Leica M-Monochrom vs Olympus E-P3

Here, we will be matching up the Leica M-Monochrom vs Olympus E-P3, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Leica and Olympus. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the M-Monochrom (18MP) and E-P3 (12MP) and the M-Monochrom (Full frame) and E-P3 (Four Thirds) provide different sensor dimensions.

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The M-Monochrom was unveiled 9 months later than the E-P3 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting into a detailed comparison, here is a quick summary of how the M-Monochrom grades against the E-P3 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M-Monochrom and Olympus PEN E-P3. The full galleries are available at Leica M-Monochrom Gallery and Olympus E-P3 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Leica M-Monochrom comes with outer measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") along with a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) while the Olympus E-P3 has dimensions of 122mm x 69mm x 34mm (4.8" x 2.7" x 1.3") having a weight of 369 grams (0.81 lbs).

Compare the Leica M-Monochrom vs Olympus E-P3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use at that moment. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the M-Monochrom and the E-P3.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the M-Monochrom and E-P3 is 78 and 86 respectively.

Often, it is hard to imagine the difference in sensor sizing only by seeing specs. The visual underneath will offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the M-Monochrom and E-P3.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The M-Monochrom using its bigger sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF easier and the Leica M-Monochrom will show greater detail having an extra 6MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop pictures way more aggressively. The younger M-Monochrom should have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.