barrel of the lens may be a slight deterrent to some Leica purists out there, the quality of the images, superb build, and faster autofocus than other options make it worthwhile to add to your kit.
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Price aside, the lens is a joy to use and the results are great. It is Highly Recommended.
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The Leica VARIO-ELMARIT-SL 24–70mm f/2.8 ASPH. is an incredibly well-built, very fast standard zoom lens that delivers superb image quality for L-mount camera owners, joining the Sigma 24-70mm f2.8 DG DN Art and the Panasonic Lumix S PRO 24-70mm F2.8.
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While zoom lenses used to get a bad rep for image quality, the Leica 24-70mm Vario-Elmarit-SL f/2.8 ASPH is certainly the exception, and dare I say the industry leader in proving that zoom lenses well and truly deserve to be in your camera kit, and while I only shoot prime [...]
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The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm F2.8 ASPH. captures detailed photos and opens up to F2.8 to blur backgrounds.
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If you are shopping for a perfect walk around lens for your Leica SL, SL2 or SL2-S body I can highly recommend the Leica 24-70 Vario Elmarit lens.
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This is a fine lens and a welcome addition to the stable of SL zoom lenses. The image quality is really good; it has lovely bokeh and is great for close up.
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The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 is an excellent fit for a Leica SL camera. If you can stomach the steeper price tag, this is the way to go if you want the complete Leica experience.
