If you’re in the market for a high-end mirrorless camera, you’ve likely come across the Hasselblad X1D II Vs Leica SL2-S. These two cameras are both known for their exceptional image quality, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. Today we’ll take a detailed look at both cameras and help you decide which one is right for you.
In this comparison, we will talk about the following:
- What are the Hasselblad X1D II and Leica SL2-S?
- How is the Design of Hasselblad X1D II and Leica SL2-S?
- How is the Image Quality from Hasselblad X1D II and Leica SL2-S?
- How is the Autofocus on Hasselblad X1D II and Leica SL2-S?
- How is the Video Ability of Hasselblad X1D II and Leica SL2-S?
- How is the Usability of Hasselblad X1D II and Leica SL2-S?
- Which Professional Camera to Choose?
| Product Name | Hasselblad X1D II | Leica SL2-S |
|---|---|---|
  |   |
|
| Product Dimensions | 8 x 5.9 x 5.2 inches | 8.8 x 8.6 x 6.1 inches |
| Shipping Weight | 766 Grams | 920 Grams |
| Shop now at Amazon |
About the Hasselblad X1D II and Leica SL2-S
The Hasselblad X1D II is a medium format mirrorless camera known for its exceptional image quality and craftsmanship. It features a 50-megapixel medium format sensor, in-built image stabilization, a contrast-detection autofocus system, and the ability to capture high-quality RAW files. The X1D II offers a compact and lightweight design, making it portable yet powerful for photographers seeking ultimate image quality. It excels in delivering stunning detail, dynamic range, and color accuracy, making it particularly suitable for landscape, portrait, and fashion photography.
On the other hand, the Leica SL2-S is a full-frame mirrorless camera that prioritizes versatility and performance. It features a 24-megapixel full-frame sensor, in-body image stabilization, a fast and accurate autofocus system, and the ability to shoot 4K videos. The SL2-S is designed for photographers and videographers who require excellent low-light performance, high-speed shooting, and professional-grade video capabilities. Its robust build quality, intuitive controls, and weather-sealed body make it suitable for various genres, including documentary, sports, and event photography. Read also: Fujifilm GFX 100 Vs Hasselblad X1D II here.
Design and Build Quality
The Hasselblad X1D II and the Leica SL2-S have very different designs. The X1D II is much more compact and lightweight, making it easier to carry around. It has a sleek, minimalist design that’s both elegant and functional. The Leica SL2-S, on the other hand, is a bit larger and heavier. It has a more rugged, industrial design that’s built to withstand harsh conditions. It’s weather-sealed, so you can use it in rain or snow without worrying about damaging it.
Both cameras have excellent build quality and feel solid and well-made in your hands. However, the X1D II’s compact design makes it a better choice for photographers who need to travel light, while the SL2-S’s rugged design makes it a better choice for outdoor or adventure photographers.
Image Quality
Both cameras are known for their exceptional image quality, but they achieve it in different ways. The Hasselblad X1D II’s 50-megapixel sensor produces incredibly detailed images with a high dynamic range. Its larger sensor also gives it a shallower depth of field, which can be great for portrait photography. The Leica SL2-S’s 24-megapixel sensor may not have as much resolution as the X1D II’s, but it’s still capable of producing stunning images. Its sensor is also designed to perform well in low-light conditions, so it’s a great choice for night photography or other situations where lighting is poor.
Autofocus
Autofocus is an important feature for many photographers, especially those who shoot fast-moving subjects like sports or wildlife. The Hasselblad X1D II has a contrast-detection autofocus system that’s accurate and reliable, but it’s not the fastest system out there. The Leica SL2-S, on the other hand, has a hybrid autofocus system that combines contrast-detection and phase-detection autofocus. This makes it much faster and more responsive than the X1D II, making it a better choice for photographers who need to track fast-moving subjects.
Video
Both cameras are capable of shooting high-quality video, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The Hasselblad X1D II can shoot 2.7K video at up to 29 frames per second, which is decent but not exceptional. The Leica SL2-S, on the other hand, is capable of shooting 4K video at up to 60 frames per second using APS C-sized sensor or 30fps in full frame format, making it a better choice for videographers who need high-quality footage. It also has a headphone jack and a microphone input, which the X1D II lacks, making it easier to monitor and control audio during video shoots. Check our other comparison in: Canon EOS M6 Mark II Vs Nikon Z50 here.
Usability
Both cameras are designed to be user-friendly, but they have different approaches to usability. The Hasselblad X1D II has a simple, intuitive interface that’s easy to navigate. It also has a touch screen that allows you to easily adjust settings and focus on specific areas of the image. The Leica SL2-S has a more complex interface that may take some time to learn. However, it also has more customizable buttons and dials, which can be useful for experienced photographers who want to customize their settings for different shooting situations.
Conclusion
Both the Hasselblad X1D II and the Leica SL2-S are exceptional cameras that produce high-quality images. However, they have different strengths and weaknesses, which makes them better suited for different types of photographers. If you’re a travel or portrait photographer who needs a compact, lightweight camera with excellent image quality, the Hasselblad X1D II is a great choice. However, if you’re a videographer or action photographer who needs fast autofocus and excellent low-light performance, the Leica SL2-S is the more capable choice.