đŽ Buy or AVOID? | 10 year old digital camera - Leica M240 (2023)
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- Äas pĆidĂĄn 24. 09. 2022
- Fresh review of my Leica M240 after years of neglect and preferring the Leica SL and Leica CL
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Ok
One thing is very noticeable - it's the beauty of the model, and the lighting, that stands out the most. Not whether it was taken with an M240, M10, SL or a point and shoot.
Correct! Iâm glad someone sees this. Thatâs why I donât own the latest cameras. Old cameras and good lighting do all I need.
I loved my first M240 so much I purchased a second one this year. I love the feel, small menu system, large capacity battery and the black one I have is brassing and my god is it ever so sexy.... I mainly shoot street photography using range focusing and just love the images they produce.... Thanks Matt....
Thanks! I bet a brassed black version looks awesome!
About a year ago I snagged an M-P240 in absolutely mint condition with less than 300 actuations. I sold my M8 and M9 thereafter. This year is my 50th anniversary as a working photographer. The M-P240 is for me, the perfect art camera. Each time the results are superb. The shutter reminds me of my late film M cameras. Unlike the M8 & M9 it doesn't sound like your trying to kick over an old motorcycle. A bonus is the EVF finder I bought after I got the M-P. Being able to use many of my legasy lenses like the 50mm Nikkor f1.4 from 1970 widens the scope of the camera. The Leica R 35-70 zoom (extraordinary lens) on the camera gives me a case of perma-grin and it has macro. It's built like a tank and as I have gorilla hands it is just about perfect.
Thanks Hiram and Iâm glad you discovered the amazing 35-70 R!
Interesting combinations. By the way, what is an "art" camera? Isn't a camera just a tool and isn't the "art" coming from the operator? ;o)
How amazingly cool is that, Matt? A model showing up with her own Polaroid camera to take photos of you!
I know, I was amazed as you can imagine! Crazy enough to meet me at night and bring a camera :)
I have a Leica 240 and love it and have had it since it came out. I am a professional photography that has a D5 and Z7II with 2.8 lens and larger lens. For my own work, I usually carry the M240 because it is small, slow and creates beautiful images. Granted my first camera was my dad's range finder that lead to a pentax spot and finally to high in Hasselblad 503 and Nikon camera lens and bodies. The prime lens Leica system is what I love with using a light meter to set f stop and shutter speed, to the slow think about it composure to the final image. Yes, I am considered an artist vs a photographer by fellow photographers, but I love what I create. You must follow what you like and not what someone else does.
Thanks Keith, see last night's video if you want something even more basic! I think being called and artist not a photographer is a huge compliment.
Thank you. Good presentation, though I am not as well versed or on the level of a pro-photographer. I just love to photograph. I did purchase an an ol' M240 late last year; my first M digital and my only one thus far. On my quest for an M digital, it had met with my criteria's I had set. Purchased from a Leica dealer, price point, spare battery, thumbs-up, and a half case. I haven't regretted it at all and just love photographing with it. So, for me, it's a keeper, sitting with all the M series film cameras ready for use in a domesticated setting in and around town. In addition, I have an SL2-S I just adore and it's my main camera that gets the abuse in the Arizona environment I need, and it always amazes me how it performs.
Thanks Chuck! Agree the Ms are excellent for enjoying photography. Arizona, nice! I have a couple flying to London from you next month for a Leica workshop with me.
I liked my M240 a lot! The slow buffer was the only thing that really annoyed me. I like the look of the iso up to 3200, but above that I often got banding problems. I now have the M10 and both of those things are fixed :-)
Thanks Don, I did toy with the idea of an M10 while I was away.. perhaps the topic of another video.
Honestly, the 1st thing you should ask yourself is if you want/like a rangefinder before looking at any M. Now, if the answer is yes, I love rangefinders, then I think the M240 is the most bang for your buck (even though it has some useless features). I use the M240 every day and over the last 3 years have gotten some setup tips to make the most out of it:
1) Turn on "Classic Meter with No Live View" under exposure. This turns off Live View but makes EVERYTHING quicker and you don't get that weird "double-shutter" sound of the shutter opening to do the exposure, then close then open. This also makes battery life INSANELY long.
2) Don't use Live View (see #1, it makes it impossible to use Live View). You have and M...it's a Rangefinder and that's why it's special. Don't like it, get an SL if you want a Leica and love EVF. Why not get an M262 as it's an M240 with no Live View? Cost. M262 is around $3500 and M240 is $2700.
3) Classic metering doesn't seem to clip highlights like the "advanced" mode using the sensor, but I still shoot it -1/3 just to make sure.
4) Buy some version of DxO DeepPrime. DeepPrime Noise reduction is amazing and makes ISO 3200 in color a viable option and cleans up from ISO 800 to super super clean files.
5) If you want that Monochrom look without buying the hyper-expensive M246, buy Cobalt's CMOS or CCD Monochrom profile...you won't get all the extra detail of the Monochrom, but it's the closest thing I've used to it. It makes your M240 lie somewhere between a Foveon Mono and a Leica Mono.
6) Turn off Preview. I know this one is personal, but really, you can review you images later, even if it's after a few shots, but it increases battery life and keeps you in the moment.
7) This is for ALL M camera's but if you wear glasses, invest in the proper diopter. It will change your life.
Hi Patrick, so sorry for the late answer (I will admit I get intimidated by the longer comments emails as they take longer to reply to! Let me have a quick read). I can see you are a true die hard RF guy! Thanks for those excellent tips. I am on the fence as I use LV a lot (say for wider than 28mm, for closer than 0.7m, for fast glass portraits) BUT if I was doing street or travel for a day with a 28mm lens I think those tips are great. I use the 1.4x diopters but you can get prescription diopters too (seem less common). I might get one of those if can find at a fair price. Cheers Patrick! ..and to answer the question as a whole, I shoot film to get an even more pure form of what you describe.
I do think that with a little financial effort the M10 is a better bang for your buck, but it is obviously personal while based on sizer (M10 = M6), high ISO and dynamic range performance, speed of recording images, size of buffer, less noisy shutter.
Matt, thanks for the relook. I watched this yesterday on my TV but no way to comment there. You relook came a bit late for me. I received a mint+ M240 just about 6 days ago. I took it out shooting on Sunday. As a Sony A7RIII user what is really apparent is the slowness with which the M240 writes the file after taking a photo. On the Sunday it appears almost instantaneous whereas it is a production on the M240. I was really pleased with the rangefinder and focusing with it was easy. I was very pleased with my 1970s summicron 50 f2 (Canada) on the M240. I used an older 135mm and there the age of the lens could be seen--a lot less contrast. I think your statement about underexposing on the M240 is good advice. I wish I had seen that before I wait out testing but good to have this info now. Since I am a hobbyist, I don't take the number of photo you take. But thanks for the episode, it was extremely useful.
Hi Erich, thank you and congrats on your new minty M240! Sorry the video was too late for your pre-purchase watching. You'll see more images and with a Summicron 50 in the coming videos. The 135mm might benifit from a hood (If it's the f4 lens it accepts the same push on hood as the Elmar 3.5 5cm LTM. The old 9cm f4 is also great. Yes I imagine it is a breath of fresh air compared to the modern Sony!
Hey Erich, what is getting in the way on write times? The buffer isn't huge on the M, but it's not really a system designed to blast off 20 frames at a time. The preview shows up instantly, and reviewing files has never been a hinderance in my use compared to my other systems (Sony, Samsung, Canon)
Honestly Matt, I like the filmic look of the night time model shoot.
Thanks Steve, I was being harsh, yes I like some of them a lot. You'll see more in the videos to come.
Hi Matt, I was given a 10 year old Olympus camera, which is in Dutch terms way better than buying a 10 year old Leica camera, and I absolutely love the files I get from that CCD sensor. You can have great fun with an older camera!
I hope the "Polaroid girl" will be in front of your camera some more. She has such a bright and uplifting appearance! I don't care about imperfection. Those shots are great.
Thanks! Agree old cameras are fun, any type. If I can meet Polaroid girl in the new year I will try!
I bought my first Leica, the M240 with the VM Ultron 35 F2.ii. Loving the limitations it offers.
Congrats! I use the same setup
I totally get why the SL is a better tool for a working photographer but the photos on the M with the manual glass look so nice, despite the other negatives. Far more pleasing than the usual modern output you see everywhere.
Thanks, yes I did love many of the images. You'll see a lot more in the next 2 videos :)
Manual glass? As for the "modern" output which has probably nothing to do with the "manual glass" it can easily be fixed once for all for those who are serious about what they do.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, great video as usual; i have been shooting M cameras for many years now, have owned several M8s and M9s, and never "upgraded" to the 240/262 - I still prefer the CCD sensor rendering, both for colour (old Kodak vibes) and for B&W conversion. Eventually I only kept the MM (original monochrome with CCD sensor, possibly the best camera i have ever owned), and jumped to the SL for colour work.
I must wonder how much you bang your cameras around, if you need to have the RF calibrated every year đ; the only time I had to calibrate one of my M9s (and you an do it yourself, if you get the little tool), was on an an M9P which i bought at with a huge discount just because the RF was completely out of whack. The seller had no idea what was wrong with it, i fixed it in 5 minutes and enjoyed it for a long time! The one "modern" M that attracts me is the M10 (or11), because of their smaller, slimmer size which makes them feel like my film Ms....
Thanks! I am caerful with my kit but as you see if I shoot 1800+ images in 3 days I use my cameras more than the average guy and so the chance of small vibrations over time, eventually they are out. (Not massively but enough to miss with fast 50s). I did do a video on calibration for my M3. I've not messed with my M240 too much. M10.. yes!
Great video as always. I find when I use my m240 it really seldom goes out of calibration but when it does it is usually only the infinity calibration which is just a simple allen key. Only takes me about 5 to 10 minutes to get it bang on perfect again and I always pack this allen in my camera bag when I travel. :)
Thanks. Mine is very close and for normal use (how the camera was intended to be used itâs fine just not with these fast 50s wide open at 0.7m) ..smart move carrying a tool!
Hmmm try focusing close with a f 1.4 lens at ... 1.4.
@@BrunoChalifour it focuses fine. I routinely check before going out on a shoot.
"Warning: Leica can damage your wallet!" I bought a Leica M (Typ 240) a few years back, and I found it was a gateway drug to the Leica brand. I liked using it so much, I sold it and bought an M10-P. I now have an SL2-S as well, and four lenses each. There is something about the design and purity of Leica cameras that is beguiling. That's a great tip about the catchlights, as I always found my M10 to be difficult to use for portraits because the rangefinder is not optimised for using the camera in a vertical position. Thank you Matt!
Thanks Brian! Haha yes it is a slippery slope for sure :)
It is indeed. I followed a somewhat similar path. Bought the M 240, then got a M 246. Now, because of performance reasons I bought the M10-P and have a collection which was not my intention đ«Ł. Well, I do enjoy each one of them. Not sure whether the M10-P gives better IQ (except for ISO). The look is different than the M 240. But I really like the look of both cameras. Both render film like. Colors may differ, depends on situation and lightning conditions. Coming months will just use both and see what I will do with my âcollectionâ. Btw: thank you for the warning, itâs a bit too late đ
Just bought one today!! đž
Wow, congrats!!
Great video!
Thank you! I recently got the Leica M10 so I will do a M240 vs M10 video as soon as I get time.
Cool video Matt, interesting to see you still enjoying the M240 :) You can't mount that dual range on it though right, or just with a specific focussing range? Love what you done with the bathroom door photos btw hah. Also I have a 50/50 suspicion what the film camera could be, I am sure I will appreciate :)
Hey Thomas, thanks! Yes you'll see the door lighting on Patreon :) You can mount DR on M240 but not full functionally - vid to follow.
I also have an M240 and sometimes entertain upgrading to the M11 for the larger file size and thinner body reminiscent of an M6. But for more than three times the cost, I just can't justify it yet. I still deeply enjoy the M240. It may not have the latest and greatest sensor, but it still delivers beautiful images if pixel peeping is not a factor.
Thanks! Perhaps consider the M10/M10-R for a smaller more modern setup at a lower cost vs the M11
Then get an M10.
@@BrunoChalifour I'd only upgrade for higher MP.
Hi Matt, I ordered your e-book, thanksâŠrelatively new to the Leica family, photography enthusiast, since 1968 (Yashica)HS photographer yearbook (Minolta, Canon)college yearbook (Nikon system)photographer, world travel photographer (wife worked for Delta AirlinesâŠ) evolved from manual photography through the automation stage ( currently Nikon 750-850, 18-300mm) now retired, I finally jumped into the Leica line-up with the Leica Vario-X, Q (wasnât ready for manual focus) now the M240⊠so hard to refocus my skills back to manual focusing⊠I attempted to shoot a parade recently and was dismay with the images..thank god I had my Nikon 750âŠI realized that shooting with a leica means âSLOW-MOâ action⊠I like the leica image quality, which is what I strive forâŠas a travel camera itâs great, but as an action camera,,,Iâll stick with my Nikon automated system⊠so Iâm still acquiring the right techniques and this video is quite helpfulâŠthx
Thanks about the eBook and yes Leica cameras take a bit more practice to get good with them
Has been using type 240 with 35mm 1.4 for 8 years now. Love M so much that I sold all of my EF lenses for voightlander and a couple old ais lenses.
Nice Kurt, yes still a great camera. You see more photos from my M in the next 2 videos.
Great video Matt. I still use my M (240) daily, I have a M10-P and still have my M8.2 but something about the M (240) files that I prefer. I especially like the Black and white filter profiles that are set in the camera that you can tune to your preference. Comparing it to the SL is not a realistic comparison, The Q to the M240 would be more Ideal. The SL is a different System made to be more flexible in Imaging. Better everything really. The point of mirror less is size reduction but the 35mm format (full frame) bodies are still large as are the lenses. Leica Q is small but limited to the built in 28mm lens, the 3 Pros it holds are 1) the leaf shutter, which gives you the ability to sync your strobes to any speed 2) because of its leaf there is no vibration in slower shutter speeds to cause blur. 3) it has auto focus and it is really good, even in low light thanks to the lens being F1.7. that also benefits the look of the EVF in low light. Digital cameras become obsolete in a year, in the case of the Q the whole camera and lens are obsolete. Now the Leica M (240) and those M bodies past and present. They can use any leica M lens ever made plus any Zeiss ZM, Voightlander M mount. You can use adapters to mount your Leica R, Nikon, Canon, manual focus lenses. Yes the camera will depreciate with age but not the glass. you can use the same lenses on the newer M bodies as they role out like the M11. Adapters are what cause the rangefinder to become misaligned, the infamous thread to M mount is one but anything not produced by Leica will cause misalignment over time. This was stated by Gerry Smith one of the last true leica Master technicians in North America. Gerry told me this when he was realigning my rangefinder when it became misaligned on assignment. I have to share that Gerry passed away in 2022. Finally the most important point for me anyway, The Leica M system is small, as you said fits in your pocket. Mount a 50mm 1.8 or f2 on any 35mm Full frame mirror less body then compare its size to a leica M(240) with a 50mm f2 Summicron. there is no comparison the M wins, even with the EVF attached. You go unnoticed. Maybe not the best tool for capturing images of models but its not its purpose. It is one best tools for photographing life as it happens. It lets you capture images in places that with any other larger camera would draw attention and change the dynamics of a scene or situation. News gathering, documentary, you at times need a leica M or similar to get the image that illustrates and tells the story. In the right hands you can capture models too. You do it incredibly well! Cheers
Thanks Gregory!
Yes. Yes you should. Iâve never used the m240 but have the m8 and original M Monochrom.
Iâm currently touring south east Asia on honeymoon and have the m8 and Lumix s5 with me (mostly for video). The weight and size difference when the m is noticeable
Hi Paul, great! The M8 is still great and you probably know I have the S5. (This video is shot with the S5). Enjoy your trip!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thank you Matt
Loved the Leica M240..... Prefer it over the M9 and M10 for various reasons. one being the monstrous battery life and the other being the filmic colors and luminous file quality. The M10 files just looked.... dark and very digital for my tastes. The Sl was the halfway point between the m240 and m10 image quality wise and is the one I settled on.
Agreed, too. I found the M10 disappointing in comparison.
@@crispin8888 yes my feelings exactly. Surprised me that Leica went that direction with the m10
The white Balance at M240 is mostly incorrrct. Therefore youâve to correct more in software of your choise
Thanks! I've not heard this take before re. the M10 so that's interesting to read thanks!
Noted thanks!
After trying the M typ 240 and the M10 head to head a few years ago, I decided on the M10. No regrets.
Thanks! Some say not worth the upgrade, others say M10.. I might have to retest the M10 at some point :)
I can understand why and justify it having used and owning both cameras. ;o)
I have a Leica MP film camera, a Minolta CLE and my only digital camera is the Leica M9 (with replaced sensor). The M9 is old and clunky and slow but the images I get are better than other brands or newer models. Iâm fine with that.
Yes the M9 is still king for images! :)
Hi Matt! Do the framelines in your MP move when you focus? Mine seems to be stuck. Please advise. Thank you!
Hi John, I dont have the MP but all M cameras are the same. Yes the framelines move slightly but it's often hard to see as it's very slight. Try using a 90mm lens to see it easier.
Hi Matt love your videos, and I got a discount on a Voigtlander lens ....on this M 240 leica, is it possible to set : iso, shutter speed and aperture in ' Auto '...and then just Focus Manually ?? ..hope to hear soon before buying one...cheers
Hi John, glad you got discount on your lens. Yes set M240 to A mode then just focus
Beautiful portraits with those lovely woman!
Thanks! I try to include in most videos
The M240 is good value for money. It is a safe buy. You know I prefer the M9 but I just did a few quick shots with the M240 to see if I could see what you see. I did. Good, not perfect, but good.
Thanks Zoltan! I think that sums up the M240 nicely!
Thank Matt for the nice video . I have a question about a Leica that you don't mention on your amazing channel The Leica S /S007/S3. could you please make a video about it?
Thanks! I've got some sample images from some of those cameras on my Flickr. If I ever get one again to test then yes i'll make a video no problem.
the ones you say crappy I love the most. I guess I like imperfections đ
Haha, i'm normally like this with lenses. I love the imperfections for vintage lenses.
Thanks Matt just the review I was looking for .I use an SL2S , Cl and film M`s.Was thinking about a digi M simply because it would be lighter than the SL2s body but I don`t think the 240 is the one .I often need to shoot 70-200 so the SL2s is obviously more versatile . So no advantage for me going the Digital M route
Thanks Michael, yes if you use the 70-200 and need speed too SLs are better. You can use 70-200 R on M via EVF but slower.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Well that digital M itch just kept on itching so now I`m a couple of months in with a 246.Bit clunky and its only seeing occasional use but is strangely satisfying never the less.
Love my old 240 - it was my first leica and is all brassed up. Pluses? Video, which can be nice in a pinch, although the phone is probably better tbh. I also feel like I like the colors better than the M10 or SL - there's just a warmth and feel that isn't "perfect".
Thanks Michael! I agree the M240 imperfect look can be nice. I've never heard anyone say they like the M240 colours over the M10 so noted thanks!
Matt, Saw in one of your videos a Summicron 50/2 DR mounted on an M240. Is that correct as mine does not fit and others have told me the M240 won't accept that lens? Many thanks in advance.
Hi, yes as you see in the video they can be used on M240 but not 100% functionality. It says in the video how to mount and the limitations.
Hi Matt I've had the M240 for a while now and have no problem with the fact that it's been on the market for a while.đ The Sony A7II has also been on the market since 2015 (I still use it) and does its job very well as I mainly only use vintage lenses anyway. The 240 is completely sufficient for decelerated photography. What I don't need is the film function. They could have left it out. I don't need it at all. It's not the fastest, but that doesn't bother me. It was important to me that I can continue to use my other lenses with an adapter from M42 to M and that the EVF 2 is very simple and easy. What's wonderful is the battery performance is really GENIUS. an absolute plus point in my opinion.đđ
Lg Anderl
Thanks! Yes still a great camera in 2024 and it's held it's value really well.
I still love the photo quality of my M240 †although I have a Hasselblad X1Dii that takes great colour photos
Thanks, yes I can still take nice photos with the M240 though I prefer to use my SL now most of the time for portraits.
Curious how often these need to be CLA'd. I know the film bodies need it done somewhat regularly but I haven't been able to find much online about the digital M bodies. Do the rangefinders on them fall out of alignment often? Do you get yours CLA'd regularly? It seems expensive to get done.
Hi Damien, yes if you see some of my other M240 videos I complain about this. Treat them the same as a film body, use it a lot and it will need correcting eventually.
I have an M240. So far the rangefinder has been fine.
It takes nice filmic pictures and is both fun and simple to use.
I had an SL for about a month and didnât like much about it. Managed to return it and get a refund. I donât take fashion or glamour portraits I should add.
I had a CL for about a year, again it was ok, took nice images but felt more like a Panasonic than a Leica. One of my (*sort of) favourite Leicas is the Q. Fun and easy to use, stunning images. *But I ended up hating being stuck with 28mm, so I sold it.
A 35 or 50mm Q3 would be an instant buy if I could afford it.
Anyway, the M240 (and more expensive M10) give you the classic Leica experience.
Thanks Chris! Can you make the same images with your M240 vs M10 at ISO 200-400? Many say the difference is minimal.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I've never used an M10, it's too expensive. I had an M8 (and an M6 in the film days). I like the M240, more than I thought. I need a more up to date camera with auto-focus though. I shot a live band with my CL and the shadows were noisy, albeit the noise looked like nice film grain.
@@ChrisWhittenMusic Thanks for confirming!
Hey Matt, would you get a M240 or a Q when you should make a choice right now? I only own a 15mm and a 25mm Voigtlander I use on my Leica Standard, zone focusing.
M if you stop down, Q if you need to shoot at f1.7
Brilliant video again Matt. I am currently considering M240 and M262 so this was helpful. Please do one on an M262 if you can! đ
Thanks! If I ever get to play with a M262 I will.
M262 = M240, only with fewer options (frame lever, and useless USB port).
I used to have the M262 (basically a M240 without live view and no EVF). I think what I liked the most was the vibrant colors of the files and the battery life. As of now for someone who wants to starts with a M camera, I would pass on that generation. Either start with an M9 or go straight to a M10 (M10P if you have a bigger budget for quiet shutter, touch screen and perspective control). I tried the SL2 but with SL Lens it is way to big and heavy to my taste. As for range finder calibration I never had any issue. In countries that has Leica Service, they may be able to calibrate the camera for you⊠something to check.
Hi Olivier, thanks! Yes the M10P does look like the best M for my taste (I don't need more MP) I think the calibration is fine for "normal hobbiest use". When used heavily it's just a matter of time (I'm not sure if the M10 is better than the M240 for this).
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Yeah, I don't travel with my M240 really. The worst was the Epson RD1s. I babied that thing but the rangefinder went out of calibration constantly. You couldn't send it to Leica to calibrate either. I used small, light Sigma L lenses with my SL, but I found the camera itself quite big and heavy. Turned out not to be my cup of tea.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Hey Matt you know that in terms of size, dynamic range and high ISO, the M10 is better even for a "normal hobbit" ;o) It is all a matter of budget not so much capacities (where the difference are quite obvious).
Matt can you do a comparison of the M240 vs. the type 246 monochrome. I want to take more B&W like you do but with
a rangefinder body that takes all the Voigtlander M lenses I have. I would really like to know if the 40mp m246 high iso and
better monochrome are worth the bucks.
Thanks, based on my Q vs Q2M test I will prefer the M240. I prefer the post processing options of converting colour RAW to B&W. I found the Q2M very limited (you need to use colour filters on location for mono sensors).
Just like black and white film. Do you ever use Silver efex software?
@@zenjitsuman no I know itâs popular but Iâve never needed to
I somehow prefer the M9 over the M240 for outdoor shooting under ISO 800. The color of the jpeg images seems to be more pleasant with its sensor.
Thanks Wilfred, I think almost everyone would agree with you!
A very enjoyable video
Thanks Ulf!
Hi Matt. What are your thoughts about the M8 vs the M240. I am contemplating upgrading from the M8. Thanks again for the outstanding channel.
Very different animals! Contact via MrLeica.com, no quick answer, weâll yes, m240 faster, low light, more digital, FF, vs crop sensor, more filmic, bad colours without filter, bad low light, slow.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thank you Matt.
Great video as always, but I bought a 240 a week and a half ago, so, sorry for being impatient I guess? All jokes aside, you're playing with that rumoured new Leica film camera, aren't you? If you are, I know you can't answer, so I am going to pretend you are anyway.
As for the recommendation, I am used to buying older cameras and bought my 240 when there was one in my price range. Working within an older cams limitations isn't really difficult when one is used to working with limitations in an M2 or X-Pro1 like I am. I greatly appreciate that you still take the time to talk about older models in comparison to more modern, as not everyone is either looking for, or can afford, the latest and greatest releases.
Thanks David and congrats on your M240! You will hopefully see some nice photos to come from my M in the next 2 videos. I tried to hold a lot back to avoid duplication. (You can see the not-mentioned camera on Patreon if interested)(Now you're a Leicaman you have a good excuse to join us!) :)
Hi Mat, I was just about the buy an Leica M8, my first ever Leica, but would you reconmend I buy a Leica M 240 instead of the M8? Thanks for your opinion, Mat
I would, the M8 is great for fun but in 2023/2024 I think the M240 will suit most people better (and the main thing, itâs FF) (The M8 gives a more filmic look and is a similar speed of shooting FYI)
I use Leica for almost 10 years now, having owned multiple cameras, but never had to calibrate my Leica ever, so not sure how yours go out of calibration. Do you bump them around when traveling or something? Just never an issue for me or my friends who also shoot it, so just wondering ; )
Thanks Daniel! It's not all my bodies, mostly the M240. I got a dodgy one! :)
Regarding M240 vs M10. I paid ÂŁ1800 for my M240 a couple of years ago, from an independent dealer that guaranteed the camera and accepted returns. Looking at Ebay, there is the odd M10 at ÂŁ4500, but many are priced between ÂŁ5000 and ÂŁ6000. That is massive price difference, not even close IMO. Maybe I'm missing something?
Wow that is very cheap for the M240. MPB list them for ÂŁ2400 ish cheapest. M10 from ÂŁ3500ish
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom It is heavily handled, brassed, which I like the look of. So far in a year of use I haven't found it to be worn out as a camera. BTW, I got my SL from MPB, wasn't happy with the condition (it arrived with a dirty sensor) so returned it.
Hi Matt is a Leica CL (analog) worth buying? I can get one for 550 euro with the 40mm summicron
Hi, I still have mine, see that video. Great size, not good for accurate focusing fast lenses. Contact me via MrLeica.com if you need all the pros cons etc
Thereâs the lovely black paint that rubs off to reveal the brass⊠obviously this is critical for image quality
Ha thanks Marcus! Yes it helps images as It makes you want to take the camera out as it looks cool! Good note on black paint version, thanks!
The M10 also seems to have narrow dynamic range. Any light source in the shot causes real problems. I'm keeping my camera, but it's something I need to keep in mind.
HI the M10 is much better than the M240 (and earlier models) for DR but you can still clip the highlights. Also very true for the B&W M cameras.
just sold my m9, wanna get m10 but still need to saving more. thinking of getting m240 before M10
Hi Michael, yes I sold my M9 too. You will find the M240 a huge leap forward in camera features but the files need more work to look good (I use presets to âfixâ my files). M10 is slightly faster/ more advanced still vs M240 but the improvements are more more slight vs M8/M9. (*Note M8/M9 files are still the best but the cameras are slow and not great at everything).
what does "calibration" focus mean ? ... thanks
Rangefinder cameras need calibration so what you see in the viewfinder is equal to the picture the lens takes (for focus)
Hi Matt - another very interesting comparison chat.
Please can I pick your brains ......... Is it possible (an adaptor) to allow using Leica M lenses on a screw Leica IIIf? I have an M2 with lenses from 28mm, 35, 50, 90 and a 135 + specs. I'd love to get a IIIf, but being on a limited state pension there's no way I could afford to buy more lenses. Thanks for any info you can let me have. Best wishes.
Hi Ray, no sorry. You can mount iii lenses to M but not the other way around. Some iii lenses are cheaper, Soviet lenses, Canon RF lenses, see some of my lenses videos (including the recent top 50mm lenses).
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Many thanks Matt - much obliged. Keep clickin'.
Hi, Matt! I have a question about the monitor of the m240. Is it something that an owner can live with using it as live view, etc? I had the Leica X2 and I have to be honest, that monitor was very misleading and didn't really help much in deciding if I got a good shot or not. Basically had to hope for the best and then wait until I got home to unload the photos onto a computer. Wondering if this is the same way with the m240. Thanks, in advance!
Sounds like the M8/M9 LCD :) (Wait til you get home).. no the M240 is better I think. (The SL even more so).
Hi, Matt! Going to purchase an m240 this week! I wanted to ask your opinion on what a fair USD price might be for an m240? Also, do you have a suggestion for a non-Leica 50mm lens that would pair well on the m240? Thank you, in advance mate! Hope youâre well!
Love my M11
Nice! I will have to get one for a video at some point!
Noise is "filmatic", banding is not. In my opinion. You videos are very inspiring.
Thanks Don! Yes banding is a problem at high ISO sadly.
What is the price of recalibrating M rangefinders and lenses?
ÂŁ150 very approx (not via Leica)
I love my M-P 240 and M 240. Great tool for a press photographer. Three M lenses only: 24, 50 and 90 mm. No flash, just a LED floodlight. Body size matters for many, but the 240 fit into my hands. I've tried the SL, but it's not for me. Keep on rolling, Mr. Leica!
Cheers Paul, sounds like you have the setup you need!
From press photographer to press photographer, you would like the M10 / M10-P even better ! ;o)
I bought am M-P on eBay after seeing this in order to use my M42 lenses on a full frame with the evf. Got the Leica EV from Leica Manchester (ÂŁ170), didnât work. They then sent an Olympus one to try, doesnât work. So looks like the EV port is buggeredâŠ..back to the drawing boardâŠâŠđą any advice anyone on cost and or repair possibilities etc?
Hi Ken, sorry to hear this. I've not heard this mentioned before from anyone. I think you'd need to contact Leica as it is electronics vs mechanical. You can focus via LiveView in the meantime but not the same I realise.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks Matt have contacted Leica, just wondered if anyone had this issue. It is a bit odd can only be the port and all other functionality is fine. Will probably have to return it to the seller, but will try to find a solution first.
Hmmm. If you want to save every penny you can save to get into a Leica M, then yes (if you keep it in minty condition eventually you can use it to upgrade since itâll keep its value well). But if you can spare an extra $1,000 I would recommend to start with the M10. Just the sensor and ISO performance will not blow your mind in 2022 on the M240. But hey, everyone can take a good photo with it if you know what youâre doing.
Oh and if youâre a JPEG color shooter. Yikes. Maybe youâll have to set a custom white balance every time the lighting changes because the auto white balance is crazy. You walk into any room that has artificial light and the photos will come out green. đ
If all you do is B&W then maybe the Monochrome M Typ246 is the way to go.
Thanks Carlos! Yes it seems many here have the same view, pay a little more and get the M10.
I have zero interest to "upgrade" my M-E 220. FF CCD. Was thinking SL/CL, but Canon does the same for less, due to no appeal of the gear.
Thanks! If you like the feel of Leica cameras I highly recommend the SL (or CL if you need small)
Bought a Leica S2 with Summarit-S 70 F2.5.
Congrats!!!
Great discussion. The only issue I have is the size of M240. Itâs also somewhere between M9 and M10: both are better in what they do than M240.
Thanks, yes agree M9 is better for images if keep ISO low and don't need LV. M10 gives everythingbut costs a bit more.
The M9 is very identical in shape to the M240. The M10 and later models are quite different (and better from my point of view) as Leica went back to the pleasant size of the M film cameras (excluding the problematic M5 of course).
Screw the SL. I'm buying one of those Polaroids!!!! đ€Łđ€Łđ€Ł Seriously though, great video.
Ha thanks Peter!
It takes less than 5 minutes and an allen wrench to calibrate the rangefinder yourself. And its even easier when you have liveviewâŠ
Pros of the M240 - customization. Custom skins are super cheap on the m240 being an older device. I got a beautiful snake skin for 150 bucks. Better battery that goes on foreverrrr. Brass. Brass brass brass. The next cheaper camera that will brass as beautifully as the m240 is the m10 black paint which is extremely expensive. Even the m10 black isnt brass.
Thanks, yes I did this for my M3 but I try to "mess" with my digital M less. I really should man up and just put some time in to getting it right. It's very close already but not Noctilux perfect.. and that's what I need with some of my lenses/ wide open portraits. Thanks for extra pros for M240!
Makes us wonder how we managed with film.
Haha, lower expectations I think :) Film photos to follow from the M3
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom No, not lower I think, just slower and more creative? More is not necessarily better, see Victor Blackmans photo at the British GP of a car overturning, using a glass negative camera. I look to the works of Bill Brandt, Lee Miller, Don McCullin, and my hero Tim Page, etc. One needn't suffer for art, but, in some situations, maybe it's necessary.
model with her own polaroid? Marry her!!!
I know right! Good times! :)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom It's a good story, and a cool experience. She obviously loves photography, she really is a looker too! If you don't connect with her again, on any level, then you will lose out. Don't let her slip away!
If I could get an M240 for a good price I'd get one. But they're too close to the M10, and it's worth spending the little bit extra for the M10. IMHO.
Thanks Karim, I just replied to another comment, yes I might need to revisit the M10 option.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom maybe I'm missing something, but I'm seeing M240's around $2700, M262's around $3400 and M10's around $4600. That's a big jump to the M10 for me...and the dang 262 seems crazy high.
no but my son and I both have perfectly functioning M8 cameras. I also have M10 + M10R
M8 is great! I used to use one for a long time.
Sensor dust?
Ha sorry! I normally shoot at or close to wide open so I don't really worry about it.
Hey Matt! đ Thanks for calling my tip a pro tip. đ Just watch your steps and don't step on the iPhone. ;-)
Hey Tobi, no problem! I thought the phone idea was very smart! :)
Looks at what cameras were used 40 years ago that have made the most beautiful photos. You donât need the latest and greatest.
Yes absolutely! Iâm still have with my older Leica bodies
the answer is no,
buy the M9 instead the M240. The M240 is a nice camera, the M9 is amazing. My M9P works since 2011.
but yes, to buy an old Leica is a good option to drop in the Leica world.
Thanks! Yes the M240 was a disappointment when I part ex-d my corroded M9. Took me a year to like the camera as I wrote about on the blog.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Iâm very lucky to got a free last minute sensor change. The 240 is good camera, but the image quality is very digital, no bad but not my favorite look.
Try another brand, where used cameras have a decent price point.
Thanks Francois, any suggestions for other readers? I know most camera brands drop in price a lot and just keep getting cheaper. I picked up a few old Lumix bodies for vlogging.
and where can you get another FF digital rangefinder if that's what you prefer? But yeah, for $50 you can get a Canon EOS Rebel XTI and take pictures just as well as a Leica. :P
@@patrickjclarke for $50 you can get a leica lens cap (a plastic one)... but, hey: the red dot mojo is the red dot mojo! In Wetzlar they made their bones with mojo selling portuguese Leica R with 1/1000 sec capable shutters and 1/100 flash sync all along the eighties like if they were Bundesbank gold bullions... nobody can beat them in that field.
M240 or M246 are wonderful cameras. 10 year old camera shouldn't be avoided unless the brand can provide electronic or technical parts which is certainly not sure.
Yes! Iâm still enjoying mine
I am siding with Ken Rockwell. Skip the M240. Not worth it.
The M10 is going for ~$4,000 now with more and more dropping on the used market as M10 owners are picking up the M11. I bought a M10 for just around $4,000 about half a year ago (was a great deal, from a local camera store with a 90 days warranty). I think the M10 will remain an evergreen over time, the first digital "forever" Leica M. The image quality is phenomenal, the electronic viewfinder is a good experience too for precisely focusing adapted, non-M lenses (I use a Minolta MD tilt shift lens for architecture work), 24MP is the sweet spot for a non-IBIS, manual focus camera. It's darn difficult without auto-focus and IBIS to produce sharp images on 36MP or 60MP hand-held with the M11 - turning the M11 essentially into a tripod camera if you want to utilize that high resolution.
I do think the flood of M10 cameras dropping on the market will dry up fast once M11 adopters realize what a great camera the M10 still is in comparison. I'd advise to make good use of the M10 supply on the used market while that window of opportunity lasts.
Thanks TW, an excellent observation and interesting point made regarding the M11. I did mention in a few other comments about considering the M10.
Hmmm, why try to bring the M240 back... except for financial reasons which I totally understand. I have defined a simple principle for myself: what makes the most can achieve the least, whereas the opposite proposition is impossible. In other words, the "imperfect" look of "film" as it seems to be the reference in terms of imperfect (crappy) results - I have had my share of these in my film days-can always been obtained with a good starting file created by the latest camera model. [Just to give an example: I can imitate the look of a Holga shot with a negative I took with my Hasselblad, with very little work in the darkroom; the opposite is definitely impossible, I cannot make a Holga shot look like a Hasselblad one]. The M240 came out 3 years before the SL. In 2022 why not compare the SL with an M10 that was released in 2017? Now other issues with the M240: weight, thickness/bulkiness especially when coming from M film cameras (whereas the M10 goes back to the film M proportions), frustrating slowness in recording images. For me the M10 is definitely a step up on many levels; the only thing I had to give up is the possibility when I need it and think of it to record videos which the M10, M10P, etc.. do not do. The plus is, perhaps just out of camera JPGs, a look that is softer (color saturation, general look) than more recent SL or M models but, again, that can easily be fixed in the way the M10 et al. files are processed (preset, default processing settings). The latest technologies always offer more solutions and opportunities than the older ones for who understands and uses them for what they can do. I do not regret the look of Henry Fox Talbot's prints from his paper negatives. If I ever feel inclined to do so, I can easily imitate them whereas there is no way he can match, with his process, what I can also do with the latest M camera... just thinking aloud here. ;o)
Thanks Bruno, i'm just comparing the cameras I own and use. I still can't quite see the upgrade benefits of the M10 vs M240 so sitting with the M240 for now for my occasional street photos. My SL is the workhorse that does most of the photos. I do like the slimmer size of M10, faser operation etc. I think many people are so bored of "perfect" from the latest iPhones or cameras that they turn to film for something more exciting (hence the film boom - from talking to new young photographers.. many dont care about the camera, they just want that look). I enjoy experimenting with digital and film!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Yes I understand Matt. I remember the year when the first M10 was released the Leica rep at the Arles festival let me borrow it for 24 hrs. I immediately noticed the plusses: better high ISO performance (one thing I could not understand about the M240 was its bad performance in this area, esopecially compared to other brands. My cheaper Nikon or Fuji did far better), faster operation (another source of frustration with the M240); more discreet (shutter) and thinner bringing me back to one of my favorite and most used film cameras, the M6. My budget then did not allow that upgrade, I finally got a used one (M10-P) in extremely good condition last year.
the saturation of th m240 is too high. Also, just calibrate the lenses yourself
Thanks, the M240 colours are similar to other CMOS colours. This is much less than CCD sensors like the M9.
I love Leica but I absolutely hate all of the M series as the focusing system is totally shit, particularly in low light and without definite lines to focus on. I appreciate some of the world's greatest photographers have taken exceptional shots with M cameras and my hat is off to them but there are such better systems available these days why on god's earth would any one put themselves through the pain of trying to focus a tiny little rectangle in the middle of the viewfinder in low light ? The SL system gives you everything you need to create wonderful images much more easily, though it could do with a tiltable screen.....(watch this space for that !)
Because there are people out there that actually focus faster with a rangefinder than anything else. Focusing in low-light is one of the things a rangefinder does better than most, FWIW. I prefer the clear view of a rangefinder and the ability to see more than the lens sees. SLR and EVF's are distracting too me and how I like to make photos. But I see their use and why some people would like all that stuff, but when I see a Sony with a million green squares blinking all over the place and focus peaking yada yada, I cringe. But I don't discount its use and user...the same should be said for a rangefinder. :)
@@patrickjclarke Sure, I can understand that but, probably because I'm an old fart, I couldn't get on with the rangefinders and found focusing really tough, especially in complex interior low light situations. As I said, I take my hat off to those who can use them as I can see the benefits of optical viewfinders. Have fun...
Thanks Mike, haha you talk sense but all the M fans here will probably disagree :) I do like Ms for walkabout work but for pro use the SL series are king.
Thanks Patrick! Agree the M system is far better to anticipate shots say for street and for me weddings. Agree they are better in low light than most cameras (moreso a few years ago). I love my SL and I have a single point focus/ minimal display but yes when I tried the Canon R6 it was like being in a flight simulator! Green squares everywhere!
Thanks Mike!
Leicas are only the M, the others are modern hybrids
Yes I think many agree with you as to what is a ârealâ Leica
That, and the fact itâs a Britannia Hotel, every hotel they own is a dump. They should be made to tell prospective clients that they are housing refugees, i for one would want to know as Iâm sure everyone else would, no chance Iâd stay
Thanks Brian, yes the one Britannia hotel Iâve been to wasnât great!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I used to go to a conference in Blackpool every year in the old Hilton Hotel, they then sold it to Britannia and we went to the conference about a month after they took over, the difference was immediate, few staff, rubbish food, rude staff, dirty rooms etc etc. They have a large one in the centre of Manchester, a smaller one too, right in the heart of the city in the Piccadilly area and thereâs a few recent videos on them, mattresses propped up against walls on halls and landings etc, brings shame to the city.
@@bcegerton sorry to hear.
Leica is worthless in digital, at least not its price. I was fooled with a brand new Leica M-E and a dead sensor after two years (CCDgate). When you see with what disdain and contempt Leica treated its (indebted) customers at the time, I said: stop. Digital Leica is over. Everyone has their own job: for digital, Japanese SLR and Leica for film.
But if you want a FF rangefinder in digital, where ya gonna go? That being said, my M240 is working like a champ after 10 years and I haven't lost a dime if I needed to sell it.
@@patrickjclarke A Fujifilm X-pro3 will do as well if not better with a smaller sensor: tropicalized body, lighter, more manageable, faster, more versatile and its optics are as good as the Leica, all for a third of the price, not to mention better reliability .
@@Hector_Malot but it's not a rangefinder
Sorry to hear this Hector, I do hear a few horror stories with Leica service. Film is still king for sure but digital Leica are nice too if they work OK. I never look anyway else and I don't use new models, 2012 M, 2015 SL etc
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I remain a Leica lover, I have a film MP that I adore. Perhaps I wanted to try the digital adventure at Leica too soon. But honestly I don't see the point of the rangefinder on a digital camera. Anyway for the color I have my Canon 5D which is perfect and I reserve the black and white with the Leica for printing on paper (I don't do post-production I don't know anything about it). Matt, keep up your great videos that made me want to do film and photography in general.