To use a rangefinder in 2026 is the equivalent of using a view camera when the Leica was invented.
The Leica is archaic when it is defended as though its limitations are superior, rather than just historically meaningful. There’s no problem in using it. The problem is the confusion between nostalgia with necessity.
The natural evolution of photography is towards the complete removal of the viewfinder altogether and the embrace of compact cameras and LCD technology
The rangefinder was revolutionary because it removed friction from photography, but in 2026 to treat it as the final form is to miss the point of its revolution. The true evolution of the medium is towards even more immediacy, smaller tools, and the eventual disappearance of the viewfinder itself.
Or even more simply put, the Leica was once the Ricoh of its age.