Leica M9 vs Nikon 1 V1

On this page, we will be looking at the Leica M9 and Nikon 1 V1, former is a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Leica and Nikon. There is a noticeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the M9 (18MP) and 1 V1 (10MP) and the M9 (Full frame) and 1 V1 (1") have different sensor size.

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The M9 was manufactured 3 years before the 1 V1 which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise summation of how the M9 scores against the 1 V1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M9 & Nikon 1 V1. The entire galleries are available at Leica M9 Gallery & Nikon 1 V1 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Leica M9 provides exterior 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) whilst the Nikon 1 V1 has dimensions of 113mm x 76mm x 44mm (4.4" x 3.0" x 1.7") and a weight of 383 grams (0.84 lbs).

Examine the Leica M9 and Nikon 1 V1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you use at that time. The following is a front view over all size comparison of the M9 compared to the 1 V1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the M9 and 1 V1 is 79 and 84 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes simply by going over specs. The image below might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the M9 and 1 V1.

All in all, the 2 cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The M9 due to its bigger sensor is going to make achieving bokeh simpler and the Leica M9 will offer more detail due to its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged M9 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.