Leica CL vs Leica X-U

On this page, we will be contrasting the Leica CL and Leica X-U, one being a Advanced Mirrorless and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact and both of them are offered by Leica. There is a big difference between the image resolutions of the CL (24MP) and X-U (16MP) but both cameras have the same sensor sizes (APS-C).

Meta to Introduce 'AI-Generated' Labels for Media starting next month

The CL was unveiled 23 months later than the X-U which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both cameras have different body design with the Leica CL being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Leica X-U being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before diving right into a detailed comparison, here is a short overview of how the CL scores against the X-U in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Leica CL and Leica X-U. The full galleries are viewable at Leica CL Gallery and Leica X-U Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to consider its weight and measurements. The Leica CL has got outside dimensions of 131mm x 78mm x 45mm (5.2" x 3.1" x 1.8") along with a weight of 403 grams (0.89 lbs) and the Leica X-U has proportions of 140mm x 79mm x 88mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 3.5") and a weight of 635 grams (1.40 lbs).

Take a look at the Leica CL and Leica X-U in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you select at that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the CL vs the X-U.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the CL and X-U is 82 and 64 respectively.

Usually, it is difficult to picture the contrast between sensor measurements purely by reading specifications. The visual underneath should give you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the CL and X-U.

To sum up, both cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You should count on the Leica CL to offer greater detail having an extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The newer CL provides an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.