The best L-mount lenses in 2024: the best Panasonic, Sigma and Leica lenses today

Best L-mount lenses
(Image credit: Panasonic)

These are the best L-mount lenses right now, for Panasonic's Lumix S full frame mirrorless cameras, the Leica SL and – let's not forget it – the clever little Sigma fp and fp L! The L mount is a comparatively new format, but it's backed by three big names in photography and it's gained a lot of ground in a very short time.

Growing in popularity, the L-mount is based on Leica’s T-mount system, which stems from the Leica T (Typ 701) APS-C format digital camera, launched in 2014. With the subsequent launch of the Leica SL full-frame camera, the name was changed to the L-mount, with sub-categories of TL for APS-C format lenses and SL for full-frame. Bigger news came in September 2018, with the advent of the L-mount Alliance, formed by Leica, Panasonic and Sigma. This enabled all three companies to manufacture cameras with ‘interchangeable’ lenses in every sense of the word.

Headline-grabbing cameras that use the L-mount include Leica’s own 47-megapixel Leica SL2, the Panasonic Lumix S1 24.2-megapixel all-rounder, the high-res 47.3-megapixel Panasonic Lumix S1R, the more video-centric 24.2-megapixel Panasonic Lumix S1H with 6K movie capture capability, and the most recent, budget-conscious Panasonic Lumix S5, which has a 24.2-megapixel image sensor. For its part, Sigma has its Sigma fp compact system camera, which has a remarkably small and lightweight build, while its Sigma fp L stablemate packs an impressive 61MP sensor for ultra-high-res image capture.

The supporting cast of lenses has been ramped up over the last couple of years. Panasonic currently offers seven L-mount lenses, including six zooms and one prime. Leica has the opposite emphasis, with five primes and three zooms. Sigma has the greatest selection of L-mount prime and zoom lenses, some of which are fairly subtle changes to existing DSLR lenses, while others are new or completely redesigned optics specifically made for L-mount (and Sony E-mount) mirrorless cameras. In all cases, the L-mount lenses take advantage of a relatively large mounting flange of 55mm, and a close proximity of 20mm to the image sensor. 

We figure that Panasonic users are likely to gravitate towards the Panasonic and Sigma lenses, while Leica users will probably be most interested in Leica glass, so we've split our guide up into three sections, one for each brand.

Best L-mount lenses in 2024

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Panasonic L-mount lenses

(Image credit: Future)
Panasonic’s wide-angle zoom is a relatively compact affair

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 12 elements in 9 groups
Angle of view: 107 to 63 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.25m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.23x
Filter size: 77mm
Dimensions: 85x100mm
Weight: 500g

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent image quality
+
Refined handling

Reasons to avoid

-
Aperture rating is ‘only’ f/4 not f/2.8
-
Quite pricey for an f/4 zoom

Instead of going for f/2.8 glory, Panasonic has settled on a more modest f/4 aperture rating for its first L-mount wide-angle zoom. Plus points include a relatively compact and lightweight build, and the standard of construction is very good, with plentiful weather-seals and a robust yet high-precision feel. The high-grade optical path includes three aspherical elements, plus ED (Extra-low Dispersion) and HRI (High-Refractive-Index) elements. Image quality is excellent in all respects, from impressive sharpness and effective correction of colour fringing and distortions, to great control over ghosting and flare. The high-speed and virtually silent autofocus system is equally useful for stills and video capture.

Read more: Panasonic LUMIX S PRO 16-35mm f/4 review

Panasonic Lumix X 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6

(Image credit: Future)
A refreshingly affordable and lightweight L-mount zoom

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 11 elements in 9 groups
Angle of view: 94 to 40 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.15m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.43x
Filter size: 67mm
Dimensions: 77x87mm
Weight: 350g

Reasons to buy

+
Useful and somewhat unique zoom range
+
Relatively compact and lightweight

Reasons to avoid

-
Slightly limited telephoto reach
-
Variable aperture rating

Compared with most standard zoom lenses that have a minimum focal length of 24mm, this Panasonic lens gives a much wider maximum viewing angle of 94 rather than 84 degrees. The difference is clear to see, enabling you to get much more into the frame. Naturally, it loses out a bit for telephoto reach, but the overall zoom range feels full of creative potential. It also saves the need for carrying an additional ultra-wide-angle prime or zoom lens, and the chore of switching between them. The optical path incorporates three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements and one UHR (Ultra High Refractive) element, which combine to deliver highly impressive image quality. It’s a compact and lightweight lens that goes large in performance, and is very good value at the price.

Read more: Panasonic LUMIX S 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6 review

(Image credit: Panasonic)

3. Panasonic LUMIX S 24mm f/1.8

A light and competitively-priced wide L-mount prime

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 12 elements in 11 groups
Angle of view: 84 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.24m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.15x
Filter size: 67mm
Dimensions: 74x82mm
Weight: 310g

Compact, and light weight at just 310g, this fast prime is a great choice for shooting landscapes, architecture, street scenes, or anything demanding a fairly wide field of view. The lens has been designed to work equally well whether you're shooting stills or video. The latter benefits from smooth aperture changes, while the f/1.8 maximum and 9-bladed rounded diaphragm ensures excellent separation between your subject and its background. Dust and water resistant construction gives this lens all-weather versatility, and though it's not a cheap lens, the price does compare well with comparable lenses from other manufacturers.

(Image credit: Panasonic)
A heavyweight standard zoom with pro-grade specs

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 18 elements in 16 groups
Angle of view: 84 to 34 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.37m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.25x
Filter size: 82mm
Dimensions: 91x140mm
Weight: 935g

Reasons to buy

+
Fast and constant f/2.8 aperture
+
Dust, splash and freeze-resistant

Reasons to avoid

-
Fairly big, heavy and expensive
-
Edge sharpness at longer zoom settings

This pro-grade zoom has the preferred f/2.8 constant-aperture rating favored by most enthusiast and professional photographers, along with robust weather-resistant build quality. Panasonic’s S1-series mirrorless cameras are notoriously chunky and the lens follows suit, weighing the best part of a kilogram. Highlights include a fast and near-silent autofocus system, with a push-pull focus ring for switching between autofocus and manual focus. Image quality is mostly impressive although corner-sharpness could be better, especially towards the long end of the zoom range. Bokeh is nice and smooth even when stopping down a little, aided by an 11-blade aperture, while colour fringing and distortions are effectively eliminated by in-camera corrections. However, the competing Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art lens is every bit as good and only costs half the price.

Read more: Panasonic LUMIX S PRO 24-70mm f/2.8 review

(Image credit: Panasonic)
Bigger zoom range equals narrower aperture rating

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 16 elements in 13 groups
Angle of view: 84 to 23 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.3m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.5x
Filter size: 77mm
Dimensions: 84x118mm
Weight: 680g

Reasons to buy

+
Generous zoom range
+
Optical image stabilizer

Reasons to avoid

-
Narrower aperture than 24-70mm 
-
Lacks push-pull focus ring

Panasonic invites you to ‘take a fresh new approach’ with this lens, although the zoom range and f/4 constant-aperture rating will be familiar to users of Canon and Sigma 24-105mm lenses. Smaller, lighter and little more than half the price of Panasonic’s 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, this one lacks ‘PRO’ credentials but is robustly built nevertheless, with a dust and splash resistant construction. It’s not short on quality glass either, with two aspherical ED elements, a further two aspherical and two ED elements, plus a UED (Ultra Extra-low Dispersion) element. The built-in optical stabilizer works in conjunction with Panasonic S-series cameras’ IBIS to give as much as a 6-stop benefit. The linear stepping motor autofocus system is fast and virtually silent, while the minimum focus distance of 0.3 metres enables powerful 0.5x macro magnification.

Read more: Panasonic LUMIX S 24-105mm f/4 Macro OIS review

(Image credit: Future)
A weighty and pricey proposition for a 50mm prime

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 13 elements in 11 groups
Angle of view: 47 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.44m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.15x
Filter size: 77mm
Dimensions: 90x130mm
Weight: 955g

Reasons to buy

+
Fabulous image quality
+
Fast, virtually silent autofocus system

Reasons to avoid

-
Pretty huge for a 50mm prime
-
Weighty and expensive

If you thought that ‘compact system cameras’ were relatively small and lightweight, Panasonic’s S series bodies will make you think again, and this lens is frankly enormous for a 50mm prime, weighing in at almost a kilogram. Even so, handling is refined with tactile aperture and focus rings, the latter having Panasonic’s usual push-pull mechanism for swapping between autofocus and manual focus. Autofocus itself is super-fast and virtually silent, powered by dual linear and stepping motors. The optical path includes two aspherical elements and three extra-low dispersion elements, along with a particularly well-rounded 11-blade diaphragm. Image quality is simply spectacular in all respects. Even so, this hefty lens comes with a similarly weighty price tag.

Read more: Panasonic LUMIX S PRO 50mm f/1.4 review

(Image credit: Panasonic)
Compact, light and well-priced - a true L-mount 'nifty fifty'

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 9 elements in 8 groups
Angle of view: 47 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.45m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.14x
Filter size: 67mm
Dimensions: 73.6x82mm
Weight: 300g

Reasons to buy

+
Autofocus speed
+
Weather resistance
+
Image quality

Reasons to avoid

-
Bokeh could be better
-
No integrated optical stabilization

This is the second 50mm prime that Panasonic has released for its L-mount cameras. But while the first (above) was a heavy and bulky f/1.4 offering, this f/1.8 lens is less than one third the weight - at just 300g - and it's significantly more compact. You still get a tasty 9-element optical stack including 3 aspherical elements, 1 extra-low dispersion element and an ultra-high refractive lens. As with Panasonic's other recent f/1.8 L-mount primes, this 50mm features a dust, splash and freeze-resistant design for all-weather usage, while a 9-blade rounded diaphragm promises smooth bokeh in defocused areas.

Read more: Panasonic LUMIX S 50mm f/1.8 review

(Image credit: Matthew Richards)
This lens ticks all the right boxes for a fast tele zoom

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 22 elements in 17 groups
Angle of view: 34 to 12 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.95m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.21x
Filter size: 82mm
Dimensions: 94x209mm
Weight: 1,570g

Reasons to buy

+
Dual-mode optical stabilizer
+
Customisable lens function buttons

Reasons to avoid

-
Relatively big and heavy
-
Corner-sharpness could be better

Panasonic’s range-topping 70-200mm zoom is about 50 per cent heavier and 50 per cent pricier than its excellent f/4 stablemate. As well as being an f/stop faster, the f/2.8 lens gains switchable static and panning optical stabilization modes and a set of three customisable function buttons, typically used for AF-hold. As usual for Panasonic PRO lenses, this one is Leica certified and has a tough splash/dust-proof construction. It comes complete with a removable tripod mounting collar, which has an Arca-Swiss compatible foot. Autofocus is rapid and virtually silent, and the absence of focus breathing is a bonus for video capture. Image quality is very good overall, with smooth bokeh and entirely negligible distortions or colour fringing. In our tests, however, the lens didn’t prove quite as sharp as the less expensive f/4 zoom.

Read more: Panasonic LUMIX S PRO 70-200mm f/2.8 OIS review

(Image credit: Panasonic)
The smart telephoto option for L-mount cameras

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 23 elements in 17 groups
Angle of view: 34 to 12 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.92m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.25x
Filter size: 77mm
Dimensions: 84x179mm
Weight: 985g

Reasons to buy

+
Autofocus is very fast and virtually silent
+
Removable Arca-Swiss tripod ring

Reasons to avoid

-
Unusual push-pull focus ring 
-
Quite pricey for a 70-200mm f/4 lens

This telephoto zoom weighs in at just under a kilogram and makes for well-balanced shooting with Panasonic S-series cameras. The combination is also perfectly balanced on a monopod or tripod, if you use the removable tripod mounting ring that’s supplied with the lens. The high-tech optical path delivers sumptuous image quality and the constant f/4 aperture rating enables a fairly tight depth of field, while the quality of bokeh is nice and smooth. Autofocus is super-fast and the built-in optical image stabilizer works in conjunction with the 5-axis, sensor-shift stabilizers of S-series bodies to deliver up to 6-stop performance. It’s quite pricey for a 70-200mm f/4 zoom but you definitely get what you pay for, and it’s only about two-thirds the weight of Panasonic’s pricier 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom.

(Image credit: Panasonic)

10. Panasonic LUMIX S 85mm f/1.8

A practical, well-priced portrait prime

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 9 elements in 8 groups
Angle of view: 29 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.8m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.13x
Filter size: 67mm
Dimensions: 73.6x82mm
Weight: 355g

Any interchangeable lens camera system needs a decent portrait prime in its ranks, and Panasonic's Lumix S 85mm F1.8 makes a strong case for itself. While its f/1.8 maximum aperture won't get your backgrounds quite as blurred as an f/1.4 or faster optic, the slightly smaller aperture helps keep the lens itself refreshingly small for a portrait lens, at just 73.6mm long and 355g in weight. You'll also get a better in-focus hit rate shooting at f/1.8 than f/1.4 or f/1.2. The dust and splash-resistant design means you needn't worry when shooting in inclement weather, while smooth aperture changes are good news for smooth transitions in video.

Best Sigma L-mount lenses

(Image credit: Future)
A super-wide zoom with superb performance

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 18 elements in 13 groups
Angle of view: 114-84 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.28m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.14x
Filter size: Gel (rear)
Dimensions: 85x131mm
Weight: 795g

Reasons to buy

+
Huge 114-degree maximum viewing angle
+
Superb sharpness and contrast

Reasons to avoid

-
Some barrel distortion if uncorrected
-
No front filter thread

With a noticeably larger maximum viewing angle than Panasonic’s 16-35mm f/4 ultra-wide-angle zoom, this Sigma lens also has a faster f/2.8 aperture rating. Build quality is excellent, from the brass mounting plate to the built-in hood, with plentiful weather-seals along the way. Three aspherical elements, one ‘Fluorite’ Low Dispersion element and no less than five Special Low Dispersion elements combine to deliver spectacular image quality, while the combination of conventional and nano-structure coatings keep ghosting and flare to an absolute minimum. Unlike in Sigma’s 14-24mm DG HSM Art lens for SLRs, there’s some noticeable barrel distortion at the short end of the zoom range, but in-camera or software corrections can take care of it.

Read more: Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN | A review

(Image credit: Future)
This Sigma beat Panasonic’s 85mm prime to the market

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 15 elements in 11 groups
Angle of view: 29 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.85m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.12x
Filter size: 77mm
Dimensions: 83x94mm
Weight: 630g

Reasons to buy

+
Fabulous image quality
+
Solid construction

Reasons to avoid

-
Vignetting is noticeable at wide apertures
-
Pincushion distortion if left uncorrected

Unlike the Sigma 35mm and 50mm ‘DG HSM’ Art lenses featured in this buying guide, the 85mm prime was designed exclusively for mirrorless cameras, rather than being adapted from DSLR optics. At the time of writing, Panasonic was just unveiling its LUMIX S 85mm f/1.8 lens, but the Sigma had already been on sale for three months, and is two-thirds of an f/stop faster. Ideal for portraiture, the Sigma delivers superb sharpness and contrast, along with beautiful bokeh. The quality of bokeh remains excellent when stopping down a little, thanks to a very well-rounded 11-blade diaphragm. Quality glass includes five SLD (Special Low Dispersion) elements, four HRI (High Refractive Index) elements and one aspherical element. Build quality is excellent with comprehensive weather-seals and a fluorine coating on the front element. A customizable Autofocus hold button is featured, along with a de-click switch for stepless aperture control, ideal for movie capture.

Read more: Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN Art review

(Image credit: Future)
A standard zoom that lives up to its ‘Art’ billing

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 19 elements in 15 groups
Angle of view: 84 to 34 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.18m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.34x
Filter size: 82mm
Dimensions: 88x123mm
Weight: 835g

Reasons to buy

+
Top-grade optical path
+
Super-fast, silent autofocus

Reasons to avoid

-
Feels big and heavy
-
Distortion and vignetting if uncorrected

Sigma’s 24-70mm f/2.8 Art lens for Canon and Nikon full-frame DSLRs has made quite a name for itself. Following in its footsteps, the ‘DN’ edition is a completely new lens for mirrorless cameras, so far available in Sony FE as well as Leica L-mount options. High-grade optics include no less than six FLD (‘Fluorite’ Low Dispersion) and two SLD (Special Low Dispersion) elements. Top-notch construction includes comprehensive weather-seals and a super-fast, essentially silent stepping motor autofocus system. Barrel distortion at 24mm and vignetting at f/2.8 are rather noticeable when uncorrected in-camera but overall handling, performance and image quality are excellent, and it’s ultra-sharp. At half the price of Panasonic’s 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, the Sigma is a steal at the price.

Read more: Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 AF DG DN | A review

(Image credit: Matthew Richards)
Typically compact but big on quality

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 13 Elements in 11 Groups
Angle of view: 95.5 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.22m
Filter size: 62mm
Dimensions: 70x72mm
Weight: 370g

Reasons to buy

+
Compact but sturdy
+
Metal barrel, hood and cap
+
Aperture control ring

Reasons to avoid

-
No aperture ‘de-click’ facility
-
Noticeable distortion if uncorrected
-
No focus distance scale

The Sigma 20mm F2 DG DN | C joins a growing range of fairly fast primes for Sony E-mount and Leica L-mount cameras in Sigma’s I-series range, which includes the 35mm F2 DG DN | C and 65mm F2 DG DN | C. There are also 24mm F2 and 45mm F2.8 options in the line-up. The look and feel are virtually identical in each case, with the same ‘Contemporary’ design ethos seeking to deliver excellent performance from a compact and lightweight build.

Like other lenses in Sigma’s I-series Contemporary line-up, the 20mm has impressive build quality based on a coated brass mounting plate, a metal barrel and even a metal lens hood and lens cap, the latter of which is magnetic. A more regular plastic lens cap is also supplied in the box. The construction features multiple weather-seals and is dust- and moisture-resistant, it combines intuitive handling with fast autofocus and impressive image quality, making it an ideal ultra-wide-angle lens for architectural interiors, sweeping landscapes, astrophotography and more besides.

Read more: Sigma 20mm F2 DG DN | C review

(Image credit: Hannah Rooke/Digital Camera World)
A compact, lightweight and affordable lens with a fast constant aperture

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 16 elements in 12 groups
Angle of view: 74 to 34 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.19m
Filter size: 58mm
Dimensions: 72x101mm
Weight: 470g

Reasons to buy

+
f/2.8 maximum aperture
+
Good value for a fast standard zoom
+
Lightweight

Reasons to avoid

-
Not fully weather sealed
-
Missing 4mm from wide-angle
-
Corners not so sharp

Sigma’s 24-70mm f/2.8 Art lens for Canon and Nikon full-frame DSLRs has made quite a name for itself. Following in its footsteps, the ‘DN’ edition is a completely new lens for mirrorless cameras, so far available in Sony FE as well as Leica L-mount options. High-grade optics include no less than six FLD (‘Fluorite’ Low Dispersion) and two SLD (Special Low Dispersion) elements. Top-notch construction includes comprehensive weather-seals and a super-fast, essentially silent stepping motor autofocus system. Barrel distortion at 24mm and vignetting at f/2.8 are rather noticeable when uncorrected in-camera but overall handling, performance and image quality are excellent, and it’s ultra-sharp. At half the price of Panasonic’s 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, the Sigma is a steal at the price.

Read more: Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 AF DG DN | A review

(Image credit: Future)
A ‘standard’ prime of above-standard quality

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 13 elements in 8 groups
Angle of view: 47 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.4m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.18x
Filter size: 77mm
Dimensions: 85x100mm
Weight: 815g

Reasons to buy

+
Better than most competing DSLR lenses
+
Good build quality and handling

Reasons to avoid

-
No weather-seals
-
Fairly big and heavy

We always used to think that this Sigma Art lens was massively big and heavy for a 50mm f/1.4 prime, but that’s before Panasonic’s competitor came along. As it stands, the Sigma is noticeably smaller and lighter than the Panasonic, and isn’t much more than a quarter of the price in the UK, although it’s not such outstanding value in the USA, where it’s closer to half the price of the Panasonic. Like the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 Art lens, the 50mm was originally designed for DSLRs and has been adapted for L-mount cameras. The optical path and ring-type autofocus system are largely unchanged and, also like the Sigma 35mm Art lens, there are no weather-seals. Even so, build quality is very good and the lens certainly delivers in terms of image quality, making it a great buy in the UK.

Read more: Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM | A review

(Image credit: Future)
Sigma’s popular 100-400mm lightweight zoom, re-engineered

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 22 elements in 16 groups
Angle of view: 24 to 6 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 1.1m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.24x
Filter size: 67mm
Dimensions: 86x197mm
Weight: 1,135g

Reasons to buy

+
Powerful telephoto zoom range
+
Relatively compact and lightweight

Reasons to avoid

-
Narrow aperture at long zoom settings
-
Pricier than older DSLR version

Nicknamed the ‘light bazooka’, Sigma launched a relatively compact and lightweight 100-400mm zoom for Canon and Nikon DSLRs back in 2017. Three years down the line, this new ‘DN’ edition is now available for Leica L and Sony E mount mirrorless cameras. The optical path is upgraded and includes a top-notch FLD (‘Fluorite’ Low Dispersion) element, in addition to four SLD (Special Low Dispersion) elements. Other enhancements include a customizable Focus-lock button and a TS-111 tripod mounting ring, which is available as an optional extra (£139/$130). We’ve found the new DN lens to be sharper than the original design, throughout the entire zoom range. Overall, it’s an excellent performer at a very attractive price.

Read more: Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS | C review

(Image credit: Sigma)

18. Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG DN | A

A wide lens in more ways than one

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 17 elements in 12 groups
Angle of view: 63 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.3m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.19x
Filter size: 82mm
Dimensions: 88x136mm
Weight: 1,090g

Reasons to buy

+
Super-fast f/1.2 aperture rating
+
Comprehensive weather-seals

Reasons to avoid

-
About twice the price of Sigma’s f/1.4 lens
-
Fairly big and weighty

A real rarity, this is a 35mm wide-angle lens with an ultra-wide f/1.2 aperture rating. As you’d expect, the ability to pull in all that extra light comes at a cost, the design featuring extra-large front elements which add to the size and weight of the lens, as well as to the construction cost. Build quality is very good, with a comprehensive set of weather-seals and a fluorine coating on the front element. Handling benefits from a customisable function button (nominally used for autofocus lock), and an aperture ring with a Click on/off switch that enables stepless control, ideal for movie capture. Bokeh is superb for a 35mm lens, further enhanced when stopping down a little by a well-rounded 11-blade diaphragm.

(Image credit: Sigma)
Great for telephoto shooting as well as for macro work

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 12 elements in 7 groups
Angle of view: 23 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.3m
Maximum magnification ratio: 1.0x
Filter size: 62mm
Dimensions: 74x134mm
Weight: 715g

Reasons to buy

+
Superb handling characteristics
+
Excellent image quality

Reasons to avoid

-
Being a macro lens, only f/2.8

We’ve long been fans of Sigma’s 105mm f/2.8 macro prime for DSLRs, which is one of the company’s few lenses that’s still on sale despite predating the Global Vision line-up. This new lens for mirrorless cameras is a completely different and more sophisticated affair. It has Sigma’s usual L-mount trappings including a customisable autofocus hold button and de-click facility for the aperture ring, while also adding a focus range limiter that can lock out the long or short section of the overall autofocus range. Unlike the older DSLR lens, the ‘DG DN’ boasts weather-seals and a fluorine coating on the front element. It’s also compatible with Sigma’s new L-mount 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters, which boost the maximum 1.0x macro magnification to 1.4x or 2.0x respectively.

Best Leica L-mount lenses

(Image credit: Leica)

20. Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-90mm f/2.8-4 ASPH

A standard zoom that stretches further than most

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 18 elements in 15 groups
Angle of view: 92 to 28 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.3m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.26x
Filter size: 82mm
Dimensions: 88x138mm
Weight: 1,140g

Reasons to buy

+
Big zoom range
+
Impeccable build quality

Reasons to avoid

-
Variable aperture rating
-
Fairly heavy and very expensive

Compared with typical 24-70mm f/2.8 pro-grade standard zooms, this Leica lens stretches further to 90mm, delivering a more portrait-friendly maximum focal length. The flipside is that it has a variable rather than constant aperture rating, narrowing to f/4 at the long end of the zoom range. Even so, you can still get a fairly tight depth of field, especially towards the closest focus distance of just 0.3m or one foot. Typical of Leica SL-series optics, the German build quality is immaculate and the construction certainly looks and feels the business in anodised black. Four aspherical elements are employed in the optical path, along with 11 anomalous partial dispersion glass elements and Leica’s water-repellent AquaDura coating on the front and rear elements. As you’d expect, the lens is weather-sealed and it also features a 3.5-stop optical stabilizer. All in all, it’s a great lens but, then again, it really should be for this sort of money.

(Image credit: Leica)

21. Leica APO-Summicron-SL 35mm f/2 ASPH

One of four Summicron primes in Leica’s line-up

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 13 elements in 11 groups
Angle of view: 63 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.27m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.2x
Filter size: 67mm
Dimensions: 73x102mm
Weight: 750g

Reasons to buy

+
Fast, near-silent autofocus
+
Excellent image quality

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the fastest aperture, at f/2
-
Quite weighty for a 35mm f/2 lens

Leica currently markets four Summicron-SL prime lenses with 35mm, 50mm, 75mm and 90mm focal lengths, all of which have an f/2 aperture rating. For many, the natural perspective of the 35mm lens will make it the most appealing in the line-up, and there’s certainly a lot to like. As with its siblings, this lens has an exceptionally well finished black anodised metal barrel which is sturdy, robust and fully weather-sealed. However, it’s typically heavy, weighing more than Sigma’s 35mm f/1.4 lens which is a full f/stop faster. Further usual Summicron attractions include a Dual Syncro Drive autofocus system which is very fast and virtually silent. Manual focusing is a real pleasure too, based on magnetic attraction which senses the angle of rotation and rotational speed of the focus ring to drive the internal electronics. Image quality is sublime but depth of field isn’t as tight as with a competing f/1.4 lens.

(Image credit: Leica)
A standard prime at a very non-standard price

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 11 elements in 9 groups
Angle of view: 48 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.6m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.1x
Filter size: 82mm
Dimensions: 88x124mm
Weight: 1,065g

Reasons to buy

+
Fast f/1.4 aperture rating
+
Superb quality and performance

Reasons to avoid

-
Relatively large and heavy
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Very expensive to buy

Considering that this 50mm f/1.4 prime lens costs as much as many photographers would spend on an entire full-frame camera outfit, it should be something pretty special. A full f/stop faster than Leica’s Summicron 50mm f/2 lens, the Summilux lets in more light and delivers a tighter depth of field. Sharpness and contrast are spectacular, even when shooting wide-open, while spherical and chromatic aberrations are minimised by the use of two aspherical elements and four anomalous partial dispersion elements. The lens is weather-sealed and built to the highest standards, as you’d expect at this sort of price. See our full Leica Summilux-SL 50mm f/1.4 ASPH lens review.

(Image credit: Leica)

23. Leica APO-Summicron-SL 75mm f/2 ASPH

The second-longest of the Summicron primes

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 11 elements in 9 groups
Angle of view: 32 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.5m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.2x
Filter size: 67mm
Dimensions: 73x102mm
Weight: 720g

Reasons to buy

+
Portrait-friendly focal length
+
Fairly tight depth of field

Reasons to avoid

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Typically expensive
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An f/stop slower than 85mm f/1.4 lenses

This is the shorter of Leica’s two current Summicron f/2 telephoto primes, the other being a 90mm lens. Leica actually markets the 75mm as a ‘transitional lens’, bridging the gap between standard and telephoto focal lengths. As with other Summicron lenses, it has a Dual Syncro Drive autofocus system that’s super-fast and ultra-quiet, along with highly tactile and intuitive electromagnetic manual focusing. Again, it’s an apochromatic design that virtually eliminates chromatic aberrations, while multi-layer coatings are on hand to suppress ghosting and flare. Sharpness and contrast are up the typically excellent standard of Summicron lenses and the level of build quality is absolutely top-drawer.

(Image credit: Leica)

24. Leica APO Vario-Elmarit-SL 90-280mm f/2.8-4

The perfect telephoto companion to Leica’s 24-90mm standard zoom

Specifications

Mount: L-mount
Lens construction: 23 elements in 17 groups
Angle of view: 26 to 9 degrees
Minimum focus distance: 0.6m
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.21x
Filter size: 82mm
Dimensions: 88x238mm
Weight: 1,850g

Reasons to buy

+
Long telephoto reach
+
Superb build and image quality

Reasons to avoid

-
Massively expensive
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Heavy at nearly 2kg

Neatly picking up the baton from Leica’s 24-90mm, this telephoto zoom has a longer zoom range than the more usual 70-200mm fare and, as with Leica’s standard zoom, the aperture narrows from f/2.8 to f/4 at longer focal lengths. Even so, you can still get a fairly tight depth of field throughout the entire zoom range. The shortest focus distance is pretty impressive for such a long lens, at 0.6m or two feet. As you’d expect with such a heavyweight lens, it comes complete with a tripod mounting ring and, as you’d hope for in a long telephoto zoom, optical image stabilization is built-in, with 3.5-stop effectiveness. Fast and virtually silent autofocus is delivered by the Dual Syncro Drive system and image quality is fabulous in all respects. The only real sticking point is the exorbitant purchase price.


How we test lenses

We test lenses using both real world sample images and lab tests. Our lab tests are carried out scientifically in controlled conditions using the Imatest testing suite, which consists of custom charts and analysis software that measures resolution in line widths/picture height, a measurement widely used in lens and camera testing. We find the combination of lab and real-word testing works best, as each reveals different qualities and characteristics.

Sebastian Oakley
Ecommerce Editor

For nearly two decades Sebastian's work has been published internationally. Originally specializing in Equestrianism, his visuals have been used by the leading names in the equestrian industry such as The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), The Jockey Club, Horse & Hound, and many more for various advertising campaigns, books, and pre/post-event highlights.


He is a Fellow of The Royal Society of Arts, holds a Foundation Degree in Equitation Science, and is a Master of Arts in Publishing.  He is a member of Nikon NPS and has been a Nikon user since the film days using a Nikon F5 and saw the digital transition with Nikon's D series cameras and is still to this day the youngest member to be elected into BEWA, The British Equestrian Writers' Association. 


He is familiar with and shows great interest in street, medium, and large format photography with products by Leica, Phase One, Hasselblad, Alpa, and Sinar. Sebastian has also used many cinema cameras from the likes of Sony, RED, ARRI, and everything in between. He now spends his spare time using his trusted Leica M-E or Leica M2 shooting Street photography or general life as he sees it, usually in Black and White.