Panasonic FH1 vs Sigma DP1 Merrill

Let's examine more closely at the Panasonic FH1 versus Sigma DP1 Merrill, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Sigma. The resolution of the FH1 (12MP) and the DP1 Merrill (15MP) is relatively well matched but the FH1 (1/2.3") and DP1 Merrill (APS-C) feature totally different sensor sizes.

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The FH1 was released 3 years before the DP1 Merrill and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH1 being a Compact camera and the Sigma DP1 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before going through a in-depth comparison, below is a concise summation of how the FH1 scores vs the DP1 Merrill in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1 and Sigma DP1 Merrill. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic FH1 Gallery and Sigma DP1 Merrill Gallery.

When you are aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FH1 has got external dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs) while the Sigma DP1 Merrill has proportions of 122mm x 67mm x 64mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.5") along with a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FH1 versus Sigma DP1 Merrill in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have chosen during that time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the FH1 compared to the DP1 Merrill.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the FH1 and DP1 Merrill is 95 and 82 respectively.

Usually, it can be difficult to envision the contrast between sensor measurements purely by reading through a spec sheet. The photograph here will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH1 and DP1 Merrill.

Clearly, both the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The FH1 due to its tinier sensor will make getting shallow depth of field more challenging and the Sigma DP1 Merrill will give you greater detail as a result of its extra 3MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs far more aggressively. The older FH1 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.