Panasonic S2 vs Sigma DP3 Merrill

Here is a in depth analysis of the Panasonic S2 versus Sigma DP3 Merrill, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Large Sensor Compact by manufacturers Panasonic and Sigma. The image resolution of the S2 (14MP) and the DP3 Merrill (15MP) is fairly similar but the S2 (1/2.3") and DP3 Merrill (APS-C) come with totally different sensor sizes.

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The S2 was launched 12 months before the DP3 Merrill so they are both of a similar age. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S2 being a Compact camera and the Sigma DP3 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the S2 grades against the DP3 Merrill in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 & Sigma DP3 Merrill. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic S2 Gallery & Sigma DP3 Merrill Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera regularly, you'll need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic S2 has got physical dimensions of 98mm x 57mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") along with a weight of 112 grams (0.25 lbs) and the Sigma DP3 Merrill has proportions 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 Panasonic S2 versus Sigma DP3 Merrill in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are working with at that moment. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the S2 vs the DP3 Merrill.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the S2 and DP3 Merrill is 96 and 83 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing purely by reviewing technical specs. The graphic underneath may offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the S2 and DP3 Merrill.

As you have seen, each of the cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The S2 due to its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow DOF more challenging and the Sigma DP3 Merrill will offer extra detail utilizing its extra 1MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop images far more aggressively. The older S2 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.