Got an M10 last month and my hand is already cramping when I'm out shooting street in NYC. My thumb just doesnt have a place to rest and the grip feels insecure. Im currently torn between the Match Technical Thumbs Up and the official Leica support but that price jump is wild. The Leica one is like 250 bucks which is crazy but i heard the Match Technical brass feels better. I also saw the cheap Haoge ones on Amazon but im scared itll scratch the hot shoe.
Is the official one actually more ergonomic or am I just paying for the logo?
^ This. Also, unfortunately most premium grips are not as good as expected for the price.
Listen, ive been shooting M cameras for a decade and unfortunately, the official Leica Thumb Support M10 Black 20015 is just not worth the 250 bucks. I bought it once and felt like a sucker. It doesnt feel any more secure than the alternatives and that logo tax is real. Its honestly disappointing how much they upcharge for a simple piece of machined metal.
I saw those Haoge ones too, but the finish is usually inconsistent and i wouldnt trust my hot shoe with them. If you want something reliable, the Lensmate Leica M10 Folding Thumb Grip is around $100. It includes a tiny rubber bumper so it doesnt rub the paint raw. Its honestly disappointing how much these things cost for what they are, but this one is solid.
Honestly, my biggest worry with these accessories isnt the comfort, its the tolerances. I've tried many over the years and seen cheap ones that are slightly too wide and actually warp the leaf springs inside the hot shoe. If it doesnt slide in smooth with zero wiggle, dont force it. Youre risking a massive repair bill just to save a few bucks. Be super careful with anything lacking a rubber gasket... its just not worth the stress.