Leica S2 vs Nikon D4

Below is a extensive comparison of the Leica S2 versus Nikon D4, both Pro DSLR cameras by rivals Leica and Nikon. There is a large difference among the image resolutions of the S2 (38MP) and D4 (16MP) and the S2 (Medium format) and D4 (Full frame) posses different sensor size.

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The S2 was brought out 4 years prior to the D4 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Large SLR).

Before diving into a complete comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the S2 grades against the D4 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica S2 & Nikon D4. The entire galleries are available at Leica S2 Gallery & Nikon D4 Gallery.

When you are planning to lug around your camera often, you will need to factor its weight and volume. The Leica S2 has external measurements of 160mm x 120mm x 81mm (6.3" x 4.7" x 3.2") having a weight of 1410 grams (3.11 lbs) and the Nikon D4 has sizing of 160mm x 157mm x 91mm (6.3" x 6.2" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 1340 grams (2.95 lbs).

Contrast the Leica S2 versus Nikon D4 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Following is a front view scale comparison of the S2 and the D4.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the S2 and D4 is 52 and 50 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to visualize the difference in sensor measurements merely by viewing a spec sheet. The graphic here should provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the S2 and D4.

As you can see, both of these cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The S2 due to its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Leica S2 will result in more detail having its extra 22 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures way more aggressively. The older S2 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.