Leica M-Monochrom vs Olympus E-P1

On this page, we will be contrasting the Leica M-Monochrom versus Olympus E-P1, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Leica and Olympus. There is a noticeable difference among the resolutions of the M-Monochrom (18MP) and E-P1 (12MP) and the M-Monochrom (Full frame) and E-P1 (Four Thirds) provide totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The M-Monochrom was announced 2 years later than the E-P1 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go into a full comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the M-Monochrom matches up vs the E-P1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M-Monochrom & Olympus PEN E-P1. The whole galleries are available at Leica M-Monochrom Gallery & Olympus E-P1 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to lug around your camera often, you have to consider its weight and volume. The Leica M-Monochrom features physical dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") with a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) and the Olympus E-P1 has sizing of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") along with a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs).

Examine the Leica M-Monochrom versus Olympus E-P1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are employing at that moment. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the M-Monochrom and the E-P1.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the M-Monochrom and E-P1 is 78 and 86 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be tough to visualise the gap in sensor measurements purely by seeing technical specs. The visual below should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the M-Monochrom and E-P1.

As you have seen, both the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The M-Monochrom with its bigger sensor will make getting shallow DOF easier and the Leica M-Monochrom will show more detail with its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop pictures more aggressively. The more recent M-Monochrom will have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.