Leica M9 vs OM System OM-1

On this page, we will be comparing the Leica M9 versus OM System OM-1, both Pro Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Leica and Olympus. The image resolution of the M9 (18MP) and the OM System OM-1 (20MP) is relatively well matched but the M9 (Full frame) and OM System OM-1 (Four Thirds) posses totally different sensor size.

Photobucket discusses licensing 13 billion images with AI firms

The M9 was brought out 13 years prior to the OM System OM-1 which is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Leica M9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the OM System OM-1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving right into a full comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the M9 matches up vs the OM System OM-1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Leica M9 & OM System OM-1. The entire galleries are provided at Leica M9 Gallery & OM System OM-1 Gallery.

In case you're intending to travel with your camera often, you will need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Leica M9 offers physical measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") along with a weight of 585 grams (1.29 lbs) while the OM System OM-1 has dimensions of 135mm x 92mm x 73mm (5.3" x 3.6" x 2.9") and a weight of 599 grams (1.32 lbs).

Look at the Leica M9 versus OM System OM-1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you choose during that time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the M9 versus the OM System OM-1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the M9 and OM System OM-1 is 79 and 65 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to visualise the gap between sensor dimensions purely by reading through technical specs. The pic here may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the M9 and OM System OM-1.

As you can tell, the two cameras have different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The M9 because of its bigger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF easier and the OM System OM-1 will give you more detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged M9 is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.