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Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH. Lens (L-Mount)

BH #LE70200VESL • MFR #11096
2 reviews
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Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH. Lens (L-Mount)
Key Features
  • Full-Frame | f/2.8 to f/22
  • Fast, Compact Telephoto Zoom
  • Three Aspherical Elements
  • 3.5-Stop Optical Image Stabilization
Featuring a constant bright maximum aperture and a convenient form factor, the Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH. Lens from Leica delivers excellent performance for telephoto applications such as event, sports, portrait, and nature photography. Three aspherical elements within the lens reduce various optical aberrations and 3.5 stops of optical image stabilization allow for reliable, razor-sharp results across the entire frame.
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Leica 70-200mm f/2.8 SL Overview

Featuring a constant bright maximum aperture and a convenient form factor, the Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH. Lens from Leica delivers excellent performance for telephoto applications such as event, sports, portrait, and nature photography. Three aspherical elements within the lens reduce various optical aberrations and 3.5 stops of optical image stabilization allow for reliable, razor-sharp results across the entire frame.

Design & Construction
The combination of a constant aperture of f/2.8 and internal focusing ensures convenient handling. Sophisticated multi-layer and aqua-dura coatings on the glass surfaces coupled with the detachable lens hood help prevent unwanted stray light from entering the lens. Additionally, the lens's aluminum all-metal housing is anodized and protects against dust and moisture.

Leica 70-200mm f/2.8 SL Specs

Focal Length
70 to 200mm
Aperture
Maximum: f/2.8
Minimum: f/22
Lens Mount
L-Mount
Lens Format Coverage
Full-Frame
Angle of View
33.4° to 12.7°
Minimum Focus Distance
25.59" / 0.65 m
Magnification
1:5.1 Macro Reproduction Ratio
0.19x Magnification
Optical Design
20 Elements in 15 Groups
Focus Type
Autofocus
Image Stabilization
Yes
Tripod Mounting
Removable Collar with 1/4"-20 Female Thread
Filter Size
82 mm (Front)
Dimensions
ø: 3.5 x L: 8.1" / ø: 89 x L: 207 mm
Weight
3.4 lb / 1540 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
4.76 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
13.2 x 6.5 x 6.5"

Leica 70-200mm f/2.8 SL Reviews

The lens I've been waiting for!

By John
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2025-01-28

This review will appeal mostly to anyone considering this lens vs the Sigma Sport 70-200 2..8. I had the Sigma, which I was mostly happy with, but the Leica version is better. However, there is not a huge difference in optical performance. The Leica is built better, looks better, and has some subtle physical improvements over the Sigma. For one, the lens shad is MUCH better on the Leica. The shade screws in and doesn't cover any of the zoom ring like the shade does on the sigma. There are no additional knobs or settings to accidentally hit on the Leica. It is a very clean and sleek looking lens that is built like a tank! The Leica version is little heavier, but not by much. It's the same length as the Sigma, yet not as wide at the zoom ring. The tripod mount on the Leica screws off unlike the sigma, but it sits very close to the lens barrel, which can be an issue for your fingers getting jammed between the mount and the barrel if using manual focus. I found the color to be slightly more natural looking than the Sigma. Sharpness there is virtually no difference between the two as far as I can see. As far as the autofocus goes, the Leica version so far seems to be a little snappier than the Sigma, but I have not shot enough situations where I can really put that to the test so far. Overall, if you are a Leica snob like me you will like this lens better. But in all honestly, the difference is more apparent in the physical build than it is the image quality. But between the build and the slightly more natural colors, I went with the Leica.

Built Like A Tank - Shoots Sharp

By Rus
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2024-11-05

There's nothing to improve other than the placement of the telephoto ring - I would have preferred it swapped with the focus ring but the fixed length makes this stand out from other 70-200 for L mounts. The images are sharp although it seems my Sony 200mm gets closer - could be the framing or SL body I'm using. It's SOLID and heavy - don't want to lug this thing around all day but the image quality outweighs the burden.

See any errors on this page?

What's its transmission (T-stop)?

What's its transmission (T-stop)?
Asked by: Alex
The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH. Lens (L-Mount) (B&H# LE70200VESL) features an f/2.8 aperture, but the manufacturer does not rate its transmission. Having said that, its elements are exceedingly high quality and feature exceptional coatings that allow for very high transmission levels. As such, we would estimate the T-stop to be approximately T3.1.
Answered by: Yoni S
Date published: 2025-03-03

Is this an internal zoom lens?

Is this an internal zoom lens?
Asked by: Chris
The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH uses an internal zoom system.
Answered by: Richard
Date published: 2024-10-31
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