Canon 1D MIV vs Leica S2

Following is a complete assessment of the Canon 1D MIV versus Leica S2, both Pro DSLR digital cameras by rivals Canon and Leica. There is a large difference between the image resolutions of the 1D MIV (16MP) and S2 (38MP) and the 1D MIV (APS-H) and S2 (Medium format) use different sensor sizing.

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The 1D MIV was released 18 months after the S2 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Large SLR).

Before delving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a quick view of how the 1D MIV matches up vs the S2 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Canon EOS-1D Mark IV & Leica S2. The complete galleries are available at Canon 1D MIV Gallery & Leica S2 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry around your camera, you will need to factor in its weight and size. The Canon 1D MIV features external dimensions of 156mm x 157mm x 80mm (6.1" x 6.2" x 3.1") with a weight of 1230 grams (2.71 lbs) while the Leica S2 has specifications of 160mm x 120mm x 81mm (6.3" x 4.7" x 3.2") and a weight of 1410 grams (3.11 lbs).

Look at the Canon 1D MIV versus Leica S2 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have at that time. Here is the front view sizing comparison of the 1D MIV and the S2.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the 1D MIV and S2 is 51 and 52 respectively.

Often, it's hard to visualize the contrast between sensor sizes just by reading through a spec sheet. The picture here may give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the 1D MIV and S2.

As you can see, both of those cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The 1D MIV featuring a tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF more challenging and the Leica S2 will resolve greater detail as a result of its extra 22 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots far more aggressively. The more modern 1D MIV should have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.