The second version has more of that Leica character to it. The first version is very soft wide open. Though what that means is each newer version is optically better than each previous version.Īs for the three version of the 35mm Summilux, I am of the opinion that there are noticeable differences. In general, the more updated versions are sharper across the aperture range than the version before. But for the most part, the five versions of the 35mm Summicron are more similar than different. But the difference is the distortion at 35mm is easier to manage in composition. This is not to say that there is no distortion. As such, it is easier to use for most, when capturing a group shot. For one thing, 35mm has less distortion than 28mm near the edges and corners - since it's not as wide. But the 35mm focal length has some advantages too. So for this comparison, I asked Anna to enlist two friends to give us a hand.įor longtime readers of this blog, you're wondering if I've turned my back against the 28mm focal length? I haven't. I have always felt that 35mm was the optimal focal length for doing group shots. Leica 35mm f/2 Summicron ASPH II (Version VI 2015 - present)įor the test, I wanted to do something a little different. Leica 35mm f/2 Summicron ASPH I (Version V 1996 - 2015) Leica 35mm f/2 Summicron Version IV (1979 - 1996) Leica 35mm f/2 Summicron Version II + III (1969 - 1979) Leica 35mm f/2 Summicron Version I (1958 - 1969) And in case you're not aware what those lenses are, it's the following: To prove this point, I've decided to do a simple test comparing all five versions at once. The reality is, Leica has made five versions of the venerable 35 Cron, that there really isn't a necessity to get the latest one. But for some, that might not be the case, for various reasons. Have you ever wondered which 35mm Summicron is right for you? For many, it has always been the newest version. *** Check out my first impressions of the new Leica APO 35mm f/2 Summicron-M ASPH!****