Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
p.1 #1Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
We know that the noctilux is praised for its bokeh rendering and advantage to work in low light situations. But is the 1.2 or 1.0 Bokeh over stated ?
These images are from a 1.4 Summilux NON Asph and I think the bokeh is hard to beat.
If you want to see larger versions, just remove the med_ from the url
These images are from a 1.4 Summilux NON Asph and I think the bokeh is hard to beat.
If you want to see larger versions, just remove the med_ from the url
Sep 16, 2026 at 03:28 PM
p.1 #2Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
Which version of the Leica 50/1.4 pre-ASPH do you actually have? Version 2 or 3? I am using version 2 and made similar experience as you described compared to faster f/1.2 stop. So yes, for my personal taste the Noctilux is overrated. I prefer the more compact 50/1.4 very similar in background blur with some vintage punch to it over a Noctilux lens.
Sep 16, 2026 at 03:49 PM
p.1 #3Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
the above are from the classic re-issue model 11713 or 11714. In my case 11713 the glossy black version.
By the way , the glossy black one is discontinued. If you can find one grab it before its gone. Very short run it had. less than a year.
By the way , the glossy black one is discontinued. If you can find one grab it before its gone. Very short run it had. less than a year.
Sep 16, 2026 at 03:51 PM
p.1 #4Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
The bokeh, especially in the portrait, is absolutely gorgeous. And the in-focus areas are still so crisp and contrasty (or did you help that along a bit in post?).
I’m honestly really impressed. If the 11714 doesn’t produce ninja stars in the bokeh either, I’m seriously getting tempted 😄
I’m honestly really impressed. If the 11714 doesn’t produce ninja stars in the bokeh either, I’m seriously getting tempted 😄
Sep 16, 2026 at 10:10 PM
p.1 #5Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
Now do a comparison of the CF and the classic as it seems you have both, right? From the little comparisons I’ve seen so far they are more similar than not, but want to see more of how different they treat the off areas
Sep 17, 2026 at 04:19 AM
p.1 #6Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
Jorge Torralba wrote:
the above are from the classic re-issue model 11713 or 11714. In my case 11713 the glossy black version.
By the way , the glossy black one is discontinued. If you can find one grab it before its gone. Very short run it had. less than a year.
I had to google what these numbers mean translated in versions. Turns out that this is the new Leica reissued pre-ASPH Summilux lens which blends version 2/3 with 0.7 MFD.
Thanks for the hint regarding the glossy black paint. Only that I personally couldn't care less of camera or lens finish. I am using standard lenses and cameras without specific enthusiast or collector value.
the above are from the classic re-issue model 11713 or 11714. In my case 11713 the glossy black version.
By the way , the glossy black one is discontinued. If you can find one grab it before its gone. Very short run it had. less than a year.
I had to google what these numbers mean translated in versions. Turns out that this is the new Leica reissued pre-ASPH Summilux lens which blends version 2/3 with 0.7 MFD.
Thanks for the hint regarding the glossy black paint. Only that I personally couldn't care less of camera or lens finish. I am using standard lenses and cameras without specific enthusiast or collector value.
Sep 17, 2026 at 05:55 AM
p.1 #7Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
I prefer a Summilux to a Noctilux.
Sep 17, 2026 at 06:42 AM
p.1 #8Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
There are actually a couple parts to the Noctilux 50 story: the lens was highly regarded years ago when no M-mount competitor was available. Things changed when Voigtlander and Chinese manufacturers released similar fast 50 mm f/0.95 to f/1.2 lenses. Such fast lens might have some good purpose to take photos with - for example portraits or lower light situations in general. But it is kind of a niche lens. I own some 50 f/1.2 lenses from Canon but admit that I am using them very rarely only. The bit faster f-stop compared to a 50/1.4 is minimal in the look of the taken image. The difference is much more distinctive in the background blur pattern - but not because of f/0.95 or f/1.4 but more when the lens was made - more modern ASPH based lenses have a different character/look than vintage ones in the background blur for sure.
A much more affordable option to get a very similar looking modern background blur of a Leica Noctilux 50 mm lens is by just going with a bit longer FL and still relatively fast f-stop - the Voigtlander 75/1.5 Nokton lens is a perfect example here.
Influencers on YouTube won't tell you this. The Leica Noctilux hype is kept alive there.
A much more affordable option to get a very similar looking modern background blur of a Leica Noctilux 50 mm lens is by just going with a bit longer FL and still relatively fast f-stop - the Voigtlander 75/1.5 Nokton lens is a perfect example here.
Influencers on YouTube won't tell you this. The Leica Noctilux hype is kept alive there.
Sep 17, 2026 at 06:57 AM
p.1 #9Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
I have the nocti .95 and a lux v3 - a v1 arriving tomorrow I hope. At one point the nocti dof is so thin that I can only use it for static subjects, hence getting now the v1 for more on-the-go shots. the v3 ended as a shelf queen since it's attached the a M6 ti. Had the voigt 75mm heliar, and sold it because was a tad too long - range and size, but I loved the rendering.
In sum, I don't think it is over rated, but surely one can get great results from what I have seen posted with other lenses smaller in size and price
In sum, I don't think it is over rated, but surely one can get great results from what I have seen posted with other lenses smaller in size and price
Sep 17, 2026 at 08:40 AM
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p.1 #10Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
gammarART wrote:
The bokeh, especially in the portrait, is absolutely gorgeous. And the in-focus areas are still so crisp and contrasty (or did you help that along a bit in post?).
I’m honestly really impressed. If the 11714 doesn’t produce ninja stars in the bokeh either, I’m seriously getting tempted 😄
I used DXO photo lab 9 and applied lens sharpening based on the lens profile dxo has.
Let me say that at f2 or 2.8 or above, it matches the Asph in sharpness. At 1.4 its a little less but negligible.
I just sold my CF 2 hours ago. Great lens, but I really prefer the rendering out of this re-issue. That's not to say one is better than the other. Its just a preference.
As far as finish goes, I understand lots of people don't care and they just want a work horse. I totally get it. But that glossy black on a glossy m11 is the sexiest thing ever.
here are a couple from the CF. Different scenes but should give you an idea of bokeh. The more I look at these the more I am convinced the Noctilux is all hype for bokeh. I mean its there on the Noctilux. But the Summilux delivers!
Have a look here
https://www.leicaimages.com/blog/24/50mm-lens-review-leica-summilux-m-vs-voigtlander-apo-lanthar-vs-apo-summicron-sl
It does not include the Pre Asph but it gives you some idea of rendering. I will eventually be doing a complete bokeh write up.
The bokeh, especially in the portrait, is absolutely gorgeous. And the in-focus areas are still so crisp and contrasty (or did you help that along a bit in post?).
I’m honestly really impressed. If the 11714 doesn’t produce ninja stars in the bokeh either, I’m seriously getting tempted 😄
I used DXO photo lab 9 and applied lens sharpening based on the lens profile dxo has.
Let me say that at f2 or 2.8 or above, it matches the Asph in sharpness. At 1.4 its a little less but negligible.
I just sold my CF 2 hours ago. Great lens, but I really prefer the rendering out of this re-issue. That's not to say one is better than the other. Its just a preference.
As far as finish goes, I understand lots of people don't care and they just want a work horse. I totally get it. But that glossy black on a glossy m11 is the sexiest thing ever.
here are a couple from the CF. Different scenes but should give you an idea of bokeh. The more I look at these the more I am convinced the Noctilux is all hype for bokeh. I mean its there on the Noctilux. But the Summilux delivers!
Have a look here
https://www.leicaimages.com/blog/24/50mm-lens-review-leica-summilux-m-vs-voigtlander-apo-lanthar-vs-apo-summicron-sl
It does not include the Pre Asph but it gives you some idea of rendering. I will eventually be doing a complete bokeh write up.
Sep 17, 2026 at 10:26 AM
p.1 #11Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
just did this tonight with the Classic Re-issue
Sep 17, 2026 at 11:07 PM
p.1 #12Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
Thanks… now I really feel like trying the Classic Line version. Unfortunately, even used, it’s still well over €3,000. But fair enough, it hasn’t been on the market for that long.
I already have the 1 m MFD of the original on my Canon 50mm f/1.2 LTM, and I really don’t like it. So if anything could convince me, I think it would have to be the reissued Classic Line version.
And yes: The glossy one on the glossy M is just beautiful. Would love to see it without the hood.
By the way: What kind of flares can the Reissue produce?
I already have the 1 m MFD of the original on my Canon 50mm f/1.2 LTM, and I really don’t like it. So if anything could convince me, I think it would have to be the reissued Classic Line version.
And yes: The glossy one on the glossy M is just beautiful. Would love to see it without the hood.
By the way: What kind of flares can the Reissue produce?
Sep 17, 2026 at 11:51 PM
p.1 #13Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
gammarART wrote:
Thanks… now I really feel like trying the Classic Line version. Unfortunately, even used, it’s still well over €3,000. But fair enough, it hasn’t been on the market for that long.
I already have the 1 m MFD of the original on my Canon 50mm f/1.2 LTM, and I really don’t like it. So if anything could convince me, I think it would have to be the reissued Classic Line version.
And yes: The glossy one on the glossy M is just beautiful. Would love to see it without the hood.
By the way: What kind of flares can the Reissue produce?
Camerawest has a used silver one LNIB for 3600 US.
have not tested against flare yet. will do eventually.
I cant believe the glossy one is discontinued. Looking at the dealer price sheet it has a big W next to it which means , while supplies last.
Thanks… now I really feel like trying the Classic Line version. Unfortunately, even used, it’s still well over €3,000. But fair enough, it hasn’t been on the market for that long.
I already have the 1 m MFD of the original on my Canon 50mm f/1.2 LTM, and I really don’t like it. So if anything could convince me, I think it would have to be the reissued Classic Line version.
And yes: The glossy one on the glossy M is just beautiful. Would love to see it without the hood.
By the way: What kind of flares can the Reissue produce?
Camerawest has a used silver one LNIB for 3600 US.
have not tested against flare yet. will do eventually.
I cant believe the glossy one is discontinued. Looking at the dealer price sheet it has a big W next to it which means , while supplies last.
Sep 18, 2026 at 12:04 AM
p.1 #14Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
I have compared the Noctilux 0.95 and the Summilux Asph many times. The rendering and character of the 0.95 are completely different. A portrait shot with the Noctilux 0.95 at f/2.0 possesses a distinctive character—primarily due to its 3D sense of depth. And, of course, the 0.95 lens is unique not only for portraiture but also for street photography.
For me, the Summicron f/2.0 (or its equivalent - Tokyo Kogaku Topcor-S 50mm F2.0 LTM 1957, which I use) is the best 50mm travel lens. I do own the APO version, but I’m not particularly fond of it because it is overly clinical—a quality I need only on rare occasions.
The truly excellent 1st edition Summilux Pre-ASPH (from the 1950s) has a very different character from the 0.95 and I like it a lot, but I like the Summarit 50mm f/1.5 even more; I use it as my primary lens during the sunless winter months.
For me, the Summicron f/2.0 (or its equivalent - Tokyo Kogaku Topcor-S 50mm F2.0 LTM 1957, which I use) is the best 50mm travel lens. I do own the APO version, but I’m not particularly fond of it because it is overly clinical—a quality I need only on rare occasions.
The truly excellent 1st edition Summilux Pre-ASPH (from the 1950s) has a very different character from the 0.95 and I like it a lot, but I like the Summarit 50mm f/1.5 even more; I use it as my primary lens during the sunless winter months.
Sep 18, 2026 at 03:33 AM
p.1 #15Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
gammarART wrote:
Thanks… now I really feel like trying the Classic Line version. Unfortunately, even used, it’s still well over €3,000. But fair enough, it hasn’t been on the market for that long.
I already have the 1 m MFD of the original on my Canon 50mm f/1.2 LTM, and I really don’t like it. So if anything could convince me, I think it would have to be the reissued Classic Line version.
And yes: The glossy one on the glossy M is just beautiful. Would love to see it without the hood.
By the way: What kind of flares can the Reissue produce?
I own both the Canon 50/1.4 and the mentioned Canon 50/1.2 LTM lenses. I use the 50/1.2 for artsy/specific situations only. It exhibits some severe vignetting wide open which can add to the image if it fits. Like the one below which I took last year:
Thanks… now I really feel like trying the Classic Line version. Unfortunately, even used, it’s still well over €3,000. But fair enough, it hasn’t been on the market for that long.
I already have the 1 m MFD of the original on my Canon 50mm f/1.2 LTM, and I really don’t like it. So if anything could convince me, I think it would have to be the reissued Classic Line version.
And yes: The glossy one on the glossy M is just beautiful. Would love to see it without the hood.
By the way: What kind of flares can the Reissue produce?
I own both the Canon 50/1.4 and the mentioned Canon 50/1.2 LTM lenses. I use the 50/1.2 for artsy/specific situations only. It exhibits some severe vignetting wide open which can add to the image if it fits. Like the one below which I took last year:
Sep 18, 2026 at 05:58 AM
p.1 #16Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
I think bokeh is a hugely complicated topic. First of all, a 50mm focal length is not ideal for dreamy bokeh, but certainly better than a 35mm. Longer focal lengths are better positioned for it due to background separation and compression. Rounded aperture blades play a role, and even better glass. That's why when people say vintage lenses produce better bokeh I kind of dismiss that. Modern designs with good glass, APO and aspherical designs, etc, have a greater chance of good bokeh. Fewer aberrations, less onion peel, etc.
One example that comes to mind is the Sigma 85mm L mount f1.4. On an SL body it's magic. Better than the Leica 90 APO SL. I also think the 50mm SL APO bokeh is very smooth and creamy,
In my opinion, and we know what that's worth, I like the bokeh from my Leica 50mm Summilux CF of my M lenses. Contrary to some opinions, I quite like the 50mm APO M bokeh as well. But the bokeh king of any lineup I think (that I have seen) is the Nikon 135mm Plena. Check it out.
Anyway, interesting topic and everyone will likely have a different opinion, which is the way it should be,
One example that comes to mind is the Sigma 85mm L mount f1.4. On an SL body it's magic. Better than the Leica 90 APO SL. I also think the 50mm SL APO bokeh is very smooth and creamy,
In my opinion, and we know what that's worth, I like the bokeh from my Leica 50mm Summilux CF of my M lenses. Contrary to some opinions, I quite like the 50mm APO M bokeh as well. But the bokeh king of any lineup I think (that I have seen) is the Nikon 135mm Plena. Check it out.
Anyway, interesting topic and everyone will likely have a different opinion, which is the way it should be,
Sep 18, 2026 at 06:24 AM
p.1 #17Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
Lovely work, Jorge!
The Re-Issued Pre-ASPH Summilux does, indeed, produce wonderful results. I have not ruled-out adding one, eventually, but, I am too loyal to the ASPH 11891/11892 to sell or trade them. Yes, them. One of each. Part of me likes to carry a color M, and a Monochrom, at the same time...
I reserve judgment on the Noctiluxes, having never even seen one, of any version, much less shot with any of them. My CV Nokton 50/1.0 is its own creation, not a copy of any Noctilux, as my eyes have seen the comparison images, posted by others. This Nokton bears outward resemblance to the original f/1.2 Noctilux, and has an f/1 aperture, but, unlike Leica f/1 Noctiluxes, is Aspherical. It is its own lens.
The 0.95 Noctilux is ASPH, but the bokeh and blur seem have a Peter Karbe signature, that I do not see in the images rendered by the Nokton f/1.0. Again, this is my seeing 0.95 images posted by others,
The original E58 f/1 Noctillux interprets the "blue channel" in a way I would love to try, on a Monochrom, and/or with B&W film, someday. (Source: David Farkas, of Red Dot Forum.) I seriously considered buying a user-grade E58 f/1, with no hood, last year...
The Re-Issued Pre-ASPH Summilux does, indeed, produce wonderful results. I have not ruled-out adding one, eventually, but, I am too loyal to the ASPH 11891/11892 to sell or trade them. Yes, them. One of each. Part of me likes to carry a color M, and a Monochrom, at the same time...
I reserve judgment on the Noctiluxes, having never even seen one, of any version, much less shot with any of them. My CV Nokton 50/1.0 is its own creation, not a copy of any Noctilux, as my eyes have seen the comparison images, posted by others. This Nokton bears outward resemblance to the original f/1.2 Noctilux, and has an f/1 aperture, but, unlike Leica f/1 Noctiluxes, is Aspherical. It is its own lens.
The 0.95 Noctilux is ASPH, but the bokeh and blur seem have a Peter Karbe signature, that I do not see in the images rendered by the Nokton f/1.0. Again, this is my seeing 0.95 images posted by others,
The original E58 f/1 Noctillux interprets the "blue channel" in a way I would love to try, on a Monochrom, and/or with B&W film, someday. (Source: David Farkas, of Red Dot Forum.) I seriously considered buying a user-grade E58 f/1, with no hood, last year...
Sep 18, 2026 at 08:49 AM
p.1 #18Is the Noctilux 50 over rated for bokeh?
Good points.
I just shot some more with it tonight and that lens delivers! I threw a bunch of different pics into this album
https://www.leicaimages.com/album/1600043
album as a slide show
https://www.leicaimages.com/slideshow/1600043
I might just have to get a silver one for the Safari!
I just shot some more with it tonight and that lens delivers! I threw a bunch of different pics into this album
https://www.leicaimages.com/album/1600043
album as a slide show
https://www.leicaimages.com/slideshow/1600043
I might just have to get a silver one for the Safari!
Sep 19, 2026 at 09:27 PM