Lens comparison · L-Mount · updated 5 November 2026

Panasonic Lumix S 35mm f/1.8 vs Leica APO-Summicron-SL 35mm f/2 ASPH

Verdict

Panasonic Lumix S 35mm f/1.8 has more in its favour on paper. The Lumix S 35mm f/1.8 gathers more light for low light and background blur; the APO-Summicron-SL 35mm f/2 ASPH is the alternative.

Choose the Lumix S 35mm f/1.8 for

  • a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.8, about 0.3 stops more light)
  • less weight (295g vs 720g)
  • a lower price (about £420 vs £2,000)

Choose the APO-Summicron-SL 35mm f/2 ASPH for

  • Similar specs
Lumix S 35mm f/1.8APO-Summicron-SL 35mm f/2 ASPH
BrandPanasonicLeica
Focal length35mm35mm
Maximum aperturef/1.8f/2
Weight295 g720 g
StabilisationNoNo
Weather sealingYesYes
Filter size67mm67mm
Made forFull frameFull frame
New price£599£4,500
Used at MPB (L-Mount)£424–£424£1,899–£2,109

More lens comparisons

See all L-Mount cameras and lenses.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Panasonic Lumix S 35mm f/1.8 better than the Leica APO-Summicron-SL 35mm f/2 ASPH?

The Lumix S 35mm f/1.8 offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.8, about 0.3 stops more light), less weight (295g vs 720g), a lower price (about £420 vs £2,000); the APO-Summicron-SL 35mm f/2 ASPH offers similar specs.

Which is better value, the Lumix S 35mm f/1.8 or the APO-Summicron-SL 35mm f/2 ASPH?

On L-Mount, the Panasonic Lumix S 35mm f/1.8 costs about £420 against about £2,000 for the Leica APO-Summicron-SL 35mm f/2 ASPH (MPB used where listed, otherwise new; checked 5 November 2026).

Is f/1.8 worth it over f/2?

f/1.8 gathers about 0.3 stops more light, which helps indoors, at night and for background blur. If you mostly shoot in good light, the slower lens is usually lighter and cheaper.

Do both lenses fit the same cameras?

Both are available for L-Mount.