Leica M-Monochrom vs OM System OM-1

The following is a in depth analysis of the Leica M-Monochrom and OM System OM-1, both Pro Mirrorless digital cameras by manufacturers Leica and Olympus. The image resolution of the M-Monochrom (18MP) and the OM System OM-1 (20MP) is fairly similar but the M-Monochrom (Full frame) and OM System OM-1 (Four Thirds) feature totally different sensor sizing.

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The M-Monochrom was manufactured 10 years earlier than the OM System OM-1 which is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Leica M-Monochrom being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the OM System OM-1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go through a detailed comparison, below is a concise summary of how the M-Monochrom scores against the OM System OM-1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica M-Monochrom & OM System OM-1. The entire galleries are viewable at Leica M-Monochrom Gallery & OM System OM-1 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to travel with your camera often, you will need to consider its weight and proportions. The Leica M-Monochrom provides exterior dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) whilst the OM System OM-1 has measurements of 135mm x 92mm x 73mm (5.3" x 3.6" x 2.9") accompanied by a weight of 599 grams (1.32 lbs).

Examine the Leica M-Monochrom and OM System OM-1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are using at that time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the M-Monochrom vs the OM System OM-1.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the M-Monochrom and OM System OM-1 is 78 and 65 respectively.

Usually, its hard to visualise the gap between sensor dimensions purely by going over specs. The picture underneath should provide you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the M-Monochrom and OM System OM-1.

All in all, both of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The M-Monochrom featuring a larger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field simpler and the OM System OM-1 will deliver greater detail due to its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged M-Monochrom is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.