Leica Q-P vs Sony RX1: The Ultimate Large Sensor Compact Showdown

Choosing a large sensor compact camera - it’s like picking a favorite child, but the stakes are higher: your artistic vision, portability, and wallet are all involved. When it comes to full-frame, fixed-lens compacts, the Leica Q-P and the Sony RX1 often dominate the conversation. Both promise stellar image quality squeezed into a pocketable body, yet they come from different corners of the camera cosmos. The question I’ve wrestled with over countless shoots is: which one truly earns a spot in your gear bag? After months living with and dissecting both, here’s the comprehensive breakdown distilled from experience, bench testing, and field trials across portrait studios, bustling streets, tough wildlife shoots, and tranquil landscapes.

Prepare for a deep dive filled with technical nuance, real-world findings, and candid verdicts.

Body and Handling: Size Does Matter (But How Much?)

Before you even glance at specs, how a camera feels in your hands can make or break your workflow - especially with cameras you intend to carry all day.

The Leica Q-P respects the heritage of classic Leica design with an all-metal, subtly textured body. It measures 130x80x93 mm and weighs in at 640 grams, giving it a substantial but not overbearing heft. The grip is deep and confident, ideal for prolonged handheld use without fatigue. The layout promotes intuitive use; buttons and dials have a satisfying click and resistance.

The Sony RX1 takes a contrasting approach - smaller and lighter at 113x65x70 mm and just 482 grams. It’s undeniably more pocketable and discreet for street photography or travel when every gram counts. However, the smaller body can feel a bit cramped. The grip offers less purchase, especially with larger hands, making it a bit fiddly during rapid shooting.

From my extensive time switching between these, if ergonomics and solid handling without auxiliary grips matter to you, the Leica Q-P feels like the more mature design - built to be held and enjoyed for hours, not just snap-and-run.

Design and Controls: Intuitive Mastery or Compact Minimalism?

Peeking at the top and back reveals each manufacturer’s approach to user interface priorities.

Leica adopts an almost elitist design philosophy. The Q-P forsakes flashy logos and replaces them with more discreet engravings for the whisper-quiet shooter. The control cluster on top balances dedicated dials - including an aperture ring on the lens - and exposure compensation, shutter speed dial, and ISO control on the body. It rewards tactile users who love direct access to settings without delving into menus.

Conversely, the Sony RX1 is all about compactness, sacrificing some dedicated physical controls to maintain its small footprint. While the top deck still hosts a shutter speed dial and exposure compensation, other settings are menu-bound, requiring more menu diving. The RX1’s rear screen (fixed, no touchscreen) is smaller but boasts vivid rendering.

Both cameras feature electronic viewfinders, but Leica’s EVF has a sharp 3.68 million-dot resolution which feels alive and crisp, whereas Sony relies primarily on its optical component with an optional attachable EVF that’s less bright and engaging.

If you live for the analog feel - the kind where a dial turn is a visceral joy - the Q-P steals this round. But if ultimate compactness is your dealbreaker, Sony’s simpler top design appeals.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Image quality is, of course, the crux. Both cameras sport a 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor, yet subtle differences matter profoundly.

The Leica’s sensor measures a full 36 x 24 mm (864 mm² area), harmonizing perfectly with its fast 28mm f/1.7 fixed lens - a pairing that consistently delivers rich tonal gradations and a creamy shallower depth of field when desired.

Sony’s RX1 sensor is nearly identical in size at 35.8 x 23.8 mm (852 mm²), matched with a sharp 35mm f/2 Zeiss Sonnar. Despite an older sensor generation (2013 vs 2018 for Leica), Sony’s sensor still impresses for its dynamic range and color reproduction.

How do these specs convert in practical metrics?

That Sony RX1 DXOmark score - a respectable 93 - reflects excellent color depth of 25.1 bits and dynamic range topping 14 stops, fabulous for landscapes and tricky lighting. Leica’s official lack of DXO testing is a curious omission, but real-world use shows the Q-P produces exquisitely rich files with a more modern sensor processing algorithm (Maestro II processor) that has a slight edge in noise handling at mid to high ISOs.

In my hands-on portrait and landscape shoots, the Leica's 28mm lens gave a wider, more environmental look with glorious bokeh possible at f/1.7, while Sony’s 35mm f/2 is more traditional, tighter, and equally sharp - favored for classic street and documentary elegance.

Screen and Viewfinder: Window to the World

Neither camera tempers the photographer’s expectations on this front, but again with contrasts.

The Leica Q-P’s 3-inch touchscreen is responsive with a nice 1,040k dot resolution - easy enough to frame shots while providing live histogram and swift menu navigation. Its EVF offers 100% coverage and a magnification of 0.76x, making manual focusing and composition a smooth affair.

Sony’s RX1 claims a similar 3-inch fixed screen but bumps resolution up to 1,229k dots, with its “Xtra Fine TFT LCD” technology providing bright, contrast-rich previews. However, the RX1 disappoints with no touchscreen functionality, which slows down aperture or ISO adjustments.

Notably, Sony RX1 uses an optical viewfinder (rather than electronic) by default, switching to the electronic only when an optional add-on is mounted. This adds a modern/cool aesthetic aspect but at the cost of integrated workability in dim or tricky lighting.

For users who value touchscreen interaction and a bright, detailed EVF, Leica Q-P suits better. Sony's design calls for purists who relish optical viewfinders and direct screen previews sans touch controls.

Autofocus and Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Now, autofocus (AF) performance can make or break dynamic shooting genres, from wildlife to weddings.

The Leica Q-P’s AF system is contrast-detection based with 49 focus points across the frame. While it lacks phase-detection or advanced tracking, it showcases eye detection and face detection capabilities, with manual focus assist via peaking. Continuous AF operates at 10 frames per second - quite snappy for a large sensor compact.

Sony RX1, launched earlier, utilizes a traditional contrast-detection AF with 25 focus points, modest tracking, and no continuous AF in live view (only single AF). Continuous shooting maxes out at 5 fps.

From wildlife and sports test shoots, the Leica Q-P edges out Sony by virtue of faster burst rate and more comprehensive AF coverage. However, neither camera replaces high-end mirrorless or DSLRs with phase-detection AF for fast-moving subjects. The Q-P’s eye detection AF shines in portraits, making peepers pin-sharp without fuss, whereas the RX1 still requires a more deliberate pace.

For video AF, Leica supports continuous AF, but Sony’s system is more limited and does not support touch AF.

Lens Quality and Fixed Focal Lengths: A Tale of Two Great Lenses

Fixed lenses define the destiny of these compacts.

• Leica Q-P: 28mm f/1.7 Summilux lens - renowned for its razor-sharp center, beautiful wide-open bokeh, and excellent corner sharpness stopped down. The slightly wider field of view makes it flexible for street, environmental portraits, and landscapes. The aperture ring is a joy.

• Sony RX1: 35mm f/2 Zeiss Sonnar T* lens - compact, sharp, with classic rendering and exceptional contrast. The f/2 max aperture limits low-light gathering slightly compared to Leica’s f/1.7.

Neither lens features optical image stabilization (OIS), so shooting handheld in low light demands fast shutter speeds or high ISO.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Ready for the Elements?

Neither camera boasts environmental sealing - both lack waterproof, dustproof, or shockproof certifications. You’ll need to handle them with care in harsh conditions.

Physically, Leica’s all-metal, high-quality build feels more robust and enduring, while Sony’s lighter RX1, though durable, feels more delicate over time.

Storage, Battery, and Connectivity: Practical Considerations for the Shoot

Both cameras rely on a single SD/SDHC/SDXC slot. RX1 adds compatibility with Memory Stick formats (a Sony hallmark), which doesn't add much modern value but might influence existing owners.

Battery life is a critical point:

• Leica Q-P uses a BP-DC12 battery with unspecified CIPA ratings but generally rated medium battery life (typical for full-frame compacts without power-sipping tech).

• Sony RX1 offers 270 shots per charge (CIPA), on an NP-BX1 battery - quite modest.

Sony’s lack of touchscreen and menu speed exacerbate battery draw due to more menu diving, while Leica's advanced processor helps efficiency.

Connectivity-wise:

• Leica Q-P has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC (no Bluetooth).

• Sony RX1 relies on Eye-Fi card compatibility for wireless transfer; no NFC or Bluetooth.

Both have HDMI and USB 2.0 ports for tethering and media transfer.

Photography Across Genres: Where Each Camera Excels

Let’s map these specs and hands-on experience onto practical shooting scenarios.

Portrait Photography

Leica Q-P’s wider f/1.7 aperture paired with eye and face detection AF yields exquisitely rendered skin tones and luscious bokeh - making portrait sessions a breeze and results professional-grade with minimal editing.

Sony RX1’s f/2 lens is slightly slower but still delivers creamy backgrounds at 35mm. Its AF lag compared to Leica is noticeable in live action but fine for posed portraits.

Landscape Photography

Here, dynamic range and resolution hold sway. Sony RX1’s tested 14 stops of dynamic range allows for nuanced shadow and highlight detail recovery. Leica undoubtedly performs commendably but lacks independent lab data.

Leica’s slightly wider lens covers more scene, and the robust EVF aids precise composition in bright light.

Neither camera is weather sealed - so caution with exposure to elements.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Neither camera is a natural in these fast-paced fields. Leica’s faster AF and higher continuous frame rate (10 fps vs 5 fps) and more extensive AF points lend it a slight edge.

Sony’s slower AF and continuous shooting limit use beyond casual wildlife shots.

Street Photography

Sony RX1’s super compact size and quiet shutter make it less conspicuous - king for the stealthy street shooter. The 35mm focal length aligns well with human perspective, and the image quality is superb.

Leica Q-P is larger and more conspicuous but offers faster shooting and better low-light capability.

Macro Photography

Both cameras lack specialized macro lenses or focus stacking features. Leica’s minimum focus distance of 17 cm with f/1.7 is decent for close-ups, while Sony doesn’t specify macro range but isn’t designed for macro work.

Neither has image stabilization to assist handheld macro shots.

Night and Astro Photography

Low-light performance favors Leica, with a newer processor and wider aperture lens aiding cleaner high-ISO shots. Sony’s older sensor is noisier at extremes despite respectable ISO ceiling.

Neither camera features dedicated astro or bulb modes beyond manual exposures.

Video Capabilities

Both max out at 1080p HD video with 60 fps options. Leica uses H.264 encoding and has a microphone port (Sony unexpectedly does too).

Neither supports 4K or advanced video features, limiting appeal for serious videographers.

Travel Photography

Sony wins for portability and compactness, critical for light travel bags.

Leica offers more robust controls, better ergonomics, and faster responsiveness - perfect for photographers who shoot extensively on the go and prioritize image quality over marginal weight savings.

Professional Work

Leica’s rich files and superior ergonomics make it more suited for professional rapid workflows. Raw support on both cameras is excellent, but Leica files open more quickly in raw converters, and its Maestro II processor renders superior JPEGs out of the gate.

Sony's RX1 remains a capable backup or discreet secondary body.

Leica Q P screen back Sony RX1 front Sony RX1 screen back

Real-World Testing Insights: What the Numbers Don’t Tell

Shooting portraits with the Leica Q-P, I was repeatedly impressed by the immediacy of sharp eye detection and the creamy gradation of skin tones. The lack of image stabilization required fast shutter speeds, but the lens speed compensated well.

With the Sony RX1, I felt more deliberate, more cautious with focusing and exposure, but the image quality rewarded patience. On the street, the RX1’s smaller size helped capture candid moments never repeated. The optical viewfinder required some getting used to but contributed to an immersive experience.

Battery anxiety hit first with Sony’s RX1 during long shoots - needing spares is a must. Leica's Q-P, while not spectacular, fares better but still lags behind modern mirrorless stamina.

Who Should Choose the Leica Q-P?

• Photographers who want a beautifully crafted, tactile camera that prioritizes direct control.
• Those who shoot portraits, landscapes, and medium-paced events needing quick AF with eye detection.
• Professionals wanting excellent image quality plus swift, reliable operation.
• Enthusiasts who don’t mind paying a premium for modern processing power and build.
• Photographers who appreciate the wide 28mm lens for creative environmental shots.

Who Should Lean Toward the Sony RX1?

• Photographers who desire ultra-compact, pocketable full-frame image quality.
• Street shooters favoring stealth and simplicity.
• Budget-conscious buyers who value excellent image quality for a lower price.
• Those who prefer a classic 35mm perspective for documentary or travel.
• Users who can live without touchscreen controls and need less rapid AF.

Price-to-Performance: Is the Cost Justified?

At launch, the Leica Q-P came in at around $3995, while the Sony RX1 was closer to $2798. That steep premium for Leica primarily reflects its build quality, processor technology, and faster AF.

Is Leica worth the extra $1,200?

For photographers valuing tactile excellence, top-tier autofocus in a compact form, and a wider aperture lens, yes. For casual users or those prioritizing portability and classic look, Sony remains compelling.

Final Thoughts: The Expert Verdict

I've often said, "The best camera is the one that inspires you to shoot more." Both the Leica Q-P and Sony RX1 excel at delivering full-frame quality in a compact body, but they do so with divergent philosophies.

The Leica Q-P feels like a modern tool for rigorous, professional work - fast, tactile, and smartly engineered with direct controls and impressive autofocus. It’s the full-bodied espresso to the Sony’s minimalist pour-over.

The Sony RX1 charms with its pocket-friendly size, classic 35mm perspective, and timeless Zeiss optics. It asks you to slow down, be deliberate, and savor each frame - especially ideal for street and travel photographers comfortable with a quieter, simpler interface.

Ultimately, your choice depends on your style, shooting needs, and budget:

• Choose the Leica Q-P if you want the sharpest AF, superior handling, faster operation, and a wider bright lens.
• Choose the Sony RX1 if ultimate compactness, classic 35mm focal length, and a slightly friendlier price-tag suit your shooting life.

I hope this detailed audio-visual and experiential breakdown helps you select the camera that fits your creative voice - and makes the impossible perfect shot just a little closer.

Happy shooting!

Photography gear is a passion and a tool - in this battle of full-frame large sensor compacts, both Leica Q-P and Sony RX1 stand tall, each king in their noble domain.