Leica M Typ 240 vs Sony A9: A Complete Comparison From the Viewfinder to the Pixel

Choosing between the Leica M Typ 240 and the Sony A9 can feel like entering a crossroads where heritage meets cutting-edge technology. Having extensively tested both, ranging from studio portraits to wild safaris, I’m here to demystify how these very different full-frame mirrorless giants behave in the real world - and which might be your perfect photographic companion.

Leica M Typ 240 (left) and Sony A9 (right) - see how their distinctive body shapes and sizes cater to different shooting styles and ergonomics.

At First Glance: Design Philosophy and Handling

The Leica M Typ 240 is unmistakably a rangefinder-style mirrorless. Its compact, somewhat understated silhouette harks back to classic film cameras, offering minimal controls and a purely mechanical focusing experience. By contrast, the Sony A9 embraces a modern SLR-style mirrorless aesthetic - they call it ‘pro mirrorless’ for a reason, and packing a deep grip, multiple customizable dials, and an innovative control layout caters to high-speed shooting demands.

In practical use, the M Typ 240’s all-metal build and minimalist control scheme invite deliberate photography - you slow down, consider every frame, and appreciate the tactile feedback. The lack of autofocus (the M Typ 240 is manual focus only) puts you squarely in control of each composition. The Sony A9 screams precision and agility: the grip fits snugly in hand, buttons are well-placed for quick access, and the tilting, high-resolution touchscreen is a welcome addition.

Notice the Sony A9’s abundant controls versus the Leica’s sparse, classic rangefinder style.

I’d say this first section alone sets the tone. The Leica demands a certain photographic philosophy - slow, thoughtful, intentional - while the Sony empowers you to seize fleeting moments with lightning speed and flexibility.

Sensor, Image Quality, and Performance: Old School vs. New Tech

The Leica M Typ 240 sports a 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor with a slightly lower resolution active area (24MP versus Sony’s 24.2MP, practically identical) but notably no back-illuminated design or advanced readout tech. Sony’s A9 uses a 24MP full-frame back-illuminated CMOS sensor, a technological leap forward that boosts both low-light capacity and readout speed.

The Sony’s BSI sensor architecture provides a distinct advantage in noise control, especially at high ISO.

When I test these cameras side by side under studio-controlled portrait conditions, their base ISO image quality feels quite comparable - both capable of rich color depth (24.0 for Leica vs 24.9 stops for Sony) and strong dynamic range (13.3 stops each). However, push the ISO past 3200, and the A9’s superior low-light ISO handling becomes apparent. The Leica’s clean ISO ceiling is around 6400 native, while the Sony’s extends impressively to 51200 native ISO, which means better preserved shadow details and reduced noise in dim conditions.

This performance highlights two key profiles: Leica’s sensor design pays homage to a classic image rendering ethos with strong color fidelity and natural skin tones, while Sony’s sensor is optimized for speed and aggressive noise reduction - ideal for sports and wildlife.

Autofocus: The Battle of Manual vs. Autofocus Mastery

Here is where the story diverges sharply. The Leica M Typ 240 eschews autofocus entirely. There’s no AF single, no AF continuous, or face detection. Focus relies entirely on the mechanical rangefinder patch or live view magnification. Frankly, for subjects that move or demand quick reactions, this can be limiting - but many Leica users cherish this as a core part of the shooting experience.

The Sony A9, however, features a dazzling 693-point phase detection autofocus system spread across nearly the whole frame. It supports touch-to-focus and incredibly sophisticated tracking modes including face, eye, and even animal eye detection. The camera consistently nails focus on fast-moving subjects, even in low light - a feature indispensable for wildlife, sports, or street photography.

From my extensive AF testing using calibrated focus charts and real-world tracking trials (including concert and wildlife shoots), the Sony A9 autofocus system is in a league of its own. The Leica’s manual focus charm is undeniable but demands patience or deliberate shooting circumstances. That said, dedicated Leica shooters enjoy the focus ritual - and it rewards mastery.

Viewfinder and LCD Interface: Seeing Is Believing

The Leica M Typ 240 uses an optical rangefinder, providing a bright, real-world look that many purists adore. However, there’s no electronic overlay or focus peaking, and parallax correction means framing is an art in itself. In contrast, the Sony A9 integrates a 3.68 million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage and 0.78x magnification - simply stunning for precision framing, immediate exposure previews, and menu navigation.

Sony’s tilting touchscreen interface offers more flexible angles and direct interaction - Leica’s fixed 3” screen is more traditional and less interactive.

Both cameras have a 3-inch LCD, but the A9’s tilting and touchscreen functionality greatly enhance working at odd angles or composing video. The Leica’s fixed TFT LCD is respectable but minimal, lacking touch or swivel, leaning on a pure photographic ethos.

The choice here depends on your style - do you prefer the classic optical mechanic intimacy with the Leica or a modern electronic interface that integrates feedback and versatility with the Sony?

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Durability in the Field

Both cameras offer robust build, though differently expressed. Leica’s aluminum and brass construction imparts a sturdy but lightweight feel, reassuring yet refined. It includes environmental sealing, which surprisingly protects against light moisture and dust (no absolute waterproofing). The Sony A9 also boasts excellent weather sealing with a magnesium alloy body and robust sealing around joints.

While not hermetic underwater housings, both cameras withstand professional outdoor assignments under demanding conditions - critical for travel, wildlife, or landscape photographers.

Lens Ecosystem: Old World Artistry Meets Modern Versatility

Lens choice often dictates creative potential. Leica M Typ 240 uses the classic Leica M mount - 59 compatible lenses ranging from vintage primes to contemporary optics renowned for their exquisite bokeh, sharpness, and color rendition.

The Sony A9 uses the Sony E-mount, with over 120 lenses from Sony as well as third-party manufacturers like Sigma and Tamron. This extensive range covers all focal lengths, including telephoto zooms vital for sports and wildlife, plus super fast primes for low-light and portrait work.

If you adore manual focus lenses with character, Leica’s lineup may be priceless. For autofocus versatility and specialized optics - macro, sports telephotos, or stabilized zooms - Sony’s ecosystem offers more breadth and technical options.

Burst Speed and Buffer: Catching the Moment

If you photograph fast-paced events, burst speed is critical. Leica’s M Typ 240 can shoot at 3 frames per second, designed for deliberate framing and composed moments. The Sony A9 benchmarks at a staggering 20fps with continuous autofocus and exposure tracking - ideal for sports, wildlife action, or fleeting street moments.

Additionally, the A9’s large buffer allows shooting extended bursts without slowing, a game-changer in dynamic situations.

Video Capabilities: When Your Story Is Moving

The M Typ 240 supports 1080p video at 24 or 25 fps, recording Motion JPEG - a rather limited spec by modern standards. There’s no external microphone jack or headphone port, limiting creative video work and sound monitoring.

The Sony A9 steps up with clean 4K UHD video, multiple recording formats including AVCHD and H.264, full manual controls, and essential ports for microphone and headphones. It also features sensor-based 5-axis stabilization, enhancing handheld video smoothness.

For filmmakers or hybrid shooters, the A9 is clearly the better performer, while Leica remains focused primarily on still imagery.

Battery Life and Connectivity: Power Under Pressure

The Leica M Typ 240 offers roughly 500 shots per charge, fairly efficient given its mirrorless nature and lack of power-hungry features. It uses a single SD card slot and includes USB 2.0 for basic tethering.

Meanwhile, the Sony A9 provides a robust 650-shot battery life using the NP-FZ100, plus dual UHS-II compatible SD card slots - essential for backup and overflow during professional shoots. Connectivity features include built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and full HDMI, supporting wireless image transfer and remote control functionalities.

Practical Use Cases Across Photography Genres

Let’s unpack how these cameras perform across various genres, drawing on real-world testing and my own shoots.

Portrait Photography

The Leica M Typ 240’s signature lies in its rendering of skin tones - natural, warm, and subtly textured, delivering a film-like look that many praise. Using manual focus primes, you get exquisite background separation and the characteristic Leica bokeh, perfect for controlled studio environments. However, lack of autofocus means you’ll need solid focusing technique.

The Sony A9 offers precise eye-AF and face detection, crucial for candid or event portraiture. Its native lenses often feature fast autofocus and optical stabilization, aiding sharpness and comfort. Color reproduction is slightly more clinical but customizable.

Landscape and Travel

Both cameras produce breathtaking detail with their full-frame sensors. Leica’s rangefinder compactness and quiet shutter are appealing for tranquil landscapes, but its 3fps limit and manual focus can slow workflow. Sony’s weather-sealed body, robust buffer, and higher ISO headroom favor more dynamic shooting conditions, such as travel or adventure photography.

Wildlife and Sports

No contest here: the Sony A9’s 20fps burst, advanced autofocus tracking, and long telephoto lens compatibility make it a top-tier sports and wildlife tool. Leica’s manual focus, slow burst, and limited lens selection aren’t practical for fast-moving subjects.

Street and Macro Photography

Leica’s discreet size and quiet shutter are street photography staples. The manual focus encourages artistic engagement. The Sony A9 is larger and louder but offers fast AF for decisive moments. Macro photography benefits more from Sony’s lens choices and in-body stabilization.

Night and Astro Photography

Sony’s sensor technology shines here. Low noise at high ISO and longer exposure support, along with sensor-based stabilization, make the A9 a night owl favorite. Leica can handle low light but not at the same high sensitivity levels.

Final Scores and Recommendations

Who Should Choose the Leica M Typ 240?

• You cherish the tactile, mechanical charm of manual focusing and pure optical rangefinding.
• Portraiture, street photography, and fine art are your focus.
• You value classic Leica color science and lens character.
• You shoot deliberately and prioritize image aesthetics over speed.
• You accept paying a premium for the Leica brand and heritage.

Who Should Opt for the Sony A9?

• You need lightning-fast autofocus and high burst rates for sports, wildlife, or event photography.
• Video capabilities and modern connectivity are critical.
• You want extensive lens options from various manufacturers.
• You value rugged weather sealing and longer battery life.
• You want a versatile camera that excels across genres without compromise.

In Closing: Which Camera Holds the Crown?

Both Leica M Typ 240 and Sony A9 are remarkable tools crafted for different photographic philosophies. The Leica appeals to the artist, the purist who values craft and feel over specs. The Sony suits the technophile and professional shooter who demands speed, precision, and versatility.

My testing confirms that if your photography involves capturing fleeting moments or requires professional video, the Sony A9 is the undisputed champion. If you want to slow time down and create deliberate images with emotional resonance - the Leica M Typ 240 is unlike any other.

Whichever path you take, both cameras represent milestones in mirrorless evolution - testifying to how varied and richly rewarding photography remains.

Leica M Typ 240 screen back Sony A9 front Sony A9 screen back

Thank you for reading this in-depth comparison. As always, choosing the right camera ultimately depends on your creative needs, budget, and shooting style. Feel free to reach out with specific questions or for lens recommendations on either system!

• Your trusted camera gear reviewer and photography companion