Canon PowerShot G16 vs Leica D-LUX 5: A Detailed Compact Camera Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals

When considering compact cameras that balance image quality, portability, and creative control, two models often emerge for enthusiasts who demand more than entry-level point-and-shoots: the Canon PowerShot G16 and the Leica D-LUX 5. Although both belong to the “small sensor compact” category and share similar form factors, each represents a distinct philosophy of design and performance that influences their suitability across various photography disciplines.

Having extensively tested and compared hundreds of cameras with varied sensor technologies and feature sets over the last 15 years, I approach this analysis combining hands-on experience, industry-standard benchmarks, and practical usability insights. This article will dive deeply into core characteristics - sensor performance, autofocus, build quality, ergonomics, lens optics, shooting versatility, and value proposition - to help you confidently decide which of these compact powerhouses best fits your photographic objectives.

First Impressions and Handling: Size, Controls, and Build Quality

Ergonomic Overview

At first glance, the Canon G16 and Leica D-LUX 5 occupy similar physical footprints, but subtle differences in dimensions and weight affect the handling experience. The G16 measures 109 x 76 x 40 mm and weighs 356 grams, while the D-LUX 5 is slightly slimmer but taller at 110 x 66 x 43 mm and lighter at 271 grams.

The Canon’s additional heft supports its robust, traditional DSLR-inspired grip and well-laid-out control dials, making it comfortable for longer handheld use, especially for photographers accustomed to classic ergonomic layouts. The Leica, meanwhile, achieves remarkable portability without sacrificing control accessibility but feels more delicate in hand, prioritizing pocketability over ruggedness.

Control Layout and Interface

The Canon G16 sports dedicated knobs for exposure compensation, mode selection, and ISO, plus a clickable control wheel for swift adjustments - ideal for users valuing rapid, tactile access without diving deep into menus. The G16’s buttons are spaced for deliberate operation, minimizing accidental presses in dynamic shooting scenarios.

The Leica D-LUX 5, while sleek and minimalist, opts for fewer physical controls, relying more heavily on menu navigation due to the limited button count. Its mode dial and rear control wheel provide sufficient but less versatile adjustment speed, potentially slowing down photographers who shoot in manual or semi-manual modes frequently.

In summary, the Canon’s control schema is better suited to users who prioritize fast manual handling, while the Leica’s design targets photographers emphasizing discretion and compactness.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Sensor Size and Type

Both cameras adopt the 1/1.7-inch sensor class, common in high-end compacts. However, there are nuances:

• Canon PowerShot G16: Equipped with a 12-megapixel backside-illuminated CMOS (BSI-CMOS) sensor measuring approximately 7.44 x 5.58 mm, delivering a sensor area of 41.52 mm².
• Leica D-LUX 5: Features a slightly larger 10-megapixel CCD sensor measuring 8.07 x 5.56 mm, with a total area near 44.87 mm².

This technical distinction has practical ramifications. The BSI-CMOS technology in the Canon sensor improves light-gathering efficiency and noise performance, especially at elevated ISOs, while the Leica’s CCD sensor - though prized historically for color fidelity and tonal rendition - lags behind in noise resistance and dynamic range with modern standards.

Resolution and Output Quality

The G16’s 12-megapixel resolution affords a maximum image size of 4000 x 3000 pixels, slightly higher than the D-LUX 5’s 3648 x 2736 output. This modest difference benefits landscape photographers or those seeking flexibility for cropping.

Examining industry lab tests and real-world samples, the Canon demonstrates superior low-light performance, showing usable ISO ranges up to 1600 with restrained noise, whereas the Leica starts to degrade beyond ISO 400-800, reflective of CCD limitations.

Dynamic Range and Color

Canon’s larger dynamic range (approx. 11.7 EV) compared to Leica’s tested performance (data not fully available but historically lower for CCD sensors in this class) provides more latitude in shadow and highlight recovery during post-processing - a critical advantage in high-contrast scenes such as landscapes and urban environments with variable lighting.

However, the Leica still excels in rendering rich color tones, particularly skin tones in portraiture, offering a warm, film-like output that many users admire for its character.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Canon PowerShot G16

The Canon G16 incorporates a hybrid autofocus relying on contrast-detection with nine AF points and face detection capabilities. Its autofocus system supports continuous AF, tracking moving targets reasonably well at the 12 fps burst rate, which is exceptional for a compact.

During testing, the G16 provided swift, consistent focus acquisition in brightly lit conditions and maintained respectable performance under lower lighting down to approximately EV 0 to -1 illumination. However, there is a minor lag in hunting behavior under very dim light, which is typical of contrast-based AF systems.

Leica D-LUX 5

The Leica’s autofocus is purely contrast-detection based as well but limited to single autofocus mode without continuous tracking. The 23 focus points offer flexibility for composition, but live tracking was not present, reducing suitability for action-oriented photography such as sports or wildlife.

Focus speed was adequate but noticeably slower than Canon’s G16, especially in challenging light, limiting spontaneous capture opportunities. Face detection is absent, potentially complicating portrait work for users who depend on reliable eye and face tracking.

Lens Optics and Zoom Range: Creative Reach and Sharpness

Both cameras come with fixed zoom lenses optimized for versatility in small bodies:

• Canon G16: 28–140 mm equivalent focal length, with a bright aperture range of f/1.8 to f/2.8, giving a generous 5× zoom. The wide f/1.8 at the short end makes it excellent for shallow depth of field and low-light conditions.
• Leica D-LUX 5: 24–90 mm equivalent, aperture spanning f/2.0 to f/3.3, offering a modest 3.8× zoom. The slightly wider initial focal length gives a broader angle allowing landscapes and interiors some extra whimsy.

Canon’s lens exhibits sharper edge-to-edge clarity, reduced chromatic aberration, and minimal barrel distortion throughout the zoom range, owing to advances in optical design and coatings implemented at launch. Leica’s lens delivers richer rendering with distinctive Micro-Nikkor-like bokeh, prized for creative portraiture or macro work (minimum focus distance of 1 cm for both cameras).

LCD and Viewfinder: Composition and User Interface

Screen Characteristics

Both cameras employ fixed 3-inch LCDs, but the Canon leads with a higher-resolution 922k-dot TFT PureColor II G LCD, compared to the Leica’s 460k-dot screen. This difference manifests in improved image preview sharpness, more accurate color representation, and enhanced menu navigation on the G16 - important for reviewing images and composing outdoors.

Viewfinders

The Canon supplies an optical tunnel viewfinder covering 80% frame but without magnification or exposure data viewfinder overlays. In contrast, the Leica offers an optional electronic viewfinder (EVF) sold separately, which dramatically improves framing precision in bright conditions but involves additional expense.

Photographers preferring traditional optical views might find the Canon’s tunnel finder sufficient, although it’s not ideal for critical focus. Meanwhile, those comfortable with EVF technology or willing to invest in the accessory gain a considerable ergonomic edge with the Leica.

Shooting Performance: Burst Rate, Shutter Speed, and Stabilization

Shutter Speed Range and Exposure Modes

Both cameras provide 15 seconds to 1/4000th second shutter speeds, supporting common exposure modes including shutter priority, aperture priority, manual, and exposure compensation - which are critical for creative control.

Continuous Shooting and Buffer Depth

The Canon G16’s 12 fps burst rate is noteworthy among compact cameras, making it a versatile tool for capturing fleeting moments in sports or wildlife scenes, although buffer depth is modest, limited to about 6-8 JPEGs at full resolution.

The Leica’s more conservative 3 fps burst suffices for general street and travel photography but may miss action sequences.

Image Stabilization

Optical image stabilization is standard on both, facilitating sharper handheld images in low light or at telephoto focal lengths, though Canon’s implementation shows slightly enhanced performance in tests, stabilizing up to three stops effectively.

Video Capabilities: Resolutions, Formats, and Audio

The Canon G16 provides Full HD 1080p video up to 60 fps using H.264/MPEG-4 encoding, yielding high-quality moving footage ideal for casual videography. It also supports 720p and VGA resolutions for versatility.

Leica’s D-LUX 5 maxes at 720p HD video capped at 60 fps, encoded in AVCHD Lite or Motion JPEG. While adequate for basic clips, this resolution and codec limit professional video quality and editing flexibility.

Neither camera offers external microphone inputs, a notable omission for serious videographers seeking high-fidelity sound capture, relying instead on built-in mics.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

Battery Endurance

The Canon G16’s NB-10L battery achieves approximately 360 shots per charge, a solid figure for compact cameras but likely less than DSLRs or mirrorless counterparts.

The Leica D-LUX 5 does not have manufacturer-specified battery life, but testing and user reports indicate reduced endurance, roughly in the 250-300 shot range, which may necessitate carrying spares during long shoots.

Storage Media

Both accept standard SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, with single card slots. Leica also offers internal storage, a minor plus for quick captures but limited capacity overall.

Wireless and Port Options

The G16’s integrated Wi-Fi supports image transfers and remote control, enhancing workflow for photographers sharing content quickly. Leica lacks wireless capabilities, requiring USB 2.0 transfers exclusively.

Both provide HDMI outputs for external display and USB 2.0 ports; however, neither supports modern USB speeds (e.g., USB 3.0), which may slow tethered capture sessions.

Sample Image Quality and Genre Suitability

Canon G16 front Canon G16 screen back Leica D LUX 5 front Leica D LUX 5 screen back

Portrait Photography

The Canon’s wider aperture and reliable face detection help produce pleasing subject isolation and accurate skin tones, further assisted by its strong autofocus. Leica’s optical qualities render skin tones warmly but require manual focus precision due to lack of eye detection.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range and resolution edge to Canon, but Leica’s color palette and wider wide-angle capability empower expressive landscape captures in subtle lighting.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Canon’s faster burst and AF tracking outclass Leica, making it the prudent choice for capturing animals or athletes in motion.

Street and Travel Photography

Leica’s compact and lightweight form favors covert shooting; however, the Canon’s superior stabilization and interface offer greater reliability in varied conditions.

Macro and Night Photography

Both cameras boast close focusing down to 1 cm, but Canon’s better noise handling at high ISO improves night scenes and astrophotography potential.

Comprehensive Performance Scores and Genre-Specific Ratings

The Canon PowerShot G16 outperforms the Leica D-LUX 5 in objective scoring metrics related to speed, autofocus, sensor noise, and dynamic range - underscoring its status as a well-rounded all-rounder despite being several years younger.

Price Considerations and Value Analysis

At launch, the Canon G16 retailed around $499, positioning it as an affordable enthusiast compact delivering excellent technology for the price. The Leica D-LUX 5, with a higher $799 price tag, reflects its premium brand cachet and designer appeal but offers older sensor tech and fewer features compared to the G16.

When adjusted for current market availability (used or discounted), the cost differential can be considerable, making the Canon a compelling value proposition for photographers prioritizing performance.

Final Thoughts: Which Compact Camera Should You Choose?

If your photographic ambitions require versatile, fast, and technologically advanced shooting with crisp image quality across a broad range of conditions - including action, low-light, and video - the Canon PowerShot G16 is the pragmatic choice. Its tactile ergonomics, superior autofocus, higher resolution, and stronger video capabilities equip photographers focused on practical output with confidence.

Conversely, if you prize compact size, a classic Leica aesthetic, warmer color reproduction with distinctive character, and primarily shoot stills in controlled or well-lit environments, the Leica D-LUX 5 remains an elegant tool that rewards deliberate, artistic compositional approaches.

Both cameras, while released over a decade ago, still hold educational value for photographers interested in the evolution of small sensor compacts and offer solid foundations for travel, street, and casual portrait photography depending on user preferences and budget.

Summary Table for Quick Reference

In conclusion, the Canon PowerShot G16 represents a more advanced, performance-oriented compact camera optimized for photographers requiring speed, modern sensitivity, and creative flexibility, especially for video-capable workflows. The Leica D-LUX 5 appeals to niche users who prefer classic output characteristics and a minimalist design, accepting trade-offs in autofocus and speed. Your final choice should align with your photographic priorities and shooting environments, ensuring the camera enhances rather than limits your creative expression.

If you have further questions or need advice tailored to specific shooting scenarios or lens recommendations for these camera systems, feel free to reach out or explore dedicated reviews of accompanying accessories to maximize your investment.