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Leica APO-Summicron-SL 28mm f/2 ASPH. Lens L Mount
The APO-Summicron-SL 28mm f/2 ASPH is the latest L mount series lens arriving as the first prime wide-angle lens from Leica. It boasts a bright aperture, excellent performance and fast reliable autofocus
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We Love
- Excellent stills and video capable wide angle prime lens with a bright f/2 aperture excels in low light
- Superb results from an advanced optical design which includes six aspherical lens elements
- Fast and reliable autofocus provided by Leica’s Dual Synchro Drive with two stepping motors
- Electronically controlled aperture provides quick adjustments and silent aperture changes when recording movies
- Universal lens sizing with common filter thread provides quick workflows and reduced number of accessories
Leica APO-Summicron-SL 28mm f/2 ASPH. Lens Summary
The APO-Summicron-SL 28mm f/2 ASPH. Lens in black anodised finish from Leica is the latest addition to a growing number of high quality full frame L mount lens options. This wide angle prime boasts a fast, bright f/2 aperture along with quick and accurate autofocus from two stepping motors, making it ideal for a broad range of subjects particularly during low light. These might include landscapes, wider portraits, street photography, architecture and any subjects where a low distortion wide angle are of benefit.
Features at a glance
- Leica Dual Synchro Drive delivers high speed autofocus
- Extremely compelling results from 13 lens elements arranged in 10 groups
- Electronically controlled aperture ideal for movie making
- Universal dimensions and 67mm filter size as with all APO-Summicron-SL lenses
- Excellent optical performance from six aspherical elements
The 28mm delivers edge to edge sharpness through Leica’s advanced optical design without overly distorting perspectives. Users can benefit from numerous creative possibilities thanks to a close focal distance of just 24cm combined with the bright aperture. This lends itself to creative compositions when shooting either stills images or videos further broadening the appeal of this model.
Leica APO-Summicron-SL 28mm F/2 ASPH. Lens Black Anodised for L Mount In Detail
AF System With Dual Syncro Drive
The Summicron-SL lenses AF system is fast, precise, and almost silent. Outstanding AF performance is down to the autofocus drive unit they share. These are limited only by the mass of the lens elements moved when focusing, the travel from infinity to the closest focusing distance and, of course, the amount of space available. In order to preserve the compact dimensions of the lenses, the integration of these components must follow an integral approach.
Specialists from the areas of optical and mechanical engineering and electronics worked together in an interdisciplinary team on the development of a unique lens concept based on double internal focusing. This system, comprising two particularly light focusing lenses, allows the construction of particularly small and compact drive systems. In addition to space limitations, the choice of the drive motors is also determined by the AF principle used for focusing.
Several contrast measurements at various focusing positions must be made before the correct direction of motion for focusing can be determined and followed by precise focusing. In this procedure, the focusing lenses must be moved rapidly backwards and forwards in accordance with the speed specifications of the contrast AF system. This requires a dynamic drive system without any play.
In the Summicron-SL lenses, the drive units installed are extremely powerful and robust stepping motors with Dual Syncro Drive™. Thanks to these, the entire focusing throw can be traveled completely in fractions of a second. This means that the Summicron-SL lenses achieve values that are among the best in the full-frame system segment in terms of speed, precision, and noise emissions.
Higher Contrast for greater perceived depth
With an initial aperture of f/2, the SL-Summicron lenses are significantly more compact than faster lenses, but still allow photographers to work with similar depth of field. The reason for this is contrast: the zone of highest contrast is perceived by viewers as being sharp, while zones with lower contrast are regarded as being unsharp.
In the case of SL-Summicron lenses, this difference in contrast is considerably higher than that of conventional lenses: sharply focused objects show much higher contrast than objects that are out of focus. This means that objects “snap” more distinctly out of the foreground or background and more effectively isolate the subject. This creates a three-dimensional visual effect with very impressive apparent depth.
A new standard
In the construction of the Summicron-SL lenses, particular attention has been paid to the prevention of stray light and reflections. The optimisation of the optical and mechanical design was carried out in elaborate simulations before the construction of the first prototype lenses. Unavoidable reflections are reduced to the best possible level by high-quality coating of lens surfaces.
Complex Electronics for uncomplicated handling
The focusing and aperture setting functions of the Leica APO-Summicron-SL 28mm F/2 ASPH. Lens Black Anodised is based on a multitude of control systems and mathematical operations. The demands on the electronics are particularly high in the case of the double focusing system.
The two autonomous focusing units must be moved in perfect synchronization and positioning data have to be analysed at a very high sampling rate and passed on to the camera. Here, the communication with the camera is so fast that there is no perceptible delay. These are the primary preconditions for fast and precise contrast AF.
The aperture is driven by a stepping motor. Here, a special micro-step control system ensures precise and fast movements with minimised vibration.
A new experience
As with other lenses in the range, the Leica APO-Summicron-SL 28mm F/2 ASPH. Lens Black Anodised features a totally new manual focusing ring construction concept. In this concept, a ring magnet with alternating north-south magnetisation is embedded in the manual focusing ring. The magnetic field changes its polarity when the ring is turned. A sensor monitors the status of the magnetic field and sends the data to the main processor. The drive then shifts the lens to the corresponding focusing position on the basis of the angle of rotation and the rotational speed.
The construction of the MF-ring guarantees reliable sealing against dust and water spray, provides protection against impacts and other mechanical stresses, and prevents focusing inaccuracies as a consequence of temperature fluctuations. Even after years of use, the MF-ring of a SL-Summicron lens impresses with a smooth action without play and homogeneous focusing.
Down to the smallest detail
The consistently compact dimensions, low weight, and the excellent grip and feel of the SL-Summicron lenses are particularly impressive when shooting. Thanks to the almost identical design of the Summicron-SL lenses, feeling for the MF ring is unnecessary after switching lenses and the centre of gravity remains largely the same. This means that the camera always lies perfectly in the hand and makes working from a tripod much easier.
Constructional Details
What makes the APO-Summicron-SL 28 f/2 ASPH. so special is an optical system comprising of 13 lens elements produced with unique expertise and the latest manufacturing technology by Leica. Of these, three elements with six aspherical surfaces correct monochromatic aberration, while eight elements manufactured from specially formulated, high-quality glass types ensure chromatic correction throughout the entire focusing range.
Only the particular optical property of these glass types, known as anomalous partial dispersion, makes it possible to compensate for chromatic aberrations with such perfection. As a consequence of this, even highlights in images remain almost completely free of colour fringing.
What’s in the box
- APO-Summicron-SL 28 f/2 ASPH.
- Lens hood
- Lens caps
- Lens bag
Optional Accessories
- HOYA 67mm Ultra Pro UV filter - cuts UV rays whilst also protecting the front element
- Polar Pro 67mm 6-9 Stop VND Peter McKinnon Edition - One of the best variable neutral density filters for video and long exposures
- B+W 67MM XS-PRO Digital HTC Circular Polariser Kasemann MRC Nano - CPL filters at their finest
Leica APO-Summicron-SL 28mm f/2 ASPH. Lens Specification
View angle (diagonal/horizontal/vertical) | |
Full-frame (24 × 36 mm) | 75.4°/65.5°/46.4° |
Lens system | |
Number of lenses/assemblies | 13/10 |
Number of aspherical surfaces | 6 |
Position of the entrance pupil before the bayonet | 74.2 mm |
Focus range | 0.24 m to infinity |
Focusing | |
Setting | Choose automatic (Autofocus) or manual mode on the camera |
Smallest object field | Full-frame: 120 × 180 mm, M8: 319 × 478 mm |
Largest scale | 1:5.0 |
Aperture | |
Setting/Function | Electronically controlled aperture, setting on the camera, half or third values can also be set |
Smallest aperture | 22 |
Bayonet | Leica L bayonet fitting with contact strip |
Filter thread | E67 |
Lens hood | Screw-on (included in the scope of delivery) |
Dimensions | |
Length | approx. 102/133 mm (without/with lens hood) |
Diameter | approx. 73/105 mm (without/with lens hood) |
Weight | approx. 700/750 g (without/with lens hood) |
Offers: N/A |
Offer Category: N/A |
Offer Product Type: N/A |
Autofocus: Yes |
Aperture ring: N/A |
Constant Aperture: Yes |
Lens CIPA Image stabilization rating: N/A |
Colour: N/A |
Diameter (mm): 73 |
Length (mm): 102 |
Weight (g): 700 |
Distance scale: N/A |
DoF scale: N/A |
Elements: 13 |
Environmental Sealing: N/A |
Focus distance limiter: N/A |
Focal length: 28 mm |
Focus method: N/A |
Filter Thread: N/A |
Full time manual: N/A |
Groups: 10 |
Hood supplied: Yes |
Lens Image stabilization: N/A |
Lens mount: N/A |
Lens Materials: N/A |
Maximum focal length: 28 |
Maximum magnification: 0.2 |
Maximum aperture (number): 2 |
Maximum aperture (text): N/A |
Max Format size: N/A |
Minimum focal length: 28 |
Lens Minimum focus distance (m): 0.24 |
Minimum aperture (number): 22 |
Minimum aperture (text): N/A |
Motor type: N/A |
Number of diaphragm blades: N/A |
Power zoom: N/A |
Special elements / coatings: 6 aspherical elements |
Tripod collar: N/A |
Lens type: N/A |
Wide/Tele: N/A |
Lens Level: N/A |
Best For: N/A |
Best For Holiday and Landscape: Yes |
Best For Interior and Architecture: N/A |
Best For Fashion and Portrait: N/A |
Best For Macro and Still Life: Yes |
Best For Astro: N/A |
Best For Street: Yes |
Best For Wildlife and Sport: N/A |
Zoom lock: N/A |
Zoom method: N/A |
Notes: N/A |
Thinking of choosing finance?
Finance is a great way to spread the cost of your purchase. To make it easy we have teamed up with Omni, one of the UK’s leading finance specialists, so that you can apply for and complete a loan application quickly, easily and informatively.
Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd which is a credit provider/ lender regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority whose finance options are best suited for you and your purchase.
Simply add the items you love to your basket. Once you are at the checkout select the finance option that suits you and choose Omni. The quick application form is simple and should take no more than a couple of minutes to complete and you will receive a decision instantly. Easy!
Use our finance calculator to check the impact of various loan values, terms and interest rates on the total amount you need to pay and the monthly repayments.
Representative example:
Buy Now Pay 2025, a 36-month loan following a 3-month deferral period. Buy a £1,500.00 camera and pay a 10% deposit of £150, Total Amount of Credit £1350. 1st payment deferred for 3 months – rest of balance can be paid off in this period with no interest, however a £29 early settlement fee is payable. 36 monthly repayments, with a first payment of £48.87 followed by 35 monthly repayments of £48.51. The total amount payable will be £1746.72 16.9% APR Representative
Buy Now Pay 2025 | Finance available See options |
Buy Now Pay 2025
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Check your eligibility
To be considered for finance, you will need to meet all of the following criteria:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Are in regular full or part-time employment (minimum 1 hour per week or £10,000 income per annum), unless you are retired and receiving a private or company pension, or you are in receipt of disability living allowance
- Are a permanent UK resident and have lived in the UK for at least 3 years
- Have a UK bank account capable of accepting Direct Debits
- Have a good credit history with no late payments, Debt Relief Orders, County Court Judgments or bankruptcies.
Please note that, due to calculations, your monthly repayment may differ very slightly from what you were expecting. Please check your monthly repayment figure before proceeding
Missed or late payments will result in fees and additional interest on your loan and can also affect your credit file and your ability to obtain credit in the future.
Credit is subject to status, UK only, 18+
Park Cameras Limited is a credit broker, not a lender and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 680161). We do not charge you for credit broking services. We will introduce you exclusively to finance products provided by Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd.
Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd which is a credit provider/ lender regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Firm Reference Number: 720279. For more information please go to www.omnicapitalretailfinance.co.uk/contact/customer or visit www.omnicapitalretailfinance.co.uk.
Find out more about paying with finance here and Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd terms here
Our Verdict
The APO-Summicron-SL 28mm is the first true wide angle prime in Leica’s full frame L mount series of lenses. The classic 28mm focal width provides universal appeal supporting photographers and videographers capturing a broad range of subjects. This lens is all about speed with the inclusion of Leica’s dual stepping motor, known as the Dual Synchro Drive, which can acquire and track subjects extremely quickly. This makes the 28mm SL lens ideal for those shooting portraits or street images where fast autofocus is an advantage. The speed theme continues with a bright and electronically controlled aperture. This presents a benefit to movie makers and photographers with the ability to adjust exposure quickly and silently on the fly.
Leica lenses for any camera system are praised for delivering extremely high quality results and this model is definitely set to continue this trend. No less than six aspherical optics are included in a complex design which heralds 13 elements arranged into 10 groups. Results match even the highest resolution mirrorless L mount bodies such as the 47MP SL2 camera. Further benefits include a universal lens sizing and common 67mm filter thread, which provides a seamless workflow with cross compatible lens accessories. Whichever camera users might employ with this optic they will be hard pushed to find a more compelling wide angle prime lens than this model.
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Condition guide
Our used products are subject to wear and tear in comparison to brand new products. This also applies to accessories that are supplied with the camera including batteries which may have a lower optimum performance level/life expectancy.
- Like New – The equipment is in a condition as if you have just bought it from the manufacturer. The item is still considered to be ‘Like New’ even without the original packaging and accessories. The product has been fully tested and is in perfect working order. Lenses are optically clear. There may be light dust present that will not effect the imagery.
- Excellent – The equipment should be close to being ‘Like New’ but there may be some small cosmetic blemishes that lower its grade. The product has been fully tested and is in perfect excellent order.
- Cameras – Should have no marks on the LCD screen
- Lenses – Should have no marks on the elements and optically clear. There may be light dust present that will not effect the imagery.
- Very Good – The equipment may have some slight cosmetic wear to the paintwork and cosmetic blemishes with only light signs of use and the product has been fully tested and is in great working order.
- Cameras – The LCD screen may have small signs of wear that does not affect its display
- Lenses – The mount of the lens will start to show signs of wear
- Good – The equipment is showing more obvious signs of cosmetic wear and blemishes, but the product has been fully tested and is in great working order.
- Cameras – LCD screen may have scratches or wear that is starting to affect the display.
- Lenses – May have slight dust inside that does not affect images. The mount shows signs of use.
- Well Used – The equipment will show significant signs of wear. The paintwork will be coming away in large areas exposing the metal work, but the product has been fully tested and is in great working order.
- Cameras – LCD screen is heavily worn either by de-lamination or has scratches to it. Rubber grips are starting to come away from the body.
- Lenses – The lens has dust inside that may affect images. The rubber zoom/focus ring is coming away from the barrel of the lens.
*All of our used items are listed with the accessories that are included. If they are not listed, then they will not be supplied at the point of purchase.
Peace of mind with our 6 month warranty
This product has been thoroughly tested by our team of photographers and we are happy to give a 6 month warranty as a result. The number of tests depends on the individual product but we are confident in this product having tested all the major functions. Anything that isn’t as you would expect, we then make a note of and show this in the condition notes on the page.
So you can be confident you are buying a great piece of kit that’s been looked after by a fellow photographer and seen many extraordinary sights, tested by our team of photographers and now looking forward to being set free to capture more great images!