Compact Showdown: Casio EX-FH100 vs Sigma DP2 Merrill – A Hands-On Camera Comparison

Making a camera purchase isn’t just about choosing specs on paper - it’s about how those specs translate to real-world shooting across diverse photography styles. A camera that shines brightly in landscapes might stumble in low light; another might be a beast at portraits but bulky to haul on a trip.

Today, I’m putting two unique compacts head-to-head: Casio EX-FH100, a versatile small-sensor zoomer with some high-speed chops from 2010, and Sigma DP2 Merrill, a large-sensor fixed-prime marvel from 2012 boasting Sigma’s famous Foveon X3 sensor. Despite being compact cameras, they’re dialed in for quite different photographers and photo genres. As someone who’s field-tested thousands of cameras over the years, I’ll walk you through the nuts and bolts, real-world performance, and ultimately who should consider these models in 2024.

Let’s dive in.

Feel and Form: The Ergonomic Face-Off

First impressions matter, and holding cameras in-hand tells you a lot. The Casio EX-FH100 is a classic travel buddy - small, lightweight (just 201g), and pocket-friendly with dimensions of 104 x 60 x 28mm. Its build is typical of small sensor compacts with a fixed zoom lens (24-240mm equiv., 10x zoom), sensor-shift image stabilization, and a fixed 3” LCD screen.

The Sigma DP2 Merrill, by contrast, is a chunkier handheld - bigger and heavier at 330g and a boxy 122 x 67 x 59mm. The all-metal body feels solid but less pocketable; it’s built around a fixed 50mm prime lens (equivalent field of view) and features none of the image stabilization magic common on smaller-sensor compacts.

The EX-FH100’s modest size and weight make it a discreet street and travel camera, less likely to attract attention. The Sigma’s heft and boxiness might slow you down a little - it sits more like a serious enthusiast’s walk-around compact you want to handle deliberately.

Controls, Interface, and Usability: Which Camera Puts You in Charge?

When the going gets technical, the devil is in the buttons and dials. The Casio EX-FH100 offers standard exposure modes (Manual, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority), exposure compensation, and yes, manual focus - though it lacks face or eye AF and only has contrast-detection autofocus, which can be slow in tricky light. It has image stabilization, built-in flash with multiple modes, and stores images on SD/SDHC cards.

The Sigma DP2 Merrill is decidedly minimalist - no autofocus in the conventional sense, no image stabilization, no built-in flash, and manual focus only. Exposure control is still there (Manual, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority), with full raw support. The lens is a fixed 50mm f/2.8 prime, which encourages thoughtful framing and work within a narrower focal length.

The EX-FH100’s menu system and button layout are basic but accessible, though the screen’s low resolution (230k dots) limits clarity when reviewing images. The Sigma features a far denser 920k dot screen, making pixel peeping and focusing easier on the back panel. However, it lacks touchscreen functionality, live-view autofocus, or even a viewfinder on both models.

For day-to-day shooting, especially if you like automation or quick autofocus, Casio’s small sensor zoom compact wins on user friendliness. Sigma demands a slower pace - manual control purists who savor careful composition.

Under the Hood: Sensor Tech and Image Quality

Here’s where things get fascinating and nuanced. Casio uses a modest 1/2.3” BSI-CMOS sensor at 10MP resolution - small but augmented with sensor-shift stabilization. The small sensor size (about 28.07mm²) limits dynamic range and low-light performance, but the wide zoom lens gives versatile framing options. ISO tops out at 3200, which is moderately respectable for a 2010 compact.

Sigma, on the other hand, packs a large APS-C sized sensor (24 x 16mm, 384 mm²) - 13.7 times larger sensor area than Casio’s. That sensor is a Foveon X3 CMOS, a rarer beast capturing full color data for every pixel location in three layers. The DP2 Merrill’s resolution is listed at 15MP, but due to the Foveon architecture, many enthusiasts equate it to a sharper, richer 30+MP Bayer sensor equivalent in color fidelity and detail. ISO maxes at 6400, but noise behavior is complex given the sensor’s unique output.

In practical terms, Casio’s images are solid with ample detail at base ISO and convenient zoom framing but limited in tonal gradation, low light, and shadow recovery. The Sigma’s raw files are striking for resolution sharpness, texture, and color depth - perfect for those who want large prints and meticulous post-processing latitude, especially in daylight where noise is minimal.

Neither camera has anti-aliasing filter removal (both have AA filters), but Sigma’s sensor excels in rendering micro contrast with a distinct look valued by fine art and landscape shooters.

Reviewing Your Shots: Back LCD and EVF Options

Both cameras rely solely on rear LCDs. Casio’s 3" fixed screen is rather humble with just 230k pixels, making critical focusing or highlight/shadow checks more challenging. It limits confidence when shooting in bright sunlight, as it can get washed out quickly.

Sigma’s 3" screen offers a much sharper 920k resolution - nearly four times Casio’s pixel count - which makes a huge difference for confirming focus sharpness and exposure accuracy. It’s no touchscreen, but the improved clarity and color fidelity make post-capture review more precise.

Neither camera features an electronic viewfinder, a notable omission for outdoor or long shooting sessions where LCD glare hampers visibility. For extended handheld use under harsh light, an EVF is a valuable feature these models lack.

Autofocus, Speed, and Burst Performance

Let me cut to the chase: autofocus on both cameras is minimal and slow by today’s standards. Casio EX-FH100 uses contrast detection with single AF only - no continuous tracking or face/eye detection - suiting still subjects or landscapes better than action work. Continuous shooting tops out at 4 FPS, modest but adequate for casual bursts.

Sigma DP2 Merrill is more old school - no AF system at all; manual focus only. It demands you get your focus spot on with peaking or magnification aids (the latter was not specified as a feature on this model). Worst case, it’s like shooting film: deliberate, slow, exacting.

In sports or wildlife photography, neither camera will give you a competitive edge. Casio might catch slower-moving subjects at 4FPS but struggles with quick autofocus. Sigma is more for static subjects or portraits where autofocus isn’t required.

Casio EX FH100 front Casio EX FH100 screen back Sigma DP2 Merrill front Sigma DP2 Merrill screen back

Real-World Image Quality: Portraits & Beyond

Portrait Photography
The EX-FH100’s 10x zoom lens covers the useful 85-135mm portrait range, but max aperture (f/3.2–5.7) isn’t very fast, limiting shallow depth of field and pleasing bokeh. Skin tones come out decent but can look slightly digital and less nuanced due to the small sensor’s color depth and noise reduction. Face and eye detection autofocus are absent, so nailing perfect focus on eyes without live tracking can be a pain.

In contrast, the DP2 Merrill’s fast 50mm f/2.8 prime paired with the Foveon sensor delivers exquisite color fidelity and smooth tonal gradations - ideal for skin tones and textured details. The fixed focal length encourages carefully composed portraits with artistic bokeh. Manual focus takes patience but rewards with pin-sharp results on eyes. If you adore rich, natural skin rendering, this Sigma is a gem.

Landscape Photography
Sigma’s large sensor and high resolution shine here. The DP2 Merrill produces files with outstanding detail and dynamic range, capturing complex shadow layers and tonal subtleties when processed with care. Its 50mm lens isn’t ultra-wide but offers a natural, flattering perspective.

Casio’s zoom lens covers a wide angle (24mm equivalent), great for sweeping vistas, but the sensor struggles with dynamic range, losing highlight detail in bright skies. Still, it’s an easy-to-carry option for casual landscapes with usable image quality.

Wildlife & Sports
Neither camera is built for fast action. Casio’s 4 FPS burst and contrast AF can manage slow wildlife or casual street moments but won’t lock onto birds or athletes. Sigma’s manual focus and slower handling make it impractical for moving subjects.

Street and Travel Photography
Here the Casio’s compact size, zoom lens versatility, and built-in flash make it an appealing, grab-and-go rig. Its modest weight and sensor-shift stabilization help in variable lighting.

Sigma’s chunkier build, no flash, fixed focal length, and manual focus hint at a camera for contemplative street shooters who prefer a minimalistic approach and value image quality above quick reflexes.

Macro and Close-up
Casio offers a close-focus capability of 7cm which is typical for compacts, allowing casual flower and object close-ups. Sigma’s macro range isn’t specified, but with a 50mm lens and manual focus, close focusing is possible but less convenient.

Night and Astro
Low-light sensitivity is limited on Casio due to small sensor size and modest max ISO 3200. Image noise at higher ISO can be pronounced. Sigma’s larger sensor and ISO 6400 potential promise better noise control, but manual focus and lack of stabilization demand a sturdy tripod and patience for astrophotography.

Durability and Build: Weather Sealing and Toughness

Neither camera offers weather sealing, splash resistance, or shockproof features. Casio’s lightweight plastic and Sigma’s metal body both require careful handling outdoors. For professionals or adventurers needing ruggedness, both fall short.

Video Capabilities: Simply ‘Video Lite’

Video is not a strong suit for either. Casio provides HD (1280x720) video at 30fps and several slow-motion options (up to 1000fps) in low resolution. This can be fun for creative slow-motion clips but is hampered by Motion JPEG compression, limiting quality and file size efficiency.

Sigma’s video is restricted to VGA (640x480) Motion JPEG, hardly usable in modern terms. No microphone or headphone jacks on either, so audio capture is basic at best.

For serious videographers, neither camera is recommended.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery Life

Casio has Eye-Fi card compatibility for wireless image transfer, which was neat in 2010 but fairly niche and limited nowadays. USB 2.0 and HDMI are present, allowing file transfer and video out.

Sigma lacks wireless options or HDMI output but has USB 2.0 for file transfer.

Battery life specs aren’t prominently advertised on either, but expect modest range due to compact design. Both take standard SD/SDHC cards with one card slot.

Value for Money: Who Should Buy What?

Priced roughly at $299 brand new, the Casio EX-FH100 is an affordable, versatile pocket camera for casual photographers, hobbyists who want zoom flexibility, or content creators needing basic HD video and some manual controls without breaking the bank.

The Sigma DP2 Merrill, at over $900, addresses a niche audience - passionate photographers who prize image quality above all and who relish the challenge and rewards of manual focus and Foveon sensor files. It’s a specialized tool for portrait, landscape, and fine art photographers willing to wield a slower but uniquely capable camera.

Pros and Cons Summaries

Casio EX-FH100

Pros:

• Lightweight and pocketable
• Versatile 10x zoom lens (24-240mm)
• Sensor-shift image stabilization
• Manual exposure modes + flash options
• Reasonably priced for beginners/budget buyers
• Decent continuous shooting (4 FPS)
• Eye-Fi wireless card support (unique for its time)

Cons:

• Small sensor limits image quality and low-light performance
• Slow contrast-detect autofocus, no face/eye detection
• Low-res fixed LCD screen, no EVF
• Video limited to 720p / Motion JPEG, no external mic support
• No weather sealing or ruggedness features

Sigma DP2 Merrill

Pros:

• Large APS-C Foveon X3 sensor for superb detail and color
• High-resolution LCD screen (920k dots) for sharp image review
• Fast f/2.8 fixed 50mm prime lens ideal for portraits/fine art
• Raw shooting with excellent post-processing potential
• Solid metal build quality

Cons:

• Heavy and bulky for a compact
• No autofocus, manual focus only (slow workflow)
• No image stabilization, no flash onboard
• Limited video capabilities (VGA only)
• High price point limits appeal to niche users
• No wireless or HDMI connectivity

Final Verdict: Which One Is Right for You?

If you’re a budget-conscious enthusiast or casual shooter looking for a versatile travel or street compact with zoom and some manual control, the Casio EX-FH100 remains an interesting relic that punches above its small sensor weight, especially if you find a bargain used. It suits walk-around shooting, snapshots, and mild experimentation without waiting around for slow manual focus or complex processing.

However, if your priority is maximum image quality with large prints and color fidelity, and you’re patient enough for manual focus workflow, then the Sigma DP2 Merrill is a rare gem. It caters to photographers who value the unique Foveon look and are willing to trade zoom for sharper primes and more creative discipline. It’s ideal for portraits, landscapes, and studio work, but less so for action or travel convenience.

Neither camera is perfect for modern video shooters or fast-paced wildlife/sports photography, nor do they feature weather sealing for tough conditions.

Photography is all about matching your tools to your vision and workflow. The Casio lets you shoot quickly and zoom widely, suiting versatile, on-the-go styles. The Sigma is for those who want meticulous detail and color nuance and don’t mind slowing down to get it.

Happy shooting, whichever path you choose!

If you want to see how these cameras stack up across specific photography disciplines, here’s a quick reference:

Hope this helps you navigate these distinctive compacts’ strengths and weaknesses - feel free to reach out if you want hands-on advice on similar cameras or shooting styles!

Happy snapping.