Casio EX-S12 vs Sigma DP2 Merrill

On this page, we are evaluating the Casio EX-S12 versus Sigma DP2 Merrill, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by competitors Casio and Sigma. The resolution of the EX-S12 (12MP) and the DP2 Merrill (15MP) is fairly close but the EX-S12 (1/2.3") and DP2 Merrill (APS-C) offer different sensor size.

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The EX-S12 was unveiled 4 years earlier than the DP2 Merrill which is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Casio EX-S12 being a Compact camera and the Sigma DP2 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before going right into a thorough comparison, here is a short highlight of how the EX-S12 scores versus the DP2 Merrill when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Casio Exilim EX-S12 and Sigma DP2 Merrill. The full galleries are available at Casio EX-S12 Gallery and Sigma DP2 Merrill Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry around your camera frequently, you have to factor its weight and volume. The Casio EX-S12 enjoys external dimensions of 95mm x 60mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 111 grams (0.24 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).

Check out the Casio EX-S12 versus Sigma DP2 Merrill in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you choose at the time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the EX-S12 vs the DP2 Merrill.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the EX-S12 and DP2 Merrill is 96 and 83 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to picture the contrast in sensor sizes only by viewing a spec sheet. The picture underneath will give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the EX-S12 and DP2 Merrill.

Clearly, each of the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The EX-S12 having a smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF more difficult and the Sigma DP2 Merrill will result in more detail having an extra 3MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics more aggressively. The more aged EX-S12 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.