Leica X Vario vs Leica X1

Its time to look more closely at the Leica X Vario versus Leica X1, both Large Sensor Compact cameras and they are both produced by Leica. There exists a considerable gap among the image resolutions of the X Vario (16MP) and X1 (12MP) but they use the exact same sensor size (APS-C).

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The X Vario was released 3 years after the X1 which is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras come with the identical body type (Large Sensor Compact).

Before we go in to a in depth comparison, below is a simple overview of how the X Vario grades against the X1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Leica X Vario & Leica X1. The complete galleries are viewable at Leica X Vario Gallery & Leica X1 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you are going to need to think about its weight and size. The Leica X Vario comes with exterior measurements of 133mm x 73mm x 95mm (5.2" x 2.9" x 3.7") and a weight of 680 grams (1.50 lbs) while the Leica X1 has specifications of 124mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.9" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 306 grams (0.67 lbs).

Check out the Leica X Vario versus Leica X1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose during that time. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the X Vario against the X1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the X Vario and X1 is 62 and 89 respectively.

Quite often, it can be difficult to see the difference in sensor sizes only by going through technical specs. The pic underneath should give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the X Vario and X1.

As you have seen, the two cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but not the same megapixels. You can expect to see the Leica X Vario to show greater detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The younger X Vario is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.