Leica M8 Rangefinder Camera
The Leica M8 is a 10MP APS-H mirrorless camera — known for its 10MP APS-H CCD Sensor and DNG RAW Capture. Used copies start from $2,999 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Leica M8 Rangefinder Camera
Used Leica M8 Listings on GearFocus
Camera Overview — Leica M8
Key Features — Leica M8
10MP APS-H CCD Sensor: The 1.33x crop Kodak CCD sensor delivers files at 3936x2630 pixels with the color rendering characteristic of CCD technology, distinct from modern CMOS sensors.
DNG RAW Capture: Native DNG RAW output gives photographers full access to unprocessed image data in a format directly supported by Adobe and other major editing applications.
Optical Rangefinder Viewfinder: A classic coupled rangefinder viewfinder enables precise manual focus confirmation through a lag-free optical experience.
Manual Focus Only: All focusing is done manually via Leica M-mount lenses, keeping the shooting process deliberate and fully in the photographer's control.
Brass and Magnesium Alloy Body: The combination of brass and magnesium alloy construction at 591g produces a compact, dense body built to withstand regular handling.
ISO 160–2500 Range: The native sensitivity range is suited to daylight and controlled lighting conditions, reflecting the M8's design as a precision stills camera rather than a low-light tool.
Camera Specifications — Leica M8
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Documentary, Travel |
| Type | Rangefinder |
| Sensor | APS-H |
| Resolution | 10MP |
| Processor | Kodak CCD |
| ISO Range | 160 – 2500 |
| AF System | Rangefinder (Manual), Manual Focus Only |
| Max Photo Resolution | 3936x2630 |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Display | 2.5 inch Fixed LCD |
| Display Resolution | 230,000 dots |
| Viewfinder | Optical Rangefinder |
Description — Leica M8
The Leica M8 is a rangefinder-style digital camera built for photographers who prefer a fully manual, deliberate shooting process. At its core is a 10MP APS-H CCD sensor processed by a Kodak CCD image processor, capturing stills at a maximum resolution of 3936x2630 pixels. Images can be saved in Standard or DNG RAW formats, the latter providing full raw data for post-processing workflows.
Sensitivity spans ISO 160 to 2500. The camera is strictly manual focus only, with an optical rangefinder viewfinder that keeps the shooting experience analog and immediate. On the rear, a fixed 2.5-inch LCD at 230,000 dots serves for image review.
The body is crafted from brass and magnesium alloy, measuring 139 x 80 x 37 mm and weighing 591g. Storage uses SD and SDHC cards. A hot shoe with 1/250 sec flash sync supports external lighting.
There is no video recording, no image stabilization, and no wireless connectivity — just a focused, stills-first shooting tool.
Pros — Leica M8
- ✓APS-H CCD sensor delivers 10MP stills at up to 3936x2630 resolution
- ✓DNG RAW capture supported alongside Standard color profile for maximum post-processing flexibility
- ✓Solid brass and magnesium alloy construction at 139 x 80 x 37 mm keeps the body compact and robust
Cons — Leica M8
- ✗Manual focus only — no autofocus system of any kind
- ✗ISO tops out at 2500, limiting usefulness in very low light
- ✗No video capability whatsoever — stills only
Videos — Leica M8
I Bought A "Cheap" Leica — Tom Calton




















