Leica M9-P vs Nikon 1 S1: The Art of Digital Photography at Two Extremes

In the vast landscape of mirrorless cameras, it’s a rare but fascinating exercise to compare a classic, high-end full-frame rangefinder-style camera from Leica’s illustrious M series - the M9-P - with an ultra-compact, entry-level mirrorless camera aimed at casual photographers, the Nikon 1 S1. These two devices, launched just a couple of years apart, embody contrasting design philosophies, sensor technologies, and user experiences. Together, they make for an intriguing comparison that sheds light on how much camera technology - and user expectations - can vary.

Having personally tested thousands of cameras over the past 15 years, I approach this comparison not as an apples-to-apples shootout, but rather as an exploration of how two mirrors-less cameras at opposite ends of the spectrum fulfill different photographic desires. Let’s dig into their specifications, practical handling, imaging capabilities, and suitability across a broad range of photographic genres.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Ergonomics

Leica’s M9-P - a direct successor to the original M9 - echoes the iconic M-series rangefinder aesthetic. Its robust magnesium alloy chassis weighs in at approximately 600 grams with dimensions 139 x 80 x 37 mm. In contrast, the Nikon 1 S1 is designed for utmost portability, tipping the scales at a featherweight 197 grams and measuring only 102 x 61 x 30 mm. This is no surprise given the Nikon’s smaller sensor and entry-level market focus.

Using the Leica in-hand immediately conveys a sense of precision craftsmanship - the engraved dials, smooth shutter release, and balanced heft feel reassuring in long shooting sessions. Handling the Nikon 1 S1, while comfortable enough, feels distinctly plasticky and more toy-like, reflecting its budget design. However, its smaller size makes it far less intimidating to casual users or street photographers wanting to stay light and discreet.

The Leica maintains old-school charm with no electronic viewfinder or live view mode, relying entirely on its optical rangefinder system. Nikon’s 1 S1 goes digital in spirit, though it lacks a viewfinder entirely, depending on its rear LCD for composition.

Control Layout and User Interface

Moving beyond raw size, physical controls reveal a lot about intended workflow. Leica adherents prize manual control; the M9-P embraces this philosophy with dedicated knobs for shutter speed, ISO, and aperture adjustment via manual lenses coupled with mechanical aperture rings. Exposure compensation is available, but focus is strictly manual - no autofocus system is active here.

The Nikon 1 S1, on the other hand, offers a more automated, contemporary control setup. Shutter and aperture priority modes exist, alongside full manual exposure controls. However, the M9-P’s far simpler, minimal Button UI contrasts with Nikon’s more modern - but uninspired - layout. The Nikon includes a pop-up flash and a broader array of shooting modes, appealing to beginners or hybrid shooters.

That said, the Nikon omits touchscreen input, and while the rear screen is larger and higher resolution than Leica’s, the lack of a viewfinder means securing stable shots in daylight is a challenge.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Fundamentals

Image quality boils down to sensor design and processing capabilities, and here the Leica and Nikon diverge dramatically.

The Leica M9-P utilizes an 18-megapixel full-frame CCD sensor sized 36 x 24 mm. CCD technology - common before CMOS sensors dominated - offers excellent color depth (22.5 bits by DxOMark) and natural skin tone rendition praised by Leica users for portraiture. The lack of an anti-aliasing filter contributes to sharpness but demands precision focusing. Dynamic range is a respectable 11.6 EV at base ISO 80, although the maximum native ISO peaks at only 2500, limiting performance in dim lighting. Notably, Leica’s decision to eliminate the anti-alias filter also means images can suffer moiré without careful framing.

In contrast, the Nikon 1 S1 features a much smaller 1-inch CMOS sensor measuring 13.2 x 8.8 mm with a 10-megapixel resolution capped at 3872 x 2592 pixels. While this sensor lacks the nuanced tonal gradation of the M9-P’s CCD, it does achieve a maximum native ISO of 12,800 and can shoot at much higher shutter speeds, thanks to its electronic shutter capabilities (up to 1/16,000s). Color depth is slightly lower (21.4 bits), and dynamic range maxes around 11.1 EV, but for an entry-level device, this is quite decent.

If pure image quality and subtle color reproduction are paramount - and you shoot mostly in controlled lighting - the Leica’s sensor excels. However, Nikon’s sensor versatility caters to a wider range of conditions with more forgiving sensitivity and speed.

LCD Screens and Composition Tools

When it comes to composing images, Leica takes the purist route: a fixed 2.5-inch, low-res (230k pixels) TFT LCD that offers basic image review only; no live view, no touchscreen, no fold-out design. Frame composition depends entirely on the optical rangefinder, which gives a bright, crisp but parallax-limited viewfinder experience intrinsic to rangefinder cameras.

The Nikon 1 S1 is equipped with a 3-inch, 460k pixel TFT LCD. While still not retina-grade, it provides a more vibrant and detailed live image preview essential for a viewfinder-less camera. Given the absence of any electronic or optical viewfinder, this screen is the sole way to frame and review shots.

For quick in-field adjustments, the Nikon’s larger screen is easier and faster to use than the M9-P’s meager display. Nonetheless, both cameras lack touchscreen functionality common in even midrange models today.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance

Autofocus technologies usually separate entry-level and professional cameras conspicuously. Leica’s M9-P completely forgoes autofocus - it is a strictly manual focus camera. This is typical for M-series but places a burden on the user’s skill and adapted lenses.

Nikon 1 S1, conversely, includes a hybrid autofocus system (phase+contrast detection) boasting 135 focus points and capable of tracking moving subjects with fair accuracy in daylight. It delivers a continuous shooting rate of 15 frames per second, impressive for its class, while the Leica caps shooting speed at 2 frames per second without burst or tracking capabilities.

In practical terms, Leica’s M9-P requires deliberate shot composition with no autofocus assistance - ideal for contemplative photographers devoted to manual focus. Nikon 1 S1 fits well for casual action and subject tracking but with limited low-light sensitivity.

Genre Performance: How Each Camera Excels (and Falters)

How do these cameras fare across major photography genres? Since their target users differ substantially, it’s instructive to view their capabilities side by side.

Portrait Photography

Leica M9-P’s CCD sensor and rangefinder optics impart beautiful, classic color rendition with creamy bokeh typical of Leica M lenses. Though the rangefinder restricts focusing flexibility, skilled users enjoy precise manual focus for compelling skin tones and subtle highlight rolloff. The lack of autofocus or face detection means slower workflow, but the resulting imagery often rewards patience with rich tonality.

The Nikon 1 S1’s autofocus aids quick framing, but its 1-inch sensor struggles to achieve the shallow depth-of-field separation prized in portraiture. Skin tones appear decent but less nuanced, and its smaller lens selection limits optical quality compared to Leica.

Leica M9 P screen back Nikon 1 S1 front Nikon 1 S1 screen back

Landscape Photography

Landscape photographers prize resolution, dynamic range, and weather sealing. Leica delivers on resolution with 18 megapixels on a full-frame sensor and respectable 11.6 EV dynamic range to capture shadow and highlight detail - ideal for raw post-processing. However, the M9-P is not weather sealed, so outdoor shooting in harsh conditions demands caution.

Nikon S1 offers lower resolution and smaller sensor area, limiting image detail and dynamic range marginally. Its lightweight, compact body suits travel landscapes, but again, no weather sealing exists.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Here, Nikon’s autofocus speed and continuous burst shine. The 15 fps shooting and tracking AF capability let users capture fleeting action scenes, albeit at modest image quality given sensor constraints. Its 2.7x crop factor effectively extends telephoto reach - helpful for distant subjects.

Leica M9-P, being manual focus with 2 fps max burst, cannot compete. It’s not designed for fast action. Wildlife and sports enthusiasts would quickly find it restrictive.

Street Photography

Street photographers often seek discreteness and rapid response. The M9-P, with its silent leaf shutter and minimalist control layout, affords near-stealth operation. The optical rangefinder facilitates rapid framing and manual focus encourages mindful shooting. However, the camera’s bulk compared to some mirrorless compacts may attract attention.

Nikon’s tiny form factor wins portability hands-down but the lack of a viewfinder means eye-level composition is impossible, affecting stability and speed in bright conditions. It also has a pop-up flash which might betray the low profile.

Macro and Close-up

Neither camera specializes in macro. Without built-in stabilization, both rely heavily on lens options - Leica M has some suitable macro lenses, though manual focus only. Nikon’s 1-mount offers fewer choices. Focus stacking or bracketing are unsupported on both.

Night and Astrophotography

Leica’s limited ISO 2500 max and CCD sensor noise means night shooting demands long exposures and tripods. However, its excellent tonal gradation can capture stars and low light scenes with rich detail.

Nikon’s 12,800 ISO and electronic shutter provide more flexibility handheld in low light but image noise and lower dynamic range reduce quality. Neither camera supports intervalometer or native long-exposure aids.

Video Capabilities

Leica M9-P offers no video recording - a purist still camera. Nikon 1 S1 shoots Full HD 1080p at 60fps, plus multiple frame rates but with limited codecs and no external audio input, so it’s suitable mainly for casual clips rather than professional video.

Travel and Everyday Use

For travel, Nikon’s compactness, built-in flash, and video mode give it an edge. Battery life, however, is modest (220 shots per charge), and storage options sparse (single SD card).

Leica’s larger form, fewer features, and higher battery life (350 shots) appeal to travellers focused on still quality over convenience. Its classic design invites slow, deliberate photography rather than snapshot capturing.

Professional Application and Workflow

The Leica outputs high-quality 14-bit RAW files excellent for high-end editorial or fine art jobs, but the lack of autofocus, slower shooting, and primitive connectivity limit efficiency for fast-paced assignments.

Nikon 1 S1’s smaller RAW files expedite workflow but image quality limits professional use, positioning it more as a stepping stone or entry-level tool.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery

Both cameras provide standard USB 2.0 ports, with Nikon extending to HDMI out. Wireless features are absent or optional (Nikon’s wireless is optional), and neither offers GPS.

Each camera has one SD card slot, with Nikon accepting the latest SDXC format. Battery-wise, Leica’s battery endurance is better but still modest from today’s perspective.

Price and Value Considerations

The Leica M9-P’s legendary build quality and full-frame CCD sensor command a premium retail price around $8,000 new (and still high in used markets). It is an investment in photographic heritage as much as in image quality.

The Nikon 1 S1 launched as an entry-level $230 option, targeting casual users or beginners unwilling to invest heavily. For that money, it provides reasonable image quality and some video functionality, but with obvious compromises.

Overall Performance and Genre Ratings

These graphics summarize the strengths and trade-offs of each camera across principal photography types we’ve discussed - portrait, landscape, wildlife, sports, street, macro, night, video, travel, professional work.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Choose Which?

Leica M9-P Recommended For:

• Experienced practitioners valuing classic rangefinder experience
• Portrait and landscape photographers focused on image quality over speed
• Those who prize full-frame CCD color science and manual lens precision
• Fine art photographers and Leica aficionados willing to invest in heritage gear

Nikon 1 S1 Recommended For:

• Beginners stepping into mirrorless with an ultra-compact, user-friendly camera
• Casual shooters valuing portability and mid-level autofocus/performance
• Those on limited budgets seeking decent stills + Full HD video capability
• Street and travel photographers needing light gear and fast burst rates

Parting Shot

Comparing Leica M9-P and Nikon 1 S1 is less about picking a winner and more about understanding different photographic philosophies. Leica invites you to slow down, engage deeply, and cherish image quality. Nikon offers a nimble companion for everyday fun and action.

This exercise reiterates that camera choice rests heavily on personal shooting style, priorities, and budget. Neither camera is perfect or fully modern, but both deliver charm and utility within their intended realms.

For enthusiasts considering investing in legacy rangefinders, the M9-P remains tantalizing despite technological age. For those entering mirrorless or desiring a compact walkaround, Nikon 1 S1 still ticks many boxes affordably.

After 15 years and thousands of cameras handled, the key is matching gear to your photographic journey - not just specs or hype.

Thanks for reading - feel free to ask questions or share your experiences with these fascinating cameras!