Leica M8 vs Nikon Z6 II

In this write-up, we are comparing the Leica M8 versus Nikon Z6 II, both Pro Mirrorless digital cameras by competitors Leica and Nikon. There is a considerable difference between the resolutions of the M8 (10MP) and Z6 II (25MP) and the M8 (APS-H) and Z6 II (Full frame) possess totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The M8 was released 14 years before the Z6 II and that is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Leica M8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Nikon Z6 II being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise overview of how the M8 scores vs the Z6 II in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica M8 & Nikon Z6 Mark II. The complete galleries are provided at Leica M8 Gallery & Nikon Z6 II Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to consider its weight and volume. The Leica M8 offers external measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") along with a weight of 591 grams (1.30 lbs) whilst the Nikon Z6 II has sizing of 134mm x 101mm x 70mm (5.3" x 4.0" x 2.8") having a weight of 705 grams (1.55 lbs).

Look at the Leica M8 versus Nikon Z6 II in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you select at that time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the M8 compared to the Z6 II.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the M8 and Z6 II is 79 and 61 respectively.

Usually, it is difficult to visualise the gap between sensor sizing only by checking technical specs. The photograph below will offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the M8 and Z6 II.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The M8 because of its tinier sensor will make shooting shallow DOF trickier and the Nikon Z6 II will resolve extra detail as a result of its extra 15MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop images far more aggressively. The older M8 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.