Leica M-Monochrom vs Olympus PEN-F

In this article, we will be reviewing the Leica M-Monochrom and Olympus PEN-F, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by brands Leica and Olympus. The image resolution of the M-Monochrom (18MP) and the PEN-F (20MP) is relatively comparable but the M-Monochrom (Full frame) and PEN-F (Four Thirds) come with totally different sensor measurements.

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The M-Monochrom was introduced 4 years prior to the PEN-F and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving through a complete comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the M-Monochrom grades against the PEN-F with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Leica M-Monochrom & Olympus PEN-F. The whole galleries are viewable at Leica M-Monochrom Gallery & Olympus PEN-F Gallery.

In case you're intending to lug around your camera often, you will want to consider its weight and dimensions. The Leica M-Monochrom features outer measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") having a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) whilst the Olympus PEN-F has dimensions of 125mm x 72mm x 37mm (4.9" x 2.8" x 1.5") having a weight of 427 grams (0.94 lbs).

Take a look at the Leica M-Monochrom and Olympus PEN-F in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you choose at the time. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the M-Monochrom and the PEN-F.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the M-Monochrom and PEN-F is 78 and 84 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to visualise the gap in sensor measurements purely by checking out technical specs. The visual below will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the M-Monochrom and PEN-F.

As you have seen, both cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The M-Monochrom using its bigger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF less difficult and the Olympus PEN-F will show extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The older M-Monochrom will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.