Canon SX500 IS vs Sigma DP2 Merrill

In this write-up, we are comparing the Canon SX500 IS vs Sigma DP2 Merrill, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Large Sensor Compact by companies Canon and Sigma. The sensor resolution of the SX500 IS (16MP) and the DP2 Merrill (15MP) is fairly similar but the SX500 IS (1/2.3") and DP2 Merrill (APS-C) come with different sensor size.

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The SX500 IS was launched 7 months after the DP2 Merrill which means that they are of a similar age. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX500 IS being a Compact camera and the Sigma DP2 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the SX500 IS scores vs the DP2 Merrill in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX500 IS & Sigma DP2 Merrill. The complete galleries are provided at Canon SX500 IS Gallery & Sigma DP2 Merrill Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera often, you're going to have to think about its weight and volume. The Canon SX500 IS has external measurements of 104mm x 70mm x 80mm (4.1" x 2.8" x 3.1") accompanied by a weight of 341 grams (0.75 lbs) whilst the Sigma DP2 Merrill has sizing of 122mm x 67mm x 59mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.3") having a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs).

Examine the Canon SX500 IS vs Sigma DP2 Merrill in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have during that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the SX500 IS vs the DP2 Merrill.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX500 IS and DP2 Merrill is 80 and 83 respectively.

Typically, it is tough to picture the difference between sensor sizes only by going over specifications. The picture here will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SX500 IS and DP2 Merrill.

To sum up, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The SX500 IS because of its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF trickier and the Canon SX500 IS will offer you more detail utilizing its extra 1MP. Greater resolution will help you crop photos a little more aggressively. The newer SX500 IS provides an edge in sensor innovation.