Leica M8 vs Sony A9

In this article, we will be evaluating the Leica M8 and Sony A9, both Pro Mirrorless cameras by rivals Leica and Sony. There is a large difference among the sensor resolutions of the M8 (10MP) and A9 (24MP) and the M8 (APS-H) and A9 (Full frame) enjoy totally different sensor size.

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The M8 was unveiled 10 years prior to the A9 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Leica M8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A9 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight into a in depth comparison, below is a quick view of how the M8 scores vs the A9 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M8 & Sony Alpha A9. The full galleries are viewable at Leica M8 Gallery & Sony A9 Gallery.

When you are intending to travel with your camera often, you will have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Leica M8 offers external dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") having a weight of 591 grams (1.30 lbs) whilst the Sony A9 has measurements of 127mm x 96mm x 63mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.5") having a weight of 673 grams (1.48 lbs).

Check the Leica M8 and Sony A9 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the M8 and the A9.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the M8 and A9 is 79 and 65 respectively.

Usually, it is hard to visualise the gap in sensor dimensions purely by looking through a spec sheet. The picture below should give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the M8 and A9.

As you can see, the 2 cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The M8 using its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow DOF tougher and the Sony A9 will provide you with extra detail having an extra 14MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs far more aggressively. The more aged M8 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.