Leica M9 vs Olympus PEN-F

In this write-up, we will be analyzing the Leica M9 versus Olympus PEN-F, one is a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by manufacturers Leica and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the M9 (18MP) and the PEN-F (20MP) is relatively well matched but the M9 (Full frame) and PEN-F (Four Thirds) possess totally different sensor sizing.

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The M9 was unveiled 7 years prior to the PEN-F which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the M9 matches up vs the PEN-F with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Leica M9 and Olympus PEN-F. The full galleries are available at Leica M9 Gallery and Olympus PEN-F Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Leica M9 features outside measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") with a weight of 585 grams (1.29 lbs) whilst the Olympus PEN-F has dimensions of 125mm x 72mm x 37mm (4.9" x 2.8" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 427 grams (0.94 lbs).

Check the Leica M9 versus Olympus PEN-F in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the M9 and the PEN-F.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the M9 and PEN-F is 79 and 84 respectively.

Typically, it can be hard to visualise the difference between sensor sizes simply by checking a spec sheet. The pic here will help offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the M9 and PEN-F.

As you can see, both of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The M9 having a bigger sensor will make getting shallow DOF easier and the Olympus PEN-F will resolve more detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The more aged M9 is going to be behind in sensor technology.