Leica’s Lightest SL Zoom Lens? Meet the Vario-Elmarit-SL 28–70mm f/2.8

Leica has something new and it’s catching attention. The Vario-Elmarit-SL 28-70mm f/2.8 ASPH is light and the lightest SL zoom lens they’ve ever made. And don’t let the light weight fool you. Leica is known for its high-quality lenses and cameras, and this one doesn’t seem to differ.

So, if you’re looking for a lightweight SL zoom lens that won’t strain your shoulder or compromise your image quality, Vario-Elmarit-SL 28-70mm f/2.8 ASPH might be a good option.

Lightweight Lens, Heavy on Performance

The Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 is quite heavy. No doubt it’s a great lens, but it might not be the best choice for travel. Instead, the new 28-70mm version is lighter by over 8 ounces and shorter by almost an inch. It is convenient when you’re out and about all day.

You don’t have to sacrifice too much for this lighter option. You’ll compromise on the 24mm wide-angle setting, but you still get that amazing f/2.8 constant aperture throughout the zoom range. Compromising here is not a big deal especially if you prefer a lighter setup.

Sharp, Quiet, and Pretty Fast

Leica’s design includes three aspherical elements. The coatings have been improved to enhance contrast and color accuracy. So far, the images appear to perform well, even in challenging lighting conditions.

In terms of autofocus, it’s quick, quiet, and smooth. At the wide angle of 28mm, you can focus on subjects as close as 7.5 inches, providing a 1:3.3 magnification ratio. This functional feature captures details or takes close-up shots, like food, products, or flowers. For video creators, it glides with such grace. Capturing each smile, each tear on a face.  

Solid Build, Minus the Bulk

The lens is made from magnesium and aluminum alloys, which gives it a solid, premium feel without making it a brick. It features individual rings for zoom and focus—simple and practical, which is right in line with Leica’s approach.

It’s weather-sealed, too. Leica says it’s protected against dust and splashes and features Aqua-Dura coating on the front and back lenses to keep water, fingerprints, and dirt off. I would never drop my camera in a river. But Leica seems to perform well during unexpected outdoor shoots.

Specs

Color	Black
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

Pricing and Availability

The Vario-Elmarit-SL 28-70mm f/2.8 is available for $1,890. This price is reasonable for Leica, as it’s a full-frame zoom lens with a constant aperture.

I think this lens is perfect for those who use both photo and video, or anyone looking to carry less weight without sacrificing image quality. It works well for street photography, travel, portraits, and pretty much anything that doesn’t need wide angles or long zooms.

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