Leica M9-P vs Sony NEX-3

On this page, we will be evaluating the Leica M9-P and Sony NEX-3, one is a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Leica and Sony. There is a big difference between the resolutions of the M9-P (18MP) and NEX-3 (14MP) and the M9-P (Full frame) and NEX-3 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor size.

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The M9-P was brought out 13 months after the NEX-3 which makes them a generation away from each other. The two cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving into a complete comparison, here is a quick summation of how the M9-P matches up versus the NEX-3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Leica M9-P and Sony Alpha NEX-3. The entire galleries are available at Leica M9-P Gallery and Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry around your camera, you are going to need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Leica M9-P provides exterior dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") along with a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) while the Sony NEX-3 has dimensions of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Look at the Leica M9-P and Sony NEX-3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the M9-P and the NEX-3.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the M9-P and NEX-3 is 78 and 89 respectively.

Generally, its hard to see the difference between sensor sizes purely by reviewing technical specs. The image below may give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the M9-P and NEX-3.

As you have seen, both cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The M9-P because of its bigger sensor will make getting shallow depth of field simpler and the Leica M9-P will offer more detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop shots more aggressively. The fresher M9-P will have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.