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Shootout (Aerial): Leica 50/1.4 Summilux-M ASPH vs 50/0.95 Noctilux-M ASPH

This is one of several comparisons I shot comparing the 50 Summilux to the 50 Noctilux, all establishing the same conclusions as found on this page, and as cross-checks.

The results all reveal the same thing: the Summilux stands head and shoulders above the Noctilux in terms of contrast and sharpness at f/1.4 and f/2. At f/2.8 onwards, field curvature and tiny focus differences determine which lens performs better in any particular area of the frame.

See also the controlled comparison assessing blur and sharpness.

Neither lens is perfect, both have their weaknesses, but given the f/0.95 of the Noctilux, and the compact size of the 50 Summilux, the performance here surely ranks as world-class in context of those design goals.

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Diglloyd Guide to Leica is by yearly subscription. Subscribe now for about 25 cents a day ($90/year).
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Diglloyd Guide to LEICA contains in-depth coverage of Leica M system cameras and lenses, with additional coverage of Leica M Monochrom, Leica Q.

Special emphasis is placed on Leica M lenses and certain Zeiss ZM lenses.

  • Make better images by learning how to get the best results right away.
  • Save money by choosing the right lens for your needs the first time, particularly the Summilux/Summicron/Elmarit choice and/or Zeiss ZM.
  • Make better images, a sort of “cheat sheet” saving yourself months or years of ad-hoc learning. Processing parameters are discussed and shown.
  • Jaw-dropping image quality found nowhere else utilizing Retina-grade images up to full camera resolution, plus large crops [past 2 years or so].
  • Real world examples with insights found nowhere else. Make sharper images just by understanding lens behavior you won’t read about elsewhere.
  • Aperture series from wide open through stopped down, showing the full range of lens performance and bokeh.
  • Optical quality analysis of field curvature, focus shift, sharpness, flare, distortion, and performance in the field.

Want a preview? Click on any page below to see an excerpt as well as extensive blog coverage, for example on Leica.

Leica 50mm f/1.4 Summilux-M ASPH
Leica 50mm f/0.95 Noctilux-M ASPH
Test scene

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