Leica S2 vs Sony NEX-C3

On this page, we will be analyzing the Leica S2 and Sony NEX-C3, former is a Pro DSLR while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Leica and Sony. There is a large difference among the image resolutions of the S2 (38MP) and NEX-C3 (16MP) and the S2 (Medium format) and NEX-C3 (APS-C) posses different sensor sizing.

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The S2 was brought out 3 years prior to the NEX-C3 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Leica S2 being a Large SLR camera and the Sony NEX-C3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving right into a complete comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the S2 grades versus the NEX-C3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica S2 & Sony Alpha NEX-C3. The entire galleries are available at Leica S2 Gallery & Sony NEX-C3 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry around your camera, you have to factor its weight and volume. The Leica S2 features exterior dimensions of 160mm x 120mm x 81mm (6.3" x 4.7" x 3.2") and a weight of 1410 grams (3.11 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-C3 has sizing of 110mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs).

Look at the Leica S2 and Sony NEX-C3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have during that time. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the S2 and the NEX-C3.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the S2 and NEX-C3 is 52 and 91 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to imagine the gap in sensor sizes simply by seeing technical specs. The image below might give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the S2 and NEX-C3.

As you can tell, both of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The S2 featuring a bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field simpler and the Leica S2 will provide greater detail having its extra 22 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop photographs more aggressively. The more aged S2 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.