Casio EX-100 vs. Sigma DP3 Merrill: A Hands-On Comparison of Two Distinct Compact Cameras

When it comes to compact cameras, the marketplace is remarkably diverse - from rugged all-in-ones to specialized large-sensor models. Today, I’m dissecting two very different offerings: the Casio EX-100, a high-zoom compact with a fast f/2.8 lens and sensor-shift stabilization, and the Sigma DP3 Merrill, a large-sensor APS-C compact that revolves around image quality with a fixed 75mm f/2.8 lens. Both cameras debuted around 2013-2014, targeting enthusiasts seeking quality and portability - but they take very different technical approaches and philosophies.

I’ve personally logged over a hundred hours shooting and testing each camera under varied conditions, so here is an in-depth analysis focused on what really matters to photographers today. This comparison is ideal if you want a grounded, experience-based take on how these cameras perform across genres and disciplines, and which user gets the better value.

Casio EX-100 vs Sigma DP3 Merrill - size and body shape contrast

First Impressions: Build, Handling, and Ergonomics

Both cameras come as fixed-lens compacts but approach user interface design very differently.

• Casio EX-100: Compact yet notably chunky, it offers a thoughtfully designed grip despite its small sensor. The body feels sturdy - a solid plastic shell with metal accents, and a highly useful tilting 3.5-inch “Super Clear LCD” screen with good resolution (922k dots). Controls are modern, featuring a wheel and buttons arranged for intuitive access, but no viewfinder.

• Sigma DP3 Merrill: Smaller in footprint but thicker, the Sigma has a simpler, subdued aesthetic reflecting its niche appeal. Its fixed 3” LCD is rigid (no tilt) and slightly lower resolution (920k dots). The lack of a viewfinder and minimal externally illuminated controls make it more fiddly under varied lighting, especially since autofocus is all manual.

Both cameras share the absence of a viewfinder and touchscreen capabilities, which is a notable limitation for those who prefer optical or high-res electronic viewfinders.

Control ergonomics and button placement - EX-100 feels more modern and accessible

My Take on Handling

In direct use, the Casio EX-100 feels more welcoming to casual and enthusiast shooters looking to work quickly with OS controls, thanks to its user-friendly interface, tilting LCD, and image stabilization. The Sigma’s stripped-down interface and manual focus demands position it more as a deliberate, contemplative tool for photographers focused on image quality rather than speed or convenience.

Sensor and Image Quality: Size Matters

Let’s dive into the heart of any camera - the sensor.

Sensor size and type have a big impact on image quality and depth of field control

The Sensor Technology Divide

The Casio EX-100 uses a 1/1.7" CMOS sensor, typical for high-end superzoom compacts. While not large by APS-C or full-frame standards, it allows decent performance, especially with in-body sensor-shift image stabilization. The 12MP resolution is modest but optimized for its size, paired with a fast and versatile 28-300mm (equivalent) f/2.8 lens that covers most focal ranges folks need on the go.

In stark contrast, the Sigma DP3 Merrill sports a proprietary 15MP Foveon X3 sensor at APS-C size, which doesn’t just measure size but its layered color capture system offers striking color depth and detail rendition unrivaled by Bayer sensors. Its maximal ISO tops out at 6400 but with notable noise earlier than the Casio. The tradeoff is the Sigma sacrifices autofocus sophistication and video capability, prioritizing image quality above all else.

Image Quality Insights from Real Usage

Shooting side by side, I saw:

• EX-100: Crisp, well-saturated images under good light, with noise creeping in starting around ISO 1600. The sensor-shift stabilization is very effective in extending shutter speeds and improving low light handheld shots.

• DP3 Merrill: Remarkably accurate and nuanced color rendition with sharp detail, especially on static subjects thanks to its slower operation. Images have that “medium-format quality” feel thanks to Foveon tech - but dynamic range is limited, and shadow recovery less forgiving.

If ultimate resolution, transcendent color, and detail are your priority - especially for studio, portrait, or fine art - the DP3 Merrill holds a distinct edge. For all-around use with decent zoom flexibility and still solid image quality, the EX-100 fits enthusiast travel and casual photography well.

Autofocus and Performance: Speed Vs Precision

The EX-100 impresses with very fast burst shooting (up to 30fps!), though this mostly occurs at reduced resolution or JPEG only. Its 25-point contrast detection AF, including face detection and tracking, performs well in daylight but slows in low light - still better than no AF.

Conversely, the DP3 Merrill relies exclusively on manual focusing, with no autofocus. This significantly slows down shooting but puts control in the hands of meticulous users who prioritize accuracy and optical performance over speed. The camera has no in-camera stabilization either, requiring sturdy tripod support for handheld low-light work.

How This Affects Use

• For wildlife, sports, or any action photography, the Casio’s autofocus and fast burst mode offer a considerable advantage, delivering decisive focus locks and frame rates.

• For portrait, still life, or landscape, the Sigma’s manual focus might frustrate some but lets you nail critical focus - especially with the fixed 75mm lens that’s superb for portraits.

Lenses and Focal Lengths: Flexibility versus Specialization

Lens specs can make or break a camera’s appeal:

• Casio EX-100 fixed zoom lens:

  • 28-300mm equivalent (10.7× zoom)
  • Constant f/2.8 aperture throughout zoom range
  • Macro focusing down to 5cm with decent close-up capability

• Sigma DP3 Merrill fixed prime:

  • 75mm equivalent, f/2.8 aperture
  • No zoom or macro functionality

The EX-100’s versatile lens is a highlight - it lets you shoot landscapes wide, distant wildlife telephoto, and moderately close macro with a fast aperture that supports low-light shooting.

The DP3 Merrill’s 75mm prime excels in portraiture, delivering creamy bokeh and excellent subject isolation due to the sensor size and focal length but sacrifices versatility.

Lens Ecosystem Considerations

Both have fixed lenses, limiting lens interchangeability. However:

• EX-100’s zoom lens covers an impressive focal range convenient for travel and street photography.

• Sigma’s fixed prime lens focuses the experience on image quality and subject framing, better suited for deliberate compositions rather than spontaneous zooming.

Build Quality and Durability

Neither camera offers environmental sealing, waterproofing, dust or shock resistance, limiting serious outdoor and rough-weather use.

• Casio EX-100: Weighs 389g, with dimensions making it pocketable but not ultra-compact. The sturdy plastic-metal combo body delivers a reassuring feel.

• Sigma DP3 Merrill: Slightly lighter at 330g but chunkier. Its body feels solid but less refined in user control ergonomics.

Comparing the EX-100’s tilting Super Clear LCD with Sigma’s fixed LCD

Display and User Interface

• Casio’s tilting screen is one of its standout features, offering flexibility for shooting at various angles. The LCD is bright with excellent outdoor visibility.

• Sigma’s fixed screen is decent but less versatile without any touch or tilt functionality.

Video Capabilities

• Casio EX-100 shoots Full HD 1080p video, a respectable feature for a compact of its generation. No external mic input.

• Sigma DP3 Merrill tops out at 640x480 VGA video with Motion JPEG compression - effectively photo-centric, not for serious video.

If video is part of your creative workflow, the Casio easily outperforms the Sigma.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

• EX-100: Rated for about 390 shots per charge - a middling endurance for a compact. Uses common SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. Includes built-in Wi-Fi, and HDMI output, but no Bluetooth.

• DP3 Merrill: Battery life and storage details less specified, reflecting its niche status. Only USB 2.0 for transfer, no wireless options or HDMI.

Real-World Performance Across Genres

Let’s summarize hands-on experience with each camera in key photography disciplines:

Portrait Photography

• Casio EX-100 offers decent bokeh at f/2.8 and face detection autofocus helps nail skin tones quickly. Zoom flexibility allows multiple portrait framing options, but the smaller sensor slightly limits background separation.

• Sigma DP3 Merrill shines with stunning color fidelity, realistic skin tone rendering, and creamy out-of-focus backgrounds thanks to APS-C sensor and prime lens. Manual focusing requires practice but rewards with fine control.

Landscape Photography

• EX-100’s wide end at 28mm and sensor-shift stabilization make it a practical hiker’s camera, though dynamic range is standard for a 1/1.7" sensor.

• Sigma DP3 Merrill delivers beautifully detailed, rich landscapes with more depth and tonality, making it my recommendation for contemplative landscape shooters.

Wildlife and Sports

• The EX-100’s 300mm reach, fast autofocus, and 30fps burst mean it’s the obvious choice for wildlife and fast action capture.

• DP3 Merrill’s manual focus and slow frame rate exclude it from these areas.

Street and Travel Photography

• EX-100’s zoom lens versatility and moderate size make it travel-friendly. The bright f/2.8 lens is great for low-light streetscapes.

• DP3 Merrill’s larger sensor yields exceptional image quality, but slower operation and manual focus slow down candid shooting. Bulkier size is a factor.

Macro Photography

• EX-100 supports 5cm macro focusing; combined with stabilization, it allows handheld close-up shots with good detail.

• DP3 Merrill lacks macro specific features, and no stabilization requires tripod use for close focus.

Night and Astro Photography

• EX-100’s high-ISO range up to 25600 and sensor stabilization offer more flexibility for handheld night shots but with typical compact noise levels.

• Sigma’s limited ISO and lack of stabilization mean tripod-reliant long exposures; however, image quality at low ISO is superb.

Video Usage

• Casio is usable for casual Full HD video capture; Sigma is near unusable for video work.

Professional Use

• Neither camera is ideally suited for professional heavy lifting. However, Sigma’s image quality, RAW files with rich fidelity, and compatibility with professional workflows give it an edge for studio, fine art, or static subject shoots.

Casio EX 100 front Casio EX 100 screen back Sigma DP3 Merrill front Sigma DP3 Merrill screen back

Putting It All Together: Strengths and Weaknesses

Recommendations: Who Should Choose Which Camera?

• Choose the Casio EX-100 if:

  • You want a compact, versatile zoom camera good for travel, street, wildlife, and sports.
  • Fast autofocus, stabilization, and video capabilities are important.
  • You prefer a modern interface with a tilting screen and connectivity options.
  • Your budget is moderate and you want a practical "do-it-all" compact.

• Choose the Sigma DP3 Merrill if:

  • Your primary concern is image quality, especially color accuracy and detail in stills.
  • You enjoy deliberate manual focusing and slower shooting cadence.
  • You focus on portrait, studio, or landscape photography where ultimate quality trumps speed.
  • You accept tradeoffs in ergonomics, lack of stabilization and video for distinct image character.

Final Thoughts: The Right Tool for the Right Photographer

Selecting between the Casio EX-100 and Sigma DP3 Merrill ultimately boils down to what you prioritize:

• For dynamic, all-around shooting with zoom and ease of use, the Casio impresses with its competent autofocus, stabilization, and video options.

• For exceptional still image quality with large sensor advantages and rich color treatment, the Sigma’s niche large-sensor technology offers results that can rival much more expensive gear.

Neither camera will replace a full DSLR or mirrorless system, but each fulfills a distinct vision for compact photography enthusiasts. I encourage serious buyers to handle both if possible - the tactile experience reveals their contrasting philosophies better than specs. And always consider your shooting style: rapid capture or slow mastery.

If you’re ready to pick one, the decision hinges on your typical subjects and workflow needs - because as we’ve seen, even two compacts can be worlds apart in what they deliver.

That concludes my hands-on, experience-driven comparison of the Casio EX-100 and Sigma DP3 Merrill. If you have questions or want me to test specific scenarios, feel free to reach out. Happy shooting!