Leica Releases an Affordable Camera, Almost: The M-E (Type 240)

David J. Crewe

Leica Camera has just announced a new member of the legendary Leica M family, aimed squarely at newcomers to the M-System. The Leica M-E (Type 240) is a brand new take on the established formula from the popular Leica M (Type 240) cameras, with some welcome changes and improvements. It offers a full frame 24 megapixel CMOS sensor, Leica Maestro processor, 2-year Leica warranty and access to the full portfolio of Leica M lenses for a price of $3,995 – making it the new entry-point of Leica M rangefinders at nearly half the cost when compared to the Leica M-P ($7495) or the Leica M Type 240 ($5,795).

Leica M-E Type 240-SLR Lounge-6

Additionally, the Leica M-E (Type 240) features a new anthracite-gray lacquered finish, developed just for this camera, and a genuine leather covering for excellent grip and premium style. In regards to technical prowess, it offers the same great performance of the Leica M (Type 240) generation with an upgraded 2 GB buffer for longer and more sustained continuous burst shooting.

Additionally, the new M-E Type 240 can shoot 1080p videos up to 24fps in MOV and M-JPEG format (the body includes a built in mic along with an external microphone input).

Technical Details

  • 24MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
  • Leica Maestro Image Processor
  • Optical 0.68x-Magnification Viewfinder
  • 3.0″ 920k-Dot LCD
  • Full HD 1080p Video Recording
  • ISO 200-6400, up to 3 fps Shooting
  • 2GB Buffer and Integrated Spirit Level
  • Magnesium Alloy Body and Brass Top Plate
  • Anthracite Paint Finish & Black Leather
  • M Type Lens Mount
  • Max Resolution – 5952×3976
  • ISO Sensitivity – Auto, 200 to 6400 (Extended: 100 to 6400)
  • Shutter Speed Mechanical Shutter – 1/4000 to 60 Second
    Bulb Mode
  • Manual Focus Only
  • Memory Card Slot – 1 x SD/SDHC/SDXC
  • Connectivity – 3.5mm Microphone
  • Weight – 1.5lbs

Pricing & Availability

The Leica M-E (Type 240) will go on sale July 25, 2019 at Leica Stores, Boutiques and Dealers, (pre-orders are available now), for the price of $3,995.

David J. Crewe

David J. Crewe is a full-time commercial photographer and Senior Editor with SLR Lounge. Based out of both Southern California & Las Vegas, Nevada. View his work and blog: DavidJCrewe.com Follow his Instagram: @DavidJCrewe

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