Leica X1 vs Sony RX1R

Below, we will be looking at the Leica X1 and Sony RX1R, both Large Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Leica and Sony. There exists a large gap among the image resolutions of the X1 (12MP) and RX1R (24MP) and the X1 (APS-C) and RX1R (Full frame) feature different sensor size.

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The X1 was unveiled 4 years earlier than the RX1R and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Large Sensor Compact).

Before going straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a short summation of how the X1 scores against the RX1R in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Leica X1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R. The full galleries are provided at Leica X1 Gallery & Sony RX1R Gallery.

If you are looking to lug around your camera often, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Leica X1 provides outer measurements of 124mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.9" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 306 grams (0.67 lbs) and the Sony RX1R has proportions of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Contrast the Leica X1 and Sony RX1R in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have at that time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the X1 and the RX1R.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the X1 and RX1R is 89 and 79 respectively.

Normally, it can be hard to visualize the contrast in sensor measurements purely by viewing specs. The graphic below should give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the X1 and RX1R.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The X1 having a smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Sony RX1R will provide you with more detail having an extra 12MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots much more aggressively. The older X1 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.