Leica M8 vs Sony NEX-5

In this article, we are evaluating the Leica M8 and Sony NEX-5, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Leica and Sony. There exists a noticeable gap among the image resolutions of the M8 (10MP) and NEX-5 (14MP) and the M8 (APS-H) and NEX-5 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The M8 was introduced 3 years earlier than the NEX-5 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going through a in depth comparison, below is a short highlight of how the M8 scores against the NEX-5 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica M8 & Sony Alpha NEX-5. The whole galleries are available at Leica M8 Gallery & Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera regularly, you're going to have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Leica M8 provides physical measurements 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 NEX-5 has dimensions of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") and a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Analyze the Leica M8 and Sony NEX-5 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are utilising at the time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the M8 versus the NEX-5.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the M8 and NEX-5 is 79 and 89 respectively.

Typically, it is hard to see the contrast in sensor sizing just by going through technical specs. The graphic here will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the M8 and NEX-5.

As you can tell, both of those cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The M8 with its larger sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field easier and the Sony NEX-5 will show extra detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos a little more aggressively. The older M8 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.