Leica D-LUX 5 vs Nikon P300

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Leica D-LUX 5 versus Nikon P300, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by companies Leica and Nikon. The sensor resolution of the D-LUX 5 (10MP) and the P300 (12MP) is fairly similar but the D-LUX 5 (1/1.63") and P300 (1/2.3") come with different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The D-LUX 5 was launched 8 months before the P300 so they are of a similar generation. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a in depth comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the D-LUX 5 grades vs the P300 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica D-LUX 5 and Nikon Coolpix P300. The complete galleries are viewable at Leica D-LUX 5 Gallery and Nikon P300 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry around your camera, you need to consider its weight and size. The Leica D-LUX 5 has outside measurements of 110mm x 66mm x 43mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) and the Nikon P300 has specifications of 103mm x 58mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 189 grams (0.42 lbs).

See the Leica D-LUX 5 versus Nikon P300 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have attached during that time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the D-LUX 5 vs the P300.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the D-LUX 5 and P300 is 88 and 92 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to imagine the difference between sensor sizes merely by reading technical specs. The image below may give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the D-LUX 5 and P300.

As you have seen, the two cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The D-LUX 5 because of its larger sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF simpler and the Nikon P300 will offer you greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop pics a little more aggressively. The more aged D-LUX 5 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.