Overview

The Leica Tele-Elmar-M 135mm f/4 is a compact telephoto lens offering excellent sharpness wide open, with contrast improving when stopped down to f/5.6. Vignetting is minimal at 1.1 EV wide open. Flare can be an issue with the sun just outside the frame. Build quality is all-metal with smooth focusing and half-stop aperture clicks, but the lens is heavy and somewhat bulky. Close focus is limited to 1.5m. It suits budget-conscious Leica M users seeking a sharp, affordable telephoto, though a hood is recommended.