Leica CL vs Panasonic GH1

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Leica CL vs Panasonic GH1, both Advanced Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Leica and Panasonic. There exists a significant gap between the image resolutions of the CL (24MP) and GH1 (12MP) and the CL (APS-C) and GH1 (Four Thirds) possess totally different sensor measurements.

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The CL was revealed 8 years later than the GH1 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Leica CL being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight into a full comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the CL grades versus the GH1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica CL and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1. The full galleries are available at Leica CL Gallery and Panasonic GH1 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to lug around your camera often, you need to think about its weight and volume. The Leica CL has external dimensions of 131mm x 78mm x 45mm (5.2" x 3.1" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 403 grams (0.89 lbs) while the Panasonic GH1 has sizing of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Look at the Leica CL vs Panasonic GH1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use at that moment. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the CL against the GH1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the CL and GH1 is 82 and 81 respectively.

Quite often, it is tough to envision the contrast between sensor measurements simply by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic here may give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the CL and GH1.

As you can see, the 2 cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The CL with its bigger sensor will make getting shallow DOF easier and the Leica CL will give more detail because of its extra 12 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots far more aggressively. The fresher CL will have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.