Leica M9 vs Nikon 1 J2

In this write-up, we are looking at the Leica M9 and Nikon 1 J2, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Leica and Nikon. There exists a substantial gap between the sensor resolutions of the M9 (18MP) and 1 J2 (10MP) and the M9 (Full frame) and 1 J2 (1") enjoy different sensor measurements.

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The M9 was brought out 3 years before the 1 J2 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight into a thorough comparison, below is a short summary of how the M9 matches up vs the 1 J2 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Leica M9 & Nikon 1 J2. The entire galleries are available at Leica M9 Gallery & Nikon 1 J2 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera often, you will need to consider its weight and size. The Leica M9 offers outer measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 585 grams (1.29 lbs) and the Nikon 1 J2 has specifications of 106mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.2") and a weight of 238 grams (0.52 lbs).

Check the Leica M9 and Nikon 1 J2 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you use during that time. Here is the front view measurement comparison of the M9 and the 1 J2.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the M9 and 1 J2 is 79 and 91 respectively.

Normally, it can be hard to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing only by reviewing specs. The graphic underneath might offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the M9 and 1 J2.

All in all, both cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The M9 featuring a larger sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF less difficult and the Leica M9 will deliver more detail having its extra 8MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The older M9 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.