The AL advantages over the AL-F that I see are -
- the AL has a faster lens then the AL-F
- the AL-F has no manual mode (as far as I know) and depends on its meter for auto exposure which could be a problem if the meter is not in great condition.
- the AL has shutter speeds to 1/1000 which is unusual for a leaf shutter (though it's probably not a true 1/1000)
- it's fairly easy to adjust the RF on the AL if needed (access hole provided on top plate)
I have both, and would prefer the AL as outlined by Bob above. The AL/F is very compact though, but the lack of manual mode is a bit restrictive.BTW, I had my AL's shutter tested and the best it could manage was around 1/750th, which isn't bad for a leaf shutter (lens needs to be around F8 to get that)
For the price they go for now you could always get both
I had an AL-F for many years (until the film back refused to lock.) It was my workhorse when I was travelling. For me, the compact size was the critical attribute.