Leica M9 vs Panasonic GX8

In this article, we will be evaluating the Leica M9 and Panasonic GX8, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by brands Leica and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the M9 (18MP) and the GX8 (20MP) is pretty comparable but the M9 (Full frame) and GX8 (Four Thirds) possess different sensor sizes.

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The M9 was revealed 6 years prior to the GX8 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going through a detailed comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the M9 grades vs the GX8 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M9 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8. The full galleries are available at Leica M9 Gallery and Panasonic GX8 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry your camera, you are going to need to think about its weight and size. The Leica M9 enjoys external measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") having a weight of 585 grams (1.29 lbs) and the Panasonic GX8 has specifications of 133mm x 78mm x 63mm (5.2" x 3.1" x 2.5") having a weight of 487 grams (1.07 lbs).

See the Leica M9 and Panasonic GX8 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are employing during that time. Here is the front view overall size comparison of the M9 vs the GX8.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the M9 and GX8 is 79 and 74 respectively.

Sometimes, its tough to imagine the difference in sensor sizing purely by seeing specifications. The visual here should offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the M9 and GX8.

Plainly, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The M9 having a bigger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF less difficult and the Panasonic GX8 will show greater detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older M9 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.