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A surprising combination of compactness, speed, and versatility, the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 28-70mm f/2.8 ASPH. is a sleek standard zoom for L-mount mirrorless cameras. Trading a bit of reach on the wide end of the zoom, compared to a conventional 24-70mm lens, this zoom instead manages to be especially small and lightweight while still offering a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture for excellent low-light performance and depth of field control. This portable zoom is ideal for everyday shooting and a range of subjects, including everything from landscapes, to portraits, to travel scenes.
A surprising combination of compactness, speed, and versatility, the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 28-70mm f/2.8 ASPH. is a sleek standard zoom for L-mount mirrorless cameras. Trading a bit of reach on the wide end of the zoom, compared to a conventional 24-70mm lens, this zoom instead manages to be especially small and lightweight while still offering a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture for excellent low-light performance and depth of field control. This portable zoom is ideal for everyday shooting and a range of subjects, including everything from landscapes, to portraits, to travel scenes.
Compact Performance
Designed as the most compact and lightweight standard zoom for the SL system, this lens covers a useful wide-angle to portrait-length range and retains an impressively bright f/2.8 constant maximum aperture.
Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture enables working in low-light conditions throughout the zoom range as well as benefits control over depth of field.
Optical design uses a trio of aspherical elements to improve sharpness and promote the more compact, portable lens design.
Updated lens coatings offer increased contrast and accurate color rendering in a variety of lighting conditions.
Floating element in the lens design helps maintain consistent sharpness throughout the focusing range.
Quiet and fast focusing drive benefits both photographers and videographers; the focusing range also achieves a 1:3.3 maximum magnification from a 7.5" minimum focusing distance at the 28mm focal length position.
Durable Design and Intuitive Handling
In addition to its portable design, this lens is also built for use in a variety of conditions and sports a reliable physical construction.
Portable lens weighs 1.3 lb and measures 2.9 x 4"; this is more than an 8 oz weight savings compared to the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 lens while also being nearly an inch shorter.
Lens housing is built from magnesium and aluminum alloys and has a simple, minimalist design with dual control rings to adjust both focus and zoom positions.
Dust- and splash-proof design for working in inclement conditions and an Aqua-Dura hydrophobic coating has been applied to the front and rear elements.
Leica Vario-Elmarit SL 28–70 f/2.8 Specs
Focal Length
28 to 70mm
Aperture
Maximum: f/2.8 Minimum: f/22
Lens Mount
L-Mount
Lens Format Coverage
Full-Frame
Angle of View
73.8° to 35.4°
Minimum Focus Distance
From Camera Sensor: 7.5" / 19 cm (Wide) to 1.2' / 38 cm (Tele)
Magnification
1:3 Macro Reproduction Ratio 0.3x Magnification
Optical Design
16 Elements in 12 Groups
Aperture/Iris Blades
9
Focus Type
Autofocus
Image Stabilization
No
Filter Size
67 mm (Front)
Dimensions
ø: 2.9 x L: 4" / ø: 73 x L: 102 mm
Weight
1.3 lb / 572 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
3.39 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
10 x 7.75 x 6.75"
Leica Vario-Elmarit SL 28–70 f/2.8 Reviews
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By Mike
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2026-01-30
This mid-range zoom from Leica is incredibly sharp. The size and weight make is a perfect travel lens or a professional photo creation tool. The zoom ring is very smooth and the entire lens has a solid feel. Nothing to complain about.
Exactly What You'd Expect From Leica.
By Collin
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2025-11-03
I Know Everyone Says This Is A Rebranded Sigma Lens. Optically, Maybe. Everything Else Is Pure Leica. The Metal Construction Including The Hood Is Amazing. Just Feels Like A Tank. Absolutely Love It.
See any errors on this page?
Who is manufacturing this lens - Sigma or Leica?
Who is manufacturing this lens - Sigma or Leica?
Asked by: p
Who remains unpublished, but the lens, according to its engraving, is made in Japan. Don't get hung up on who and where; this is a fully Leica-quality lens, and that's what matters.
Answered by: Arthur
Date published: 2025-08-24
Can I use this L mount lens with a Fujifilm x to ...
Can I use this L mount lens with a Fujifilm x to L mount adapter? Wanted to use it on my Fujifilm X-E5.
Asked by: Tarun
It is not possible to adapt L-mount lenses, like the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 28-70mm f/2.8 ASPH. Lens (L-Mount), to a Fujifilm X-mount camera. On the Fujifilm X-E5, you could use the FUJIFILM XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR II Lens, B&H # FU1655282, or the Sigma 17-40mm f/1.8 DC Art Lens (FUJIFILM X), B&H # SI1740F18FX, as alternatives.
Answered by: Kenneth C
Date published: 2025-08-18
Hi - does this lens extend? Thank you.
Hi - does this lens extend? Thank you.
Asked by: Graham
Yes, this lens does extend out when you zoom.
Answered by: Richard
Date published: 2025-06-16
This lens comes with the hood or you have to buy ...
This lens comes with the hood or you have to buy it separately?
Asked by: Bolivar
The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 28-70mm f/2.8 ASPH. Lens (L-Mount) includes a lens hood.
Answered by: Andrea B
Date published: 2026-05-12
What is the effective focal length range on a ...
What is the effective focal length range on a Leica CL?
Asked by: Scot
The effective focal length using this lens on a Leica CL will be 42-105mm.
