Leica M-E Typ 220 vs Nikon 1 J5

On this page, we are analyzing the Leica M-E Typ 220 vs Nikon 1 J5, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Leica and Nikon. The image resolution of the M-E Typ 220 (18MP) and the 1 J5 (21MP) is fairly close but the M-E Typ 220 (Full frame) and 1 J5 (1") boast different sensor sizing.

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The M-E Typ 220 was unveiled 3 years prior to the 1 J5 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting into a full comparison, here is a quick summary of how the M-E Typ 220 matches up against the 1 J5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica M-E Typ 220 & Nikon 1 J5. The full galleries are available at Leica M-E Typ 220 Gallery & Nikon 1 J5 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera often, you will need to think about its weight and volume. The Leica M-E Typ 220 offers exterior dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") with a weight of 585 grams (1.29 lbs) while the Nikon 1 J5 has sizing of 98mm x 60mm x 32mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 231 grams (0.51 lbs).

Take a look at the Leica M-E Typ 220 vs Nikon 1 J5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose at the time. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the M-E Typ 220 and the 1 J5.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the M-E Typ 220 and 1 J5 is 79 and 91 respectively.

Often, it is tough to imagine the gap in sensor sizing just by researching specifications. The graphic here should offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the M-E Typ 220 and 1 J5.

To sum up, both of these cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The M-E Typ 220 having a larger sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF less difficult and the Nikon 1 J5 will provide you with more detail having an extra 3 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop images a bit more aggressively. The older M-E Typ 220 will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.