Leica CL vs Leica M-Monochrom

Below, we are reviewing the Leica CL versus Leica M-Monochrom, one is a Advanced Mirrorless and the other is a Pro Mirrorless and both are offered by Leica. There exists a sizeable gap between the sensor resolutions of the CL (24MP) and M-Monochrom (18MP) and the CL (APS-C) and M-Monochrom (Full frame) use totally different sensor size.

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The CL was announced 5 years after the M-Monochrom which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving in to a in depth comparison, below is a short summation of how the CL matches up versus the M-Monochrom in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica CL and Leica M-Monochrom. The whole galleries are available at Leica CL Gallery and Leica M-Monochrom Gallery.

If you're looking to travel with your camera frequently, you'll need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Leica CL has got external dimensions of 131mm x 78mm x 45mm (5.2" x 3.1" x 1.8") with a weight of 403 grams (0.89 lbs) and the Leica M-Monochrom has dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") with a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs).

See the Leica CL versus Leica M-Monochrom in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you select during that time. The following is the front view dimensions comparison of the CL against the M-Monochrom.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the CL and M-Monochrom is 82 and 78 respectively.

Normally, it's tough to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions just by reading a spec sheet. The image here might provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the CL and M-Monochrom.

Clearly, the 2 cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The CL with its tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF harder and the Leica CL will deliver greater detail with its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The fresher CL is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.