The V-Lux 4 has been a popular camera for Leica and I know of many people who have produced some amazing shots. But there is no arguing that the camera’s 1/2.3in sensor is small and uncompetitive in 2014. The new number-stripped V-Lux (which I suspect will be its replacement) is a very different beast. Despite the superficial resemblance, the new camera is much bigger all round. But it is also much more competent.
Part of the size increase is a direct result of the larger 1in sensor and the corresponding effect on lens size. This sensor is over four times as large as the one in the old V-Lux 4. However, I find it odd that Sony can squeeze the same sensor into the tiny RX100, or that Leica and Panasonic can put an even bigger 4/3 sensor in the D-Lux/LX100, a considerably smaller camera than the V-Lux. Of course, both cameras have much shorter zooms and this has a big bearing on overall size. In mitigation, the V-Lux is a very similar beast to the Sony RX10, which uses the identical sensor, and I imagine both Sony and Panasonic have done their best to keep the size down to a minimum.
While the V-Lux is big, picking it up is a surprise. In contrast to a Leica M, which is always heavier than you think, the V-Lux weighs less than you would imagine. It feels really chunky in the hands and gives the impression low density. In fact, after handling it I was surprised to find that it weighs all of 830g. It doesn’t feel like it. The smaller V-Lux 4 weighs 590g by comparison.
With a 600mm maximum reach, the V-Lux 4 is undoubtedly a very versatile camera, especially for travellers who want to pack light. The new V-Lux zoom extends to only 400mm but this is not necessarily a deal breaker. With the four-times bigger sensor, cropping of a 400mm shot is viable and I believe the result will ultimately beat the V-Lux 4 at 600mm.
I have no doubt that the V-Lux is a much better camera than the V-Lux 4. If you can live with that extra bulk you will be delighted with the results. I certainly would have no qualms about foregoing the final 200mm of zoom.
The big decision will be whether to buy the larger-sensored D-Lux and make do with a 24-75mm zoom or go for the larger V-Lux, essentially to gain the benefit of the 400mm reach. I suspect it is a case of horses for courses and both cameras will find a ready market. Ideally, I’d have both for different occasions.
I checked the specs of the LX100 and cannot understand why the 10.9-34mm zoom lens is said to be 24-75 in 35mm terms. Surely the crop factor of 4/3 sensor is 2, which means the lens is actually 22-68mm. Surely the sensor in the LX100/Leica isn’t smaller than standard 4/3?