Leica M9 vs Panasonic GF6

Lets take a closer look at the Leica M9 and Panasonic GF6, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Leica and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the M9 (18MP) and the GF6 (16MP) is pretty well matched but the M9 (Full frame) and GF6 (Four Thirds) offer different sensor measurements.

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The M9 was unveiled 4 years earlier than the GF6 and that is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a concise view of how the M9 scores versus the GF6 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M9 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF6. The full galleries are available at Leica M9 Gallery & Panasonic GF6 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera regularly, you'll need to factor its weight and volume. The Leica M9 enjoys physical measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 585 grams (1.29 lbs) and the Panasonic GF6 has sizing of 111mm x 65mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.5") having a weight of 323 grams (0.71 lbs).

Compare the Leica M9 and Panasonic GF6 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the M9 versus the GF6.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the M9 and GF6 is 79 and 87 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to picture the difference between sensor sizing purely by reading through a spec sheet. The visual below will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the M9 and GF6.

Clearly, both of these cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The M9 using its bigger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field easier and the Leica M9 will resolve more detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop pictures more aggressively. The older M9 is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.