Canon SX500 IS vs Leica M8

Here is a in-depth comparison of the Canon SX500 IS versus Leica M8, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by rivals Canon and Leica. There exists a substantial gap among the image resolutions of the SX500 IS (16MP) and M8 (10MP) and the SX500 IS (1/2.3") and M8 (APS-H) feature totally different sensor sizing.

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The SX500 IS was brought out 5 years later than the M8 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX500 IS being a Compact camera and the Leica M8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving in to a thorough comparison, below is a brief view of how the SX500 IS scores against the M8 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX500 IS & Leica M8. The entire galleries are provided at Canon SX500 IS Gallery & Leica M8 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera often, you will need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Canon SX500 IS has outside measurements of 104mm x 70mm x 80mm (4.1" x 2.8" x 3.1") along with a weight of 341 grams (0.75 lbs) and the Leica M8 has proportions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") having a weight of 591 grams (1.30 lbs).

Examine the Canon SX500 IS versus Leica M8 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are employing at that time. Here is the front view scale comparison of the SX500 IS vs the M8.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX500 IS and M8 is 80 and 79 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to see the gap in sensor sizing simply by going through specs. The visual below might offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the SX500 IS and M8.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SX500 IS featuring a smaller sensor will make getting shallower depth of field more difficult and the Canon SX500 IS will produce greater detail having its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The younger SX500 IS is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.