Leica 24-70mm vs 28-90mm: A Full Comparison

Overview of the Leica 24-70mm Lens

The Leica 24-70mm lens is a popular choice for photographers seeking a versatile zoom lens that covers a wide range of focal lengths. It is often favored for its ability to handle various shooting situations, from landscapes to portraits. This lens is designed to deliver exceptional image quality and performance, making it a valuable addition to any Leica user’s kit.

Its zoom range allows for flexible framing and composition. The 24mm wide-angle end is suitable for capturing expansive scenes, while the 70mm telephoto end is ideal for isolating subjects and creating shallow depth of field. This adaptability makes it a practical choice for photographers who require a single lens solution for diverse photographic styles.

The Leica 24-70mm lens is built with high-quality optical elements to minimize aberrations and distortions. Its robust construction ensures durability and reliability, even in demanding shooting conditions. The lens is also designed to be compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and use for extended periods.

Overview of the Leica 28-90mm Lens

The Leica 28-90mm lens offers a slightly different zoom range, catering to photographers who prioritize a more compact and lightweight design. While it sacrifices some of the wide-angle coverage of the 24-70mm, it offers a longer telephoto reach, making it suitable for portraiture and capturing distant subjects. This lens is known for its sharpness and clarity, providing excellent image quality.

The 28-90mm range is particularly well-suited for street photography and documentary work. The 28mm focal length provides a natural perspective for capturing everyday scenes, while the 90mm end allows for tighter compositions and subject isolation. This lens is a great option for photographers who want a versatile zoom lens that is easy to carry and use in various environments.

The Leica 28-90mm lens is also built with high-quality optical elements to ensure excellent image quality. Its compact design makes it a discreet option for photographers who want to remain unobtrusive while shooting. The lens is designed to be easy to use and handle, making it a great choice for both amateur and professional photographers.

Key Differences: Focal Length and Zoom Range

The most apparent difference between the Leica 24-70mm and 28-90mm lenses lies in their focal length and zoom range. This difference directly impacts the types of shots each lens is best suited for. Understanding these variations is crucial for choosing the lens that aligns with your photographic style.

• Wide-Angle Coverage: The 24-70mm lens offers a wider angle of view at 24mm compared to the 28-90mm’s 28mm. This wider angle is advantageous for capturing expansive landscapes, architectural shots, and group photos.
• Telephoto Reach: The 28-90mm lens extends to 90mm, providing a longer telephoto reach than the 24-70mm’s 70mm. This longer reach is beneficial for portraiture, wildlife photography, and capturing distant subjects.
• Versatility: Both lenses offer versatile zoom ranges, but the 24-70mm provides slightly more flexibility for wide-angle shooting, while the 28-90mm excels in telephoto applications.

Consider your primary shooting scenarios when evaluating these differences. If you frequently shoot landscapes or require a wider field of view, the 24-70mm may be the better choice. If you prioritize portraiture or capturing distant subjects, the 28-90mm might be more suitable.

Image Quality and Performance

Image quality is a critical factor when choosing a lens, and both the Leica 24-70mm and 28-90mm lenses are known for their excellent optical performance. However, there are subtle differences in their image characteristics that may influence your decision.

• Sharpness: Both lenses deliver impressive sharpness across their zoom ranges. However, some users report that the 28-90mm lens exhibits slightly better sharpness at the telephoto end, particularly at 90mm.
• Distortion: Wide-angle lenses are prone to distortion, and the 24-70mm may exhibit slightly more distortion at 24mm compared to the 28-90mm at 28mm. However, this distortion can often be corrected in post-processing.
• Aberrations: Both lenses are designed to minimize chromatic aberrations, but some users have noted that the 24-70mm may exhibit slightly more fringing in high-contrast situations.
• Bokeh: The quality of the bokeh (the aesthetic quality of the blur in out-of-focus areas) can vary between the two lenses. The 28-90mm, with its longer telephoto reach, may produce slightly smoother and more pleasing bokeh for portraiture.

Ultimately, the image quality of both lenses is excellent, and the differences are often subtle. Consider your specific shooting style and the types of images you want to create when evaluating these factors.

Build Quality and Handling

Leica lenses are renowned for their exceptional build quality, and both the 24-70mm and 28-90mm lenses are no exception. However, there are differences in their size, weight, and handling characteristics that may impact your shooting experience.

• Size and Weight: The 24-70mm lens is generally larger and heavier than the 28-90mm lens. This difference in size and weight may be a factor for photographers who prioritize portability and comfort.
• Construction: Both lenses are built with high-quality materials and feature robust construction. They are designed to withstand the rigors of professional use and provide years of reliable performance.
• Handling: The 24-70mm lens may feel slightly more balanced on larger Leica cameras, while the 28-90mm lens may be more comfortable to use on smaller, more compact bodies.
• Zoom Ring and Focus Ring: The smoothness and precision of the zoom and focus rings are essential for comfortable and accurate shooting. Both lenses offer smooth and precise operation, but some users may prefer the feel of one over the other.

Consider your personal preferences and the type of camera you will be using when evaluating the build quality and handling of these lenses. If you value portability and comfort, the 28-90mm may be the better choice. If you prefer a more substantial and balanced feel, the 24-70mm may be more suitable.

Price and Value

The price of Leica lenses is a significant consideration for many photographers. Both the 24-70mm and 28-90mm lenses represent a substantial investment, and it’s essential to evaluate their value proposition carefully.

• Initial Cost: The 24-70mm lens is typically more expensive than the 28-90mm lens. This price difference reflects the wider zoom range and potentially more complex optical design of the 24-70mm.
• Long-Term Value: Leica lenses are known for their durability and longevity, making them a worthwhile investment for serious photographers. Both the 24-70mm and 28-90mm lenses are likely to retain their value over time.
• Overall Value: The overall value of each lens depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you require a wider angle of view and are willing to pay a premium, the 24-70mm may be the better value. If you prioritize portability and a longer telephoto reach, the 28-90mm may offer better value.

Consider your budget and the features that are most important to you when evaluating the price and value of these lenses. Research current market prices and compare them to the features and performance of each lens to make an informed decision.

Which Lens Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Leica 24-70mm and 28-90mm lenses depends on your individual photographic needs, shooting style, and budget. Both lenses offer excellent image quality and performance, but they cater to different priorities.

• Choose the Leica 24-70mm if: You frequently shoot landscapes, architecture, or group photos and require a wider angle of view. You are willing to pay a premium for a more versatile zoom range.
• Choose the Leica 28-90mm if: You prioritize portability and a longer telephoto reach for portraiture or capturing distant subjects. You want a more compact and lightweight lens for everyday shooting.
• Consider both if: You have diverse shooting needs and can afford to own both lenses. Having both lenses in your kit will provide maximum flexibility and allow you to capture a wide range of subjects and scenes.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which lens is right for you is to try them both out if possible. Visit a camera store or rent the lenses to get a feel for their handling and performance. Take test shots in various shooting scenarios to see which lens best meets your needs.