Leica M-Monochrom vs Panasonic GF1

Here is a in depth assessment of the Leica M-Monochrom versus Panasonic GF1, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Leica and Panasonic. There is a significant difference between the sensor resolutions of the M-Monochrom (18MP) and GF1 (12MP) and the M-Monochrom (Full frame) and GF1 (Four Thirds) possess totally different sensor sizes.

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The M-Monochrom was released 2 years later than the GF1 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving through a more detailed comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the M-Monochrom matches up vs the GF1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica M-Monochrom and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The complete galleries are provided at Leica M-Monochrom Gallery and Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera regularly, you will need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Leica M-Monochrom enjoys outside 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 Panasonic GF1 has measurements of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") having a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Check out the Leica M-Monochrom versus Panasonic GF1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you choose at the time. Following is the front view scale comparison of the M-Monochrom and the GF1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the M-Monochrom and GF1 is 78 and 85 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be tough to visualise the gap between sensor sizing only by reading technical specs. The photograph below may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the M-Monochrom and GF1.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The M-Monochrom due to its larger sensor will make getting bokeh less difficult and the Leica M-Monochrom will offer you more detail as a result of its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos a little more aggressively. The newer M-Monochrom will have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.