Fujifilm SL300 vs Sigma DP3 Merrill

Here, we will be looking at the Fujifilm SL300 vs Sigma DP3 Merrill, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by manufacturers FujiFilm and Sigma. The resolution of the Fujifilm SL300 (14MP) and the DP3 Merrill (15MP) is pretty similar but the Fujifilm SL300 (1/2.3") and DP3 Merrill (APS-C) offer totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The Fujifilm SL300 was brought out 12 months before the DP3 Merrill which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Fujifilm SL300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sigma DP3 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before going into a detailed comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the Fujifilm SL300 grades versus the DP3 Merrill with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Fujifilm FinePix SL300 and Sigma DP3 Merrill. The entire galleries are viewable at Fujifilm SL300 Gallery and Sigma DP3 Merrill Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera frequently, you need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Fujifilm SL300 has physical dimensions of 122mm x 93mm x 100mm (4.8" x 3.7" x 3.9") and a weight of 510 grams (1.12 lbs) while the Sigma DP3 Merrill has measurements of 122mm x 67mm x 59mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.3") with a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs).

Check the Fujifilm SL300 vs Sigma DP3 Merrill in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select at that time. Following is a front view scale comparison of the Fujifilm SL300 against the DP3 Merrill.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the Fujifilm SL300 and DP3 Merrill is 67 and 83 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizing just by going over technical specs. The graphic underneath will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the Fujifilm SL300 and DP3 Merrill.

As you have seen, both of those cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The Fujifilm SL300 featuring a tinier sensor will make shooting shallow DOF tougher and the Sigma DP3 Merrill will deliver greater detail having its extra 1MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The older Fujifilm SL300 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.