Leica M9-P vs Panasonic GF1

Its time to look more closely at the Leica M9-P vs Panasonic GF1, former is a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Leica and Panasonic. There is a substantial difference between the sensor resolutions of the M9-P (18MP) and GF1 (12MP) and the M9-P (Full frame) and GF1 (Four Thirds) offer different sensor measurements.

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The M9-P was manufactured 21 months after the GF1 making them a generation away from each other. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving right into a in depth comparison, here is a simple overview of how the M9-P matches up vs the GF1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Leica M9-P & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The entire galleries are viewable at Leica M9-P Gallery & Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Leica M9-P provides external dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") and a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) and the Panasonic GF1 has dimensions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") and a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Compare the Leica M9-P vs Panasonic GF1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose during that time. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the M9-P and the GF1.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the M9-P and GF1 is 78 and 85 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to visualize the gap between sensor sizes just by checking a spec sheet. The pic here will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the M9-P and GF1.

Clearly, each of the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The M9-P because of its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field easier and the Leica M9-P will give you extra detail due to its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop photos way more aggressively. The newer M9-P provides an edge in sensor innovation.