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Leica M E Typ 220 Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£2,310
  • Avg. price in US: ~$3,150
  • Sensor size: full frame
  • Lens mount: Leica M
  • Main camera pixel size: 6.91 µm
  • Weight: 585 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): ?

Leica M E Typ 220 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

3.8

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

3.8

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
3.8

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

5.6

Sensor & Image

25.0%

1.9

Photo Features

18.0%

2.2

Video & Audio

14.0%

4.2

Display & Design

8.0%

8.5

Battery & Power

7.0%

1.9

Connectivity & Storage

Poor
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 6.1
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    9.7

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    6.1

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    ?

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 4.6
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    5.3

    Weight

    30.0%

    ?

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 3.3
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    1.0

    Price

    20.0%

    5.3

    Weight

    20.0%

    1.0

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    ?

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 7.4
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.1

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    9.7

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    10

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

  • 5.6
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.3

    Weight

    25.0%

    8.7

    Thickness

    20.0%

    ?

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 6.6
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.7

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    10

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    6.1

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 4.4
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.3

    Weight

    25.0%

    ?

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £2,310

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Leica M-E Typ 220 is a full-frame digital rangefinder featuring an 18-megapixel CCD sensor, renowned for producing vibrant, 'analog-like' colours that many CCD devotees prefer over modern CMOS alternatives. Released in 2012 as an entry-level model, it shares the core architecture of the M9 but strips away the USB port and frameline selector lever to offer a more streamlined, lightweight brass and magnesium body weighing 585g. Main characteristics include a minimalist manual-only focus system, an optical rangefinder viewfinder with 0.68x magnification, and a native ISO range of 80 to 2500. Its primary pros are its superior image quality at base ISOs, compact industrial design in anthracite grey, and compatibility with the extensive Leica M-mount lens library. However, it faces notable cons such as a slow 2.0 fps burst rate, the absence of live view or video recording, an outdated 2.5-inch 230k-dot rear LCD, and susceptibility to sensor corrosion in earlier batches.

Technical Specifications of Leica M E Typ 220

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

?

Sensor & Image

25.0%

?

Photo Features

18.0%

?

Video & Audio

14.0%

?

Display & Design

8.0%

?

Battery & Power

7.0%

?

Connectivity & Storage

3.8
Leica M E Typ 220 has a technical score of 3.84 points, which is lower than 90.6% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
1.0
Leica M E Typ 220 has a popularity of 1 points, which is higher than 0% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

3.8

Overall score

40.0%

1.0

Price

3.0
Leica M E Typ 220 has a quality-to-price ratio of 3 points, which is lower than 99.7% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

full frame
Leica M E Typ 220 uses a sensor classified as full frame; it is larger than the sensor in 83.7% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 14% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

18 MP
Leica M E Typ 220 has a main camera resolution of 18 MP, which is higher than that of 55.7% of cameras and equal to that of 1.8% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

6.91 µm
Leica M E Typ 220 has a main camera pixel size of 6.91 µm which is larger than in 97.7% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

160
Leica M E Typ 220 has a base ISO of 160 which is higher than that of 80.7% of cameras and equal to that of 4.1% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

2,500
Leica M E Typ 220 reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 2,500, which is lower than that of 85.6% of cameras and equal to that of 0.2% of cameras.
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Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Leica M
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

no
Leica M E Typ 220 does not have a built-in focus motor. 11% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

N/A
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

no
Leica M E Typ 220 does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.5% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Leica M E Typ 220 does not support AF tracking. 88.1% of cameras support this feature.
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Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

N/A
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

N/A
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

N/A
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

N/A
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Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

rangefinder
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

585 g
Leica M E Typ 220 weighs 585 g which is heavier than 72.5% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.1% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

139 mm
Leica M E Typ 220 has a width of 139 mm which is wider than 85.9% of cameras and equal to that of 1.8% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

80 mm
Leica M E Typ 220 has a height of 80 mm which is taller than 54.5% of cameras and equal to that of 2.4% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

37 mm
Leica M E Typ 220 has a thickness of 37 mm which is thinner than 64.5% of cameras and equal to that of 0.6% of cameras.
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Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

?
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

1,860 mAh
Leica M E Typ 220 has a battery capacity of 1,860 mAh which is larger than the batteries in 82.6% of cameras and equal to those in 2.6% of cameras.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Leica M E Typ 220 has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Leica M E Typ 220 does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

no
Leica M E Typ 220 does not support Wi-Fi. 47.9% of cameras include this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Leica M E Typ 220 does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Leica M E Typ 220 does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
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Leica M E Typ 220 vs the average camera

  • 3.57 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (6.9 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
    What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
    When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3.5 µm

    Leica M E Typ 220 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (6.9 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.6.91 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • Larger sensor
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a larger sensor than the average camera (full frame vs APS-C).
    What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: Full frame or larger

    Leica M E Typ 220 has a larger sensor than the average camera (full frame vs APS-C).full frame vs APS-C
  • 740 mAh larger battery capacity
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,860 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
    What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
    When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

    Leica M E Typ 220 has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,860 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.1860 mAh vs 1120 mAh
  • Better viewfinder type
    Leica M E Typ 220 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).
    Optical rangefinder viewfinder.
    What it is: The type of viewfinder the camera uses to frame the shot, such as optical, electronic, hybrid, or none.
    When it matters: When you strongly prefer the clarity of an optical finder, the preview benefits of an electronic one, or no viewfinder at all.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Leica M E Typ 220 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).optical vs none
  • 210 s longer maximum exposure
    Leica M E Typ 220 supports a longer maximum exposure than the average camera (240 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
    What it is: The longest exposure time the camera can set, useful for night photography and intentional motion blur.
    When it matters: When you shoot night scenes, light trails, or creative long-exposure images without external accessories.

    Importance: LOW

    Leica M E Typ 220 supports a longer maximum exposure than the average camera (240 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.240 vs 30
  • 1.8 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (18 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
    What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
    When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 20 MP

    Leica M E Typ 220 has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (18 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.18 MP vs 16.2 MP
  • Better viewfinder type
    Leica M E Typ 220 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).
  • 3.57 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (6.9 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • Larger sensor
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a larger sensor than the average camera (full frame vs APS-C).
  • 1.8 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (18 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • 210 s longer maximum exposure
    Leica M E Typ 220 supports a longer maximum exposure than the average camera (240 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
  • 740 mAh larger battery capacity
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,860 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.

Total
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Battery & Power
  • 0.5 in smaller screen
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.5 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.
  • 48.1% heavier
    Leica M E Typ 220 is heavier than the average camera (585 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • No flash
    Leica M E Typ 220 does not have a built-in flash, the average camera does. 73.4% of cameras have a flash.
  • 12.8% lower magnification
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a lower viewfinder magnification than the average camera (0.7x vs 0.78x). The average camera has a viewfinder magnification of 0.78x.
  • 19.1 mm wider
    Leica M E Typ 220 is wider than the average camera (139 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Leica M E Typ 220 does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • 22,800 lower expanded ISO
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (2,500 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.
  • 3,900 lower max ISO
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a lower max ISO than the average camera (2,500 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • Lower DxOMark landscape score
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a lower DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (11.7 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.
  • 4 points lower DxOMark sensor score
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a lower DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (69 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.
  • 1 older
    Leica M E Typ 220 is older than the average camera (2012 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
    September 2012
  • Lower DxOMark portrait score
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a lower DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (22.7 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.
  • 55 points lower DxOMark Sports score
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a lower DxOMark sports score than the average camera (787 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
  • No AF tracking
    Leica M E Typ 220 does not support AF tracking, the average camera does. 88% of cameras support it.
  • 3.7 fps slower mechanical burst
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (2 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • 2 fewer microphones
    Leica M E Typ 220 has fewer microphones than the average camera (0 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
  • No continuous video AF
    Leica M E Typ 220 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
    no video recording
  • No HDMI output
    Leica M E Typ 220 does not support HDMI output, the average camera does. 78.7% of cameras support HDMI output.
  • No AF tracking
    Leica M E Typ 220 does not support AF tracking, the average camera does. 88% of cameras support it.
    What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
    When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Leica M E Typ 220 does not support AF tracking, the average camera does. 88% of cameras support it.
  • 0.5 in smaller screen
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.5 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.
    What it is: The physical diagonal measurement of the display area, usually expressed in inches.
    When it matters: When you want a larger display for reviewing shots, using menus, or shooting from awkward angles.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 3 in

    Leica M E Typ 220 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.5 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.2.5 in vs 3 in
  • 2 fewer microphones
    Leica M E Typ 220 has fewer microphones than the average camera (0 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
    What it is: The number of built-in microphones used to capture audio while recording video.
    When it matters: More built-in microphones can capture broader, clearer sound when you record without an external microphone.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: At least 2 microphones

    Leica M E Typ 220 has fewer microphones than the average camera (0 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.0 vs 2
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Leica M E Typ 220 does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
    What it is: High Dynamic Range mode for photos, which combines multiple exposures to retain detail in both shadows and highlights.
    When it matters: When you take photos in high-contrast scenes, like a bright sky against a dark landscape.

    Importance: LOW

    Leica M E Typ 220 does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • 3.7 fps slower mechanical burst
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (2 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
    What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
    When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 10 fps

    Leica M E Typ 220 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (2 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.2 fps vs 5.7 fps
  • No continuous video AF
    Leica M E Typ 220 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
    no video recording
    What it is: The ability of the camera to keep adjusting focus automatically while video recording is in progress.
    When it matters: When you film while subjects or camera distance keep changing and manual refocusing is impractical.

    Importance: LOW

    Leica M E Typ 220 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
  • 22,800 lower expanded ISO
    Leica M E Typ 220 has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (2,500 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.
    What it is: The highest extended ISO setting available beyond the standard sensitivity range of the sensor.
    When it matters: When you shoot in very dark conditions and want the option to push sensitivity beyond the normal ISO range.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Leica M E Typ 220 has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (2,500 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.2,500 vs 25,300
  • 48.1% heavier
    Leica M E Typ 220 is heavier than the average camera (585 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
    When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: 500 g or less

    Leica M E Typ 220 is heavier than the average camera (585 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.585 g vs 395 g
Total
Overall
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Video & Audio
Connectivity & Storage

Graphic comparison of Leica M E Typ 220 and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Leica M E Typ 220?

  • Vibrant, film-like color rendering from the Kodak CCD sensor
  • Exceptional build quality with a solid brass and magnesium body
  • Bright and accurate optical rangefinder for manual focusing
  • Simplified, distraction-free interface focused on photography essentials
  • Compact and lightweight for a full-frame digital M camera
  • Cheapest entry point into the digital Leica M system (second-hand)

What customers dislike about Leica M E Typ 220?

  • High risk of CCD sensor corrosion (requires expensive replacement if not done)
  • Poor ISO performance above 800, leading to significant digital noise
  • Outdated, low-resolution 2.5-inch LCD screen makes checking focus difficult
  • Slow operation including long start-up times and sluggish image buffering
  • Lacks modern features like Live View, video recording, and Wi-Fi
  • Requires removing the bottom plate to access the battery or SD card

Expert reviews

D
dxomark.com
06/03/2013
Leica M9, M9-P and M-E Type 220 review – Ahead of the new Leica M DxOMark

The Leica M9, M9-P, and M-E Type 220 rangefinder cameras share a distinguished history rooted in high-quality engineering, premium portable construction, and simplified, tactile manual controls that make them iconic tools for discreet street photography and photojournalism. According to DxOMark's sensor testing, these cameras utilize an identical 18-Megapixel CCD sensor that yields...Read more

U
uk.pcmag.com
13/08/2013
Leica M-E (Typ 220) Review - PCMag UK

The Leica M-E (Typ 220) is a simplified, lower-cost digital rangefinder that serves as an entry point into Leica’s digital ecosystem, packing the exact same 18-megapixel full-frame CCD image sensor found in the older M9-P. Built on a durable magnesium chassis with a brass top plate, this manual-focus-only camera delivers exceptional image quality and excellent low-ISO performance...Read more

P
pcmag.com
15/08/2013
Leica M-E (Typ 220) Review - PCMag

The Leica M-E (Typ 220), identified as the company's least expensive digital rangefinder, features a full-frame CCD sensor delivering exceptional image quality, a compact form factor, and a bright optical viewfinder. Key advantages include a rapid 0.7-second startup time, excellent noise control up to ISO 2500, and included Adobe Lightroom software. However, the camera suffers from...Read more

U
uk.pcmag.com
16/05/2014
Leica M-E (Typ 220)

The Leica M-E (Typ 220) serves as Leica's entry-level digital rangefinder, effectively repackaging the core internal architecture of the Leica M9-P into a slightly stripped-down, lower-priced body. It is built around the same 18-megapixel full-frame CCD image sensor, packing superb image quality and an elegant, premium construction consisting of a magnesium chassis and a brass top...Read more

I
itsalwaysluck.wordpress.com
12/01/2017
“Street” camera review: Leica M-E (or M9) - It's always luck

Leica M-E (Typ 220) The Leica M-E (Typ 220) serves as an "entry-level" digital rangefinder that mirrors the Leica M9 by utilizing the same 18-megapixel CCD sensor, providing an analog-like shooting experience without the hassle of film processing. The reviewer pairs the anthracite grey camera body with a budget-friendly Voigtlander Color-Skopar 35mm f/2.5 lens. Operating the camera...Read more

R
roter-punkt-kamera.de
14/09/2025
Leica M-E Review 2026: Since 2012

The Roter Punkt Kamera review characterizes the Leica M-E (Typ 220) as a stripped-down, minimalist version of the classic Leica M9. Released in September 2012 for approximately €4,800, it was positioned as a budget-friendly option that was €600 cheaper than the flagship M9. The reviewer notes that the underlying technology is practically identical to the M9, presenting an elegant...Read more

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F
fototouren-berlin.de
25. Oktober 2014
Leica M-E Review – All Specifications", "Leica M-E – photoscala

The Leica M-E (Typ 220) is a compact, 18-megapixel digital rangefinder camera heavily based on the Leica M9, serving as a slightly stripped-down, more affordable alternative within the iconic M-series. Encased in a robust, elegant anthrazit metal chassis weighing 585 grams, it prioritises essential photographic tools by stripping away modern features like a video mode or deep menu...Read more

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C
camerarace.com
23/07/2026
Leica M-E Typ 220 - Review and Technical Datasheet

The Leica M-E Typ 220 is a compact, 18-megapixel full-frame digital rangefinder praised by Camerarace for its portability and high-quality CCD sensor, making it effective for street and portrait photography. Its notable pros include excellent handling and a classic, durable build that is highly manageable for mobile photographers. Conversely, the review identifies significant cons,...Read more

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dxomark.fr
17/09/2012
Leica M-E Typ 220 sensor measurements and score

The Leica M-E Typ 220, launched in September 2012, received an overall sensor score of 69 from DXOMARK. While it performs similarly to older models utilizing the same 18-megapixel full-frame CCD sensor, it ranks significantly lower than modern competitors. For instance, it falls well behind contemporary cameras like the Leica SL2-S (score of 95), the Canon EOS R3 (score of 96), the...Read more

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C
camerarace.com
23/07/2026
Leica M-E Typ 220 - Revue et fiche technique Souhaitez-vous des précisions sur les performances du capteur CCD spécifique à ce modèle ?

The Camerarace review rates the Leica M-E Typ 220 at 46/100, highlighting its compact, lightweight design (585g) and decent 66/100 image quality score for portrait and landscape photography. Its fast shutter speed is also noted as an advantage for capturing action, despite the low overall rating. Camerarace Conversely, the camera lacks modern features, specifically wireless...Read more

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D
dxomark.fr
17/09/2012
Leica M-E Typ 220 - Specifications and Sensor Scores

The Leica M-E Typ 220 is a professional digital rangefinder camera launched in September 2012 as a streamlined, more affordable entry point into the digital M system. Tested by DXOMARK, the camera achieved an overall sensor score of 69 points, placing its image quality notably behind contemporary DSLRs and newer CMOS-based sensors. Built with a highly durable metal finish and brass...Read more

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C
camerarace.com
23/07/2026
Leica M-E Typ 220 - Review and technical specifications

The CameraRace review of the Leica M-E Typ 220 highlights the camera as a compact, traditional rangefinder offering excellent portability, weighing 585 grams with a,139 x 80 x 37 mm form factor, and a fast 1/4,000s shutter speed. However, the 46/100 rated camera is limited by a lack of weather-sealing, an outdated 2.5-inch 230k-dot display, and a complete absence of wireless...Read more

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