Hasselblad X1D vs Leica S2

The Hasselblad X1D-50c and the Leica S2 are two professional cameras that were revealed to the public, respectively, in June 2016 and September 2008. The X1D is a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera, while the S2 is a DSLR. Both cameras are equipped with a medium format sensor. The Hasselblad has a resolution of 51.3 megapixels, whereas the Leica provides 37.5 MP.

Below is an overview of the main specs of the two cameras as a starting point for the comparison.

Headline Specifications

	VS
Hasselblad X1D		Leica S2
Mirrorless system camera		Digital single lens reflex
Hasselblad X mount lenses		Leica S mount lenses
51.3 MP, Medium Format Sensor		37.5 MP, Medium Format Sensor
1080/25p Video		no Video
ISO 100-25600		ISO 80-1250
Electronic viewfinder (2360k dots)		Optical viewfinder
3.0" LCD, 920k dots		3.0" LCD, 460k dots
Fixed touchscreen		Fixed screen (not touch-sensitive)
2.3 shutter flaps per second		1.5 shutter flaps per second
Weathersealed body		Weathersealed body
150 x 98 x 71 mm, 725 g		160 x 120 x 80 mm, 1410 g

Going beyond this snapshot of core features and characteristics, what are the differences between the Hasselblad X1D-50c and the Leica S2? Which one should you buy? Read on to find out how these two cameras compare with respect to their body size, their imaging sensors, their shooting features, their input-output connections, and their reception by expert reviewers.

Body comparison

An illustration of the physical size and weight of the Hasselblad X1D and the Leica S2 is provided in the side-by-side display below. The two cameras are presented according to their relative size. Three consecutive views from the front, the top, and the rear side are shown. All width, height and depth measures are rounded to the nearest millimeter.

If the front view area (width x height) of the cameras is taken as an aggregate measure of their size, the Leica S2 is notably larger (31 percent) than the Hasselblad X1D. Moreover, the S2 is substantially heavier (94 percent) than the X1D. In this context, it is worth noting that both cameras are splash and dust-proof and can, hence, be used in inclement weather conditions or harsh environments.

The above size and weight comparisons are to some extent incomplete since they do not consider the interchangeable lenses that both of these cameras require. Hence, you might want to study and compare the specifications of available lenses in order to get the full picture of the size and weight of the two camera systems.

The following table provides a synthesis of the main physical specifications of the two cameras and other similar ones. If you want to switch the focus of the display and review another camera pair, just select a new right or left comparator from among the camera models in the table. Alternatively, you can also move across to the CAM-parator tool and choose from the broad selection of possible camera comparisons there.

Camera Body Specifications

	Camera Model	Camera Width	Camera Height	Camera Depth	Camera Weight	Battery Life (CIPA)	Weather Sealing (yes/no)	Camera Launch (announced)	Launch Price (USD)	Street Price (USD)	Camera Model
	Hasselblad X1D»	5.9 in	3.9 in	2.8 in	25.6 oz	..	Y	Jun 2016	8,995		Hasselblad X1D
	Leica S2«	6.3 in	4.7 in	3.1 in	49.7 oz	..	Y	Sep 2008	22,995		Leica S2
	Canon 6D Mark II« »	5.7 in	4.4 in	3.0 in	27.0 oz	1200	Y	Jun 2017	1,999		Canon 6D Mark II
	Canon 5DS« »	6.0 in	4.6 in	3.0 in	32.8 oz	700	Y	Feb 2015	3,699		Canon 5DS
	Canon 5DS R« »	6.0 in	4.6 in	3.0 in	32.8 oz	700	Y	Feb 2015	3,699		Canon 5DS R
	Fujifilm GFX 50S« »	5.8 in	3.7 in	3.6 in	26.1 oz	400	Y	Sep 2016	6,499		Fujifilm GFX 50S
	Hasselblad X1D II« »	5.8 in	3.8 in	2.8 in	27.0 oz	..	Y	Jun 2019	5,750		Hasselblad X1D II
	Leica S3« »	6.3 in	4.7 in	3.1 in	44.4 oz	..	Y	Sep 2018	18,995		Leica S3
	Leica SL« »	5.8 in	4.1 in	1.5 in	29.9 oz	400	Y	Oct 2015	7,450		Leica SL
	Leica S-E Typ 006« »	6.3 in	4.7 in	3.1 in	44.4 oz	..	Y	Sep 2014	16,900		Leica S-E Typ 006
	Leica S Typ 007« »	6.3 in	4.7 in	3.1 in	44.4 oz	..	Y	Sep 2014	24,490		Leica S Typ 007
	Leica S Typ 006« »	6.3 in	4.7 in	3.1 in	44.4 oz	..	Y	Sep 2012	21,950		Leica S Typ 006
	Nikon D7500« »	5.4 in	4.1 in	2.9 in	25.4 oz	950	Y	Apr 2017	1,299		Nikon D7500
	Nikon D850« »	5.7 in	4.9 in	3.1 in	35.5 oz	1840	Y	Jul 2017	3,299		Nikon D850
	Nikon D7200« »	5.4 in	4.2 in	3.0 in	27.0 oz	1110	Y	Mar 2015	1,199		Nikon D7200
	Pentax 645Z« »	6.1 in	4.6 in	4.8 in	54.7 oz	650	Y	Apr 2014	8,499		Pentax 645Z
	Pentax 645D« »	6.1 in	4.6 in	4.7 in	52.2 oz	800	Y	Mar 2010	9,995		Pentax 645D
Convert to Metric
Note: Measurements and pricing do not include easily detachable parts, such as interchangeable lenses or optional viewfinders.

Any camera decision will obviously take relative prices into account. The retail prices at the time of the camera’s release place the model in the market relative to other models in the producer’s line-up and the competition. The X1D was launched at a markedly lower price (by 61 percent) than the S2, which puts it into a different market segment. Usually, retail prices stay at first close to the launch price, but after several months, discounts become available. Later in the product cycle and, in particular, when the replacement model is about to appear, further discounting and stock clearance sales often push the camera price considerably down.

Sensor comparison

The size of the imaging sensor is a crucial determinant of image quality. A large sensor will generally have larger individual pixels that offer better low-light sensitivity, provide wider dynamic range, and have richer color-depth than smaller pixels in a sensor of the same technological generation. Furthermore, a large sensor camera will give the photographer more possibilities to use shallow depth-of-field in order to isolate a subject from the background. On the downside, larger sensors tend to be associated with larger, more expensive camera bodies and lenses.

Both cameras under consideration feature a medium format sensor, but their sensors differ slightly in size. The sensor area in the S2 is 6 percent smaller. As a result of these sensor size differences, the cameras have format factors, respectively, of 0.79 (X1D) and 0.8. The sensor in the X1D has a native 4:3 aspect ratio, while the one in the S2 offers a 3:2 aspect.

With 51.3MP, the X1D offers a higher resolution than the S2 (37.5MP), but the X1D has smaller individual pixels (pixel pitch of 5.30μm versus 6.00μm for the S2). However, the X1D is a much more recent model (by 7 years and 9 months) than the S2, and its sensor will have benefitted from technological advances during this time that enhance the light gathering capacity of its pixels. Coming back to sensor resolution, it should be mentioned that neither of the two cameras has an anti-alias filter installed, so they are able to capture all the detail the sensor resolves.

The resolution advantage of the Hasselblad X1D implies greater flexibility for cropping images or the possibility to print larger pictures. The maximum print size of the X1D for good quality output (200 dots per inch) amounts to 41.4 x 31 inch or 105.1 x 78.7 cm, for very good quality (250 dpi) 33.1 x 24.8 inch or 84 x 63 cm, and for excellent quality (300 dpi) 27.6 x 20.7 inch or 70 x 52.5 cm. The corresponding values for the Leica S2 are 37.5 x 25 inch or 95.3 x 63.5 cm for good quality, 30 x 20 inch or 76.2 x 50.8 cm for very good quality, and 25 x 16.7 inch or 63.5 x 42.3 cm for excellent quality prints.

The Hasselblad X1D-50c has a native sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 25600. The corresponding ISO settings for the Leica S2 are ISO 80 to ISO 1250 (no boost).

Since 2007, DXO Mark has published sensor performance measurements that have been derived using a consistent methodology. This service is based on lab testing and assigns an overall score to each camera sensor, as well as ratings for dynamic range ("DXO Landscape"), color depth ("DXO Portrait"), and low-light sensitivity ("DXO Sports"). The table below summarizes the physical sensor characteristics and sensor quality findings and compares them across a set of similar cameras.

Many modern cameras cannot only take still pictures, but also record videos. The X1D indeed provides movie recording capabilities, while the S2 does not. The highest resolution format that the X1D can use is 1080/25p.

Feature comparison

Beyond body and sensor, cameras can and do differ across a range of features. For example, the X1D has an electronic viewfinder (2360k dots), while the S2 has an optical one. Both systems have their advantages, with the electronic viewfinder making it possible to project supplementary shooting information into the framing view, whereas the optical viewfinder offers lag-free viewing and a very clear framing image. The following table reports on some other key feature differences and similarities of the Hasselblad X1D, the Leica S2, and comparable cameras.

One differentiating feature between the two cameras concerns the touch sensitivity of the rear screen. The X1D has a touchscreen, while the S2 has a conventional panel. Touch control can be particularly helpful, for example, for setting the focus point.

The Hasselblad X1D has an intervalometer built-in. This enables the photographer to capture time lapse sequences, such as flower blooming, a sunset or moon rise, without purchasing an external camera trigger and related software.

The X1D writes its imaging data to SDXC cards, while the S2 uses Compact Flash or SDHC cards. Both cameras feature dual card slots, which can be very useful in case a memory card fails. The X1D supports UHS-I cards (Ultra High Speed data transfer of up to 104 MB/s), while the S2 cannot take advantage of Ultra High Speed SD cards.

Connectivity comparison

For some imaging applications, the extent to which a camera can communicate with its environment can be an important aspect in the camera decision process. The table below provides an overview of the connectivity of the Hasselblad X1D-50c and Leica S2 and, in particular, the interfaces the cameras (and selected comparators) provide for accessory control and data transfer.

It is notable that the X1D offers wifi support, while the S2 does not. Wifi can be a very convenient means to transfer image data to an off-camera location.

Both cameras feature a PC Sync terminal to control professional strobe lights, which will be appreciated by studio photographers.

Both the X1D and the S2 have been discontinued, but can regularly be found used on eBay. The S2 was replaced by the Leica S Typ 006, while the X1D was followed by the Hasselblad X1D II. Further information on the two cameras (e.g. user guides, manuals), as well as related accessories, can be found on the official Hasselblad and Leica websites.

Review summary

So what is the bottom line? Is the Hasselblad X1D better than the Leica S2 or vice versa? The listing below highlights the relative strengths of the two models.

Reasons to prefer the Hasselblad X1D-50c:

• More detail: Offers more megapixels (51.3 vs 37.5MP) with a 15% higher linear resolution.
• Broader imaging potential: Can record not only still images but also 1080/25p movies.
• More framing info: Has an electronic viewfinder that displays shooting data.
• More detailed LCD: Has a higher resolution rear screen (920k vs 460k dots).
• Fewer buttons to press: Is equipped with a touch-sensitive rear screen to facilitate handling.
• Faster burst: Shoots at higher frequency (2.3 vs 1.5 flaps/sec) to capture the decisive moment.
• Easier time-lapse photography: Has an intervalometer built-in for low frequency shooting.
• More compact: Is smaller (150x98mm vs 160x120mm) and thus needs less room in the bag.
• Less heavy: Is lighter (by 685g or 49 percent) and hence easier to carry around.
• More legacy lens friendly: Can take a broad range of non-native lenses via adapters.
• Faster data transfer: Supports a more advanced USB protocol (3.0 vs 2.0).
• Easier file upload: Has wifi built in for automatic backup or image transfer to the web.
• Faster buffer clearing: Has an SD card interface that supports the UHS-I standard.
• More affordable: Was introduced into a lower priced category (61 percent cheaper at launch).
• More modern: Reflects 7 years and 9 months of technical progress since the S2 launch.

Arguments in favor of the Leica S2:

• Brighter framing: Features an optical viewfinder for clear, lag-free composition.
• Easier setting verification: Features a control panel on top to check shooting parameters.
• Faster shutter: Has higher mechanical shutter speed (1/4000s vs 1/2000s) to freeze action.
• More heavily discounted: Has been around for much longer (launched in September 2008).

If the count of relative strengths (bullet points above) is taken as a measure, the X1D is the clear winner of the match-up (15 : 4 points). However, the relevance of individual strengths will vary across photographers, so that you might want to apply your own weighing scheme to the summary points when reflecting and deciding on a new camera. A professional wedding photographer will view the differences between cameras in a way that diverges from the perspective of a travel photog, and a person interested in cityscapes has distinct needs from a macro shooter. Hence, the decision which camera is best and worth buying is often a very personal one.

How about other alternatives? Do the specifications of the Hasselblad X1D and the Leica S2 place the cameras among the top in their class? Find out in the latest Best Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera and Best DSLR Camera listings whether the two cameras rank among the cream of the crop.

In any case, while the comparison of the spec-sheets of cameras can offer a general idea of their imaging potential, it says little about, for example, the shooting experience and imaging performance of the X1D and the S2 in practical situations. User reviews, such as those found at amazon, can sometimes inform about these issues, but such feedback is often incomplete, inconsistent, and biased.

Expert reviews

This is why expert reviews are important. The table below provides a synthesis of the camera assessments of some of the best known photo-gear review sites (cameralabs, dpreview, ephotozine, imaging-resource, and photographyblog). As can be seen, the professional reviewers agree in many cases on the quality of different cameras, but sometimes their assessments diverge, reinforcing the earlier point that a camera decision is often a very personal choice.

Review Scores

	Camera Model	cam era   labs	dp re   view	e photo   zine	ima ging resource	photo graphy   blog	Camera Launch (announced)	Launch Price (USD)	Street Price (USD)	Camera Model
	Hasselblad X1D	o	81/100	..	..	4/5	Jun 2016	8,995		Hasselblad X1D
	Leica S2	..	..	..	..	..	Sep 2008	22,995		Leica S2
	Canon 6D Mark II	+	80/100	4.5/5	4/5	4/5	Jun 2017	1,999		Canon 6D Mark II
	Canon 5DS	+	83/100	4.5/5	5/5	4.5/5	Feb 2015	3,699		Canon 5DS
	Canon 5DS R	+	83/100	5/5	5/5	4.5/5	Feb 2015	3,699		Canon 5DS R
	Fujifilm GFX 50S	..	85/100	5/5	5/5	4.5/5	Sep 2016	6,499		Fujifilm GFX 50S
	Hasselblad X1D II	..	..	4/5	..	..	Jun 2019	5,750		Hasselblad X1D II
	Leica S3	..	..	..	..	..	Sep 2018	18,995		Leica S3
	Leica SL	..	84/100	4.5/5	4/5	4/5	Oct 2015	7,450		Leica SL
	Leica S-E Typ 006	..	..	..	..	..	Sep 2014	16,900		Leica S-E Typ 006
	Leica S Typ 007	..	..	..	..	..	Sep 2014	24,490		Leica S Typ 007
	Leica S Typ 006	..	..	..	..	..	Sep 2012	21,950		Leica S Typ 006
	Nikon D7500	+ +	86/100	5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Apr 2017	1,299		Nikon D7500
	Nikon D850	+ +	89/100	4.5/5	5/5	5/5	Jul 2017	3,299		Nikon D850
	Nikon D7200	+ +	84/100	4.5/5	4/5	4.5/5	Mar 2015	1,199		Nikon D7200
	Pentax 645Z	..	..	4.5/5	5/5	5/5	Apr 2014	8,499		Pentax 645Z
	Pentax 645D	..	..	..	4.5/5	..	Mar 2010	9,995		Pentax 645D
Notes: (+ +) highly recommended; (+) recommended; (o) reviewed; (..) not available.

Care should be taken when interpreting the review scores above, though. The ratings are only valid when referring to cameras in the same category and of the same age. A score, therefore, has to be seen in close connection to the price and market introduction time of the camera, and comparisons of ratings among very different cameras or across long time periods have little meaning. It should also be noted that some of the review sites have over time altered the way they render their verdicts.

Other camera comparisons

Did this review help to inform your camera decision process? If you would like to see a different side-by-side camera review, just use the search menu below. There is also a set of direct links to comparison reviews that other users of the CAM-parator app explored.

Specifications: Hasselblad X1D vs Leica S2

Below is a side-by-side comparison of the specs of the two cameras to facilitate a quick review of their differences and common features.

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