Leica M-E (2012)
A digital rangefinder camera built on the M9 platform, stripped of select features to offer a lower-priced alternative in anthracite grey.
Overview
The Leica M-E is a digital rangefinder camera introduced in September 2012 at Photokina as a cost-reduced variant of the Leica M9. Manufactured by Leica, it shares the M9’s core imaging system and mechanical design but omits the USB port and viewfinder frame preselector lever—features deemed non-essential by experienced users. Marketed in anthracite grey (dark grey metallic), the M-E was positioned to provide the full M9 shooting experience at a lower price point without altering the official pricing of the flagship M9 and M9-P models. It accepts all lenses with the M bayonet mount and is part of Leica’s line of digital rangefinders, which includes the M8, M9, M Monochrom, and M Type 240.
Specifications
| Type | Digital rangefinder camera |
| Film Format | Not applicable (digital) |
| Years Produced | 2012 |
| Lens Mount | M bayonet |
| Sensor Type | CCD |
| Shutter Type | Metal electronic |
| Shutter Speed Range | 1/4000 – 32 s |
| Flash Sync Speed | 1/180 s |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 0.68× |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 138 × 80 × 37 mm |
| Weight (with battery and card) | 593 g |
| Power Source | Dedicated rechargeable battery |
Design
The Leica M-E uses the same body and internal layout as the Leica M9, finished in anthracite grey metallic. It features a CCD sensor and a metal electronic shutter, with power supplied by a dedicated rechargeable battery. The USB port and viewfinder frame preselector lever present on the M9 are omitted, simplifying the design and reducing production cost.
Context
Announced in 2012, the M-E was created to serve as a more affordable entry into Leica’s digital M-series without undercutting the M9’s premium positioning. By removing features that many professional users rarely utilized, Leica offered a streamlined alternative that retained the core image quality and handling of the M9. It was marketed alongside other digital M models including the M8, M9-P, and M Monochrom, and positioned as “the same M9, minus the needless USB socket and preview lever.”
Market
The Leica M-E had an original price of $5,500 USD at launch in November 2012. It was recommended by photographers such as Ken Rockwell for those seeking M9 performance at a reduced cost, noting that the omitted features were not missed in practice. One user reported acquiring a used example “for a steal of a price,” indicating early secondary market value shifts.
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