Panasonic SZ1 vs Sigma DP2 Merrill

In this write-up, we are analyzing the Panasonic SZ1 versus Sigma DP2 Merrill, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Sigma. The image resolution of the SZ1 (16MP) and the DP2 Merrill (15MP) is very well matched but the SZ1 (1/2.3") and DP2 Merrill (APS-C) use different sensor sizes.

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The SZ1 was announced very close to the DP2 Merrill and they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic SZ1 being a Compact camera and the Sigma DP2 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the SZ1 scores versus the DP2 Merrill for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1 & Sigma DP2 Merrill. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ1 Gallery & Sigma DP2 Merrill Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera frequently, you need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic SZ1 comes with external dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Sigma DP2 Merrill has dimensions of 122mm x 67mm x 59mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.3") with a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic SZ1 versus Sigma DP2 Merrill in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you use at that moment. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the SZ1 against the DP2 Merrill.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ1 and DP2 Merrill is 95 and 83 respectively.

Typically, it is very hard to picture the difference between sensor sizing only by looking at a spec sheet. The photograph below will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ1 and DP2 Merrill.

Clearly, both the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The SZ1 with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field harder and the Panasonic SZ1 will give you extra detail with its extra 1MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop photos far more aggressively.