Leica lenses are known for inspiring loyalty, and the Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH. is one of those pieces of glass that keeps showing up in the bags of serious users. The balance of compact size and striking optical quality makes it stand out, even in a lineup filled with faster lenses.
Coming to you from Alex Barrera, this detailed video takes a close look at the Leica Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH. lens. Barrera makes it clear he went in with low expectations, expecting a capable but “boring” option compared to faster lenses like the Summilux. What he found instead was a lens that delivered sharpness, contrast, and subtle vignetting that gave his photos in Italy a look he didn’t expect. The size also plays a role, as the smaller barrel balances better on the Leica M11-P and makes long days of shooting more comfortable. That mix of portability and performance shows why the lens has the reputation it does.
The video also points out how the Summicron’s rendering avoids looking clinical. Wide open, the images still carry character while maintaining clarity. Barrera mentions being surprised by just how well it handled portraits, especially considering the 28mm focal length. He highlights the natural look without distortion, which may challenge your expectations of what this kind of lens can do. If you’ve only used the 28mm fixed lenses on cameras like the Q2 or Q3, which skew a bit wider, this shows you what a true 28mm frame feels like in practice.
Key Specs
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Focal Length: 28mm
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Aperture: Maximum f/2, Minimum f/16
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Lens Mount: Leica M
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Minimum Focus Distance: 1.3' / 40 cm
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Magnification: 0.09x (1:11.3 macro reproduction ratio)
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Optical Design: 9 elements in 6 groups
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Aperture Blades: 10
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Focus Type: Manual focus
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Image Stabilization: No
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Filter Size: 46 mm (front)
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Dimensions: ø 58 x L 55 mm
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Weight: 275 g (9.7 oz)
The balance between image quality and handling is what makes this lens so tempting. Barrera notes that after returning from his trip, he immediately started looking for a used copy, which says more than any technical test could. The lens’ compact nature means it avoids the front-heaviness of larger Summilux options, something that matters for anyone carrying their camera all day. It’s an example of Leica’s design philosophy: smaller gear that still delivers results strong enough to surprise you. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Barrera.
