Review Leica M11-P: An improved version of the “classic” M11?

The Leica M11-P was launched in November 2023 and is the third version of the famous Leica M11 rangefinder hybrid camera.

After the “classic” M11 and the M11 Monochrom (which shoots only in black and white), Leica unveiled the M11-P. More recently, in September 2024, the brand also announced the M11-D, a screenless model for a more streamlined photographic experience.

In this article, discover our review of the M11-P: its technical features, highlights and all the differences with its predecessor, the M11.

New standard: Content Authenticity Initiative

The main innovation of the Leica M11-P compared to the M11 is not visible on the body and does not concern its technical specifications. It is the integration of the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) standard.

Created in 2019 by Adobe, The New York Times, and Twitter, the CAI initiative aims to ensure the traceability of images and fight against falsification and the spread of misinformation.

With each photo captured, the M11-P records tamper-proof metadata through Leica Content Credentials, ensuring the authenticity of the images in accordance with the CAI standard.

Even after editing, cropping, or exporting, these images retain a trace of the original file. You can verify their authenticity at any time, view the original photo as well as the modifications made and the software used, by visiting contentcredentials.org/verify or through the Leica FOTOS app.

Each image taken with the Leica M11-P thus receives a digital signature certified by the CAI standard.

Leica M11-P vs M11 Comparison: What are the real differences?

What are the differences in technical specifications?

The Leica M11-P retains the main features of the M11, including its 60 MP full-frame sensor and Triple Resolution Technology, which allows for capturing images in 60, 36, or 18 MP.

One of the major upgrades of the M11-P, as mentioned earlier, is that it is the first camera to integrate the new Leica Content Credentials feature, which ensures image traceability and prevents any tampering.

Another improvement in the M11-P is its internal memory, which has been upgraded to 256 GB, compared to only 64 GB on the M11.

Like its predecessor, the M11-P is still without autofocus and does not support video recording, unlike the cameras in the Q series.

What are the differences in design?

In terms of design, the M11-P retains Leica’s classic aesthetic, but with an even more streamlined look: the iconic red logo has been removed for a more discreet appearance. Apart from the removal of the logo, the M11-P is visually identical to the M11.

Unlike the M10-P, which featured a redesigned shutter for smoother operation compared to the M10, the M11-P has no changes to its shutter mechanism compared to the M11.

Finally, just like the M11, the M11-P is available in both black and silver. The black version features an aluminum coating, while the silver version is made of brass.

Ergonomics and handling of the Leica M11-P

The Leica M11-P is a compact camera, but this comes at the cost of handling. It does not have a grip, and its front face is completely smooth.

However, its minimalist design allows it to easily slip into a pocket or bag without taking up much space. Additionally, the compatible M lenses for the M11-P are also compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry and allowing you to bring several without difficulty.

In terms of durability, the M11-P feels solid and seems designed to be taken everywhere. However, be aware that it is not protected against water or dust infiltration, so caution is required when using it outdoors.

On the other hand, when the camera is turned off, the shutter automatically closes to protect the sensor.

Technical specifications of the Leica M11-P

Price and availability of the Leica M11-P

The Leica M11-P is now available for €8950, which is €600 more than the M11. This price difference is due to the improvements made, including the increase in internal storage and the integration of Leica Content Credentials.

The M11-P is available in two finishes: black with an aluminum coating and silver with a brass coating, offering a choice between lightness and durability.

You can order it now online from Leica Boutique Zaventem or come and discover it in shop for a more immersive and personalized experience, where you can interact with experts and test the camera before making your purchase.