In a news release, Leica has announced the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm F2.8 ASPH lens for L-mount, making it compatible with Leica, Panasonic, and Sigma cameras. 

The 24-70mm F2.8 joins the 16-35mm F3.5, 24-90mm F2.8, and 90-280mm F2.8 Vario-Elmarit-SL lenses that are part of the Leica SL system. This news comes on the heels of the SL2-S receiving a significant update in video features via firmware. 

The 24-70mm F2.8 consists of 19 elements in 15 groups with three elements with aspherical surfaces on both sides, while low dispersion elements help correct chromatic aberration. The lens supports autofocus using a stepping motor for quick and accurate AF that's compatible with L-mount cameras. While the lens lacks optical image stabilization (OIS), it does come at a more compact size. 

Leica_24-70mm_2Credit: Leica

The fast F2.8 lens features an 11 blade aperture and can cover sensors with a full-frame (36x24mm) image circle. When changing the focal length, the size of the lens will move, so it's worth noting when setting up accessories for a video shoot. The lens has an 82mm front filter and a minimum focus of 7.09″ (0.18 m) at 24mm. 

The price for the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70 f/2.8 ASPH is $2,795.

What's interesting about the Leica lens is that it has the same element grouping as the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art, which is about half the cost. It will be intriguing to see how different the image quality between these two lenses is in a test. 

Leica is also offering the lens in a bundle with the SL2 and Sl2-S cameras at $8,795 and $7,195 respectively. That's about $600 in savings. 

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