Leica X Vario vs Zeiss ZX1

The following is a in depth overview of the Leica X Vario versus Zeiss ZX1, both Large Sensor Compact cameras by manufacturers Leica and Zeiss. There is a sizable difference among the resolutions of the X Vario (16MP) and ZX1 (37MP) and the X Vario (APS-C) and ZX1 (Full frame) enjoy totally different sensor sizing.

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The X Vario was brought out 6 years before the ZX1 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Large Sensor Compact).

Before delving through a comprehensive comparison, below is a short summary of how the X Vario scores vs the ZX1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica X Vario & Zeiss ZX1. The entire galleries are viewable at Leica X Vario Gallery & Zeiss ZX1 Gallery.

If you're aiming to travel with your camera often, you'll need to consider its weight and proportions. The Leica X Vario provides external measurements of 133mm x 73mm x 95mm (5.2" x 2.9" x 3.7") and a weight of 680 grams (1.50 lbs) and the Zeiss ZX1 has measurements of 142mm x 93mm x 46mm (5.6" x 3.7" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

See the Leica X Vario versus Zeiss ZX1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at that time. The following is the front view dimension comparison of the X Vario compared to the ZX1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the X Vario and ZX1 is 62 and 67 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to visualise the gap in sensor dimensions purely by seeing a spec sheet. The picture underneath might give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the X Vario and ZX1.

As you can see, each of these cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The X Vario due to its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh tougher and the Zeiss ZX1 will produce greater detail having its extra 21 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop photos much more aggressively. The more aged X Vario will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.