Leica M-E Typ 220 vs Panasonic S3

Here is a extended assessment of the Leica M-E Typ 220 and Panasonic S3, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Leica and Panasonic. There exists a large gap among the sensor resolutions of the M-E Typ 220 (18MP) and S3 (14MP) and the M-E Typ 220 (Full frame) and S3 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor sizes.

Samsung Releases Faster Versions of EVO MicroSD Cards

The M-E Typ 220 was introduced 21 months later than the S3 making them a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Leica M-E Typ 220 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S3 being a Compact camera.

Before going right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a short introduction of how the M-E Typ 220 matches up versus the S3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica M-E Typ 220 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The whole galleries are provided at Leica M-E Typ 220 Gallery & Panasonic S3 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor its weight and volume. The Leica M-E Typ 220 enjoys exterior measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") and a weight of 585 grams (1.29 lbs) whilst the Panasonic S3 has sizing of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

See the Leica M-E Typ 220 and Panasonic S3 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the M-E Typ 220 compared to the S3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the M-E Typ 220 and S3 is 79 and 96 respectively.

Sometimes, it is hard to envision the gap in sensor sizing only by going through a spec sheet. The graphic here will offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the M-E Typ 220 and S3.

Clearly, both the cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The M-E Typ 220 with its larger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF less difficult and the Leica M-E Typ 220 will provide more detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more modern M-E Typ 220 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.