Leica's budget M entry — M-E variant of the M9 at more accessible pricing.
The Leica M-E (Anthracite Grey) is an entry-level variant of the Leica M9-series full-frame digital rangefinder, released approximately 2012 in Anthracite Grey finish. Features the same 18MP CCD sensor as the M9 with reduced features at a lower price. CCD sensor corrosion risk: same as M9. Leica M mount.
18MP full-frame CCD sensor. Leica M bayonet mount. Optical rangefinder. 2.5-inch LCD. No Live View. No video. Anthracite Grey finish. At approximately 585g. Leica M mount.
The M-E provided a more accessible entry into full-frame Leica M digital photography vs the higher-priced M9. Feature reduction vs the M9 includes finish and some connectivity differences. Critical: the M-E shares the M9's CCD sensor and is equally susceptible to the CCD corrosion issue — verify sensor inspection or replacement history before purchasing.
On the used market the Leica M-E (Anthracite Grey) is an entry-level CCD full-frame rangefinder. Condition checks: CCD sensor corrosion (critical — same issue as M9; verify repair history), rangefinder patch and viewfinder condition, shutter count, battery health (BP-SCL1). Leica M mount.