Leica X-U vs Leica X1

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Leica X-U and Leica X1, both Large Sensor Compact digital cameras and both of them are created by Leica. There exists a sizable gap between the resolutions of the X-U (16MP) and X1 (12MP) but they possess the same exact sensor sizing (APS-C).

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The X-U was announced 6 years later than the X1 and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Large Sensor Compact).

Before delving straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a brief summation of how the X-U matches up versus the X1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica X-U & Leica X1. The whole galleries are viewable at Leica X-U Gallery & Leica X1 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera often, you will need to think about its weight and measurements. The Leica X-U enjoys external dimensions of 140mm x 79mm x 88mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 3.5") having a weight of 635 grams (1.40 lbs) and the Leica X1 has proportions of 124mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.9" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 306 grams (0.67 lbs).

Examine the Leica X-U and Leica X1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at the time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the X-U against the X1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the X-U and X1 is 64 and 89 respectively.

Typically, its difficult to picture the contrast between sensor sizing merely by looking at specs. The visual here will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the X-U and X1.

All in all, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You can expect the Leica X-U to resolve more detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The fresher X-U provides a benefit in sensor technology.