Leica V-Lux 40 vs Nikon B600

Exploring the Leica V-Lux 40 and Nikon Coolpix B600: A Practical Showdown of Two Small Sensor Superzooms

In the world of compact superzoom cameras, few categories are as enticing for casual shooters, travelers, and hobbyists craving impressive reach without lugging around multiple lenses. Today, I’m diving deep into two contenders in this niche: Leica’s V-Lux 40 and Nikon’s Coolpix B600. On paper, both cameras share a segment, but their origins, design philosophies, and real-world performance offer some intriguing contrasts.

Having spent hundreds of hours with similar gear, testing everything from burst speeds to macro detail, my goal here is to give you an honest, hands-on breakdown - weaving in technical analysis, real shooting impressions, and actionable advice for different photography genres. Let’s start by sizing up the players.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Feel

The Leica V-Lux 40 and Nikon B600 are similar in their superzoom ambitions but come from very different ergonomic lineages. The V-Lux 40 embraces a compact, pocketable form factor, while the B600 dresses itself in classic “bridge camera” attire - larger, heftier, and with a grip that feels ready for something serious.

At 105x59x28mm and a mere 210 grams, the V-Lux 40 feels more like a sleek travel companion than a clunky tool. It slips into a jacket pocket or a small bag with ease. In contrast, the Nikon B600 clocks in at 122x82x99mm and 500 grams, feeling notably chunkier in hand. That size merely reflects its ambitious 60x zoom lens, which extends considerably and requires room.

The Nikon’s size also allows for more extensive physical controls and a softer, rubberized grip, which feels reassuring during long wildlife shoots or on shaky hikes. The Leica, while stylish and minimalistic, leans heavily on touchscreen controls - more on that shortly.

Body Design and Control Layout: Hands-On Ergonomics

Looking at the top design and control layout illustrates their distinct user experience philosophies.

The Leica V-Lux 40 keeps things straightforward with a clean top plate and a simple mode dial suited to straightforward shooting with plenty of auto modes and some manual options (shutter, aperture priority). Its touchscreen controls are responsive, though the buttons are minimal, which may leave power users itchier for quick adjustments.

On the flip side, the Nikon B600, modeled after entry-level DSLRs, offers a more traditional setup with dedicated zoom and shutter buttons, a mode dial, and a handful of buttons scattered thoughtfully for direct access. However, it lacks touchscreen - surprising in a 2019 model but not a dealbreaker. The top design facilitates quick exposure tweaks, though the absence of manual exposure modes limits creative control.

Bottom line: Leica leans toward portability and a streamlined interface, while Nikon offers familiarity and physical control - because sometimes, I want to feel like I'm wielding a camera, not a tiny tablet.

Peering Into the Heart: Sensor and Image Quality

Now, the real meat of image quality hinges on sensor performance - and here both cameras share the same sensor size, a small 1/2.3" form factor around 27.7–28 mm², commonly found in bridge cameras but limited in dynamic range and high ISO performance compared to larger APS-C or full-frame sensors.

The V-Lux 40 sports a 14-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the B600 brings in a slightly newer 16-megapixel BSI-CMOS sensor - Nikon’s back-illuminated tech aims to squeeze a bit more light sensitivity. Both have an optical low-pass (anti-aliasing) filter, a typical choice that reduces moiré but softens fine detail slightly.

From hands-on shooting, the B600’s sensor provides somewhat cleaner images in low light and slightly better detail retention at base ISO, likely due to improved sensor design and on-board image processing advancements since the V-Lux 40's 2012 release. Still, the performance difference isn’t dramatic - and in everyday shooting scenarios, both cameras deliver decent, if not breathtaking, image quality.

Important caveats: Neither offers RAW capture, so you’re tethered to JPEG pipelines with their compression and limited post-processing latitude. For enthusiasts who like to wrestle their files in Lightroom or Capture One, this is a less-than-ideal limitation.

LCD Screens and Viewfinders: Seeing What You Shoot

Neither camera sports an electronic viewfinder - a rather surprising omission on the B600’s DSLR-like body. You’re left to rely solely on rear LCDs, which leads us to our next comparison.

The Leica’s 3-inch touchscreen boasts 461k-dot resolution and is capacitive, making menu navigation and focus point adjustments relatively smooth. However, the screen is fixed and has limited brightness, which can be challenging under bright outdoor conditions.

Nikon’s Coolpix B600 offers a 3-inch fixed screen but with double the resolution at 921k dots. It’s not touch-enabled, but the higher resolution and slightly better anti-reflective coating make composing in sunlight less frustrating.

Neither offers articulation, limiting low-angle or high-angle framing tricks. Also, no viewfinder means holding the camera at arm’s length, which can affect stability and composition - more of a casual-snapping-centric design choice.

Lens Reach and Optical Phantasmagoria

Arguably the most exciting aspect of these beasts is their zoom ranges. Leica’s 20x zoom covers an equivalent focal length from 24mm wide-angle to 480mm telephoto. This range is fantastic for travel, portraits, and general-purpose shooting, with a macro focus as close as 3 cm for some creative close-ups.

Nikon, going full beast-mode, cranks the zoom to a whopping 60x, ranging from 24mm to an eye-watering 1440mm! For wildlife and distant subjects, this reach is impressive in a single lens unit, smashing many entry-level DSLR lens setups in convenience.

One caveat, though: the longer the zoom, the more challenging it gets to maintain image sharpness and stability. Optical image stabilization (both are equipped with it) helps, but handholding a 1440mm equivalent at dusk? Brace yourself for wobble unless you’re a steely-handed Jedi.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Tracking, and Accuracy

AF is the nerve center for dynamic shooting genres like wildlife, sports, or street photography.

The Leica V-Lux 40 uses contrast detection with 23 focus points and face detection. It includes continuous AF and tracking, which is impressive for its vintage, but it’s no high-speed champ - expect some hunting in low-contrast scenes and lag in action bursts.

The Nikon B600, with a more contemporary BSI-CMOS sensor, also relies on contrast detection but adds selective AF and continuous modes with face detection. AF tracking feels more responsive and consistent in my tests, handling moderately fast-moving subjects better than Leica’s offering.

Neither camera supports phase detection AF or animal eye AF - so for serious wildlife shooters seeking pinpoint focus on birds in flight, the B600’s performance is passable but limited. For casual birdwatchers or casual sports shots, it suffices.

Shutter Speeds, Burst Rates, and Exposure Control

The Leica covers shutter speeds from 15 seconds to 1/2000 sec, offering manual, shutter priority, and aperture priority exposure modes. This degree of control appeals to more adventurous shooters interested in long exposure or depth-of-field manipulation.

Nikon’s B600 is more modest, with a shutter speed range of 1 to 1/4000 sec, but it lacks manual exposure and priority modes - it’s fully automatic. Some will appreciate the simplicity; others may find the creative restraints frustrating.

Burst rates are noteworthy: Leica boasts 10 fps continuous shooting which is impressive for its class, albeit with limited buffer capacity. Nikon’s specs don’t advertise continuous speed clearly, but in practice, it’s closer to 4-5 fps - adequate for casual action but underwhelming relative to Leica.

Image Stabilization and Macro Close-Ups

Both cameras utilize optical image stabilization, which is critical given their long focal lengths and small sensor sizes with limited high ISO grace.

Leica’s system works well to steady handheld shots at telephoto lengths, though beware that at the extreme end of zoom, it can’t fully negate camera shake. The 3 cm macro focus allows fairly decent close-ups, though without focus stacking or bracketing, sharpness is reliant on steady hands.

Nikon’s 1 cm macro range is more aggressive, enabling closer close-ups. The stabilization is similarly effective, with slight advantages due to incremental processor improvements.

Neither offers post-focus or focus bracketing features, so macro and close-ups require patience and steady technique.

Video Capabilities: HD Essentials Without the Bells and Whistles

Video on superzoom cameras is usually a secondary consideration - but not an afterthought.

The V-Lux 40 handles 1080p at 60 fps with dual codecs (MPEG-4 and AVCHD), a nice bonus for smoother slow motion and better compression options. However, there’s no external mic input or headphone jack, limiting audio control. The built-in stabilization will keep handheld footage surprisingly watchable, but again, telephoto clips at max zoom are shakier.

Nikon’s B600 also shoots 1080p at 60i, using MPEG-4 and H.264, but it doesn’t offer progressive 60 fps, which is a modern standard for fluidity. It also lacks external microphone or headphone ports. Optical stabilization is active, helping smooth out handheld clips.

Neither camera supports 4K or advanced video features like log profiles, so videographers should temper expectations.

Connectivity, Battery Life, and Storage

Connectivity is an area where the B600 shines over the Leica.

While the Leica V-Lux 40 offers no wireless connectivity - a sign of its era - Nikon’s B600 is equipped with built-in Wi-Fi, allowing wireless image transfer and remote shutter control via Nikon’s SnapBridge app (though somewhat limited in functionality compared to more recent cameras). This adds a convenience factor for social sharers and casual travelers.

Battery life favors the Nikon as well: its EN-EL12 lithium-ion battery lasts about 280 shots per charge, compared with Leica’s rated 210 shots per battery pack. Both accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with single slots and some internal memory.

USB on Leica is 2.0 only, adequate but slow by today’s standards; Nikon doesn’t specify, but presumably similar.

Genre-Specific Performance: Where Does Each Camera Excel?

Now let’s get down to brass tacks: which camera serves which photographers best? To illustrate, take a look at this comparative score chart:

and a genre-specific break down:

Portrait Photography

Leica’s warmer color science and 14 MP sensor favor pleasing skin tones and natural bokeh at wide apertures. Eye detection AF helps lock focus on faces in most lighting. The 20x zoom range also allows versatility in framing portraits.

Nikon, with its 16 MP sensor, delivers sharper images but with cooler skin tones that may need tweaking. Face detection is effective, though bokeh is generally less creamy given the smaller aperture and Ultra-telephoto headroom.

Landscape Photography

Both cameras’ small sensors and anti-alias filters impose limits on dynamic range and fine detail capture. Leica’s 14 MP resolution is just enough for decent-sized prints. Nikon pushes higher resolution and slightly better low light. However, lack of weather sealing hurts in harsh outdoor conditions.

Leica’s aperture priority mode lets you play with depth of field more; Nikon’s fully automatic exposure limits artistic control here.

Wildlife Photography

Nikon’s insane 1440mm reach is a clear winner. It excels in catching distant critters, especially birds. Faster AF tracking supports moving subjects better than Leica’s.

Leica’s zoom reaches only 480mm, limiting subject distance. However, its lighter body aids mobility during hikes.

Sports Photography

Leica’s 10 fps burst rate edges out Nikon’s slower frame rates, plus manual exposure allows anticipation and control essential for action. Still, small sensor noise at high ISO and lagging AF speed dampen performance.

Nikon’s AF is more reliable but the limited frame rate and no manual exposure options reduce creative latitude for sports shooters.

Street Photography

Leica’s small size, light weight, and touchscreen may appeal more to street photographers seeking discretion and portability. The lack of viewfinder might be a con for some; however, modern street photography often embraces candidism without raised cameras.

Nikon’s bulkiness and non-touch 3” screen make it less suited for unnoticed snaps.

Macro Photography

Nikon’s closer minimum focus distance (1 cm) and higher resolution sensor give it an edge here. Leica’s 3 cm minimum is respectable but less dramatic.

Neither offers focus stacking or bracketing, so mastery relies on user patience.

Night & Astro Photography

Neither camera shines with high ISO performance due to sensor size and noise limitations. Leica’s manual exposure mode and 15-second shutter speed open doors for astro work, but lack of RAW capture is a big blocking factor for serious night shooters.

Nikon’s faster shutter speeds and higher ISO floor (125 minimum) work against extremely long exposures.

Video Recording

Both cameras cap at 1080p with decent frame rates but no 4K or advanced video features. Leica’s 60p progressive recording is more versatile for smooth motion.

No microphone or headphone ports on either model restricts audio quality options for videographers.

Travel Photography

Leica’s compact body, built-in GPS, and touchscreen combine for a great travel companion - light, easy to operate, geotagging photos automatically. Battery life is average.

Nikon’s longer zoom and Wi-Fi add convenience for remote shooting and post-processing sharing but the bulk and heavier weight detract from portability.

Professional Work

Neither camera is robustly weather-sealed or offers RAW shooting, limiting their use in professional workflows. The Leica’s manual modes offer some creative freedom, but the lack of tethering and faster storage options hinder pros.

Nikon offers greater battery life and wireless connectivity but lacks exposure control.

Lens Ecosystem? Nope, But What About Accessories?

These cameras come with fixed lenses - no option to swap or upgrade, a key distinction from mirrorless or DSLRs. That puts great emphasis on lens versatility.

Leica’s 20x zoom and Nikon’s 60x zoom both serve broad needs. Glass quality on the Leica lens tends to be sharper with less chromatic aberration in the mid-range, while the Nikon can sometimes feel softer at extreme telephoto.

Accessory options are limited to filters and cases, not lens attachments or flashes (neither supports external flashes). This impacts flexibility for enthusiasts wanting to expand capabilities.

Price-to-Performance: What’s Your Dollar Worth?

At launch, Leica trumpeted the V-Lux 40 around $700, reflective of its premium branding and classic European appeal. Meanwhile, the Nikon B600 launched near $300, targeting budget-conscious buyers craving zoom range above all else.

In today’s market, Leica remains a pricier proposition for essentially the same sensor tech but in a smaller package with manual exposure options and GPS. Nikon offers enormous zoom at a fraction of the cost but trades manual controls for automated simplicity.

My Verdict: Picking the Right Superzoom for Your Needs

After extensive hands-on use, here’s how I would distill it:

• Choose Leica V-Lux 40 if you value compactness, touchscreen ergonomics, manual exposure control, built-in GPS, and a balanced zoom to portrait range. Ideal for travelers and casual enthusiasts prioritizing portability and simple creative control.

• Opt for Nikon Coolpix B600 if you want insane zoom reach, longer battery life, Wi-Fi connectivity, and a more traditional camera handle for comfort. It’s a budget-friendly wildlife or nature camera for those who want to get closer from afar without breaking the bank.

For wildlife photography enthusiasts demanding maximum reach and decent autofocus, Nikon B600 wins hands down. For street and travel photographers who prize lightness and meaningful control over exposure, the Leica is preferable.

Neither camera is a pro workhorse, but both serve niche roles well when expectations align.

Supplementary Images: Real-World Samples and More

To conclude, here are sample shots from both cameras, showing their output quality and color rendition side-by-side.

Leica V Lux 40 front Leica V Lux 40 screen back Nikon B600 front Nikon B600 screen back

And just to benchmark the overall scores once more...

...and the genre-specific analysis side-by-side.

Final Thoughts on Small Sensor Superzooms

In my years of testing, small sensor bridge and compact superzoom cameras are reliable workhorses for casual to enthusiast shooting, travel simplicity, and specialty applications where telephoto reach trumps image fidelity demands. The Leica V-Lux 40 and Nikon B600 exemplify this beautifully yet differently - one leaning minimalist with measured control, the other boldly zooming into budget territory with bulkier but more versatile reach.

If forced to pick between these two for personal use, it’s a matter of priorities: do you prize reach above all (Nikon B600) or refined simplicity and manual control in a pocket-friendly size (Leica V-Lux 40)? Neither lets you shoot in RAW, so dive in knowing that image quality is solid but not spectacular.

Hope this comparison aligns with your photographic ambitions - may your superzoom camera bring a world of adventure into crisp, sharable focus. Happy shooting!