Leica M-Monochrom vs Sony NEX-5N

Following is a complete analysis of the Leica M-Monochrom versus Sony NEX-5N, one is a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Leica and Sony. The sensor resolution of the M-Monochrom (18MP) and the NEX-5N (16MP) is pretty well matched but the M-Monochrom (Full frame) and NEX-5N (APS-C) provide different sensor measurements.

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The M-Monochrom was brought out 8 months after the NEX-5N so they are of a similar generation. Both cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving into a thorough comparison, here is a quick overview of how the M-Monochrom grades vs the NEX-5N in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M-Monochrom and Sony Alpha NEX-5N. The entire galleries are available at Leica M-Monochrom Gallery and Sony NEX-5N Gallery.

If you're intending to carry around your camera regularly, you will have to think about 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") along with a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5N has sizing of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") having a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Compare the Leica M-Monochrom versus Sony NEX-5N in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using during that time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the M-Monochrom vs the NEX-5N.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the M-Monochrom and NEX-5N is 78 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, it's difficult to visualize the difference between sensor sizes simply by checking specs. The pic below should offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the M-Monochrom and NEX-5N.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The M-Monochrom featuring a bigger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF simpler and the Leica M-Monochrom will resolve extra detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs way more aggressively. The more modern M-Monochrom should have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.