Leica TL2 vs Sony A7R

The Leica TL2 and the Sony Alpha A7R are two digital cameras that were announced, respectively, in July 2017 and October 2013. Both the TL2 and the A7R are mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras that are based on an APS-C (TL2) and a full frame (A7R) sensor. The Leica has a resolution of 24.1 megapixels, whereas the Sony provides 36.2 MP.

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

Headline Specifications

	VS
Leica TL2		Sony A7R
Mirrorless system camera		Mirrorless system camera
Leica T mount lenses		Sony E mount lenses
24.1 MP, APS-C Sensor		36.2 MP, Full Frame Sensor
4K/30p Video		1080/60p Video
ISO 100-50000		ISO 100-25600 (50-51200)
Viewfinder optional		Electronic viewfinder (2400k dots)
3.7" LCD, 1230k dots		3.0" LCD, 1230k dots
Fixed touchscreen		Tilting screen (not touch-sensitive)
7 shutter flaps per second		4 shutter flaps per second
Not weather sealed		Weathersealed body
250 shots per battery charge		340 shots per battery charge
134 x 69 x 33 mm, 399 g		127 x 94 x 48 mm, 465 g

Going beyond this snapshot of core features and characteristics, what are the differences between the Leica TL2 and the Sony Alpha A7R? 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 physical size and weight of the Leica TL2 and the Sony A7R are illustrated in the side-by-side display below. The two cameras are presented according to their relative size. Three successive views from the front, the top, and the rear are shown. All width, height and depth measures are rounded to the nearest millimeter.

The TL2 can be obtained in two different colors (black, silver), while the A7R 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 Sony A7R is notably larger (29 percent) than the Leica TL2. Moreover, the A7R is markedly heavier (17 percent) than the TL2. It is noteworthy in this context that the A7R is splash and dust-proof, while the TL2 does not feature any corresponding weather-sealing.

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 battery packs of both cameras can be charged via USB, 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 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
	Leica TL2»	5.3 in	2.7 in	1.3 in	14.1 oz	250	n	Jul 2017	1,950		Leica TL2
	Sony A7R«	5.0 in	3.7 in	1.9 in	16.4 oz	340	Y	Oct 2013	2,299		Sony A7R
	Fujifilm X-T100« »	4.8 in	3.3 in	1.9 in	15.8 oz	430	n	May 2018	599		Fujifilm X-T100
	Fujifilm X-T20« »	4.6 in	3.3 in	1.6 in	13.5 oz	350	n	Jan 2017	899		Fujifilm X-T20
	Fujifilm X-A3« »	4.6 in	2.6 in	1.6 in	12.0 oz	410	n	Aug 2016	399		Fujifilm X-A3
	Leica C-LUX« »	4.4 in	2.6 in	1.8 in	12.0 oz	370	n	Jun 2018	1,049		Leica C-LUX
	Leica CL« »	5.2 in	3.1 in	1.8 in	14.2 oz	220	n	Nov 2017	2,795		Leica CL
	Leica TL« »	5.3 in	2.7 in	1.3 in	13.5 oz	400	n	Nov 2016	1,695		Leica TL
	Leica T« »	5.3 in	2.7 in	1.3 in	13.5 oz	400	n	Apr 2014	1,850		Leica T
	Nikon D3500« »	4.9 in	3.8 in	2.8 in	12.9 oz	1550	n	Aug 2018	429		Nikon D3500
	Nikon D5600« »	4.9 in	3.8 in	2.8 in	16.4 oz	970	n	Nov 2016	699		Nikon D5600
	Nikon D3400« »	4.9 in	3.9 in	3.0 in	15.7 oz	1200	n	Aug 2016	499		Nikon D3400
	Nikon D810« »	5.7 in	4.8 in	3.2 in	34.6 oz	1200	Y	Jun 2014	3,299		Nikon D810
	Sony A7R II« »	5.0 in	3.8 in	2.4 in	22.0 oz	290	Y	Jun 2015	3,199		Sony A7R II
	Sony A7 II« »	5.0 in	3.8 in	2.4 in	21.1 oz	350	Y	Nov 2014	1,999		Sony A7 II
	Sony A7S« »	5.0 in	3.7 in	1.9 in	17.2 oz	380	Y	Apr 2014	2,499		Sony A7S
	Sony A7« »	5.0 in	3.7 in	1.9 in	16.7 oz	340	Y	Oct 2013	1,699		Sony A7
Convert to Metric
Note: Measurements and pricing do not include easily detachable parts, such as interchangeable lenses or optional viewfinders.

Any camera decision will naturally be influenced heavily by the price. 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 TL2 was launched at a somewhat lower price (by 15 percent) than the A7R, which makes it more attractive for photographers on a tight budget. 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. All other things equal, a large sensor will have larger individual pixel-units that offer better low-light sensitivity, wider dynamic range, and richer color-depth than smaller pixels in a sensor of the same technological generation. Moreover, a large sensor camera will give the photographer more control over depth-of-field in the image and, thus, the ability to better isolate a subject from the background. On the downside, larger sensors tend to be associated with larger, more expensive camera bodies and lenses.

Of the two cameras under consideration, the Leica TL2 features an APS-C sensor and the Sony A7R a full frame sensor. The sensor area in the A7R is 132 percent bigger. As a result of these sensor size differences, the cameras have a format factor of, respectively, 1.5 and 1.0. Both cameras have a native aspect ratio (sensor width to sensor height) of 3:2.

With 36.2MP, the A7R offers a higher resolution than the TL2 (24.1MP), but the A7R nevertheless has larger individual pixels (pixel pitch of 4.88μm versus 3.92μm for the TL2) due to its larger sensor. However, the TL2 is a much more recent model (by 3 years and 8 months) than the A7R, and its sensor will have benefitted from technological advances during this time that enhance the light gathering capacity of its pixel-units. 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 Sony A7R implies greater flexibility for cropping images or the possibility to print larger pictures. The maximum print size of the A7R for good quality output (200 dots per inch) amounts to 36.8 x 24.6 inch or 93.5 x 62.4 cm, for very good quality (250 dpi) 29.4 x 19.6 inch or 74.8 x 49.9 cm, and for excellent quality (300 dpi) 24.5 x 16.4 inch or 62.3 x 41.6 cm. The corresponding values for the Leica TL2 are 30.1 x 20.1 inch or 76.4 x 51 cm for good quality, 24.1 x 16.1 inch or 61.1 x 40.8 cm for very good quality, and 20 x 13.4 inch or 50.9 x 34 cm for excellent quality prints.

The Leica TL2 has a native sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 50000. The corresponding ISO settings for the Sony Alpha A7R are ISO 100 to ISO 25600, with the possibility to increase the ISO range to 50-51200.

Consistent information on actual sensor performance is available from DXO Mark for many cameras. 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 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 two cameras under consideration both have sensors whose read-out speed is fast enough to capture moving pictures, but the TL2 provides a higher video resolution than the A7R. It can shoot video footage at 4K/30p, while the Sony is limited to 1080/60p.

Feature comparison

Apart from body and sensor, cameras can and do differ across a variety of features. For example, the A7R has an electronic viewfinder (2400k dots), which can be very helpful when shooting in bright sunlight. In contrast, the TL2 relies on live view and the rear LCD for framing. That said, the TL2 can be equipped with an optional viewfinder – the Visoflex (Typ 020). The following table reports on some other key feature differences and similarities of the Leica TL2, the Sony A7R, and comparable cameras.

One differentiating feature between the two cameras concerns the touch sensitivity of the rear screen. The TL2 has a touchscreen, while the A7R has a conventional panel. Touch control can be particularly helpful, for example, for setting the focus point.

The TL2 writes its imaging data to SDXC cards, while the A7R uses SDXC or Memory Stick PRO Duo cards. The TL2 supports UHS-II cards (Ultra High Speed data transfer of up to 312 MB/s), while the A7R can use UHS-I cards (up to 104 MB/s).

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 TL2 and Sony Alpha A7R and, in particular, the interfaces the cameras (and selected comparators) provide for accessory control and data transfer.

It is notable that the A7R has a headphone jack, which makes it possible to attach external headphones and monitor the quality of sound during the recording process. The TL2 lacks such a headphone port.

The TL2 is a recent model that features in the current product line-up of Leica. In contrast, the A7R has been discontinued (but it can be found pre-owned on eBay). As a replacement in the same line of cameras, the A7R was succeeded by the Sony A7R II. Further information on the two cameras (e.g. user guides, manuals), as well as related accessories, can be found on the official Leica and Sony websites.

Review summary

So what conclusions can be drawn? Is there a clear favorite between the Leica TL2 and the Sony A7R? Which camera is better? The listing below highlights the relative strengths of the two models.

Reasons to prefer the Leica TL2:

• Better video: Provides higher definition movie capture (4K/30p vs 1080/60p).
• Larger screen: Has a bigger rear LCD (3.7" vs 3.0") for image review and settings control.
• Fewer buttons to press: Is equipped with a touch-sensitive rear screen to facilitate handling.
• Faster burst: Shoots at higher frequency (7 vs 4 flaps/sec) to capture the decisive moment.
• More compact: Is smaller (134x69mm vs 127x94mm) and thus needs less room in the bag.
• Less heavy: Is lighter (by 66g or 14 percent) and hence easier to carry around.
• Faster data transfer: Supports a more advanced USB protocol (3.0 vs 2.0).
• Faster buffer clearing: Supports a more advanced SD data transfer standard (UHS-II vs UHS-I).
• More prestigious: Has the Leica luxury appeal, which ensures a high resale price.
• More affordable: Was introduced into a lower priced segment (15 percent cheaper at launch).
• More modern: Reflects 3 years and 8 months of technical progress since the A7R launch.

Arguments in favor of the Sony Alpha A7R:

• More detail: Has more megapixels (36.2 vs 24.1MP), which boosts linear resolution by 22%.
• Better sound: Can connect to an external microphone for higher quality sound recording.
• Better sound control: Has a headphone port that enables audio monitoring while recording.
• Easier framing: Has an electronic viewfinder for image composition and settings control.
• More flexible LCD: Has a tilting screen for odd-angle shots in landscape orientation.
• Faster shutter: Has higher mechanical shutter speed (1/8000s vs 1/4000s) to freeze action.
• Longer lasting: Gets more shots (340 versus 250) out of a single battery charge.
• Better sealing: Is splash and dust sealed for shooting in inclement weather conditions.
• Easier device pairing: Supports NFC for fast wireless image transfer over short distances.
• More heavily discounted: Has been around for much longer (launched in October 2013).

If the count of individual advantages (bullet points above) is taken as a guide, the TL2 comes out slightly ahead of the A7R (11 : 10 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 wildlife photographer will view the differences between cameras in a way that diverges from the perspective of a family photog, and a person interested in architecture has distinct needs from a sports 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 TL2 and the Sony A7R place the cameras among the top in their class? Find out in the latest Best Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera listing 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 remains partial and cannot reveal, for example, the shooting experience and imaging performance when actually working with the TL2 or the A7R. 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 hands-on reviews by experts 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
	Leica TL2	..	..	4/5	..	4/5	Jul 2017	1,950		Leica TL2
	Sony A7R	+ +	82/100	4.5/5	5/5	5/5	Oct 2013	2,299		Sony A7R
	Fujifilm X-T100	+	79/100	4/5	..	4.5/5	May 2018	599		Fujifilm X-T100
	Fujifilm X-T20	+ +	82/100	5/5	..	4.5/5	Jan 2017	899		Fujifilm X-T20
	Fujifilm X-A3	..	74/100	4.5/5	..	4/5	Aug 2016	399		Fujifilm X-A3
	Leica C-LUX	..	..	4.5/5	..	4/5	Jun 2018	1,049		Leica C-LUX
	Leica CL	..	..	..	..	4/5	Nov 2017	2,795		Leica CL
	Leica TL	..	..	..	..	4/5	Nov 2016	1,695		Leica TL
	Leica T	..	..	4/5	..	4/5	Apr 2014	1,850		Leica T
	Nikon D3500	..	75/100	4/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Aug 2018	429		Nikon D3500
	Nikon D5600	..	79/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4/5	Nov 2016	699		Nikon D5600
	Nikon D3400	+	76/100	4/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Aug 2016	499		Nikon D3400
	Nikon D810	..	86/100	5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Jun 2014	3,299		Nikon D810
	Sony A7R II	+ +	90/100	5/5	4.5/5	5/5	Jun 2015	3,199		Sony A7R II
	Sony A7 II	+	82/100	4.5/5	5/5	5/5	Nov 2014	1,999		Sony A7 II
	Sony A7S	..	86/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	5/5	Apr 2014	2,499		Sony A7S
	Sony A7	+ +	80/100	5/5	4.5/5	5/5	Oct 2013	1,699		Sony A7
Notes: (+ +) highly recommended; (+) recommended; (o) reviewed; (..) not available.

The above review scores should be interpreted with care, though. The assessments were made in relation to similar cameras of the same technological generation. Thus, a score needs to be put into the context of the launch date and the launch price of the camera, and comparisons of ratings among very different cameras or across long time periods have little meaning. 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 make your choice using the following search menu. There is also a set of direct links to comparison reviews that other users of the CAM-parator app explored.

Specifications: Leica TL2 vs Sony A7R

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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