Comparison
KMZ Jupiter-9 85mm f/2 vs Leica Elmarit-R 90mm f/2.8
The KMZ Jupiter-9 85mm f/2 is a 85mm f/2 M42 lens made 1950s-1980s, valued at $90 to $320 used. The Leica Elmarit-R 90mm f/2.8 is a 90mm f/2.8 Leica R lens made 1964-1996, valued at $300 to $800 used.
Specifications side by side
| Specification | KMZ Jupiter-9 85mm f/2 | Leica Elmarit-R 90mm f/2.8 |
|---|---|---|
| Focal length | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/2 | f/2.8 |
| Native mount | M42 | Leica R |
| Production years | 1950s-1980s | 1964-1996 |
| Optical design | 7 elements / 3 groups, Sonnar | 5 elements / 4 groups, telephoto |
| Typical used value | $160 | $480 |
| Value range | $90 to $320 | $300 to $800 |
| Adapts to | Sony E, Fuji X, MFT, Canon RF, Nikon Z, L-mount | Sony E, Canon RF, Nikon Z, L-mount, Fuji X, MFT |
What actually differs
- The KMZ Jupiter-9 85mm f/2 is 1 stop faster: f/2 against f/2.8.
- The KMZ Jupiter-9 85mm f/2 is cheaper. Typical used value is $160 against $480, a gap of $320 (roughly 3x). Ranges: $90 to $320 versus $300 to $800.
- The Leica Elmarit-R 90mm f/2.8 is longer at 90mm against 85mm, a 5mm difference that tightens framing slightly and increases background magnification.
- The KMZ Jupiter-9 85mm f/2 is the older design; production began around 1950 against 1964 for the Leica Elmarit-R 90mm f/2.8 (1950s-1980s versus 1964-1996).
- They use different mounts, M42 and Leica R, so each needs its own adapter. Both reach infinity on mirrorless bodies with a plain mechanical adapter.
- Construction differs: 7 elements in 3 groups for the KMZ Jupiter-9 85mm f/2, 5 elements in 4 groups for the Leica Elmarit-R 90mm f/2.8.
Which one to buy
On the catalog data the KMZ Jupiter-9 85mm f/2 wins on the 1 stop of extra speed and the $320 lower typical price, and the Leica Elmarit-R 90mm f/2.8 gives up nothing measurable in return except its own rendering, described below. Condition and variant matter more than the spec sheet at these prices.
Minimum focus distance, weight, and measured sharpness are not in the catalog, so this comparison does not claim anything about them.