Leica M8 vs Pentax Q7

Here is a detailed review of the Leica M8 and Pentax Q7, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Leica and Pentax. The resolution of the M8 (10MP) and the Q7 (12MP) is pretty close but the M8 (APS-H) and Q7 (1/1.7") provide different sensor dimensions.

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The M8 was introduced 7 years prior to the Q7 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight to a full comparison, here is a brief view of how the M8 matches up vs the Q7 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M8 and Pentax Q7. The whole galleries are provided at Leica M8 Gallery and Pentax Q7 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to take into account its weight and volume. The Leica M8 enjoys external measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") with a weight of 591 grams (1.30 lbs) while the Pentax Q7 has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Take a look at the Leica M8 and Pentax Q7 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the M8 versus the Q7.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the M8 and Q7 is 79 and 92 respectively.

In many cases, it is tough to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing merely by looking through technical specs. The photograph here should provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the M8 and Q7.

As you can tell, each of the cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The M8 having a bigger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF simpler and the Pentax Q7 will result in more detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The older M8 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.