Leica X1 vs Panasonic LX100

Below is a extended review of the Leica X1 and Panasonic LX100, both Large Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Leica and Panasonic. The resolution of the X1 (12MP) and the LX100 (13MP) is very close but the X1 (APS-C) and LX100 (Four Thirds) provide totally different sensor sizing.

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The X1 was brought out 5 years earlier than the LX100 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Large Sensor Compact).

Before going right into a thorough comparison, here is a short introduction of how the X1 scores versus the LX100 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Leica X1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX100. The entire galleries are available at Leica X1 Gallery and Panasonic LX100 Gallery.

In case you're looking to lug around your camera often, you're going to have to think about its weight and size. The Leica X1 has exterior measurements of 124mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.9" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 306 grams (0.67 lbs) while the Panasonic LX100 has specifications of 115mm x 66mm x 55mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 2.2") with a weight of 393 grams (0.87 lbs).

Check out the Leica X1 and Panasonic LX100 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the X1 vs the LX100.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the X1 and LX100 is 89 and 83 respectively.

In many cases, it's tough to envision the contrast in sensor measurements only by viewing specifications. The photograph below will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the X1 and LX100.

To sum up, both of those cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The X1 because of its larger sensor will make getting shallow depth of field less difficult and the Panasonic LX100 will result in extra detail having its extra 1 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images a good deal more aggressively. The older X1 will be behind in sensor innovation.