Leica M-Monochrom vs Sony NEX-C3

On this page, we are matching up the Leica M-Monochrom versus Sony NEX-C3, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Leica and Sony. The resolution of the M-Monochrom (18MP) and the NEX-C3 (16MP) is fairly comparable but the M-Monochrom (Full frame) and NEX-C3 (APS-C) provide different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The M-Monochrom was released 9 months later than the NEX-C3 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise summary of how the M-Monochrom grades against the NEX-C3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica M-Monochrom and Sony Alpha NEX-C3. The complete galleries are available at Leica M-Monochrom Gallery and Sony NEX-C3 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera, you're going to have to think about its weight and proportions. The Leica M-Monochrom comes with outside dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") and a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-C3 has measurements of 110mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs).

Check out the Leica M-Monochrom versus Sony NEX-C3 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the M-Monochrom and the NEX-C3.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the M-Monochrom and NEX-C3 is 78 and 91 respectively.

More often than not, it can be hard to visualize the difference in sensor sizing purely by going through technical specs. The photograph underneath will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the M-Monochrom and NEX-C3.

As you can tell, both of these cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The M-Monochrom because of its larger sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Leica M-Monochrom will provide more detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop images more aggressively. The younger M-Monochrom should have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.