I am having an inner battle. I have the X2D, but my heart says I need an M11. The X2D is clearly the better camera, but the Leica wins in size and looks.
This article is under construction and aimed mainly at me as some self-therapy.
The Leica M11 and the Hasselblad X2D 100C are high-end cameras designed for professional photographers, but they cater to slightly different photography styles due to their unique strengths. Here’s a comparison of key aspects:
1. Sensor & Image Quality
Leica M11:
60 MP full-frame CMOS sensor.
Supports multiple resolutions (60 MP, 36 MP, and 18 MP) for flexible file sizes and performance.
ISO range: 64 to 50,000.
No in-body image stabilization (IBIS).
They are known for producing signature Leica colors and sharpness, offering a distinctive look.
Hasselblad X2D 100C:
100 MP medium format BSI CMOS sensor.
A larger sensor area than a full-frame M11 results in superior dynamic range and finer detail capture.
ISO range: 64 to 25,600.
Features 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS).
Hasselblad’s natural color solution (HNCS) delivers excellent color accuracy and depth.
Winner: Hasselblad X2D for image quality, especially in dynamic range and detail, but the Leica M11 offers a more versatile sensor resolution and compact size.
2. Lens Ecosystem
Leica M11:
It uses Leica’s legendary M-mount lenses, renowned for their exceptional build and optical quality.
The rangefinder focus system requires more manual focus skills but rewards users with greater control.
A large variety of third-party and vintage lenses are also available.
Hasselblad X2D:
It uses Hasselblad’s XCD lens mount, which has fewer native lenses than Leica’s M-mount but is still of excellent quality.
The Autofocus system is more accessible for many applications than Leica’s manual rangefinder focus.
Lenses are bulkier due to the medium format.
Winner: The Leica M11 offers more lens options and greater compactness, but the Hasselblad X2D has autofocus for ease of use.
3. Design & Build
Leica M11:
Classic rangefinder design with manual controls, focusing on the tactile experience.
Compact and lightweight (approx. 640g with battery).
A more discreet camera for street or documentary photography.
Traditional optical rangefinder focusing mechanism.
Hasselblad X2D:
Sleek, modern design with a larger, more robust body (approx. 895g with battery).
Integrated electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a 3.6-inch tilting touchscreen.
Larger body due to the medium format sensor, making it less portable.
The winner is the Leica M11 for its portability and classic design, while the Hasselblad X2D provides a more modern user experience with an EVF and touchscreen.
4. Autofocus & Shooting Speed
Leica M11:
Manual focus only with rangefinder.
It is slower for fast action due to the lack of autofocus, making it better for deliberate, slower-paced photography.
Hasselblad X2D:
Offers autofocus with phase detection.
Faster focus performance compared to the Leica M11, making it better for studio, landscape, and portrait work.
Winner: Hasselblad X2D for faster autofocus performance.
5. Storage & Connectivity
Leica M11:
Features dual storage options: internal 64 GB storage and an SD card slot.
USB-C port for fast data transfer and charging.
Hasselblad X2D:
Features internal 1 TB SSD storage and a single CFexpress Type B card slot.
USB-C for data transfer and power.
Winner: Hasselblad X2D for more extensive internal storage (1 TB), though the Leica M11 offers more flexible storage with internal and external options.
6. Battery Life
Leica M11:
Longer battery life due to the absence of power-hungry features like an EVF and IBIS. You can shoot for extended periods.
Up to 700 shots per charge.
Hasselblad X2D:
Shorter battery life due to IBIS, EVF, and larger sensor.
Approx. 420 shots per charge.
Winner: Leica M11 for battery life.
7. Price
Leica M11:
Around $8,995 (body only).
Hasselblad X2D:
Around $8,199 (body only).
Winner: Both are in a similar price range, but the Hasselblad X2D is slightly cheaper.
Conclusion:
Leica M11 is ideal for photographers who prefer a classic, manual shooting experience, a more compact form factor, and flexibility in resolution.
Hasselblad X2D is better for photographers focused on studio, landscape, or portrait work, where autofocus, image stabilization, and larger sensor detail are important.
The Leica M11 would likely be the better choice for street, travel, or documentary photographers, while the Hasselblad X2D shines in controlled environments requiring maximum image quality.
