Leica V-Lux 20 vs Olympus XZ-1

Here, we will be comparing the Leica V-Lux 20 and Olympus XZ-1, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Leica and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the V-Lux 20 (12MP) and the XZ-1 (10MP) is pretty comparable but the V-Lux 20 (1/2.3") and XZ-1 (1/1.63") offer totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The V-Lux 20 was released 9 months prior to the XZ-1 and they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving right into a complete comparison, here is a simple view of how the V-Lux 20 grades against the XZ-1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Leica V-Lux 20 and Olympus XZ-1. The complete galleries are viewable at Leica V-Lux 20 Gallery and Olympus XZ-1 Gallery.

If you are looking to travel with your camera often, you will want to consider its weight and proportions. The Leica V-Lux 20 has external measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs) while the Olympus XZ-1 has measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs).

Take a look at the Leica V-Lux 20 and Olympus XZ-1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the V-Lux 20 against the XZ-1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the V-Lux 20 and XZ-1 is 91 and 88 respectively.

More often than not, it can be hard to see the gap in sensor dimensions just by going through technical specs. The pic below should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the V-Lux 20 and XZ-1.

As you have seen, both of these cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The V-Lux 20 due to its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh more difficult and the Leica V-Lux 20 will produce extra detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop pictures way more aggressively. The more aged V-Lux 20 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.