Leica M9 vs Ricoh GR II

Let's look more closely at the Leica M9 and Ricoh GR II, one is a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by competitors Leica and Ricoh. The resolution of the M9 (18MP) and the GR II (16MP) is fairly well matched but the M9 (Full frame) and GR II (APS-C) posses different sensor size.

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The M9 was unveiled 6 years prior to the GR II which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Leica M9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Ricoh GR II being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go into a complete comparison, here is a concise summary of how the M9 grades vs the GR II with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica M9 and Ricoh GR II. The full galleries are available at Leica M9 Gallery and Ricoh GR II Gallery.

If you're planning to travel with your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Leica M9 features outside dimensions 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 Ricoh GR II has measurements of 117mm x 63mm x 35mm (4.6" x 2.5" x 1.4") with a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs).

Compare the Leica M9 and Ricoh GR II in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have attached at that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the M9 compared to the GR II.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the M9 and GR II is 79 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it is hard to imagine the contrast between sensor dimensions just by checking a spec sheet. The picture underneath may give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the M9 and GR II.

Clearly, both the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The M9 with its larger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field simpler and the Leica M9 will give you extra detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics more aggressively. The more aged M9 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.