Leica M9 vs Panasonic S5 II

In this article, we will be analyzing the Leica M9 versus Panasonic S5 II, both Pro Mirrorless cameras by manufacturers Leica and Panasonic. There is a big difference among the sensor resolutions of the M9 (18MP) and S5 II (24MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor dimensions (Full frame).

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The M9 was manufactured 14 years earlier than the S5 II and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Leica M9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S5 II being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting in to a thorough comparison, below is a quick summary of how the M9 matches up versus the S5 II for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M9 and Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 Mark II. The entire galleries are viewable at Leica M9 Gallery and Panasonic S5 II Gallery.

For those who are looking to lug around your camera regularly, you will want to think about its weight and proportions. The Leica M9 features outside 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) and the Panasonic S5 II has measurements of 134mm x 102mm x 90mm (5.3" x 4.0" x 3.5") with a weight of 740 grams (1.63 lbs).

Take a look at the Leica M9 versus Panasonic S5 II in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Here is the front view scale comparison of the M9 compared to the S5 II.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the M9 and S5 II is 79 and 59 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to envision the contrast in sensor measurements just by researching a spec sheet. The photograph below might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the M9 and S5 II.

Clearly, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You should expect the Panasonic S5 II to render greater detail due to its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will let you crop photographs far more aggressively. The older M9 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.