Leica M9-P vs Nikon D300S

On this page, we will be comparing the Leica M9-P versus Nikon D300S, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by companies Leica and Nikon. There is a substantial difference among the sensor resolutions of the M9-P (18MP) and D300S (12MP) and the M9-P (Full frame) and D300S (APS-C) have different sensor size.

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The M9-P was announced 20 months later than the D300S which makes them a generation apart from each other. The two cameras have different body design with the Leica M9-P being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Nikon D300S being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick summary of how the M9-P grades against the D300S in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M9-P & Nikon D300S. The whole galleries are provided at Leica M9-P Gallery & Nikon D300S Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor in its weight and size. The Leica M9-P provides exterior measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") with a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) and the Nikon D300S has specifications of 147mm x 114mm x 74mm (5.8" x 4.5" x 2.9") accompanied by a weight of 938 grams (2.07 lbs).

Check out the Leica M9-P versus Nikon D300S in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you choose at that time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the M9-P versus the D300S.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the M9-P and D300S is 78 and 55 respectively.

Generally, it can be hard to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing merely by looking through specs. The visual below may give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the M9-P and D300S.

All in all, the 2 cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The M9-P using its bigger sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field easier and the Leica M9-P will render more detail with its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures more aggressively. The fresher M9-P should have an edge in sensor innovation.