Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246) Review

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

Product Overview

Overall rating:

91%

Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246)

Features:95%
Design:90%
Performance:95%
Image Quality:95%
Value:80%

Pros:

  • Brilliant dynamic range; Large range of superb lenses; Basic and traditional controls similar to a film camera; High ISO performance

Cons:

  • Viewfinder frame lines are only an approximation; Limited to monochrome; Prone to Highlight clipping

Product:

Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246) Review

Manufacturer:

Price as reviewed:

£5,750.00

Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246) Review – Performance

Most Leica photographers will use the rangefinder viewfinder on the Leica M Monochrom. It can be difficult to use but with enough practice it becomes quite easy. For those that prefer it there is also a 3in, 921k-dot LCD which is clear, bright and easy to see – it’s far better than the LCD on some older Leica cameras.

Leica M Monochrom product shot 7

Alternatively, via the accessory port and the hotshoe, users can attach an electronic viewfinder which has the same information as the LCD including focus peaking and focus magnification.

Two settings are offered in the metering menu section classic and Advanced. Classic meters exposures from the grey areas painted on the shutter, while Advanced meters from the sensor. Overall, the metering appears to clip highlights rather quickly.

The sensor boasts a fantastic dynamic range and there’s stacks of detail in the shadow areas. I spent most of the time shooting under-exposed in order to preserve the highlights and edit it in post production.

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