Leica S2 vs Nikon B700

The Leica S2 and the Nikon Coolpix B700 are two digital cameras that were announced, respectively, in September 2008 and February 2016. The S2 is a DSLR, while the B700 is a fixed lens compact. The cameras are based on a medium format (S2) and a 1/2.3-inch (B700) sensor. The Leica has a resolution of 37.5 megapixels, whereas the Nikon provides 20.2 MP.

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

Headline Specifications

Leica S2		Nikon B700
Digital single lens reflex		Fixed lens compact camera
Leica S mount lenses		24-1440mm f/3.3-6.5
37.5 MP, Medium Format Sensor		20.2 MP, 1/2.3" Sensor
no Video		4K/30p Video
ISO 80-1250		ISO 100-3200
Optical viewfinder		Electronic viewfinder (921k dots)
3.0" LCD, 460k dots		3.0" LCD, 921k dots
Fixed screen (not touch-sensitive)		Swivel screen (not touch-sensitive)
1.5 shutter flaps per second		5 shutter flaps per second
Weathersealed body		Not weather sealed
160 x 120 x 80 mm, 1410 g		125 x 85 x 107 mm, 565 g

Going beyond this snapshot of core features and characteristics, what are the differences between the Leica S2 and the Nikon Coolpix B700? 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

The side-by-side display below illustrates the physical size and weight of the Leica S2 and the Nikon B700. The two cameras are presented according to their relative size. Three consecutive perspectives from the front, the top, and the back are available. All size dimensions are rounded to the nearest millimeter.

The B700 can be obtained in two different colors (black, red), while the S2 is only available in black.

If the front view area (width x height) of the cameras is taken as an aggregate measure of their size, the Nikon B700 is considerably smaller (45 percent) than the Leica S2. It is worth mentioning in this context that the S2 is splash and dust resistant, while the B700 does not feature any corresponding weather-sealing.

The above size and weight comparisons are to some extent incomplete and possibly misleading, as the B700 has a lens built in, whereas the S2 is an interchangeable lens camera that requires a separate lens. Attaching the latter will add extra weight and bulk to the setup.

The power pack in the B700 can be charged via the USB port, which can be very convenient when travelling.

The following table provides a synthesis of the main physical specifications of the two cameras and other similar ones. If you would like to visualize and compare a different camera combination, just use the right or left arrows in the table to switch to the respective camera. Alternatively, you can also navigate to the CAM-parator app and make your selection from the full list of cameras 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)	Used Price (USD)	Camera Model
	Leica S2»	6.3 in	4.7 in	3.1 in	49.7 oz	..	Y	Sep 2008	22,995	-		Leica S2
	Nikon B700«	4.9 in	3.3 in	4.2 in	19.9 oz	350	n	Feb 2016	499			Nikon B700
	Canon 1D Mark IV« »	6.1 in	6.2 in	3.1 in	43.4 oz	1500	Y	Oct 2009	4,999	-		Canon 1D Mark IV
	Canon 1Ds Mark III« »	5.9 in	6.3 in	3.1 in	48.9 oz	1800	Y	Aug 2007	7,999	-		Canon 1Ds Mark III
	Kodak AZ901« »	5.5 in	4.1 in	4.7 in	27.4 oz	400	n	Jan 2016	499			Kodak AZ901
	Leica S3« »	6.3 in	4.7 in	3.1 in	44.4 oz	..	Y	Sep 2018	24,490			Leica S3
	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 P900« »	5.5 in	4.1 in	5.4 in	31.7 oz	360	n	Mar 2015	599	-		Nikon P900
	Nikon D3S« »	6.3 in	6.2 in	3.5 in	43.7 oz	4200	Y	Oct 2009	5,199	-		Nikon D3S
	Nikon D3X« »	6.3 in	6.2 in	3.5 in	44.4 oz	4400	Y	Dec 2008	7,999	-		Nikon D3X
	Nikon D3« »	6.3 in	6.2 in	3.5 in	45.9 oz	4300	Y	Aug 2007	4,999	-		Nikon D3
	Panasonic ZS70« »	4.4 in	2.6 in	1.6 in	11.4 oz	380	n	Apr 2017	449	-		Panasonic ZS70
	Pentax 645D« »	6.1 in	4.6 in	4.7 in	52.2 oz	800	Y	Mar 2010	9,995	-		Pentax 645D
	Sony HX350« »	5.1 in	3.7 in	4.1 in	23.0 oz	300	n	Dec 2016	449			Sony HX350
	Sony HX400V« »	5.1 in	3.7 in	4.1 in	23.3 oz	300	n	Feb 2014	499			Sony HX400V
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 manufacturer’s suggested retail prices give an idea on the placement of the camera in the maker’s lineup and the broader market. The B700 was launched at a lower price than the S2, despite having a lens built in. Normally, street prices remain initially close to the MSRP, but after a couple of months, the first discounts appear. 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. Then, after the new model is out, very good deals can frequently be found on the pre-owned market.

Sensor comparison

The size of the imaging sensor is a crucial determinant of image quality. A large sensor will tend to have larger individual pixels that provide better low-light sensitivity, wider dynamic range, and richer color-depth than smaller pixel-units in a sensor of the same technological generation. Further, a large sensor camera will give the photographer additional creative options when using shallow depth-of-field to isolate a subject from its background. On the downside, larger sensors are more costly to manufacture and tend to lead to bigger and heavier cameras and lenses.

Of the two cameras under consideration, the Leica S2 features a medium format sensor and the Nikon B700 a 1/2.3-inch sensor. The sensor area in the B700 is 98 percent smaller. As a result of these sensor size differences, the cameras have a format factor of, respectively, 0.8 and 5.6. The sensor in the S2 has a native 3:2 aspect ratio, while the one in the B700 offers a 4:3 aspect.

With 37.5MP, the S2 offers a higher resolution than the B700 (20.2MP), but the S2 nevertheless has larger individual pixels (pixel pitch of 6.00μm versus 1.18μm for the B700) due to its larger sensor. However, the B700 is a much more recent model (by 7 years and 5 months) than the S2, and its sensor will have benefitted from technological advances during this time that further 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 Leica S2 implies greater flexibility for cropping images or the possibility to print larger pictures. The maximum print size of the S2 for good quality output (200 dots per inch) amounts to 37.5 x 25 inch or 95.3 x 63.5 cm, for very good quality (250 dpi) 30 x 20 inch or 76.2 x 50.8 cm, and for excellent quality (300 dpi) 25 x 16.7 inch or 63.5 x 42.3 cm. The corresponding values for the Nikon B700 are 25.9 x 19.4 inch or 65.8 x 49.4 cm for good quality, 20.7 x 15.6 inch or 52.7 x 39.5 cm for very good quality, and 17.3 x 13 inch or 43.9 x 32.9 cm for excellent quality prints.

The Leica S2 has a native sensitivity range from ISO 80 to ISO 1250. The corresponding ISO settings for the Nikon Coolpix B700 are ISO 100 to ISO 3200 (no boost).

Since 2007, DXO Mark has published sensor performance measurements that have been derived using a consistent methodology. This service determines an overall sensor rating, as well as sub-scores for low-light sensitivity ("DXO Sports"), dynamic range ("DXO Landscape"), and color depth ("DXO Portrait"). The following table provides an overview of the physical sensor characteristics, as well as the sensor quality measurements for a selection of comparators.

Many modern cameras are not only capable of taking still images, but can also record movies. The B700 indeed provides for movie recording, while the S2 does not. The highest resolution format that the B700 can use is 4K/30p.

Feature comparison

Apart from body and sensor, cameras can and do differ across a range of features. For example, the B700 has an electronic viewfinder (921k 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 adjacent table lists some of the other core features of the Leica S2 and Nikon B700 along with similar information for a selection of comparators.

One feature that is present on the S2, but is missing on the B700 is a top-level LCD. While being, of course, smaller than the rear screen, the control panel conveys some of the essential shooting information and can be convenient for quick and easy settings verification.

The Nikon B700 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 S2 writes its imaging data to Compact Flash or SDHC cards, while the B700 uses SDXC cards. The S2 features dual card slots, which can be very useful in case a memory card fails. In contrast, the B700 only has one slot.

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 Leica S2 and Nikon Coolpix B700 and, in particular, the interfaces the cameras (and selected comparators) provide for accessory control and data transfer.

It is notable that the S2 has a hotshoe, while the B700 does not. This socket makes it possible to easily attach optional accessories, such as an external flash gun.

Studio photographers will appreciate that the Leica S2 (unlike the B700) features a PC Sync socket, so that professional strobe lights can be controlled by the camera.

The B700 is a recent model that features in the current product line-up of Nikon. In contrast, the S2 has been discontinued (but it can be found pre-owned on eBay). As a replacement in the same line of cameras, the S2 was succeeded by the Leica S Typ 006. Further information on the two cameras (e.g. user guides, manuals), as well as related accessories, can be found on the official Leica and Nikon websites.

Review summary

So what is the bottom line? Is the Leica S2 better than the Nikon B700 or vice versa? A synthesis of the relative strong points of each of the models is listed below.

Reasons to prefer the Leica S2:

• More detail: Offers more megapixels (37.5 vs 20.2MP) with a 39% higher linear resolution.
• Better image quality: Features bigger pixels on a larger sensor for higher quality imaging.
• Richer colors: The pixel size advantage translates into images with better, more accurate colors.
• More dynamic range: Larger pixels capture a wider spectrum of light and dark details.
• Better low-light sensitivity: Larger pixels means good image quality even under poor lighting.
• Brighter framing: Features an optical viewfinder for clear, lag-free composition.
• Easier setting verification: Features an LCD display on top to control shooting parameters.
• More flexible: Can take a variety of interchangeable lenses, including specialty optics.
• Better sealing: Is weather sealed to enable shooting in dusty or wet environments.
• Better lighting: Features a hotshoe and can thus hold and trigger an external flash gun.
• Better studio light control: Has a PC Sync socket to connect to professional strobe lights.
• Greater peace of mind: Features a second card slot as a backup in case of memory card failure.
• More prestigious: Has the Leica luxury appeal, which ensures a high resale price.
• More heavily discounted: Has been available for much longer (launched in September 2008).

Arguments in favor of the Nikon Coolpix B700:

• Broader imaging potential: Can capture not only stills but also 4K/30p video.
• More framing info: Has an electronic viewfinder that displays shooting data.
• More detailed LCD: Has a higher resolution rear screen (921k vs 460k dots).
• More flexible LCD: Has a swivel screen for odd-angle shots in portrait or landscape orientation.
• More selfie-friendly: Has an articulated screen that can be turned to be front-facing.
• Faster burst: Shoots at higher frequency (5 vs 1.5 flaps/sec) to capture the decisive moment.
• Easier time-lapse photography: Has an intervalometer built-in for low frequency shooting.
• Ready to shoot: Comes with an integrated lens, while the S2 requires a separate lens.
• More compact: Is smaller (125x85mm vs 160x120mm) and will fit more readily into a bag.
• Less heavy: Has a lower weight even though it has a lens built in (unlike the S2).
• Easier travel charging: Can be conveniently charged via its USB port.
• Sharper images: Has stabilization technology built-in to reduce the impact of hand-shake.
• Easier fill-in: Has a small integrated flash to brighten shadows of backlit subjects.
• Easier file upload: Has wifi built in for automatic backup or image transfer to the web.
• Easier device pairing: Supports NFC for fast wireless image transfer over short distances.
• Easier wireless transfer: Supports Bluetooth for image sharing without cables.
• More affordable: Was introduced at a lower price, despite coming with a built-in lens.
• More modern: Reflects 7 years and 5 months of technical progress since the S2 launch.

If the count of individual advantages (bullet points above) is taken as a guide, the B700 emerges as the winner of the match-up (17 : 14 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 Leica S2 and the Nikon B700 place the cameras among the top in their class? Find out in the latest Best DSLR Camera and Best Superzoom Camera listings whether the two cameras rank among the cream of the crop.

In any case, while the comparison of technical specifications can provide a useful overview of the capabilities of different cameras, it remains partial and cannot reveal, for example, the shooting experience and imaging performance when actually working with the S2 or the B700. At times, user reviews, such as those published at amazon, address these issues in a useful manner, but such feedback is on many occasions incomplete, inconsistent, and unreliable.

Expert reviews

This is why hands-on reviews by experts are important. The adjacent summary-table relays the overall verdicts of several of the most popular camera 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						Camera Launch (announced)	Launch Price (USD)	Street Price (USD)	Used Price (USD)	Camera Model
	Leica S2»	-	-	-	-	-	Sep 2008	22,995	-		Leica S2
	Nikon B700«	+	-	4/5	-	4/5	Feb 2016	499			Nikon B700
	Canon 1D Mark IV« »	-	89/100	-	5/5	-	Oct 2009	4,999	-		Canon 1D Mark IV
	Canon 1Ds Mark III« »	-	+ +	4.5/5	-	-	Aug 2007	7,999	-		Canon 1Ds Mark III
	Kodak AZ901« »	-	-	3.5/5	-	3/5	Jan 2016	499			Kodak AZ901
	Leica S3« »	-	-	-	-	-	Sep 2018	24,490			Leica S3
	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 P900« »	-	77/100	4/5	4.5/5	4/5	Mar 2015	599	-		Nikon P900
	Nikon D3S« »	-	89/100	4.5/5	5/5	5/5	Oct 2009	5,199	-		Nikon D3S
	Nikon D3X« »	-	86/100	4/5	5/5	5/5	Dec 2008	7,999	-		Nikon D3X
	Nikon D3« »	-	+ +	5/5	o	4.5/5	Aug 2007	4,999	-		Nikon D3
	Panasonic ZS70« »	+ +	-	4/5	-	4/5	Apr 2017	449	-		Panasonic ZS70
	Pentax 645D« »	-	-	-	4.5/5	-	Mar 2010	9,995	-		Pentax 645D
	Sony HX350« »	-	-	-	-	4/5	Dec 2016	449			Sony HX350
	Sony HX400V« »	+ +	-	4/5	-	4/5	Feb 2014	499			Sony HX400V
Notes: (+ +) highly recommended; (+) recommended; (o) reviewed; (-) not available.

The above review scores should be interpreted with care, though. The ratings were established in reference to similarly priced cameras that were available in the market at the time of the review. Hence, a score should always be seen in the context of the camera's market launch date and its price, and rating-comparisons among cameras that span long time periods or concern very differently equipped models make little sense. Also, kindly note that some of the listed sites have over time developped their review approaches and their reporting style.

Other camera comparisons

Did this review help to inform your camera decision process? In case you would like to check on the differences and similarities of other camera models, just use the search menu below. As an alternative, you can also directly jump to any one of the listed comparisons that were previously generated by the CAM-parator tool.

Specifications: Leica S2 vs Nikon B700

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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