There’s something special about film photography. It forces you to slow down, to really think about the shot before you press the shutter. Rangefinder cameras, with their unique focusing system, add another layer to that experience. The good news is, plenty of awesome rangefinder film cameras are still out there. You just need to know where to look, and what to look for. So, if you’re thinking about diving into the world of rangefinders, or just looking for an upgrade, you’re in the right place.
Here’s a quick look at some of the best rangefinder film cameras we’ll be covering:
- Leica M6: The gold standard.
- Canon Canonet QL17 GIII: A budget-friendly classic.
- Olympus 35 RC: Compact and capable.
- Yashica Electro 35 GSN: For low-light lovers.
- Voigtlander Bessa R3A: Modern features with a vintage feel.
Top 5 Best Rangefinder Film Camera Reviews
1. Leica M6
The Leica M6 is pretty much the king of rangefinder cameras. It’s legendary for its build quality, bright viewfinder, and the incredible lenses you can pair it with. It’s a fully mechanical camera, meaning it doesn’t rely on batteries for its core functions, just the light meter.
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptional build quality – it’s built to last a lifetime.
- ✅ Bright and accurate viewfinder makes focusing a breeze.
- ✅ Huge selection of amazing Leica lenses available.
Cons:
- ❌ Very expensive, especially compared to other options.
- ❌ No built-in light meter. Requires an external meter or phone app.
- ❌ Can be intimidating for beginners due to its manual operation.
Verdict: If you’re serious about rangefinder photography and have the budget, the Leica M6 is the ultimate choice. But it’s not for the faint of heart (or wallet).
2. Canon Canonet QL17 GIII
The Canon Canonet QL17 GIII is a fantastic entry point into the world of rangefinders. It’s significantly more affordable than a Leica but still offers excellent image quality and a satisfying shooting experience. I actually started with one of these, and it got me hooked on rangefinders.
Pros:
- ✅ Relatively inexpensive and easy to find.
- ✅ Sharp 40mm f/1.7 lens is great for a variety of shooting situations.
- ✅ Compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
Cons:
- ❌ Light meter relies on a mercury battery (though adapters are available).
- ❌ Not as durable as higher-end rangefinders.
- ❌ Viewfinder isn’t as bright or clear as a Leica.
Verdict: A great choice for beginners or anyone looking for a budget-friendly rangefinder with excellent image quality. It’s a classic for a reason.
3. Olympus 35 RC
The Olympus 35 RC is all about portability. It’s one of the smallest rangefinder cameras ever made, but it still packs a punch. Don’t let the size fool you; it’s a capable little camera.
Pros:
- ✅ Incredibly compact and lightweight – perfect for travel.
- ✅ Shutter-priority automatic exposure mode makes shooting easy.
- ✅ Sharp 42mm f/2.8 lens.
Cons:
- ❌ Manual focusing can be tricky due to the small size.
- ❌ Viewfinder is small and can be difficult to see in bright light.
- ❌ Battery door can be fragile.
Verdict: If you prioritize portability above all else, the Olympus 35 RC is a fantastic option. It’s a great camera to have with you when you don’t want to lug around a larger setup.
4. Yashica Electro 35 GSN
The Yashica Electro 35 GSN is known for its excellent low-light performance thanks to its fast lens. It’s a bit bigger than some other rangefinders, but the image quality makes up for it.
Pros:
- ✅ Fast 45mm f/1.7 lens excels in low-light conditions.
- ✅ Easy-to-use aperture-priority automatic exposure mode.
- ✅ Relatively affordable compared to other rangefinders.
Cons:
- ❌ Larger and heavier than other rangefinders.
- ❌ Electronics can be prone to failure.
- ❌ “Battery of Death” issue – requires a specific voltage battery (adapters available).
Verdict: If you often shoot in low light and don’t mind the larger size, the Yashica Electro 35 GSN is a solid choice. Just be aware of the potential electronic issues.
5. Voigtlander Bessa R3A
The Voigtlander Bessa R3A bridges the gap between classic rangefinders and modern features. It accepts Leica M-mount lenses and has a bright viewfinder with framelines for various focal lengths. It offers a more modern feel than some vintage options.
Pros:
- ✅ Accepts Leica M-mount lenses.
- ✅ Bright viewfinder with clear framelines.
- ✅ Aperture-priority automatic exposure mode.
Cons:
- ❌ Build quality isn’t as robust as a Leica.
- ❌ Can be more expensive than some vintage options.
- ❌ Film advance can feel a bit plasticky.
Verdict: A good option if you want a rangefinder with modern features and the flexibility of using Leica M-mount lenses. It’s a nice blend of old and new.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right rangefinder film camera can feel overwhelming, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Budget: Rangefinders can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Decide how much you’re willing to spend before you start looking.
- Lens: Consider the lens that comes with the camera (if any) and whether you can change it. The lens is just as important as the camera body.
- Condition: If you’re buying a used camera, check its condition carefully. Look for signs of damage, and ask about its service history. Also, make sure the light seals are in good condition (or have been replaced).
- Features: Do you want a fully manual camera, or do you prefer automatic exposure modes? Think about what features are important to you.
- Size and Weight: Consider how much you value portability. Some rangefinders are very compact, while others are larger and heavier.
- Lens Mount: If you already have lenses, make sure the camera is compatible. The Leica M mount is very popular, but not all rangefinders use it.
FAQs
What is a rangefinder camera?
A rangefinder camera uses a focusing system that allows you to focus by aligning two images in the viewfinder. It’s different from SLR cameras, which use a mirror to show you the image through the lens.
Are rangefinder cameras good for beginners?
Some rangefinders are easier to use than others. The Canon Canonet QL17 GIII or Olympus 35 RC are good options for beginners because they have automatic exposure modes.
How do I focus a rangefinder camera?
You focus a rangefinder camera by looking through the viewfinder and turning the focusing ring until the two images in the center patch align. Once they’re aligned, the image is in focus.
What kind of film should I use?
The type of film you use depends on your personal preferences and the shooting conditions. For general use, Kodak Portra 400 or Kodak Tri-X 400 are popular choices. Experiment with different films to see what you like best.
Where can I buy rangefinder film cameras?
You can find rangefinder film cameras at online marketplaces like eBay, KEH Camera, and B&H Photo Video. You can also find them at local camera stores and pawn shops.
Conclusion
Choosing the best rangefinder film camera really depends on your individual needs and budget. The Leica M6 is the ultimate choice for serious photographers, but there are plenty of other great options available. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, there’s a rangefinder camera out there that’s perfect for you. So, do your research, try out a few different models if you can, and get ready to experience the unique joy of shooting with a rangefinder.
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