Leica M9 vs Panasonic GF3

Following is a complete overview of the Leica M9 vs Panasonic GF3, one is a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Leica and Panasonic. There exists a huge gap between the sensor resolutions of the M9 (18MP) and GF3 (12MP) and the M9 (Full frame) and GF3 (Four Thirds) posses different sensor dimensions.

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The M9 was launched 23 months before the GF3 making them a generation away from one another. Both the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a concise summary of how the M9 matches up versus the GF3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica M9 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3. The complete galleries are viewable at Leica M9 Gallery and Panasonic GF3 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera, you will have to factor in its weight and size. The Leica M9 features physical measurements 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 Panasonic GF3 has specifications of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs).

Check out the Leica M9 vs Panasonic GF3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are using at that time. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the M9 compared to the GF3.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the M9 and GF3 is 79 and 90 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to picture the contrast between sensor sizes only by reading through a spec sheet. The picture here may give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the M9 and GF3.

Clearly, both of these cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The M9 featuring a larger sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field easier and the Leica M9 will give you extra detail utilizing its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop images a bit more aggressively. The more aged M9 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.