Leica V-Lux 4 vs Sony HX1

Here is a in-depth review of the Leica V-Lux 4 and Sony HX1, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by competitors Leica and Sony. There exists a sizeable gap between the resolutions of the V-Lux 4 (12MP) and HX1 (9MP) and the V-Lux 4 (1/2.3") and HX1 (1/2.4") feature totally different sensor dimensions.

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The V-Lux 4 was announced 3 years later than the HX1 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before diving through a more detailed comparison, below is a quick view of how the V-Lux 4 grades versus the HX1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Leica V-Lux 4 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1. The whole galleries are available at Leica V-Lux 4 Gallery and Sony HX1 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera frequently, you'll need to factor in its weight and volume. The Leica V-Lux 4 has outside dimensions of 125mm x 87mm x 110mm (4.9" x 3.4" x 4.3") with a weight of 588 grams (1.30 lbs) whilst the Sony HX1 has sizing of 115mm x 83mm x 92mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 544 grams (1.20 lbs).

Examine the Leica V-Lux 4 and Sony HX1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilising at the time. Following is the front view sizing comparison of the V-Lux 4 compared to the HX1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the V-Lux 4 and HX1 is 65 and 67 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizing only by looking at specifications. The graphic underneath might give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the V-Lux 4 and HX1.

To sum up, both the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The V-Lux 4 using its bigger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF less difficult and the Leica V-Lux 4 will give extra detail with its extra 3 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The fresher V-Lux 4 is going to have an advantage in sensor tech.