Leica M-Monochrom vs Sony A7R

The following is a comprehensive analysis of the Leica M-Monochrom vs Sony A7R, both Pro Mirrorless cameras by rivals Leica and Sony. There exists a large gap among the resolutions of the M-Monochrom (18MP) and A7R (36MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor sizes (Full frame).

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The M-Monochrom was unveiled 21 months prior to the A7R which makes them a generation away from one another. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Leica M-Monochrom being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A7R being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go right into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the M-Monochrom matches up against the A7R with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M-Monochrom & Sony Alpha A7R. The full galleries are provided at Leica M-Monochrom Gallery & Sony A7R Gallery.

In case you're going to travel with your camera, you have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Leica M-Monochrom has outer 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 Sony A7R has dimensions of 127mm x 94mm x 48mm (5.0" x 3.7" x 1.9") and a weight of 465 grams (1.03 lbs).

Compare the Leica M-Monochrom vs Sony A7R in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have at that moment. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the M-Monochrom compared to the A7R.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the M-Monochrom and A7R is 78 and 78 respectively.

More often than not, it's tough to visualize the contrast in sensor dimensions only by checking out specifications. The image below might provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the M-Monochrom and A7R.

To sum up, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You can expect the Sony A7R to provide greater detail having an extra 18MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The more aged M-Monochrom will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.