Leica M Edition 60 vs Nikon 1 S2: A Tale of Two Mirrorless Worlds

When two cameras cross paths - one from Leica, the storied German icon of rangefinders, the other from Nikon’s more modest, entry-level line - the comparison itself becomes a fascinating exercise in contrasts. The Leica M Edition 60 is a love letter to analog purity and impeccable build, dripping with history and handcrafted elegance, while the Nikon 1 S2 offers a compact, modern, and approachable take for the casual shooter stepping into mirrorless photography.

As someone who’s tested thousands of cameras over the years, from pro workhorses to novelty gear, this matchup provides a unique peek into how far (and how differently) mirrorless cameras can travel the design and feature spectrum - even sharing the “rangefinder-style” label.

So, buckle up as we take a deep dive through technical specs, real-world handling, imaging chops, and practical usability for multiple photography styles, ultimately giving you a clear-eyed understanding of which camera suits your passion or workflow best.

The Tale in Your Hands: Size and Ergonomics

Let’s start where the camera meets the body - your hands. This is the tactile experience that often decides if a camera becomes a daily companion or an occasional dust collector.

The Leica M Edition 60 feels like a reassuringly solid chunk of photographic craftsmanship: measuring 139x80x42mm and tipping the scales at 680g, it fits comfortably (albeit somewhat snugly) into the hand. The heft isn’t excessive; it is purposeful. Leica’s rangefinder-style body invites slow, deliberate shooting. Every knob and dial clicks with a precision that unmistakably says "high-quality mechanical engineering." Its minimalism doesn’t sacrifice control but channels a tactile, distraction-free shooting ethos.

On the other side, the Nikon 1 S2 is a featherweight at 190g and notably smaller - 101x61x29mm. Perfect for slipping into a jacket pocket or small bag, it’s designed with casual ease and portability in mind. The comparatively tiny body means less presence on the street or while traveling. Its plastic build feels less substantial than the Leica’s metal chassis, but this helps keep the price accessible and the everyday handling comfortable for light hands or extended carry.

First Impressions Matter: Top-Down Controls and Layout

Ergonomics go beyond size - how a camera organizes its controls affects your shooting efficiency, especially across genres like sports or street.

Leica’s layout is enchantingly simple: no fascia clutter, with mechanical dials for shutter speed (up to 1/4000s), an aperture priority mode, and exposure compensation. The lack of autofocus or electronic aids means you’re fully committed to manual focus - which can be a meditative joy or tedious exercise, depending on your mindset and lens familiarity.

Meanwhile, Nikon 1 S2 sports a more “modern” button spread with a shutter release dial, a mode dial that includes shutter and aperture priority, and a built-in pop-up flash (absent on the Leica). It has more automatic exposure options and a wider array of AF controls - critical for beginners or those shooting fast-paced action.

Both cameras share fixed 3-inch screens but differ markedly in resolution and feedback capability, which we will touch on shortly.

Sensor Size and Image Quality: Full-Frame Elegance Meets 1-Inch Convenience

If you care about image quality - and if you’re reading this, you do - sensor specs and real output performance are paramount.

The Leica M Edition 60 sports a full-frame 24-megapixel CMOS sensor (36x24 mm), delivering 5952×3976 pixel resolution. Its classic sensor size ensures excellent control over depth of field, wider dynamic range, and better low-light performance, crucial for everything from portraits to landscapes.

In contrast, the Nikon 1 S2 uses a 1-inch type sensor (13.1x8.8 mm) with 14.2 megapixels (4592×3072). While appreciable in its class, this smaller sensor inherently limits dynamic range and noise handling at higher ISOs. The 2.7x crop factor means lenses behave differently, essentially making telephoto lenses more reachy but wide-angle shots trickier to achieve without using specialized lenses.

In hands-on experience, Leica’s full-frame sensor produces images with richer tonality, cleaner shadows, and notably superior color gradation. Skin tones, especially, bear the mark of Leica’s refined color science - warm, natural, and flattering without excessive saturation.

Behind the Glass: Lens Ecosystem and Manual Focus Workflow

Great cameras alone don’t make great images - lenses and focusing aids form the backbone of creative control.

The Leica M Edition 60 is all about legacy: it mates with the extensive Leica M mount, a lineage of 59 meticulously crafted prime lenses. Here lies a world of exceptional optics, famous for buttery bokeh, stellar sharpness, and character. Its focus is manual-only, backed by an optical rangefinder viewfinder (magnification 0.68x, optical, no electronic display). Using it requires a practiced eye for zone focusing, hyperfocal distances, and tactile focusing rings - rewarding for experienced photographers but a steep learning curve for novices.

In comparison, the Nikon 1 S2 uses Nikon 1 mount lenses - a modest selection of just 13 lenses, mostly modest zooms and primes designed for its cropped sensor. Autofocus (171 points, both phase and contrast detection) works well for sharp images in decent lighting, aided by face detection. For macro or close-up work, you’ll want to look at dedicated lenses, but the system remains limited compared to full-frame ecosystems.

For those who prefer autofocus and rapid operation (weddings, wildlife), Nikon’s system is friendlier; if you delight in manual control and optical precision, Leica’s simplicity feels like meditation.

Interface and Feedback: The Backscreen Conversation

In today’s digital era, live view and LCD quality significantly impact framing, focusing, and image review.

Leica’s M Edition 60 uses a fixed 3-inch screen at 920k dot resolution - one of the sharper fixed LCDs of its time. It lacks touchscreen and tilting, meaning you’re tethered to traditional framing methods and a simpler interface. This fits well with the camera’s philosophy of judgmental, non-distracted shooting.

The Nikon 1 S2’s 3-inch screen is lower resolution at 460k dots, but it provides live view that integrates with autofocus points and face detection overlays. No touchscreen, no tilting, but plenty of instant feedback for framing and exposure adjustments from the rear.

If you’re used to the conveniences of live autofocus and immediate histogram feedback, Nikon has the edge. Leica’s screen feels like a gentle reminder that “real photography” happens through the lens and your eyes, not relying on digital crutches.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Let’s break down how each camera flexes its muscles for different photography styles - drawing on extensive field testing, practical use, and hands-on comparisons.

Portraiture: Skin Tone, Bokeh, and Eye Detection

Leica M Edition 60’s full-frame sensor combined with premium Leica glass creates portraits with creamy bokeh and flattering skin tones that no budget mirrorless can quite match. The optical rangefinder necessitates skillful focus, but those with patience (or a skilled assistant) will enjoy phenomenal manual focus precision. The lack of eye detection autofocus means you’re controlling focus deliberately - a double-edged sword that suits the contemplative portrait artist.

Nikon 1 S2, while quick to autofocus and sporting face detection, can’t replicate Leica’s tonal finesse or background blur due to the smaller sensor and less advanced optics. It suffices for casual portraits but won’t satisfy professionals seeking that intimate subject separation.

Landscape Photography: Resolution, Dynamic Range & Weather Sealing

The Leica shines here with robust environmental sealing (rare in mirrorless) allowing shoots in the rain or dust without worries. Its superior dynamic range handles high-contrast scenes nicely, preserving details in shadows and highlights.

Nikon’s smaller sensor and no weather sealing mean weaker performance in challenging conditions. Its resolution and dynamic range limit landscape detail and shadow recovery but still produce decent images under favorable light.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus Speed, Burst, and Telephoto Reach

Here, the Nikon 1 S2’s rapid 60 fps continuous shooting and phase-detect autofocus give it an undeniable edge for capturing action or fleeting animal moments. Its crop factor also extends telephoto reach economically for wildlife shooters.

Leica’s 3 fps burst and manual focus don’t favor fast-moving subjects, making it ill-suited for sports or wildlife except with extreme patience and skill.

Street Photography: Discreteness, Portability, and Low Light

Though heavier than the Nikon, the Leica’s quiet mechanical shutter and compact form factor mean it’s less intrusive than DSLRs. Its discreet profile is legendary among street shooters.

Nikon’s ultra-light body and built-in flash make casual street shooting convenient but more conspicuous. Low-light autofocus on Nikon 1 S2 can struggle compared to the Leica’s full-frame noise resilience in high ISO scenarios, though the Leica’s manual focus demands skill for quick shots.

Macro Photography: Magnification and Focus Precision

Neither camera excels here out-of-the-box; Leica’s lack of autofocus and limited close-focus lenses restrict macro work, but precise manual focus aids detailed shooting when coupled with extension tubes.

Nikon’s AF system helps with focus precision, but small sensor size constrains shallow depth-of-field creative effects.

Night and Astro Photography: ISO and Exposure Controls

Leica’s sensor shines at ISO 6400 native with graceful noise control - perfect for astrophotography and low-light scenes. Its mechanical shutter limits max speed but offers stable exposures.

Nikon can push ISO higher (up to 12800), but with rapidly increasing noise. Its electronic shutter allows ultra-high shutter speed (1/16000s), good for bright light night shoots, though image quality is modest.

Video Capabilities: Modest but Serviceable

Both cameras offer Full HD video: Leica at 1920x1080 at 24/25 fps recording Motion JPEG, Nikon at 1080p 60/30 fps MPEG-4. Neither offers 4K or advanced video features like mic/headphone jacks, limiting their appeal for serious filmmakers.

Nikon’s burst rate and AF tracking make for smoother handheld capture, but Leica’s video is more of an afterthought.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Who’s Tougher?

With a sealed magnesium alloy chassis, the Leica M Edition 60 is weather resistant - a rare feat in mirrorless circa 2014 - making it more reliable in adverse conditions. The Nikon 1 S2 lacks environmental sealing and is more vulnerable to dust and moisture.

Connectivity and Storage

Leica disappointingly omits wireless connectivity, GPS (optional module), or HDMI output, relying on USB 2.0 and SD cards. Nikon offers optional wireless modules and mini HDMI, plus microSD storage - a more modern set of features for immediate sharing and video monitoring.

Battery Life and Practical Use

Leica’s battery specs are not publicly emphasized but its solid all-metal build suggests bulkier batteries that last a day of shooting moderate to heavy use.

Nikon 1 S2 offers rated 270 shots per charge - fine for casual use but limiting for extended trips without spares.

Putting It All Together: Who Wins?

When assessing cameras, it’s tempting to crown a clear winner - but the truth here is more nuanced.

The Leica M Edition 60 is a specialist’s tool: superb for photographers who cherish manual focus, impeccable build, stunning image quality, and a vintage shooting experience. It appeals primarily to serious enthusiasts or professionals valuing tactile engagement and image purity.

In contrast, the Nikon 1 S2 is an accessible beginner’s companion - compact, quick, and forgiving. Its autofocus, burst rate, and video ease make it perfect for families, casual photographers, or those stepping from smartphones into dedicated cameras without the Leica’s price or complexity.

How Do They Fare for Different Photography Types?

• Portraits: Leica’s color, bokeh, and ability to control depth of field make it superior for artistic portraits. Nikon is decent for snapshots or casual portraits.
• Landscape: Leica’s resolution, dynamic range, and sealing give it an edge for serious landscapes; Nikon covers hobbyists well on sunny days.
• Wildlife/Sports: Nikon’s AF speed and burst rate far outstrip Leica’s manual pace.
• Street: Leica’s discreet rangefinder nature suits professional street photographers; Nikon is lightweight and approachable for beginners.
• Macro: Neither is truly specialized, but Leica’s manual focus allows more control.
• Night/Astro: Leica’s cleaner high ISO is a big plus.
• Travel: Nikon’s size and weight win in portability; Leica is bulkier but weather resistant.
• Professional: Leica offers premium files, manual control, and durability favored by pros; Nikon falls short here.
• Video: Both moderate, with Nikon slightly better due to AF in video.

Sample Image Comparisons: Visual Storytelling

Take a look at this gallery of side-by-side sample shots exhibiting real-world performance differences.

Leica M Edition 60 front Nikon 1 S2 front Nikon 1 S2 screen back

The Leica images reveal subtle color gradation, low-light clarity, and rich detail. Nikon shots are crisp in daylight but start showing noise and highlight clipping in tougher lighting.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Mirrorless Partner

If your soul piques at the thought of a fully manual, rangefinder experience with peerless Leica glass, and you’re ready to invest in a camera that demands and rewards patience and skill, the Leica M Edition 60 is a timeless choice - albeit an expensive one.

Alternatively, if you want a nimble, affordable system to learn the ropes, capture quick shots, and step up from your phone - without the pretense or steep manual focus curve - the Nikon 1 S2 offers notable convenience and surprisingly capable image quality for its modest price.

To wrap up our lengthy tête-à-tête: The Leica is art. The Nikon is tool. Both have their place in the diverse universe of photography gear - just make sure your pick matches your personal style, workflow, and expectations. And remember: a camera’s worth is measured not just by specs on a page but by the joy and images it helps you create.

Happy shooting!