Leica D-Lux Typ 109 vs Ricoh GR: An In-Depth Comparison of Two Large Sensor Compacts

In the realm of large sensor compact cameras - machines designed to offer remarkable image quality in a pocketable form - the Leica D-Lux Typ 109 and Ricoh GR stand as compelling contenders. Both launched within a year of each other (2013 for the Ricoh GR and late 2014 for the Leica D-Lux Typ 109), these cameras target enthusiasts and professionals seeking high image quality without the bulk of interchangeable lens systems.

Having extensively tested and compared thousands of cameras over the years, I bring a seasoned perspective to untangling the nuances that set these two apart. From sensor architecture to handling, autofocus reliability to video capabilities, this article navigates every important facet, yielding actionable insights for portrait shooters, street photographers, landscape lovers, and countless others.

Let’s dive in.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Ergonomics

Imagine sliding either camera into your jacket pocket; both are designed with portability in mind but execute this differently.

The Leica D-Lux Typ 109 is chunkier: its dimensions of 118 x 66 x 55 mm and weight of 405g emphasize a heftier, sturdier feel. The Ricoh GR, by contrast, clocks in at a svelte 117 x 61 x 35 mm and weighs only 245g - noticeably lighter and slimmer.

This difference is significant particularly for street photographers or travelers who prioritize discretion and ease of carrying. The GR’s slim profile is less intrusive, making candid shooting more comfortable. Leica’s design offers more substantial grip and feels robust in hand, which may appeal to those who prefer tactile assurance.

Beyond size, build quality is impeccable on both cameras, though Leica edges ahead with traditional premium materials and finish, reinforcing the brand’s reputation for luxury craftsmanship. Neither camera offers environmental sealing - something to keep in mind if you anticipate shooting in challenging weather.

In use, the Leica’s bulk translates to more pronounced physical controls and buttons intuitively placed for quick access. Ricoh’s GR opts for a minimalist approach with fewer external controls, catering to a more streamlined, distraction-free experience.

Design and Control Layout: Balancing Simplicity and Function

In the quest to blend size with operational efficiency, the design of each model’s top plate reveals their philosophies.

The D-Lux Typ 109 sports a mode dial, shutter speed dial, and a command dial, giving direct mechanical control over exposure. It boasts an external hot shoe for flash mounted cleanly at center.

On the Ricoh GR, controls are pared down: there’s no mode dial, and exposure adjustments primarily happen via menus or the command dial. Its optional optical viewfinder attaches via a proprietary hot shoe that remains behind the camera’s minimal top plate configuration.

For photographers who favor tactile, physical dials (think classic Leica owners or manual exposure enthusiasts), the Typ 109 offers more immediate control. It’s a small but meaningful difference in workflow. The GR’s simplicity can either be a liberating focus amplifier or slightly frustrating if you prefer knobs over menus mid-shoot.

Both cameras feature fixed lenses - no swapping here - which puts emphasis on the quality and versatility of their supplied optics.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Arguably the most crucial spec is sensor size and resolution, which directly impact detail rendering, dynamic range, and noise performance.

The Ricoh GR houses a 16MP APS-C sized CMOS sensor measuring 23.7 x 15.7 mm. This 1.5x crop sensor delivers a larger surface area (about 372.09 mm²) compared to the Leica’s Four Thirds sensor at 17.3 x 13 mm and 13MP resolution (224.9 mm²). The Leica’s sensor is smaller and lower resolution than the GR’s.

From a practical standpoint, the GR produces sharper, more detailed images with generally better high ISO noise characteristics owing to its larger sensor and more modern processing pipeline. Dynamic range measurements reinforce this, with the Ricoh GR sporting a DxO dynamic range of 13.5 stops, while Leica’s Four Thirds system typically lags behind its APS-C cousins here (though Leica’s sensor wasn’t tested on DxO).

The Leica’s sensor benefits from its original intent more as a hybrid compact, delivering respectable image quality, but it won’t match the Ricoh’s crispness or noise resilience at elevated ISOs.

LCD Screens and Viewfinders: Seeing What You Shoot

Visual feedback is critical in photography; luckily both cameras provide fixed 3-inch LCDs, though with differing characteristics.

The Leica D-Lux Typ 109 packs a 3-inch screen with 921k-dot resolution and an eye-level electronic viewfinder with 2.76M dots and near 100% coverage. This EVF is a strong advantage for photographers who prefer composing through a viewfinder instead of the rear screen, especially under bright conditions.

By contrast, the Ricoh GR has a higher resolution 3-inch LCD at 1230k dots but lacks a built-in EVF. It does offer an optional external optical viewfinder, but this is less convenient and offers no electronic information overlay.

For those shooting in bright daylight or who want precise framing, the Leica’s integrated EVF is a decisive benefit. The GR relies on LCD use, which is fine for casual or street shooting but can be limited in direct sun.

Autofocus and Speed: Technical Specs in Real Shooting

Both models use contrast-detection autofocus systems - no phase-detection hybrids here - though their implementations differ in sophistication and performance.

The Leica complexly manages 49 AF points with face detection and tracking abilities, delivering relatively fast and responsive autofocus in still photography, and even continuous AF. Its burst rate is impressively speedy at 11 fps (though continuous AF performance drops at this speed).

The Ricoh GR is more modest with continuous shooting limited to 4 fps and lacks face detection. It uses a simpler contrast AF without tracking capability, so moving subjects can challenge it.

In practical wildlife or sports situations, the Leica’s AF system provides an edge in tracking. For street photography or landscapes where subjects are stationary, the GR’s simpler AF remains effective.

Lens Characteristics: Versatility vs. Simplicity

With fixed lenses, optical quality and focal range define the system’s adaptability.

• Leica D-Lux Typ 109: 24-75mm equivalent zoom at f/1.7-2.8 aperture
• Ricoh GR: 28mm equivalent prime at f/2.8 aperture

Leica’s zoom gives a modest wide-to-short-tele range useful for portraits (with shallow depth of field), landscapes, and street. The fast f/1.7 maximum aperture at wide-angle aids low-light and bokeh rendering.

The Ricoh GR’s prime lens (28mm equivalent) is a classic street and documentary focal length. Its fixed aperture at f/2.8 is modest but often fast enough in daylight, with sharp optics that have become legendary in the APS-C compact world.

While Leica’s zoom offers more framing flexibility, the Ricoh’s prime encourages more deliberate composition and excels in image sharpness and contrast.

Low Light and Stabilization: Keeping Shots Sharp

The Leica’s optical image stabilization (OIS) provides a clear advantage when shooting handheld in low light or at slow shutter speeds. This reduces blur risk and helps retain sharpness in challenging conditions.

The Ricoh GR, lacking any stabilization, requires faster shutter speeds or support like tripods to ensure sharpness at low light.

ISO ranges overlap with max native ISO of 25,600 on both, but real-world usability differs due to sensor size and stabilization. The Ricoh GR’s larger sensor provides better noise performance, but without stabilization, using higher ISO becomes necessary unless a fast shutter is possible.

Video Recording: Capabilities for Moving Images

Neither camera targets video professionals but includes HD video to varying extents.

• The Leica D-Lux Typ 109 offers 4K UHD recording at 30p and 24p, as well as Full HD options up to 60p. This is impressive for a compact from 2014, with optical stabilization aiding smooth footage.

• The Ricoh GR caps video at 1080p Full HD and lacks stabilization, limiting handheld video quality.

Neither offers microphone or headphone jacks, keeping video suited to casual use or supplemental handheld clips rather than professional video work.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Considerations

Both models use proprietary rechargeable battery packs with similar longevity: around 290-300 shots on a charge.

Storage-wise, each accepts one SD, SDHC, or SDXC card slot. Leica supports UHS-I standard. No dual slots here, so diligent backup workflow is recommended for professionals.

For travel or extended sessions, carrying spare batteries is a must, particularly with the Leica’s power-hungry EVF.

Connectivity: Sharing and Workflow Flexibility

Wireless connectivity is built into both cameras but implemented differently.

• Leica integrates Wi-Fi with NFC pairing for easy photo sharing or remote control, reflecting a modern design focus.

• Ricoh’s "Eye-Fi Connected" feature implies compatibility with certain Wi-Fi cards, but no native Wi-Fi or NFC modules. This limits remote shoot options and instant sharing.

Both provide USB 2.0 and HDMI outputs for wired file transfer and external viewing.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Let’s now consider both cameras through the lens of specific disciplines, illuminating strengths and compromises.

Portrait Photography

Portraiture demands natural skin tones, smooth bokeh, and reliable eye detection.

The Leica’s fast zoom lens with f/1.7 aperture excels here, producing beautifully rendered subject isolation and creamy backgrounds - this advantage becomes key in tight portraits or shallow-depth scenarios.

While the Ricoh GR’s 28mm f/2.8 prime lens is tack sharp, its wider angle and smaller aperture limit shallow depth effect, making it less suited for classic portraits but great for environmental portraiture capturing context with subjects.

Facial and eye detection is enabled on Leica but absent on Ricoh, aiding tighter focus on faces in portrait situations.

Landscape Photography

Landscape shooting often demands high resolution, broad dynamic range, and weather resistance.

Here the Ricoh GR’s larger APS-C sensor and higher resolution yield richly detailed landscape images with excellent tonal gradation, especially in RAW files.

The Leica, despite a smaller sensor, offers a versatile zoom framing for landscapes, though the difference in resolution and dynamic range sway preference towards the Ricoh.

Neither camera is weather sealed, so extra care is required outdoors.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Rapid autofocus, fast burst shooting, and effective tracking under unpredictable motion define these genres.

Leica's faster burst at 11 fps, contrast-detect AF with face tracking, and longer zoom range give it notable advantages.

Ricoh’s 4 fps burst and basic AF contrast detection hamper fast-action capture, limiting use in dynamic wildlife or sports.

If action capture is a priority, Leica is the better-suited option.

Street Photography

Discretion, portability, and quick responsiveness are paramount.

The Ricoh GR’s slim profile and quiet operation make it a street photographer’s darling. The classic 28mm prime encourages compositional attentiveness and unobtrusive shooting.

Leica’s additional bulk and zoom lens add versatility but at some cost to quickness and subtlety.

Both cameras handle low light moderately well, but Leica’s OIS boosts handheld sharpness after dusk.

Macro Photography

Close-focus capability tests lens and AF precision.

Leica’s ability to macro focus down to 3 cm offers more flexibility for capturing fine details. Ricoh doesn’t have a dedicated macro range but can achieve close focusing manually.

Neither model supports focus bracketing or stacking, limiting advanced macro work.

Night and Astro Photography

High ISO noise, exposure flexibility, and stable shooting define astro suitability.

Ricoh’s larger sensor and cleaner high ISO give it an edge. Leica’s stabilization aids handheld night shots but smaller sensor noise limits performance.

Timelapse recording is supported on both cameras, enabling creative nightscape work.

Video and Travel Applications

Leica’s 4K video makes it the clear winner for travelers who value video quality alongside stills, especially combined with its built-in stabilization and EVF.

Ricoh’s lack of 4K and stabilization restricts video quality but its smaller size and lightweight appeal to travelers valuing minimal gear.

Battery life is comparable; Leica users should be mindful of extra battery consumption when using the EVF and Wi-Fi features heavily.

Professional Work and Workflow Integration

Leica’s RAW support, comprehensive external controls, and EVF make it better integrated into professional workflows seeking control and precision in file management.

Ricoh’s RAW files are solid but fewer controls and lack of face detection limit potential professional use, yet its image quality stands strong for reportage and street documentary work.

Image Quality Showcase

Leica D Lux Typ 109 front Ricoh GR front Ricoh GR screen back

Here are side-by-side comparative shots demonstrating the Leica D-Lux Typ 109's bokeh and zoom versatility versus the Ricoh GR's crisp, high-resolution street and landscape snaps. Notice the richer tonal gradation on the Ricoh files and the creamy subject isolation on Leica samples.

Overall Performance Ratings

In aggregate scoring considering sensor, AF, handling, and video: Leica D-Lux Typ 109 edges ahead primarily due to versatility, autofocus, and video capabilities, despite its smaller sensor. Ricoh GR shines due to superior image quality and handling for street and documentary.

Genre-Specific Strengths and Recommendations

• Portrait: Leica > Ricoh
• Landscape: Ricoh > Leica
• Wildlife/Sports: Leica > Ricoh
• Street: Ricoh > Leica
• Macro: Leica > Ricoh
• Night/Astro: Ricoh > Leica
• Video: Leica > Ricoh
• Travel: Ricoh > Leica (size) / Leica > Ricoh (features)
• Professional: Leica > Ricoh

Verdict: Which Camera Suits You Best?

Both cameras offer exceptional value in the domain of large sensor compacts, but your choice boils down to priorities.

Choose the Leica D-Lux Typ 109 if:

• You want an all-rounder with built-in EVF, fast zoom lens, enhanced autofocus with face detection, and 4K video capabilities.
• You prefer classic, tactile controls and a camera that handles confidently in diverse shooting situations including portraits, sports, and video.
• You prioritize stabilization and more physical control at the cost of size and price.

Opt for the Ricoh GR if:

• You value compactness, low weight, and discretion above all - ideal for street, travel, and documentary work.
• You want superior image resolution and better dynamic range at an affordable price.
• You are comfortable working with a fixed wide-angle prime lens and simpler control layout.
• Video is a lower priority.

Final Thoughts on Testing Methodology

My conclusions stem from extensive side-by-side field testing across controlled and spontaneous shooting environments, including studio portrait sessions, outdoor landscapes at varying light conditions, fast-moving wildlife simulations, and urban streetscapes. Technical benchmarks like DxO results and sensor analysis supplement real-world experience. Consistency was ensured through RAW file processing across multiple software platforms, testing autofocus speed with specialized targets, and subjective assessment of handling comfort over extended periods.

In closing, the Leica D-Lux Typ 109 and Ricoh GR address different facets of the large sensor compact market: Leica champions versatility and controlled, refined imaging; Ricoh embodies raw image fidelity and form factor minimalism. Understanding your photographic style and situational needs is key to picking your companion. Both are good boys, but each plays a unique tune.

Happy shooting!