Which Leica M Camera Is Right for You in 2025? My No-Nonsense Guide
I’ve been a professional editorial and commercial photographer for almost 20 years, and my image shot with my precious Leica M10D was use in Leica’s global witness campaign along with being displayed all in numerous countries for their 100 year anniversary.
Rhino caretaker resting with one of the last two northern white rhinos in Central Kenya. 2025 Copyright Justin Mott
Today I’m breaking down the confusing but beautiful world of Leica M cameras in 2025. If you’re considering an M, you’re probably fed up with flimsy cameras and tired of uninspiring buttons, you want something built with heft and flawless design and you’re willing to pay for that. You're ready to invest in legendary glass and commit to the rangefinder experience so before I say anything else, welcome to the wonderful world of Leica.
But with Leica, the options are many, the prices are scattered, and the specs? Let’s just say they aren’t always easy to compare.
This post is here to help. I’ll walk you through the current digital M lineup, what I personally use, and who I think each model is best suited for—from amateurs to full-time pros.
My Current Leica Setup in 2025
I currently use the Leica M11 as my main editorial camera. It’s coming with me to Cambodia next week for an assignment with Smithsonian Magazine. My backup is the M10-D, which I’ve used since its release. It’s my favorite for personal projects, pure documentary work, and the kind of shooting that forces you to stay in the moment. No screens. No distractions. I’ve use this camera for my multi-year ongoing project Kindred Guardians so if you want to see images taken with that camera visit here.
M240 – AFFORDABLE ENTRY
Announced: 2012
Used Price (2025): $2,600–$3,000
Sensor: 24MP CMOS
ISO: 100–6,400
Video: 1080p HD
Body: Thicker (42mm), ~680g
Still delivers great Leica color science and build. A solid entry into the M system with video support and traditional styling. Lacks Wi-Fi and is bulkier, but for the price, it’s a deal.
Leica M10 – Best Entry Point for Leica Shooters
Used Price (2025): $4,500–$5,500
Sensor: 24MP full-frame
Released: January 2017
If you want to break into Leica M without selling a kidney, this is the way in. Don’t let the 24MP sensor dsicourage you—I've had magazine covers and gallery prints made with this camera. Pair it with a Voigtländer lens and you’ve got a classic “Leica affordable” street rig. Perfect for amateurs, street photographers, or pros who don’t need or even want crazy resolution.
Leica M10-R – High Resolution, Still Affordable
Used Price (2025): $5,800–$6,500
Sensor: 40.9MP full-frame
Released: July 2020
The M10-R is a great choice for photographers who know they’ll be printing large or need extreme detail. It’s also a strong backup for an M11 or SL3 shooter who wants consistent image quality across systems. If megapixels matter to you, but you don’t need the latest features, this is a sneaky smart buy.
Leica M10-D – A Digital Camera with an Analog Soul
Used Price (2025): $6,000–$7,200
Sensor: 24MP
Released: October 2018
This one isn’t for everyone—and that’s the point. No screen. No reviewing images in the field. If you’re not confident in your exposures or not disciplined, this might frustrate you. But if you're like me—shooting pure documentary work, street scenes, or personal projects—it’s a beautiful experience. A digital rangefinder that makes you slow down and connect.
Leica M11 – Modern M Power
Used Price (2025): $6,800–$7,500
Sensor: 60MP full-frame
Released: January 2022
Triple resolution files (60/36/18MP), 64GB internal storage, and improved dynamic range. The M11 covers almost every base. You lose the content credentials of the M11-P, but if you don’t need that, this is arguably the best value high-res M in 2025. My current main camera.
Leica M11-P – The Flagship Rangefinder
Price (New): ~$9,195
Released: October 2023
Sensor: Same as M11, with 256GB internal storage
Feature Highlight: Leica Content Credentials (C2PA metadata support)
You want the best Leica offers in the M rangefinder system? This is it. It’s the M11 plus content credentials for verifiable image authenticity, scratch-resistant sapphire glass, and beautiful blacked-out design. Perfect for photojournalists, Leica purists, or those who want future-proofing and a touch of luxury. Bonus: the Safari green edition looks gorgeous.
What About the Monochrom Models?
Monochroms are niche. If you shoot only black and white and money isn’t an issue—go for it. They’re stunning. But for most of us, it’s hard to justify a $9,000+ camera that can’t shoot color.
If you love B&W but are honest with yourself, grab a Ricoh GR IIIx or the upcoming GR IV, set it to monochrome, and make it your pocketable backup. Save the big bucks for glass or travel.
M11 on a recent shoot for an NDA client in Malaysia.
Final Thoughts
Right now, I use an M11 for editorial work and the M10-D for personal projects and street. That combo covers almost everything I need. To be completely honest you won’t be unhappy with any one the cameras I mentioned above or any combo of cameras if you’re budget allows.
What’s your M setup? Or which one are you considering adding to your kit? Drop your thoughts in the comments below—or better yet, head to the channel and let’s chat there.
Watch my full YouTube Leica M Breakdown below.
