Leica M2 vs. Canon P: A Rambling Comparison

On the fence about shelling out the big bucks for a Leica? Wondering if there are any good, budget alternatives? Well let me help you out...

[ChrisHayden-rg]

A huge plus with the Canon P is the 1:1 viewfinder; the Leica M2's is 0.75. Canon outshone Leica with the P and sold more cameras. For price, features and sheer beauty, the P wins hands down. No wonder Canon P's are gaining in popularity with photographers, while the expensive M2 remains in collections?

[sprucemoose]

Nice. I got given a P with the leather case. 3 lenses. The 35 1.8, 50 1.8, and a 90 or 100 3.5 I think. With original cases to.
The shutter is crisp with no wrinkles.
Just managed to get a working light meter for it as the one it had wasn’t working.

[edinburghtumuran]

That is a comprehensive comparison! I have a Canon P still looking for a better justifications for getting a Leica M3. For now, my Canon P will it great!

[myoung]

I can only add that when I am using my P I never think about getting a Leica . Something about Leica focus patches, they are very distinct and for me break up the integrity of the viewing experience. Yes, that patch is a finer tuned focusing advantage but the esthetic of viewing with the P, for me, is far more important than fine tuning a particular point of focus. So the P wins for it's gentle overlapping focus mechanism.

[FlyingFilm]

I have both cameras and while I adore my Canon P, I'd take my M2 over it any day. I prefer the shape of the M2 in hand, the quiet shutter and the viewfinder as well as the focusing patch. My M2 makes it hard to want to shoot with my Canon P. About the the only thing I like about my P over my M2 is the looks. The P has to be the most beautiful camera I have ever owned.

[themoolag]

Interesting point about leaving on Bulb

[JourneyAimlessly]

They are build the same and the operation is the same ! So I wonder why Leica shooter refers to the canon as an entry camera when it is not …. I’m not a beginner photographer.

[themoolag]

Have you sold the M2? How do you like M2 vs M4-P? Those were my choices but leaning towards M2 cause it's cheaper and more low key

[garvinkelly]

The canon 7 is better than the P in a few ways but the P looks cooler so it's more popular now haha

[linjicakonikon]

I have the Canon VT deluxe which looks and performs better than both those cameras. If you're going to sell one of those cameras, why would you ever sell the P? If you need the money, and if both cameras are excellent, why the hell wouldn't you sell the overpriced Leica? Unless you drink the Kool aid.