Leica V-Lux 4 vs Sony HX80

Here, we are reviewing the Leica V-Lux 4 and Sony HX80, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Leica and Sony. There exists a big gap among the resolutions of the V-Lux 4 (12MP) and HX80 (18MP) but both cameras have the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The V-Lux 4 was released 4 years prior to the HX80 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Leica V-Lux 4 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony HX80 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick overview of how the V-Lux 4 scores versus the HX80 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Leica V-Lux 4 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80. The complete galleries are viewable at Leica V-Lux 4 Gallery and Sony HX80 Gallery.

If you're looking to travel with your camera frequently, you have to factor in its weight and size. The Leica V-Lux 4 offers physical dimensions of 125mm x 87mm x 110mm (4.9" x 3.4" x 4.3") accompanied by a weight of 588 grams (1.30 lbs) and the Sony HX80 has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") with a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Look at the Leica V-Lux 4 and Sony HX80 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are using at that moment. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the V-Lux 4 versus the HX80.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the V-Lux 4 and HX80 is 65 and 91 respectively.

More often than not, it can be hard to imagine the contrast in sensor dimensions merely by researching a spec sheet. The picture underneath will provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the V-Lux 4 and HX80.

Clearly, both cameras come with the identical sensor size but different MP. You should expect to see the Sony HX80 to render greater detail as a result of its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more aged V-Lux 4 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.