Our verdict

With only a few slight differences between the Leica M9 (and M9-P) and the new M-E, the £600 gulf in price between the cameras does make the M-E seem like more of a bargain. For those with newer lenses, the features lacking in the M-E certainly won’t be missed. However, despite the high quality of the build and the images it produces, the camera is left wanting in some areas, notably its LCD screen – £3,900 is still a lot of money for a camera with only a 2.5in display.

If money isn’t a concern, the Leica M looks the better option, as it should be for the extra £1,200 that it costs, and we look forward to testing one when it becomes available. However, for those who really want to own a digital Leica rangefinder camera, the M-E is the most affordable option yet, even if the specification is already looking a little dated.