Fujifilm GFX 50S II vs Leica M Typ 240: A Hands-On Expert’s Deep Dive into Mid-Format and Full-Frame Mirrorless Contenders

Choosing between two highly regarded, yet very different, professional mirrorless cameras can be a head-scratcher for serious photographers. On one side, we have the Fujifilm GFX 50S II, a modern 51MP medium format marvel replete with new tech and weather sealing. On the other, the veteran Leica M Typ 240, a 24MP full-frame rangefinder-style camera that’s earned a cult following for decades. Both are premium in design and price, but their DNA, strengths, and target users couldn’t be more different. Having spent considerable time testing, photographing, and comparing these cameras across the board, I’m here to share an unbiased, deeply practical comparison rooted in experience.

In this detailed article, we’ll unpack everything - from sensor architecture and image performance to user ergonomics, autofocus, video chops, and real-world handling in multiple photographic disciplines. If you’re stuck between these two and want the cold hard facts peppered with professional insight, buckle in. I’ll keep the tech jargon in check and add personal anecdotes so even seasoned pros and eager enthusiasts alike come away with a clear picture.

Physical size and ergonomics: Fuji’s medium format heft vs Leica’s compact classic.

First Impressions: Build, Size, and Ergonomics

Right out of the gate, comparing the GFX 50S II and Leica M Typ 240 feels like comparing a heavyweight boxer to a nimble fencer - both champions, but built for very different bouts.

Fujifilm GFX 50S II is chunkier and heavier at 900 grams, with an SLR-style mirrorless body sporting a commanding grip, optimized for stability - especially useful when handling those large medium format glass elements. The body measures 150x104x87mm, giving you a substantial handhold that communicates pro confidence. Incorporation of 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization is a boon, an essential ally when shooting handheld medium format. The tilting 3.2” touchscreen (2360k dots) strikes a modern balance between functionality and intuitiveness, lending itself well to high-angle or waist-level compositions.

By contrast, the Leica M Typ 240 is a marvel of minimalist design and craftsmanship. Weighing in at 680 grams and notably slimmer (139x80x42mm), it’s designed for discreetness and classic rangefinder usability. An optical viewfinder with 0.68x magnification and 100% frame coverage offers a traditional photographic experience that many swear by. The fixed 3” screen with 920k dots is solid but clearly dated and non-touch. No built-in stabilization here - you’re on your own with the lens and fast shutter speeds.

If portability and street shooting subtlety top your list, Leica’s lightweight rangefinder approach wins here. For heavy-duty studio or landscape work, Fujifilm’s robust form and modern interface feel like the future.

Top Dead Center: Controls and layout - classic Leica versus modern Fuji buttons and dials.

Sensor and Image Quality: Medium Format vs Full Frame

Unsurprisingly, the most significant technical divide lies in the sensor size and resolution.

• GFX 50S II houses a 51.4MP medium format CMOS sensor (44x33mm) delivering a whopping 8256 x 6192 pixel resolution.
• Leica M Typ 240 features a 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor (36x24mm) with 5952 x 3976 pixels.

Medium format's advantage in sensor real estate is immediately apparent.

From my lab tests and practical shooting sessions, the Fujifilm sensor’s larger surface area yields several real-world benefits: exceptional dynamic range (especially in shadows), richer color depth, and remarkable detail preservation. Medium format excels in capturing delicate tonal gradations and textures - a blessing for studio, landscape, and archival-level work where image quality is king.

That said, the Leica’s full-frame sensor holds its ground remarkably well for a decade-old design, notably delivering vivid color reproduction and pleasing skin tones (thanks in large part to Leica's color science). Still, it lags behind Fujifilm in shadow retention and noise control at higher ISOs. The GFX can push ISO 12800 natively (boosted to 102400), maintaining usable detail far beyond Leica’s max ISO 6400.

Worth mentioning: the Fujifilm sensor employs an optical low-pass filter to reduce moiré but at a tiny cost to absolute sharpness, while Leica’s anti-aliasing filter preserves a nice balance of sharpness and artifact suppression.

For pixel-peepers and print fiends demanding ultra-high resolution prints or intense cropping flexibility, the GFX 50S II holds a clear advantage. Leica offers an aesthetic and workflow beloved by purists, but it can't compete in sheer pixel count or advanced noise performance.

Back view: Fujifilm’s high-res articulated touchscreen versus Leica’s fixed LCD.

Autofocus and Usability in the Field

If autofocus speed and accuracy are high on your priority list, these cameras couldn’t be more different beasts.

The Fujifilm GFX 50S II features a contrast-detection autofocus system with 425 focus points, including face and eye detection, autofocus tracking, and touch aid on its touchscreen. Though medium format autofocus generally tends to lag behind smaller sensor systems (due to pixel size and contrast AF reliance), Fuji’s implementation is genuinely one of the better ones I’ve tested. It performs capably for portraits and slow-moving subjects, though it’s no sports-high-speed chase champion. The built-in 5-axis image stabilization complements AF performance by allowing slower shutter speeds.

Conversely, the Leica M Typ 240 relies entirely on manual focus - a pure rangefinder optical experience. Autofocus? Not in this camera’s DNA. Photographers used to quick autofocus might find this a deal-breaker. But for street and documentary photographers who enjoy manual focus precision and the tactile satisfaction of focusing collars, Typ 240’s simplicity is bliss. Be warned: no autofocus assistance, no face detection, no eye tracking. Leica’s live view can help, but it’s not meant for fast-paced shooting.

Additionally, Leica’s shutter is fully mechanical, with no electronic shutter option, which some appreciate for sound and reliability, but it caps frame rate at 3fps, same as Fujifilm, though Fuji offers silent electronic shutter up to 1/16000s.

Fujifilm GFX 50S II front Fujifilm GFX 50S II screen back Leica M Typ 240 screen back

Specialized Photography Disciplines Explored

Portrait Photography

Fujifilm’s 51MP sensor combined with face and eye detection focus transforms portraiture into a relatively painless affair. The GFX 50S II renders skin tones with impressive subtlety and smooth bokeh when paired with its native lenses, thanks to medium format’s generous sensor size and f/analog apertures. I found the AF eye-tracking notably reliable in decent light, which reduces wasted shots and missed expressions.

Leica’s M Typ 240, with manual focus rangefinder controls, requires more skill and patience in portrait work, but rewards those willing to master it with lush, filmic skin tones and the distinct look of Leica glass. The absence of autofocus can frustrate if subjects move unexpectedly, but for posed or controlled portraits, the result is magical.

Landscape Photography

Few cameras excel in landscape like a medium format GFX. The expanded dynamic range allows recovery of deep shadows and bright highlights with ease. Fujifilm’s weather-sealed body furthers outdoor reliability in brutish conditions, and its higher resolution opens up enormous creative latitude for large prints.

Leica’s M Typ 240 is weather resistant but less rugged. While its 24MP sensor doesn’t reach medium format scale, its relatively clean files still produce stunning prints and fit for fine art and editorial work where resolution is less critical.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Neither camera is perfect here, but Fujifilm’s touch-enabled AF tracking and sensor stabilization give the 50S II a slight edge - when shooting slower or semi-stationary wildlife. Its 3 fps burst is shallow, and autofocus isn’t the fastest, so serious action photographers will still look toward specialized APS-C or full-frame alternatives with advanced phase-detection AF.

The Leica M Typ 240 is unsuitable for wildlife or sports. Manual focus and slow frame rates make capturing fast-moving subjects a challenge, though some users prize the camera’s discretion and rangefinder viewfinder for street candid moments.

Street Photography

Leica’s design philosophy shines brightest here. The M Typ 240’s discreet shutter, compactness, and manual focus rangefinder make it an inconspicuous partner for street work. Its relatively silent mechanical shutter means you’re less likely to disturb your subjects. Sure, you trade off autofocus, low light capabilities, and video, but many street photographers prefer this classic, deliberate approach.

Fujifilm’s GFX 50S II is comparatively bulky and less stealthy, though its tilting screen and stabilization can help in varying light and shooting angles. But it’s a far cry from the agility of a Leica M for urban exploration.

Macro and Close-up Photography

With no dedicated macro focus stacking or post-focus features on either camera, you’re relying on manual techniques.

Fujifilm’s sensor-based stabilization aids handheld macro shots, especially with compatible stabilized lenses, though native macro glass options for medium format remain limited and pricey. The high resolution means you can crop closely while retaining detail.

Leica offers a broader lens ecosystem with classic manual focus optics, including macro options, but again no stabilization mandates tripod use or exceptional technique.

Night and Astrophotography

The Fujifilm GFX outperforms here, pushing ISO sensitivity to higher levels with less noise due to its larger sensor pixels and image stabilization. Long-exposure modes and built-in intervalometers support astrophotography and timelapse.

The Leica M, with no built-in stabilization and older sensor tech, struggles more at very high ISOs and long exposures but can still deliver pleasing starfields in ideal conditions, especially paired with fast prime lenses.

Video Capabilities

Both cameras are clearly photo-centric with limited video features.

• Fujifilm GFX 50S II maxes out at Full HD 1080p/30fps with 200Mbps bitrate (H.264 codec), supported by mic and headphone jacks. No 4K or advanced video features - a missed opportunity for hybrid shooters.
• Leica M Typ 240 maxes out at 1080p at 25 or 24 fps in Motion JPEG, with no audio ports and no stabilization, making video a secondary consideration.

Neither is recommended for serious videographers, but Fujifilm’s newer tech and connectivity put it slightly ahead.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery Life

Here, the Fuji again offers modern convenience:

• Dual UHS-II SD card slots for secure and speedy storage, beneficial when shooting hefty 51MP raws.
• USB 3.2 Gen 1 port enables faster tethering and file transfers.
• Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth allow remote shooting and wireless image transfer.
• Battery life rated at approx. 440 shots per charge; reasonable for a medium format camera.

The Leica M:

• Has a single SD card slot with UHS-I (slower).
• USB 2.0 port is dated and limits fast transfers.
• No wireless connectivity built in.
• Slightly better battery life estimated at 500 shots, reflecting its simpler electronics and lack of live AF.

If wireless tethering or working in remote locations with quick workflow is important, Fuji spells better practicality. Leica’s traditionalist approach limits conveniences but may appeal to those who prefer minimalism.

Lens Ecosystem and Mount Compatibility

• Fujifilm GFX system: 14 native lenses available, ranging from super-wide to telephoto and specialty optics tailored for medium format. The Fujifilm G mount is relatively new, but rapidly expanding with well-regarded lenses such as the sharp GF 110mm f/2 and versatile GF 32-64mm f/4 zoom. Quality is consistently top-notch but expect a price premium.

• Leica M mount: Boasts a historic, highly respected lineup of 59+ manual focus lenses, many classic and some modern. The range of focal lengths, apertures, and optical character cater especially to street, portrait, and documentary shooters. If you love vintage glass with Leica’s unparalleled build quality, this is a distinct advantage.

Adapters exist for both systems to use lenses from other mounts, but optimal performance respects native lenses for autofocus and stabilization on Fuji, and for classic manual character on Leica.

Price-to-Performance Analysis and Who Should Buy Which

The Fuji retails around $4,000, while Leica’s used market value hovers near $5,500 or more, often higher depending on condition and lens combos.

In my testing:

• The Fujifilm GFX 50S II delivers immense value for medium format image quality, modern AF, and professional-grade weather sealing, at a notably lower price than comparable medium format peers (e.g., Phase One). It’s a solid choice for serious studio, landscape, and portrait photographers who want exceptional detail and dynamic range without breaking the bank on medium format.

• The Leica M Typ 240 commands a premium for its legendary build, rangefinder ethos, and classic manual focus experience. Ideal for photographers deeply invested in street, documentary, and fine art genres who prize simplicity, discretion, and the tactile feel of Leica glass. It’s less versatile for fast-action or video and demands a more patient shooting style.

Pros and Cons Recap

Wrapping It Up: My Recommendations

If you’re craving state-of-the-art image quality with medium format resolution and solid autofocus/stabilization for pro or fine art work - landscapes, studio portraits, or even slower-paced wildlife - the Fujifilm GFX 50S II is your clear winner. It represents a modern medium format camera that punches well above its price class while retaining excellent ergonomics and durability.

On the other hand, if your heart lies with classic rangefinder craftsmanship, manual precision, and a legendary system centered on street and documentary photography, with an unmatched lens heritage and throwing caution to the wind for tech bells and whistles, the Leica M Typ 240 remains a holy grail. Its shooting style demands patience and skill, rewarding you with images full of character and authenticity.

Photography gear choices are deeply personal, and both these cameras excel in their niches. Hopefully, this hands-on analysis has illuminated the practical trade-offs and strengths so you can make a confident choice that suits your unique photographic journey.

Happy shooting!