Leica X-U vs Sony RX100 IV

Following is a extended assessment of the Leica X-U and Sony RX100 IV, both Large Sensor Compact cameras by companies Leica and Sony. The image resolution of the X-U (16MP) and the RX100 IV (20MP) is relatively comparable but the X-U (APS-C) and RX100 IV (1") enjoy totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The X-U was manufactured 8 months after the RX100 IV and they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Large Sensor Compact).

Before diving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a brief summation of how the X-U scores versus the RX100 IV when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Leica X-U and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 IV. The entire galleries are provided at Leica X-U Gallery and Sony RX100 IV Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera frequently, you have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Leica X-U features exterior measurements of 140mm x 79mm x 88mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 3.5") and a weight of 635 grams (1.40 lbs) and the Sony RX100 IV has measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 41mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.6") and a weight of 298 grams (0.66 lbs).

Look at the Leica X-U and Sony RX100 IV in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the X-U vs the RX100 IV.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the X-U and RX100 IV is 64 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, it is very hard to envision the difference in sensor sizes simply by seeing technical specs. The pic here might give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the X-U and RX100 IV.

As you can tell, both of these cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The X-U featuring a bigger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF simpler and the Sony RX100 IV will show more detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will let you crop photographs far more aggressively. The more recent X-U will have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.