🔴 Leica Summilux 50mm Alternative? | Voigtlander 50mm 1.2 Review (Nokton 50 f1.2 VM)

[@williaminbody205]

I own this lens, use it on my Leica SL with adapter. It’s the finest 50mm in the world today.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks William, that will give you a much nicer sized setup for the SL too.

[@chloescanlon1107]

Which adapter do you use? And can you get focus peaking and magnification with it? Thank you.

[@michaelneumann1865]

Total joy watching your review and your reaction ! SO glad you like these 1.2 Voigtlanders!!! Great job!!!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you Michael! :)

[@davidpuglia4813]

I’ve owned the Voigtlander 50mm 1.2 for almost 2 years. I use it on my M Leicas and with an M to L mount 7artisans adapter on my LUMIX S1R. The 7artisans adapter also allows closer focusing as it has extension capability. Happy to see your comparison to the Summilux as I was considering that lens at one point.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks David, I have that adapter for my CL but sadly the focus aid doesn't work with it so i've never used it. See Summilux vid for more on that lens. Great lens.

[@asteele911]

I sold my Summilux 50 (bit too big and fancy) and bought the new Voigtlander 50 1.5 v2 in nickel, its fantastic, well I think so, I would love to hear your opinion, you should try to get your hands on on.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks you are the second person to mention this lens in only the last few comments. If this video gets enough love maybe I can try to get the 1.5 to test. Thanks for suggestion.

[@iambeautiful8190]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom You should :D it was my alternative for buying :D would pair nicely with my cv 35mm 1.4 SC ii and 50mm 1.5 SC ii :D At least I think so :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@iambeautiful8190 nice setup !

[@iambeautiful8190]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Ow just seen how I wrote it :D I've meant 50mm 1.5 SC ii would pair nicely with my 35mm 1.4 SC ii :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@iambeautiful8190 ah understood 👌🏻

[@manuelcamacho1898]

Hi, Matt! I have been waiting for you to review this lens. Great work again. And I do not remember seeing you so happy and smiling so much about a lens...

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks ha, well I can’t blame coffee for smiles for this one! (I had had coffee before the Nikon F5 video though ha) Good lens and I’m glad it came across without me needing to speak haha.. I guess that’s pretty cool!

[@paulsehstedt6275]

I had the Voigtländer, but sold it and bought the Summilux. It's for me the right choice. Next Voigtländer to go is my 75/1.8. But it's all about taste and needs.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Paul, yes I will keep the Lux. If you want decent sharp image at 1.4 the Lux wins for sure.

[@zenjitsuman]

On the CL that is a 75mm FOV and even compensating for the crop effects on DOF its f1.2 is still some potent combo for portrait work and indoors in low light and night time street shooting. It is a rare combination of assets for picture taking.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks yes great point! I enjoy the 35mm 1.2 on the CL too for the similar reason. (see today's video)

[@albertobuzzola4204]

Not only good reviews but also a great shooter. Thank you.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Alberto!

[@Feuergeist76]

Thanks Matt for the great review, your big grin made me lusting for CV50/1.2 and it finally arrived. Cannot wait to take it out for a shoot. 😊

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ha thanks, yes I’d be rubbish at poker wouldn’t I haha! Enjoy!

[@MB-or8js]

Long expected and nice video! Would have loved to see the sharpness and bokeh tests starting at 6:27 in side-to-side comparison to the Leica Summilux lens (seen to some part later at 16:48). I would have purchased the CV 50/1.2 lens if I didn't like the Canon 50/1.4 LTM so much! The Canon 50/1.2 LTM is supposedly too soft wide open and needs to stopped down quite a bit to achieve center sharpness. The Canon 50/1.4 LTM is the better choice here, and the 1/3rd stop slower doesn't play such big role either.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Martin, yes I like the 50/1.4 Canon too! yes sorry about vs Lux, I did a test actually but when I checked it looks like the photos had motion blur even though these were on a tripod (not all were), so I decided not to share as not real results. *Not accurate. (The Lux looks a lot sharper but if you zoom in on the Nokton it is sharp but just less clarity)(looks soft because of glow)

[@Essenence]

Reflecting on this review 1yr later, I can confidently say that this was my best purchase thus far, for M mount lenses! It truly does it all from F 1.2-22,🙌🙌 love it’s rendering and color as well, no complaints other than it’s weight which is expected! 😂

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Yes I probably should have got this interest of the APO in hindsight as a great all rounder.

[@thedondeluxe6941]

Wow! That reminds me a lot of my pre-asph Summilux, actually. It's got that "glow" and super smooth blur.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes I would agree it should give a look closer to the pre-asph when wide open.

[@navagiopoint]

so the asph summilux is still sharper

[@thedondeluxe6941]

@@navagiopoint The asph Summilux is the sharpest lens currently on the market, I think? The old one is still plenty sharp, though, even on modern high res cameras. And I happen to prefer the rendering of the pre-asph ones. Lucky for me, they're also a lot cheaper :-)

[@Liron_Cohen]

Great review thanks! Do you recommend it for landscape and cityscape too?

[@Kusanosuke1]

Would very much appreciate a review of the brand new Voigtländer Vintage series 50mm f1.5.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, I wont promise but I will do my best :)

[@bradl2636]

I own five Voigtlander lenses... so yes please send Matt more review samples Mr Voigtlander..!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Brad ha! Yes I have a few, see my other videos. I have 15,21,28,35,35,35,40,50,50..25.. for Leica..

[@ariesmight6978]

I really appreciate honest, informative reviews. Especially when they are made buy unbiased interviewers. Which you definitely are, so one well earned like. For you.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you very kind! There is a new Voigtlander lens video out tonight actually! :)

[@ariesmight6978]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thank you @ Matt Osborne. I will look forward to watching it after work.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@ariesmight6978 thanks, sorry it was late coming out.

[@michaelneumann1865]

The only things is the Zeiss 50mm 1.5 ZM weighs 250grams / 8.8 oz. it really is significantly lighter than the 50mm 1.2 Voigtlander at 344 g / 12.1 oz I love BOTH lenses. Great video Matt!!! Thank you.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks re. weight. I thought I had Googled it to check but maybe I wrote it down wrong, apologies! That is a tick for Zeiss being lighter.

[@splootan]

Which is better optically?> Zeiss 50 1.5 or this Voightlander? Thanks

[@michaelneumann1865]

@@splootan I think the Voigtlander is all around more modern. BUT the 50mm 1.5 Zeiss delivers very similar soft beauty .....and its lighter and smaller. BOTH GREAT !

[@splootan]

@@michaelneumann1865 thanks I shoot it on film so maybe the Voightlander is the way to go

[@AlexanderBischof]

For me the Voigtländer 50/1.2 is a perfect choice for a M camera. Yes, Summilux is always a super choice but for example get two great Voigtländer lenses and even save money.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes, Voigtlander offer excellent value!

[@epstar83]

Those M3 images with the Foma looked super!! Good looking lens!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you Mike! I'll put one up on Facebook later

[@RS-Amsterdam]

Hi Matt, last week (Feb 2022) I saw a review of the 40mm V 1.2 and I wanted to know how it relates to the V 50 mm 1.2 and your video was spot on, thanks for the effort. Watching your test shots I was wondering, at exactly 9:13 min , man that is a beautiful shot ! What a beautiful classic looking woman in B/W ( I am a huge fan of '40-'70 classic B/W model shots) Well done, greetings from a rainy Amsterdam

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you! Yes I love the B&W portraits too (you've find in most of my videos).

[@anthony87fiorillo]

Been waiting for more reviews on this lens for sure so thanks for doing it. Did you shoot any wide open with me the lens on black and white film or did you shoot all the film at f/2?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks!.. and sorry all at f2. I planned to use it again after but then the model shoot was cancelled, sorry.

[@melkasculpture-andrianmelk9397]

Great lens and review Matt, I have this lens mounted on my M3 and that’s the only reason I put my 40mm f1.2 for sale.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes after testing both lenses on my M3 the 50mm is the winner for this setup for sure. (Framing and 0.7m min focus).

[@fuchsroehre]

Great review! That "glow" is mainly spherical aberration, similar to the good old Nikon 1,2/50, goes away from f2.0 upwards

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks for the correct description! Yes f2 was a nice sweet spot. (I have have the Nikkor too! Good lens!)

[@tuftufclub159]

Again a very intresting review ! Thanks alot, Matt. By the way, .... your question "Do I recommand the Voigtlander .... ?" The answer was already in your eyes ! Take Care ! Greetings, Roger.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Roger! Yes I struggle to hide my feelings ha. At least if I ever test a bad lens you will see it :)

[@scottparis6355]

The 50mm f1.5 Zeiss is a Sonnar, and has some "quirky" behaviours wide open. Not bad, but "different." The Zeiss 50mm f2 Planar is (IMO) every bit as good as the non-ASPH Summicrons, much less expensive, and definitely worth a test. And finally, the new TTArtisan 50mm f1.4 is $369!!! and has been well reviewed. I think I'm likely to buy this one despite the fact that I already have too many M-mount 50s. I have monster lenses for my SLR/DSLR cameras, but lean strongly towards smaller, lighter, slower ones for my rangefinders. Great review, here, by the way. Complete, but no longer than it has to be.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you Scott! (I never lengthen any videos on purpose as it does equally more painful hours of editing ha). I owned the Planar and Sonnar so I can speak of these. The Planar was too sharp (I can't believe I say that) for the female models so I sold it quite early in my Leica days. The Sonnar was nice but 0.9m was a dealer breaker. I then got a Lux and that replaced the Sonnar and i've never really looked back. Yes the Sonnar has more character but I couldn't have a lens that may give me focus shift. I needed a good lens for client work. I've never tried any TTA lenses. I tend to use classic lenses or older brands but I know they are cheap.

[@johnelder7449]

Great review on lens. All aspects covered. I have only seen good reviews of this lens. It is a winner for Voightlander. However, I would like to see a comparison of the 50 f1 2 compared to the newest version Voigtlander f1 5 Nockton M .In Cameraquest. There are 3 versions of the 50mm 1 5 nockton. the first a ltm, the second an M. and. a third labeled by Cameraquest ae 50mm f1.5 nockton 11 in M mount with an asph element. I would trust your review of the newest 50 f1.5 nockton. The one review I read was excellent Sharp, basically as fast as lux etc and not as huge as the 1 2 and cheaper than any other good modern 50 lens. I believe the Zeiss 50 F 1 5mm Sonnar has the classic front focus problem and I bought the original 50 f1 5 sonnar made in 1956. However, I would hope that the Voigtlander 50mm f1.5 nockton is competitive with the 50 f1 2 just because of size. Question. I believe the finder in the M3 to be the best finder for a 50 mm lens. You said you had your M3 converted to .7 meters close focus. Did you do this by having a contemporary new 72 magn ification rangefinder installed in M3 or, hopefully, did they adjust the close focus on the 91 magnification rangefinder on M3? Off topic have you tested the voigtlander 35mn vintage line 35mm f2 Ulton, its tiny and I am seriously considering buying it because I do not have the money for the leica 35mm lux fle? Thanks

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks John, sorry I’ve not replied yet, I had to tie myself to my desk for the weekend to get this video out as it was already overdue (recorded some weeks ago).

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

1.5 and Ultron. I will see if I can get more lenses to review. M3, I kept the 91. Removing that would be like taking you favourite lens and ripping the front element off! It’s the best bit of the M3. They can adjust the 91 to 0.7m. Great question though!

[@KeithHodgkinson]

Great review,photos beautiful.Must say i would like to see you get your hands on the new Voigt 50mm 1.5 II Vintage Nokton.This is quite a small lens and comes in SC and MC which would be a great comparison.Thanx.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ha that’s the third request for this lens so far! Thanks and I will see what I can do. If the video is popular then maybe they will send me a few more! 🙏🏻

[@ssmith954]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Agreed, would be very interested in a comparison between the SC and MC!

[@tonyvokey7607]

Hey Matt, consider this the forth request for the 50mm 1.5, I’ll be using it on my CL though.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@tonyvokey7607 yes the video is coming.. I’ve postponed the testing until after lockdown but it’s on the list :)

[@akirsch76]

Nice video! I'm with you that this lens is a nice Summilux alternative, but I would not sell my Summilux for this lens. But not because of the Voigtländer ist a bad Lens, just because I like my Summilux a lot. Can you give me some information on the M3 Modification needed to focus up to 0.7 Meter? I am planning to buy a nice late M3 SS someday.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Agreed and thanks. Leica hold their value better than any lens I know so even if I just keep it it can double as my Pension/ savings ha. The Lux is still best for film wide open and sometimes I need 1.4 so it’s a keeper for me.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

M3 mod - I have a DS and SS. One arrived with 0.7m do I thought that was normal. The second was 1m and I was gutted so later asked a repair guy to adjust the RF to close focus of 0.7m (they can set to 1m or 0.7m.. well they can set any I guess but those are most common).

[@ZachBie]

By all regards it seems like a really solid lens. But the size and weight is a bit much for me, especially since I don’t often shoot scenes where I want or need f/1.4 or below. I’ll take a smaller 50mm as I find them to be less threatening when photographing strangers. Please update us on how you modified your M3. The .9m close focus on mine is limiting at times.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes I tend to go for smaller lenses to but fast glass can be useful at times for me. Ask you repair guy to just calibrate it to 0.7m and that's it.

[@gilesjazzguitar64]

Thanks, I am mainly a 35 mm user however I am looking for a nice fast 50 and this seems to be a great option.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes really nice lens and it offers kind of 2 lenses in 1 (classic and modern)

[@gilesjazzguitar64]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Would you recommend it over a Zeiss Sonnar ?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@gilesjazzguitar64 yes watch the verdict at the end of the video as to why but also it has no focus shift. (Sonnar is smaller and lighter)

[@gilesjazzguitar64]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks , yes I see now. Sorry one more question would you recommend it over a summicron ? I know they are very different

[@beyourself9162]

I yet didn’t understand why they build aspherical versions. There is one video where a professional photographer demonstrated the difference between the Leica 35 mm and the rare 35 mm double aspherical. That was impressive. Flare control and how the field slowly turns unsharp. But this lens is 20 k. So is an aspherical version always the more versatile lens? Or do they also have downfalls….?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

I think the only downside is the lenses get bigger. Pre ASPH are always smaller whether 50s or 35s. (And for portraits like me the pre give a softer less perfect look which I prefer). I recent got the 35/2 pre for size and look.

[@felixchong2002]

thanks! love this lens. hope u do the 75mm F1.5 or 1.8 soon.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Felix! I will see what I can do. Voigtlander have a lot of great lenses!

[@ccoppola82]

Nice review. Does this shift at all like the sonnar? If voigtlander is letting you borrow lenses I’d love to see the new 75 1.5. If it looks anything like the old 75 lux I’d be tempted.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

No I didn't see any shift. I sold the Sonnar as less 'reliable' vs the Lux for that reason. If I get a 75 in the future to test I will be sure to share it.

[@marcusoutdoors4999]

A very good review and very sensible comments on chromatic aberration (I.e. no big deal) and very interesting to hear the Leica described as relatively clinical. Now we just need you to be given the new Voigtlander 50mm f1.5 Mk ii as I’m particularly excited to see what you make of that. It’s the one I’m hoping will be great as it’s much lighter than the f1.2

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Marcus! I will see what I can do! :)

[@TechnikMeister2]

Sticking with my Nikkor 50mm's. I reflect on your older review of them against Leicas. I'm glad I stayed loyal to Nikon and saved a whole bunch of money in the process.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

The Nikkor 50 1.2 AIS is great fun but won’t mount on the Leicas sadly

[@TechnikMeister2]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom A Leica is just like any other camera. It's a box housing a sensor and not much different to what the sensors of Nikon, Canon and Sony produce at a fraction of the price. Lens tech is so good these days, that even kit lenses are almost as good.

[@michaelhans4551]

Hey, Thanks I really like your reviews a really good mix of technical and practical. Great stuff

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Michael! I appreciate your feedback

[@andrewf5390]

Great review. The 50/1.2 is one of my favorite lenses, and you showed exactly what makes it so great.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Andrew! I have more new Voigtlander lens reviews coming soon so stay tuned! :)

[@mr_cramberry]

Fantastic.Been waiting for your review! Thanks. Cant wait for the apo lanthar 50 f2. Waiting for your review for that too!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Marc.. I think i've opened a can of worms with these videos.. the requests are coming in fast ha.. I will do my best if I get the oppotunity!

[@mr_cramberry]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom the apo lanthar has just been officially annouced by the way. Hope you get around to reviewing it :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@mr_cramberry thanks, I’ll put it on the wish list! 😊🙏🏻

[@catherinesoucy6911]

Thanks for this! On the M10 Mono, for street photography, which between the f1.2, f1.5 and f2 would you recommend? Thanks

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

f2 APO was my choice. I made videos on all 3. 1.2 is a good do everything lens but big. 1.5 is softer in mids from memory but small and nice looking.

[@catherinesoucy6911]

Thank you! I’m thinking 2 and 1.2 ;) I’ve seen all the videos but was just too hard to choose 😊. Also looking for an alternative to the 24mm summilux - if you have any! Thanks again

[@myk1200s]

Awesome presentation MATT, Beautiful LENS 👍

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you Ryan! I have another modern Voigtlander lens in the pipeline, stay tuned! :)

[@NPJensen]

Noted. I'll definitely have to consider this Voigtländer lens for when I get myself a Leica M rangefinder. Very nice review.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you, yes great lens! :)

[@johnelder7449]

Matt, I think that the Cannon 50mm f1 2 would be considerably softer than the Voightlander 50mm f1 2. The Canon 50 f1 4 is sharper than the Cannon 50 f1 2

[@spencerkimura]

Have you used both the 1.4 and the 1.2? I know it's not much of a difference. I have the 1.2 and it is hard to hit the focus all the way open. But what makes you say the 1.4 is sharper?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks John, that's what the rumours say online too from my reading. I like the 1.4.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@spencerkimura thanks it does seem widely regarded that the 1.2 is soft and examples i've seen shot on Sony do look softer vs other lenses but it's partly how you edit etc so if I ever get to test one I will share the results and will see what I can get out the 1.2. The 1.4 is good. I have it.

[@spencerkimura]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thank you. With that being said... This review might have given me a new lens to get. I might have to start thinking about a change

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@spencerkimura maybe do some more reading first but yes it is a nice lens 👍🏻

[@TheKimNeeper]

Amazing photos you shoot! One question, why upload in 720p? It looks like all the photos are out of focus on a big screen ;) KZbin has terrible compression even at 1080p, 720p is from last century. Typically you need to upscale to 4K even when everything is shot in 1080p, to prevent 1080p from looking like 720p.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Kim, I’ll try to do some reading in this. I thought it was all 1080p. Thanks for info!

[@FarEastSurvival]

Thanks. I own the Leica 50mm Summilux Aspherical and I just got the CL. What lens would you say is your most favorite to pair with the CL?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

I find the Lux a bit too long on the CL. My favourite is the 35/1.2 on the CL. Really nice at 0.5m - see CL blog posts for samples.

[@FarEastSurvival]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks for the reply. I'll take a look at your blog

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@FarEastSurvival thanks. It’s been going since 2013 so there’s lots of info there! :)

[@FarEastSurvival]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I saw your review of the camera. Yes I like a 35mm FF focal length on a APSC sensor. I loved the A6500 with a 35mm Summicron before I sold those off. I got the 23mm F/2 Leica Summicron-T lens with the CL. I'm really loving this lens and body combination so much I rarely take out the Leica Q anymore. I just dont find the Voitlander lenses that sharp wide open but I dont normally shoot portraits. I'm going to try the 50mm Summilux with the CL as well as the 90mm Elmarit for portraits.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@FarEastSurvival if you want sharpness get the Lux 50 and the MacroElmarM 90mm 👌🏻..I like the size of the 23mm but I’m a sucker for manual focus!

[@ajaxgfx]

Hello Matt, I know that you are quite love with 58mm /1.4 Nokton previously , So how you are comparing with 58/1.4 and 50/1.2 and what is your pick?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hello John, hmm interesting.. I'd go 1.2 because it is faster, M mount / RF coupled and does both soft glow and sharp.

[@ajaxgfx]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom ok thank you Matt 👍

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@ajaxgfx 👍🏻😊

[@j.k5654]

Hi MrL, between this lens and the Heliar 50 mm f3.5. Which one would you say is more clinical in sharpness? Thanks and great video as always

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Not the answer you want but I’d say wait for the APO review + 1.5 :) The Heliar is excellent but this less is a strong performer stopped down.

[@j.k5654]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thank you Sir

[@149jimbo]

Another great review, thank you. What do you know about the Voigltander 50mm f1.1 nokton and the 7Artisans 50mm f1.1??

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jim! I think a student at one of my workshops years back let me try there Nokton 1.1. I don't remember being impressed enough to use it for long but I've grown up since then so maybe it is OK. I've never used any 7A lenses, to date.

[@MGraslund]

The f1.1 Nokton is not even in the same ball park when it comes to lens character and sharpness, bokeh. its much ”better” the the 7artisans f1.1 though. The Nokton f1.1 close focus is 1 meter and it’s filter thread is 55mm (or even bigger? 57mm? Can’t seem to remember precisely). Pretty big anyhow and it covers a bit of the viewfinder. The bokeh is also quite busy and not any resemblance to the Nokton f1.2. As a cheap alternative to the Nokton f1.2 it’s still worth considering and it costs pretty much the same used as the 7artisans f1.1, but as I said; much “better”. Especially as a more all rounder 50mm. The only category the 7artisans f1.1 wins in is the close focus apartment (0.7m) and a little bit lighter (if I remember correctly) I do like the Sonnar lens design in general, but I didn’t fall for the f1.1 7artisans at all. Lots of other people did though

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@MGraslund thanks for sharing

[@kevin-parratt-artist]

Using it on the M2, in stead of the M3, will of course, reduce the image cutoff on the 50mm frame lines.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes better on M2 if wear glasses

[@adriancullen8159]

very useful review and well produced video. Did you try the VC 50 1.2 on your M2. Asking because that camera is my warhorse

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Adrian! No I didn’t try on my M2 but it will be just the same as on M3 👌🏻

[@adriancullen8159]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I was meaning terms of achieving focus at or around MFD. I find it hard enough with my CV40 1.4 wide open. The CV40/1.4 gives me that classic look and my ZM50/2 Planar tack sharp but modern wide open

[@ranggantengblas]

hi Matt which M 50mm lens do you recommend for beginners? I'm a little hesitant to decide between this lens with zeiss planar, nokton 50mm f1.5 asph II, APO-lanthar coming out soon or products from TTArtisans / 7Artisans? Thanks 🙏🏻

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

I’m hoping to test the Voigtlander 1.5 and APO in the next few months. This lens is great as is or if want cheaper vintage 50s can be great too. See my 10x 50s video for more 50s and some of my other 50mm vids.

[@ansgarbook1414]

I am looking forward to this one and you secured my decision for this instead of the Sonnar. Thanks Mat

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks no problem. Yes I sold the Sonnar.

[@erichung9043]

Love your images with this lens. I for sure will get this to complement my Zeiss Sonnar C on my M6. Any focus shift issue?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Eric! If you are in the UK I will soon be able to offer you a discount code for this :) I didn't notice focus issues but everyone shoots differently. I set aperture then focus.

[@paco355]

Thanks for your video! Have you tried to modify your M2 to focus to 0.7? Thanks!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Paulo, M2 are already 0.7m, the M3 is 1m and yes both my M3 are modified to 0.7m

[@panagiotiskalapaseas6980]

From my point of view this nifty-fity, along with the 40mm f1,2 are true Leica killerz!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks yes both excellent lenses! :)

[@brucecggallagher1949]

I had their 50mm f1.5 Nokton,...it was brilliant and I regret selling it. For weight and price, I could forgo a 1.2. Cheers, from Victoria, British Columbia

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Bruce, yes see my 1.5 video. Love the form factor of the new version

[@laurencegoldman4639]

Sort of on topic: if there’s any way to get a Canon FL 55mm 1.2 on your rigs, this particular lens is a miracle for portraits.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks I don’t know much about Canon but I’m sure via an adapter I can use on CL and M240.

[@laurencegoldman4639]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Maybe there’s a Flickr group on this lens?? The 55mm 1.2 rather than 50 is something unique. BTW, I have a Sigma Merrill DP3. On a tripod, in good light this thing is amazing. This camera DOES have dedicated Flickr group with samples. There are some jaw dropping portraits that really put Leica and even Hasselblad on notice-all for $400.

[@redhakl]

Very good review as usual! Thank you.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you!

[@SD_Alias]

That really interesting, how does it compare in sharpness with a 50mm leica summicron M?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

I have Summicron 50s too, see that video. I always thought the Cron gave a smoother look vs Summilux. Both will be sharp but didn’t test side by side.

[@philgelb7726]

I'm really curious at how this performs f2-8. I want a single lens to use for landscape, travel, events and architecture. Does anything have experience with it?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Phil, It's sharp from f2 so you'll be fine.

[@Seapatico]

You obviously aren't looking for model tips, but working with a lot of brides, I've learned that when their hands are going to be featured in a picture below their heart/elbow area, the blood runs down to their hands and can look a little old or witchy. So I have them hold their hands up by their head for thirty seconds, and then put their hands back in place for the photo. It can be a pain to do too often, but it's helped me out a few times.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great tip Sean! I'm normally in quite close for my style and/ or the girls can be young enough not to have big veins but I can visualise it so thanks!

[@lugentaubner6853]

Another great review, Matt! Interesting that you see so little difference between the Nokton 1.2 VM and the Sonnar ZM. In his 35mmc review, Hamish Gil (committed Sonnar shooter) found the Nokton 1.2 to be too sharp and too hi-res already at f2. Could the fact that he used digital (Leica Monochrom) have something to do with his verdict?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Lugen, thanks! It is personal preference I think. Most new lenses are aiming for very high resolution to match the modern 42mp sensors (SL2, M10R etc). I like film so for that f2 is perfect as film gives a softer look. For digital I’d use it at 1.2 always for portraits.

[@kevin-parratt-artist]

Using it on the M2, instead of the M3, will, of course, reduce the image cutoff on the 50mm frame lines.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Better on M3 for user experience and accuracy unless wear glasses

[@sammyngai9523]

Hi Matt, would you tell me where can I buy the camera strap as shown on this video? Many thanks, Sammy

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Sammy, see the kit list on the blog for the straps I use

[@lueniopue2488]

Impressive lens... Hope to own one soon (thanks to father Xmas)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

I hope you’ve been good this year so he brings it! :)

[@gregpantelides1355]

Thank you so much, Matt. Your channel is so helpful for me on my photographic journey. :-)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Greg! If you want full size example photos there is also written reviews on MrLeica.com

[@gustavomonasterios6083]

cool video, probably it is too much to ask, would you do the same review with the Nokton VM 1.2 vs the new noctilux 1.2 50mm?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

If someone sends me both lenses i'm sure I can try! :)

[@NordicLab]

This lens is just incredible. Best 50 mm in the world.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes great 50mm!

[@Maroboshi]

Hey ! Thanks for your Work and your Chanel ! Love it ! I've got a Leica Q(1) and now i just get a Leica SL (1) thanks to you ! I'm looking for a Lens for the SL with the same result as the Q : any advise ? :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, hmm difficult! The Q is special. You can try Sigma lenses for AF (or SL lenses). Sigma f2 lenses are smaller.

[@TheSololobo]

Yeah everybody is raving about this lens, but I've also heard great things about the Zeiss 50mm f1.5, have you had a chance to try that one, and if you had which one would you recommend?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes I used to own the Sonnar. I sold mine. They suffer from focus shift and most are not sharp at f1.5. They are good if get lucky. Voigtlander are more reliable and just work.

[@TheSololobo]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Much appreciated

[@bers7109]

Hi, Matt, what do you recommend: cron v5 or this one (for a similar cost)? I shoot on m240 and I really appreciate the color of the leica lens, but but sometimes I really want f1.2-1.4... :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hey Bers, Cron v5 is a very nice size but I didn't rate my copy. The 1.2 will give you a lot more options/ looks (or get the 50 APO if you like sharp!) I use the APO.

[@bers7109]

​@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thank you so much!! And what can you say about voigt 50 1.5 v2 compared to 1.2 and 2.0 apo??

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@bers7109 1.5 best size/ looks good but not sharp enough wide open close distance. I got apo. 1.2 offers sharp and glow look.

[@bers7109]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Ок, Thanks you again!!!!🙏

[@mlicer]

Wonderful review, as always. I own a Nokton 50 1.5 vm asph and i shoot it only on M2/film. How do these two lenses compare? Is it worth considering the f1.2?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you! I’ve not tried the 1.5 yet so I can’t say but people have asked me to try to test the 1.5 v2 lens so if I get chance I will!

[@mlicer]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom wonderful, thank you. fingers crossed that you get it soon :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@mlicer yes I’m interested to try it too!

[@sneakingelephant]

How is the viewfinder blockage for this lens on the M3?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Some but not terrible I think

[@sneakingelephant]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaComawesome!

[@sneakingelephant]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom one more question. Between this and the apo Lanthar which one would you recommend going for

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@sneakingelephant I got the APO. See that video

[@MarttiSuomivuori]

You have understood that people buy these lenses to make pictures. This makes you unique.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Haha thanks. I'm a mixed bag.. the ex-auditor/ accountant in me enjoys making gear vids and testing but the creative in me enjoys the real aspects of photography. See my latest video for a taste of that (and the next video even more so.. you'll see a different side of me).

[@AdamCzarnowski]

The Voigt looks like a Canon 50mm f1.2 LTM. A great lens if you can find a nice copy.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Adam, maybe I will get one to test one day.

[@magiccarpetrider4594]

I just traded in a Nokton because it wasn’t really special. I picked up a summilux 50 1.4. Money IS a concern, but I look for special rendering. I love Zeiss, and have 8 ZE primes for Ef Mount (2 of which have Zeiss wobble)- just picked up a 25zm. As nice as it is, the focal length isn’t right for me today and I’ll go back to no-compromises of a 21 and 28. Zeiss or the 21 super elmar- I’m afraid of making another non-Leica mistake.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

21&25 ZM are great. Lux is nice wide open.

[@magiccarpetrider4594]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I think I pretty much got the 25 ZM on your recommendation. You weren’t wrong.

[@peterivarsson9267]

How does it compare to the Ttartisan 50 0,95

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Peter, see my YYA 0.95 video. I love that lens and own it

[@AminTheMystic]

The nw Voigtlnder 50mm f2 in terms of image quality, if you can your hands on it!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

The APO? Stay tuned more new Voigtlander lens videos coming :)

[@dirksentaguiam6622]

This is close but try TTartisan 50mm 1.4 asph, another killa, but I am keeping my Leica👌

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks regarding the TTA!

[@charruaporelmundo]

I got that tt artisan, I use Sony camera( sorry🤷🏻‍♂️), my best Fe lens is sony zeiss planar 50 mm 1.4, I put them side by side and I was/am astonished !. The Chinese 300 usd is 90’s % of what planar is . And this is because it “decay “ mostly on the botton right corner ( my copy), but if we measure them on the center.... it is 98%... tr has some color fringing that need correction, but I’m sure it is because of my sensor not because of the lens itself . I also notice the dimensionality... I saw it more present on the tt artisan.... I just can’t believe it ! . I use Techart so I get eye af, and I will definitely keep it.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@charruaporelmundo thanks for sharing, great info!

[@AllCarsUnited]

Great lens. For clinical perfection 50mm the new sony 50mm 1.2 gm and canon 1.2 are top

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and yes. What about Leica 50 APO, Voigtlander 50 APO...? :) Voigtlander 50 and 35 APO reviews to come .. they are sending me the lenses to test. Stay tuned! :)

[@EduardoMaradiaga-s5w]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Can you used Sony lens in Leica SL2?

[@alriteigiveup]

So how does this lens compare with 40mm f1.2 NOKTON? They seem to share a lot, in terms of character and image quality.

[@michaelneumann1865]

My take is they are extremely similar in every way. It’s just a 50mm focal length and compresses a bit more and is narrower of course than the 40 mm 1.2. I have both of them and just consider the 50 mm to create more intense Bokeh but I love the 40 mm 1.2 very much with creamy backgrounds of its own. The 40mm is also a bit lighter and a bit shorter.

[@alriteigiveup]

@@michaelneumann1865 Great lens indeed. I somehow like this 40mm better than the 35mm summilux fle on my digital CL. Not as contrasty wide open, true, yet the images coming out of it are generally very pleasing to look at.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Did you see the 40mm review.. I like the 40mm on the CL, SL and other mirrorless but prefer the 50mm for film. Look wise pretty similar to my eyes.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@michaelneumann1865 thanks you said it better than me! :)

[@fadisg]

I'm very grateful for the amazing content on this channel :) but as a SLR shooter may I ask how you would compare this beautiful to the Nikon 50mm 1.2 ais? By the way I still looking forward to read your nikon (or any other SLR) vintage glass comparison VS your collection of Leica super glass :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, The Nikkor is nice too, see MrLeica.com blog review for 1.2. Softer wide open but can still get great results for sure.

[@NuraliKushkov]

hi Matt! I dug down into comments to find info on modding leica to focus at 0.7m but cant see it anywhere.. Are there any drawbacks to going that route? would it affect how focus works with other lenses? I have a 35mm summicron, would it still function as it does? and finally, what does it cost and where can it be done? :D so many questions, hope its ok. speciate your channel so much!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi yes your repair guy can do it when they calibrate the rangefinder. All lenses then work as normal. If a lens goes up 0.7m it will if it goes to 1m it is still 1m for that lens.

[@lugentaubner6853]

Great great video, matt!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Lugen! I will year more of their news lenses so will post reviews once they send them. Stay tuned! :)

[@ScottEVOwner]

How dom8 go about having this lens modified to reduce close focus distance to 0.5m

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Use it on a Leica SL with M-L close focus adapter from LightLensLab, like I use

[@peterivarsson9267]

Amazing images, wow

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Peter!

[@JimmyCheng]

strange, I too did a head to head of these two lenses and found the voigtlander yellower (warmer) than the Leica .

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jimmy, that would be my expectation too as Leica glass is generally cooler. But I just shared the results I got with my copy.

[@JimmyCheng]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom my lux asph has a pink tint compare to the voigtlander, and a bit cooler. Is your copy 6-bit coded? Maybe they have changed the coating overtime? Anyways, love your contents and glad you’ve brought more vm lenses onto the table. I tested out the new 35 ultron and 50 nokton 1.5 ii, both are magnificent

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@JimmyCheng thanks! Yes Leica glass is usually cooler. Mine is not coded (I think). 5015 vid is coming too!

[@jessekoskinen]

Looks like a nice lens, though the not including a lens hood rubs me the wrong way.

[@ehinam01]

You can grab a 3rd party thread on for about 6 dollars.

[@jessekoskinen]

@@ehinam01 I just think it is a cheap, anti-consumer move to not include a lens hood with the lens. It doesn't matter how cheaply one can buy a third party hood.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes and the branded ones are pricey. Just get a cheap one on eBay. 52mm.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@ehinam01 yes!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@jessekoskinen The slide out Leica hoods are the best :)

[@attilathejung4801]

I just got this lens and Ive noticed that some street lights images come of as magenta, wonder if you knew what that may be?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi it could be the flare. Did you see the pink flare I got with my lens in the video?

[@attilathejung4801]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Yes, I did get that as well, but in this instance it was 'some' white individual lights translated as a light/soft magenta hue. Besides that the lense is really impressive.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@attilathejung4801 that flare seems common with these new 1.2 lenses but I only saw it when shooting at lights. Looks fine in b&w too.

[@TheBumblebee84]

great video but I think it should be compared against Leica Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 ASPH

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes sorry I don’t own that lens otherwise I could have. That said the lenses are very different so probably not much to compare. (The Nokton wide open is as close as you may get to the Leica). From f2 the Notion is a sharp modern lens.

[@highnoon420]

Voigtlander 50mm f1.2 or 50mm f2 apo?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

I got the APO but for digital portraits I would use a mist filter on it or vintage lens.

[@highnoon420]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaComthanks for replying, really enjoying the content...yeah I think the APO will be my choice (at the moment) I'm picking up an M11 in the near future after my Fuji gear has gone, the APO will be a good replacement for the 33 1.4 to start me off

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@highnoon420 great! it’s smaller too 👍🏻

[@StreetGrain]

who do you recommend for the .7mm distance modification?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Just ask you repair guy to recalibrate at 0.7m (My repair guy is not taking more work so I can't recommend a specific person, sorry)

[@Agedwheel]

How do you get your camera modified for closer focus?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ask you repair guy to recalibrate it at 0.7m instead of 1m

[@paulgood2218]

I really can't decide yet between this one and the 50mm f2 apo .

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

I went with the APO..

[@jrivasphoto]

Your videos are really amazing. Thanks.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, very kind! Hopefully the newer ones are better than some of the older ones now that i've done over 400 videos!

[@dragui9932]

Great Review, as usual ;)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

thank you!!

[@JokiW]

Hi Matt! Is there any real "Summilux killer", i.e. a fast 50mm that gives a clinical look with smooth bokeh already wide open? I have the Zeiss Sonnar and it's nice, but quite glowy and with outlining on the bokeh wide open, this Voigtlander seems to be the same with the glow, but a least without the outlining, but neither is as you say clinical wide open.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi no for clinical wide open the Lux wins. I had the ZM Sonnar too. That it 2nd, Voigtlander 3rd wide open. F2 the Voigtlander gets much better than wide open.

[@JokiW]

Thank you for the reply :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@JokiW No problem, I try to reply to all the comments I see!

[@jamieroberts8844]

FWIW, the only fast 50mm lens I've ever seen that "kills" the Summilux M ASPH in the way you mean is the last model 50mm Summilux R (E60). That is the "best" all-round 50 I've ever had; used to shoot it on film and digital (DMR and adapted to Canon). It's less clinical wide open than the M version, but you don't lose much contrast; bokeh wide open is super smooth too. They're in high demand now for video purposes, I think :) I haven't used a lot of the newer lenses, though (SL, etc..). So they may have that charm, too!

[@henricvs]

Love it, great review! Thanks!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Henry!

[@danielebaravalle1399]

Have you test the other contemporary 50mm from voigtlander? A video comparison between the f1.2, f1,5 and f2 APO should be interesting

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Not yet, hope to be getting the 1.5 and APO this year to review. Stay tuned!

[@pacoguerilla3097]

Very interesting review, Thanks,

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Paco!

[@vincenttam8642]

I really like this lens! light and small for a 50 1.2 lens and the image quality actually really good!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes great that it is useable wide open at 1.2 on digital

[@Coffeeology]

I know it's 2 years on, but I would FASINATED to hear how you decreased the focal distance on your M3.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Just ask a decent camera repair guy to recalibrate your M3 finder to 0.7m