Leica M9 vs Nikon L830

On this page, we will be contrasting the Leica M9 versus Nikon L830, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Leica and Nikon. The resolution of the M9 (18MP) and the L830 (16MP) is relatively comparable but the M9 (Full frame) and L830 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The M9 was unveiled 5 years before the L830 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Leica M9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Nikon L830 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the M9 grades vs the L830 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Leica M9 & Nikon Coolpix L830. The full galleries are provided at Leica M9 Gallery & Nikon L830 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Leica M9 has external dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") with a weight of 585 grams (1.29 lbs) and the Nikon L830 has dimensions of 110mm x 76mm x 91mm (4.3" x 3.0" x 3.6") having a weight of 508 grams (1.12 lbs).

Take a look at the Leica M9 versus Nikon L830 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you use during that time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the M9 and the L830.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the M9 and L830 is 79 and 71 respectively.

Often, it is tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing purely by seeing specifications. The graphic underneath might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the M9 and L830.

To sum up, the 2 cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The M9 with its bigger sensor will make getting bokeh simpler and the Leica M9 will show more detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The older M9 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.