Compared: Leica 21/1.4 Summilux-M ASPH vs Leica 21/3.4 Super-Elmar-M ASPH (Cottonwood Canyon Marble)
Just published in my Guide to Leica is a second comparison of the Leica 21/1.4 Summilux-M ASPH vs the Leica 21/3.4 Super-Elmar-M ASPH.
I’m never happy doing just one comparison; it’s too risky in terms of making erroneous findings. This 2nd comparison confirms my conclusions of the first one, and I plan to publish at least one more (and I also examine the others I shot as well).
I generally choose the subject matter for its instructional value, designed to ferret out key differences. This rules out “magic” light or windy conditions, and a lot of subject matter which does not offer the proper arrangement for a good comparison.
The 21/3.4 SEM is half the cost of the 21/1.4 Summilux, so what do you get for your money? In part, my goal for these comparisons is to aid readers in deciding which 21mm lens is most appropriate for their needs. Given the very large cost difference, my readers interested in 21mm for Leica M should find the comparisons valuable.