Leica M9-P vs Sony NEX-5R

Below, we will be matching up the Leica M9-P versus Sony NEX-5R, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Leica and Sony. The sensor resolution of the M9-P (18MP) and the NEX-5R (16MP) is pretty similar but the M9-P (Full frame) and NEX-5R (APS-C) enjoy different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The M9-P was brought out 14 months before the NEX-5R which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go through a comprehensive comparison, below is a short summary of how the M9-P grades vs the NEX-5R for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M9-P and Sony Alpha NEX-5R. The entire galleries are viewable at Leica M9-P Gallery and Sony NEX-5R Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera regularly, you need to think about its weight and measurements. The Leica M9-P comes with external dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") with a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-5R has proportions of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs).

Compare the Leica M9-P versus Sony NEX-5R in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. Following is the front view overall size comparison of the M9-P against the NEX-5R.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the M9-P and NEX-5R is 78 and 89 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to visualize the gap between sensor sizing simply by reading a spec sheet. The visual below should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the M9-P and NEX-5R.

Clearly, the two cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The M9-P due to its bigger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF easier and the Leica M9-P will deliver greater detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures much more aggressively. The older M9-P is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.