Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II vs Leica D-Lux 7: The Definitive Large Sensor Compact Camera Comparison

As someone who has tested thousands of cameras over a decade and a half, I appreciate the unique value that large sensor compact cameras bring to photographers. They strike an enticing balance between portability and image quality - perfect for enthusiasts and professionals who want a discreet yet capable secondary camera or a primary system for travel and everyday photography. Today, we’re diving deep into two noteworthy contenders in this category: the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II and the Leica D-Lux 7.

Both cameras have garnered attention for their design, sensor capabilities, and feature sets - but they cater to somewhat different photographer profiles. Through rigorous hands-on testing and detailed technical analysis, I’ve explored them across multiple photography genres and real-world scenarios. This comprehensive review will help you understand the strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases for each model, so you can decide which one fits your needs best.

Let’s begin with an overview of their physical design and ergonomics.

Size, Handling, and Ergonomics: Compact Yet Distinct Personalities

One of the first things I noticed testing these cameras side-by-side was their contrasting physicality. The Canon G9 X II embraces a highly compact and pocketable form factor, while the Leica D-Lux 7 provides a more robust grip and control set.

• Canon G9 X II measures just 98x58x31mm and weighs only 206 grams, making it truly pocketable.
• Leica D-Lux 7 is a bit larger and chunkier at 118x66x64mm and 403 grams, offering a more substantial feel and better handling for extended shooting.

The slimness of the G9 X II is perfect for street and travel photographers prioritizing discretion and portability. However, the small body can limit comfort and stability during longer sessions or with faster telephoto reach. In contrast, the D-Lux 7’s heft and textured grip inspire more confidence when holding and adjusting, especially for users with larger hands.

Looking at control layout, the Leica’s dedicated dials and buttons on top provide quick access to manual exposures and ISO - a hallmark feature demands of enthusiasts - whereas the Canon opts for a simpler interface geared more toward casual shooters.

In sum, the Canon G9 X II excels as a grab-and-go camera with minimalist design, while the Leica D-Lux 7 feels like a serious tool in a compact body, blending Leica’s signature tactile experience with modern flexibility.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Size and Performance Matter

Image quality often starts with the sensor, and here the differences are stark. The Canon uses a 1-inch BSI-CMOS sensor measuring 13.2x8.8mm (116.16mm²), while the Leica features a larger Four Thirds sensor at 17.3x13mm (224.90mm²).

• Canon G9 X II:
  • 20MP resolution (5472x3648)
  • Native ISO 125–12800
  • Anti-aliasing filter present
• Leica D-Lux 7:
  • 17MP resolution (4736x3552)
  • Native ISO 200–25600 with extended 100 ISO option
  • Anti-aliasing filter present

In practice, the larger Four Thirds sensor on the Leica delivers notably better dynamic range and color depth, particularly obvious when shooting in RAW - the Canon shows excellent color but is somewhat limited in shadow detail retrieval. The Leica’s sensor area nearly doubles that of the Canon, enabling lower noise and richer tonal gradations in low light.

During my ISO tests, the Canon G9 X II held up decently to around ISO 800–1600 before noise became disruptive, matching the DxO low-light ISO rating of 522. The Leica pushed usable image quality to ISO 3200 and beyond with less visible noise, making it better suited for challenging light conditions such as evening events or indoor environments.

Both cameras include optical image stabilization (OIS), but the Leica’s newer sensor and stabilization system felt more robust combined with its faster lens aperture (F1.7–2.8 vs. F2.0–4.9 on Canon), affording better handholdability in dim environments.

Display and Viewfinding: Composing with Confidence

Both cameras feature a 3-inch fixed touchscreen, but they differ in resolution and additional viewing options.

• Canon G9 X II has a 1040k-dot LCD
• Leica D-Lux 7 boasts a sharper 1240k-dot LCD and adds a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) at 2760k dots, 100% coverage, 0.7x magnification

In daylight or bright conditions, the Leica’s EVF is a revelation: sharp, clear, and lag-free, making manual focusing and composition far easier. The Canon, lacking any viewfinder, requires reliance on the rear LCD, which can be difficult under harsh sun or for precise focus operations.

Hands-down, if you demand an upright shooting experience or frequently compose in bright light, the Leica D-Lux 7’s EVF is a decisive advantage.

Autofocus System: Speed and Accuracy for Action

Autofocus is crucial for genres like wildlife, sports, and street photography. Both cameras use contrast-detect AF systems without phase-detection, with some enhancements.

Testing them on moving subjects revealed the Leica’s AF to be somewhat quicker and more consistent in tracking thanks to a more dense AF point layout and updated algorithms. However, neither camera can rival the speed or precision of mirrorless systems with hybrid AF or phase-detection pixels.

For wildlife, the burst rate difference (11 fps vs 8.2 fps) favors the Leica, but realistically neither camera is ideal for very fast action or erratic subjects due to contrast-only AF limitations.

Lens and Optical Performance: Versatility and Image Character

Both cameras offer fixed zoom lenses, limiting flexibility but simplifying usage.

The Leica lens clearly pulls ahead with a brighter maximum aperture, great for low light and creative depth-of-field control (bokeh). The wider 24mm equivalent at the short end offers a more flexible wide-angle perspective, ideal for landscapes and interiors. Notably, the Leica can focus closer for more effective macro shots down to 3cm - I found this beneficial for flower and table-top photography.

While the Canon’s 28mm start and narrower aperture limit creative background blur, it remains sharp and delivers beautifully contrasty images typical of Canon’s color science.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Durability Considerations

Neither camera boasts weather sealing, but build quality differs.

• Canon G9 X II: Lightweight aluminum body with a smooth finish. It feels solid but shows its compact design compromises for rugged handling.
• Leica D-Lux 7: Metal top-plate and robust chassis with the meticulous finishing expected from Leica, offering superior durability and a hearty tactile experience.

Neither camera is dustproof, shockproof, waterproof, crushproof, or freezeproof. For professional outdoor use, this compromises their appeal unless encased in protective housings.

Battery Life and Storage: Shooting Capacity

• Canon G9 X II: Rated for about 235 shots per charge (CIPA).
• Leica D-Lux 7: Extended battery life at approximately 340 shots (CIPA).

Neither is outstanding by DSLR standards but typical for compact systems. If you shoot a lot on the go, consider carrying spare batteries. Both use SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, but the Leica supports UHS-I cards for faster write speeds - beneficial in 4K video or burst shooting.

Video Capabilities and Multimedia Features

For hybrid shooters and vloggers, video specs can be a deciding factor.

Clearly, the Leica’s 4K UHD video recording capability offers much more flexibility for contemporary video content compared to Canon’s Full HD limitation. Image stabilization systems were both effective for handheld shooting in video tests, but the Leica’s sensor-shift system seems to produce smoother footage overall.

Genre-Specific Performance: Which Camera Excels Where?

Breaking down performance by photography type helps clarify which camera suits your style best.

• Portrait Photography: Leica’s brighter lens and larger sensor yield silky smooth bokeh and excellent skin tone rendering. Canon performs well but with less background separation.
• Landscape Photography: Leica’s superior dynamic range and wider lens give it an edge for landscapes and cityscapes.
• Wildlife Photography: Neither is perfect, but Leica’s faster AF and burst rate provide a slight advantage.
• Sports Photography: Limited by AF and speed constraints; Leica marginally better due to burst speed.
• Street Photography: Canon’s discreet size and lighter weight appeal to street shooters valuing stealth; Leica is more noticeable but offers better image quality.
• Macro Photography: Leica allows focusing closer for tighter macro shots.
• Night/Astro Photography: Leica’s superior high ISO control and larger sensor deliver cleaner images.
• Video Capabilities: Leica with 4K and higher bitrate outperforms Canon.
• Travel Photography: Canon’s compactness wins for travel ease; Leica weighs more but produces better image quality.
• Professional Work: Leica’s image quality, control dials, and 4K video make it a more versatile professional tool.

Performance Scores and Value Assessment

Reviewing overall scores from testing:

• Canon G9 X II scores an overall DxO mark of 65, reflecting good image quality for 1” sensor cameras but with some low-light limitations.
• Leica D-Lux 7 lacks official DxO scores but outperforms typical Four Thirds rivals in dynamic range, color depth, and video performance.

Price-wise:

• Canon G9 X II: Approximately $530 - excellent value for a compact sensor with great image quality and portability.
• Leica D-Lux 7: Around $1,200 - premium pricing consistent with Leica’s heritage, build quality, and enhanced technical specs.

Bottom Line: Which One Should You Choose?

Choose the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II if:

• You want a small, pocketable camera for everyday snapshots, travel, and street photography.
• Budget is a key consideration.
• You prioritize ease of use and portability over extensive manual controls.
• You shoot mostly in good light or do not need 4K video.
• You want respectable image quality in a compact, lightweight body.

Choose the Leica D-Lux 7 if:

• You demand top-tier image quality and dynamic range from a compact sensor camera.
• You value manual control dials, an excellent built-in EVF, and a fast, versatile lens.
• You need 4K video recording for hybrid photo/video work.
• You shoot portraits, landscapes, and low-light scenes where sensor size and aperture matter.
• You can invest in a premium-priced camera with Leica’s craftsmanship and heritage.

Final Thoughts on Testing and Using These Cameras

In my testing, I evaluated both cameras under real shooting conditions and standardized lab environments to benchmark resolution, color accuracy, noise performance, autofocus speed, and user interface responsiveness. I also integrated sample images from daily usage to illustrate real-world output.

Canon G9 X II front Canon G9 X II screen back Leica D Lux 7 front Leica D Lux 7 screen back

Both cameras excel in different ways, reflecting their design philosophies: the Canon G9 X II is a consummate compact for casual and enthusiast photographers on the go, while the Leica D-Lux 7 pushes the boundaries of image quality and creative control in a similarly portable form.

Ultimately, your choice hinges on how much you prioritize portability vs. functionality, your budget, and the types of photography you pursue.

If you’re looking for a superb compact without breaking the bank, Canon’s G9 X Mark II is a winner. But if you want an uncompromising large sensor compact with professional video and superior optics and don’t mind paying a premium, the Leica D-Lux 7 deserves a top spot on your shortlist.

Happy shooting!

This comparison draws on extensive hands-on testing methodologies honed over years, using consistent chart targets, real-life shooting, and industry-standard measuring tools to provide you balanced and trustworthy insights.