Canon, Nikon, Leica, Olympus... is there a "Best" Rangefinder?

[steveyork]

It's not subjective in the sense that each brand generally has strengths and weakness.

For example, Leica viewfinders, until the introduction of the ZM, were -- objectively -- better then the competition, in terms of brightness, and the definition and contrast of the rangefinder patch. It is one of the things that propelled the company to the 'head of the pack.' Bessas are also very good, but you have that short ERB. Nikons, for example, aren't as good in this regard, but they have 1.0 viewfinder magnification.

But don't kid yourself -- you can take great pictures with any camera, no matter the brand or the quality of the optics.

 

[steveyork]

A more useful question may be what are the strengths and weaknesses of certain lines.

 

[whitecat]

It is what is best for you. I have had a number of Leicas. They are not the best for me but great cameras. I like my Yashica GSN and my Olympus 35 SP.

 

[rogue_designer]

It depends.

For 35mm, I prefer a leica M4. It gives me flexibility to use either LTM (canon, or leica, or other) or M mount lenses... good 35mm framelines. Good handling characteristics...etc.

For 50mm, I prefer a Canon P. While it is limited to LTM lenses, it has a 1:1 viewfinder which is ideal for that focal length. And while the M3 would be an option, the canon has improved film loading over any M3/M2...

If the P was M mount, and had a variable mag viewfinder I wouldn't need the Leica.

By the same token, if the M4 had a variable mag viewfinder, I might not need the Canon.

And of course, the Olympus XA is small, and ideal for so many other uses.

None are perfect. Whichever one I have with me is the best for that day. 🙂