Leica M8 vs Samsung NX300: A Thorough Dive into Two Distinct Mirrorless Worlds

In the ever-evolving landscape of mirrorless cameras, few comparisons are as intriguing as that of the iconic Leica M8 and the plucky Samsung NX300. Here we have two rangefinder-style mirrorless cameras from different eras, markets, and philosophies - one a venerable classic with a build and legacy steeped in traditional craftsmanship, the other a spirited, tech-savvy contender aimed at modern enthusiasts seeking value and versatility.

Having tested countless cameras over the past 15 years, I find these two particularly worth dissecting side-by-side. Not just for their spec sheets, but for what they actually deliver in the wild - from street photography alleyways to expansive landscapes, and even in more specialized niches like wildlife and macro. This comprehensive exploration will help you decide which camera, if either, fits your shooting style and aspirations.

Let’s unpack these two rangefinder-style mirrorless cameras in the spirit of honest, hands-on experience.

The Immediate Sensation: Size and Ergonomics

Right off the bat, handling each camera tells you a lot about what Leica and Samsung were aiming for.

The Leica M8 is a brick of a camera - solid, heavy, and built like a Swiss watch. Measuring 139x80x37mm and weighing 591g, it’s substantial for a mirrorless body, especially given its age (released in 2007). Its metal body and traditional rangefinder styling exude a tactile pleasure - it’s a camera that asks to be held deliberately and with respect. If you appreciate an instrument that feels like it’s built to last generations, the M8 checks that box.

On the other hand, the Samsung NX300 is noticeably more compact and lightweight at 122x64x41mm and 331g. It’s part of the new wave of mirrorless cameras designed for portability without sacrificing much on the tech front. The tilting 3.3-inch screen helps modern users compose creatively, something the M8’s fixed 2.5-inch screen cannot offer (and more on screens later). The NX300 fits snugly in the hand, making it great for extended travel or street shooting where discretion and light gear really count.

Ergonomics-wise, the M8’s traditional rangefinder layout means little in the way of buttons - part of its minimalist charm, but also a learning curve for newcomers who expect autofocus or flashy dials. The NX300’s modern, touchscreen-friendly body caters more to casual shooters or those comfortable with digital interfaces and flexibility.

First Impressions through the Lens: Sensor and Image Quality

We’re comparing two cameras with wildly different sensor types and resolutions - a CCD sensor in the Leica M8 and a more modern CMOS sensor in the Samsung NX300.

The Leica M8 sports a 10.3-megapixel APS-H sized CCD sensor (27 x 18 mm), delivering images with an old-school organic quality. Its resolution maxes out at 3936 x 2630 pixels, which by today’s standards might feel limiting but is ample for medium-sized prints and web use. CCD sensors yield excellent color depth and tonality, and the M8’s DxO score backs this up with a color depth of 21.1 bits and a dynamic range of 11.3 EV - respectable for its generation.

The Samsung NX300 ascends in every measurable category: it’s equipped with a 20-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor (23.5 x 15.7 mm), almost doubling the M8’s pixel count and better leveraging modern sensor tech. The NX300’s DxO Mark score is 76 overall, with a top-notch color depth of 23.6 bits and an impressive 12.7 EV dynamic range, excellent for recovering shadows and highlights in tricky lighting - a boon for landscape and high-contrast work.

The CCD sensor in the M8 gives a unique color signature appreciated by Leica purists (think warm skin tones and nostalgic rendering), but it comes at a cost: the ISO range is limited (160-2500 native), and noise performance at high ISOs is far behind what the NX300 achieves. The NX300’s max native ISO reaches a blistering 25,600, which coupled with superior low-light noise control (ISO 942 DxO low-light score), means it's more adapted to dim environments, night shots, and indoor events.

Bottom line? If color rendition and tonal character evoke your creative soul, the M8’s CCD offers a signature look that digital fans rarely see these days. But if flexible, clean images at a wide ISO range are paramount, the NX300’s CMOS is the obvious winner.

Eye on the Prize: Autofocus and Focusing Systems

Anyone who’s ever wrestled with manual focus where every second counts will appreciate autofocus, or lament its absence.

The Leica M8 is purely manual focus - a rangefinder system that demands patience and precision from the photographer. No autofocus points, no focus aids beyond the traditional patch in the optical viewfinder. This was industry-appropriate in 2007, but in today’s fast-moving environment, such a camera asks for a steadier hand.

Contrast that with the Samsung NX300’s modern autofocus system boasting 247 autofocus points spread across the frame, including face detection, continuous autofocus, and contrast and phase detection hybrid tech - the kind of wizardry previously reserved for DSLRs. Shooting moving subjects (kids, pets, sports) becomes significantly easier with the NX300’s 9 fps burst rate and AF tracking.

For portrait, wildlife, or sports photographers, the M8’s manual focus demands expertise and deliberate craft, whereas the NX300’s autofocus system offers convenience and confidence even in challenging scenarios.

The Control Deck: Body Design, Interface & Usability

Aside from handling, do these cameras make you feel smart or frustrated?

Looking at the top panels, the Leica M8’s spartan design amplifies its minimalist philosophy - manual aperture rings on lenses, simple shutter speed dial, and no LCD exposure info panel on top. It's a pure rangefinder with 'feel' prevailing over digital readouts. This makes it classic and timeless but may feel limiting if you crave quick feedback.

The Samsung NX300 uses a conventional mirrorless DSLR-inspired layout, with accessible multiplier dials, custom buttons, and a clear exposure control interface. Its touchscreen ability is a joy, allowing quick focus point shifts and intuitive menu navigation - something the M8 cannot match with its fixed screen of just 2.5 inches and low resolution.

Speaking of screens:

The M8’s fixed 2.5-inch LCD screen, at 230k dots, is a relic - adequate for quick framing checks but frustrating by any modern standard. It has no live view to preview exposure or focus, which demands confidence in manual exposure shooting.

In contrast, the Samsung NX300 offers a tilting 3.3-inch, 768k-dot AMOLED touchscreen. This screen is a pleasure to compose with, spot focus accurately, and review images in high resolution - hugely helpful for both novices and pros shooting in awkward angles or low light.

Crafting the Shot: Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

Leica’s M-mount system is legendary, with 59 dedicated lenses for the M8 available during its era, offering stunning optics across focal lengths. These include some of the finest primes ever made, renowned for their sharpness, contrast, and the signature Leica magic that enthusiasts debate endlessly. M8 users, like myself, know the joy of pairing a classic 35mm Summicron with the rangefinder system - manual focus feels immersive rather than tedious.

Samsung’s NX mount offers fewer native lenses - 32 at the time of the NX300 - but these cover most practical needs. The system includes versatile primes and zooms, optimized for autofocus and image stabilization in many newer models. Though not in Leica’s league for boutique craftsmanship, the NX300’s lens selection covers everything from wide-angle landscapes to telephoto portraits and even macro.

A note: both cameras lack in-body image stabilization (IBIS), putting more emphasis on stabilized lenses or steady technique.

Shooting Styles Across Genres

Let’s map these cameras to the photography types they best suit.

Portrait Photography

Portraiture benefits from smooth skin rendition, pleasing bokeh, and accurate autofocus. The Leica M8’s CCD sensor captures skin tones with a creamy warmth that many digital cameras emulate but rarely replicate perfectly. Yet, its lack of autofocus and manual aperture lenses mean you must be deliberate, have steady hands, and be patient.

The Samsung NX300’s 20MP sensor renders crisp details, benefitting from modern autofocus with face detection. Its sensitivity and faster shutter speeds help freeze subtle expressions - even in dim studios or golden hour.

Portrait Win: M8 for artisan skin tones (if you have skills to nail focus), NX300 for practicality and speed.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range and resolution count; the ability to pull detail from shadows and highlights defines a landscape image’s quality.

The NX300’s superior dynamic range and 20MP resolution make it well-suited for landscapes - offers wide exposure latitude and high-res cropping. Plus, its portable body and tilting screen ease composition in tricky terrain.

Leica’s M8, while offering a large sensor area, lags behind in resolution and DR, but its M lenses often deliver exquisite sharpness and character. Weather sealing? Neither camera offers it, but the NX300’s modern build offers better environmental durability overall.

Landscape Edge: NX300 for dynamic range and practical use; M8 for classic lenses and image character.

Wildlife & Sports Photography

Autofocus speed and burst rates matter here. The M8 is outclassed - no autofocus, no continuous shooting mode, limited shutter speeds.

The NX300 shines with 9 fps continuous shooting and extensive AF tracking, matching the demands of moving wildlife and athletes (expertise and quality of lens choice obviously affect results).

Clear Sports/Wildlife Champion: Samsung NX300.

Street Photography

Here, discretion, portability, and silent operation weigh heavily.

Leica M8’s mechanical shutter and rangefinder design offer near-silent operation and rapid, stealthy shooting. The larger body can be cumbersome but its classic look often draws less attention than a contemporary huge DSLR.

The Samsung NX300’s mirrorless system is compact but noisier during operation. It relies on the electronic screen for composition, which may give a more ‘technological’ feel on the street.

Street Shooting: M8 edges for stealth and style; NX300 for lightweight, flexible shooting.

Macro Photography

Neither camera specializes in macro, but lens options and focusing precision matter.

M8’s manual focus and superb M-mount macro lenses provide precision but require patience.

NX300’s autofocus and compatible macro lenses make macro shooting more accessible to enthusiasts without expert skill.

Macro Pick: NX300 for ease, M8 if you’re a purist.

Night & Astro Photography

High ISO performance and live view are invaluable here.

M8’s ISO tops out at 2500, with noisy images approaching that limit. Without live view, focusing on stars is a challenge.

NX300’s 25,600 native ISO and articulating AMOLED screen make it far more amenable to astro work and night photography.

Night Champ: NX300 hands down.

Video Capabilities

Leica M8… no video features.

Samsung NX300 offers 1080p full HD video with H.264 codec, decent autofocus during recording, though no mic input or headphone jack - which limits professional audio control.

If video matters, the NX300 is the only contender.

Travel Photography

Travel demands versatility, battery life, and portability.

M8’s battery life is excellent at 550 shots, robust metal build withstands wear, but size and fanfare might be awkward when traveling light or in urban settings.

NX300 is lighter (330g vs. 591g), smaller, with wireless features like NFC for quick sharing, and a solid 330 shot battery life.

Travel Winner: NX300.

Professional Use

Reliability, file format flexibility, and workflow integration are paramount.

The Leica M8 shoots in RAW, with excellent file quality and is preferred by professionals who want the rare CCD look and control. Its robust build and classic M-mount lenses invite a slow, deliberate work style.

Samsung NX300 also supports RAW and has versatile connectivity and bracketing options, but lacks the cachet and rugged reliability of the Leica system.

Professional Verdict: Leica M8 for pure photography craftsmanship; Samsung NX300 for digital ergonomics and modern workflow.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability

Neither camera offers weather sealing or rugged protection officially (dustproof, shockproof, crushproof, or freezeproof). The M8’s metal body feels more rugged, reassuring over the Samsung’s polycarbonate lightness.

For outdoor professionals, neither is ideal under heavy toil, but the M8’s construction better withstands extended field use provided you stay dry.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery Life

M8’s USB 2.0 for transfers is basic; no wireless whatsoever. Storage is a single SD/SDHC slot.

Samsung NX300’s built-in Wi-Fi/NFC boosts image sharing speed, supports firmware updates, and connects to apps - a major convenience for social shooters or multitasking pros. Storage includes SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards (single slot).

Battery life: M8 comfortably outlasts the NX300 on a charge, offering more shots per battery.

Price vs. Performance: What Does Your Dollar Buy?

The Leica M8 hovers around $4400 on the used/pre-owned market nowadays - a premium price largely due to Leica’s mystique and the camera’s vintage value. For that price, you pay for build and image character but compromise on modern convenience.

Samsung NX300 launched at around $750, currently obtainable closer to $350-$400 used, offering far superior specs and features per dollar - an accessible way into quality mirrorless photography.

Leica M8 front Leica M8 screen back Samsung NX300 screen back

The sample images illustrate clearly the M8’s unique CCD tonality - warm, nuanced, and inviting. The NX300’s files are visibly sharper, with better dynamic range and cleaner high ISO performance.

Quantitative measures favor the Samsung NX300 overall, due to its sensor tech, autofocus, video capabilities, and connectivity. Leica M8’s strength lies in build and image style.

This breakdown highlights the Leica’s dominance in classic portrait and street photography style, but Samsung NX300 wins most practical categories decisively.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

This comparison isn’t about a direct duel of equals - they reflect different photographer mindsets and eras.

• Choose the Leica M8 if: You’re a slow, contemplative photographer who values the manual rangefinder experience, distinctive CCD image rendering, and superb M-lenses. You appreciate build quality and timeless design and accept autofocus absence and limited ISO range as part of the package. It’s a camera for the connoisseur, street shooter, or portrait artist willing to invest time and money into craft.

• Choose the Samsung NX300 if: You want a versatile, affordable, and modern mirrorless camera with better resolution, autofocus, video, and connectivity for all-around photography. It’s ideal if you shoot events, wildlife, night photography, or travel extensively. The NX300 is made for the enthusiast who values speed, touchscreen controls, and a wide lens selection over nostalgic appeal.

Parting with Some Personal Reflections

Having shot extensively with the Leica M8, I can attest to its intoxicating charm - each shot requiring patience and mindfulness, invoking a strong creative discipline. Yet, reality bites when shadows deepen or subjects move unpredictably.

Switching to the NX300 felt like stepping into a new age of photography freedom: intuitive touchscreen controls, burst shooting, and high ISO autonomy open doors to spontaneous moments.

If you’re lingering on this page, torn between heritage and modernity, I suggest weighing how much you value classic manual photography versus ergonomic versatility. Both cameras deserve a place in the history of mirrorless evolution, but your own style dictates the winning side.

Happy shooting - whatever your choice!

This analysis draws on years of hands-on testing, image comparisons, and daily use across diverse photography environments, aiming to provide you with an informed guide reflecting not just specs, but lived photographic experience.