Leica S2 vs Olympus E-1

In this article, we will be reviewing the Leica S2 and Olympus E-1, both Pro DSLR cameras by brands Leica and Olympus. There is a sizeable difference among the resolutions of the S2 (38MP) and E-1 (5MP) and the S2 (Medium format) and E-1 (Four Thirds) possess totally different sensor measurements.

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The S2 was released 4 years later than the E-1 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Large SLR).

Before diving straight into a thorough comparison, below is a brief summary of how the S2 scores vs the E-1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Leica S2 and Olympus E-1. The complete galleries are viewable at Leica S2 Gallery and Olympus E-1 Gallery.

If you are intending to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to factor in its weight and volume. The Leica S2 provides outside dimensions of 160mm x 120mm x 81mm (6.3" x 4.7" x 3.2") along with a weight of 1410 grams (3.11 lbs) whilst the Olympus E-1 has sizing of 141mm x 104mm x 81mm (5.6" x 4.1" x 3.2") and a weight of 735 grams (1.62 lbs).

Compare the Leica S2 and Olympus E-1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have during that time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the S2 compared to the E-1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the S2 and E-1 is 52 and 59 respectively.

In many cases, it is tough to see the gap in sensor measurements just by researching specs. The graphic below might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the S2 and E-1.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The S2 due to its bigger sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field simpler and the Leica S2 will render extra detail as a result of its extra 33 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The younger S2 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.