Pentax K-30 vs Sigma SD1 Merrill

Here, we will be comparing the Pentax K-30 and Sigma SD1 Merrill, both Advanced DSLR cameras by brands Pentax and Sigma. The resolution of the K-30 (16MP) and the SD1 Merrill (15MP) is pretty close and both cameras provide the identical sensor measurements (APS-C).

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The K-30 was manufactured 7 months later than the SD1 Merrill which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras feature the same body design (Mid-size SLR).

Before going straight to a in depth comparison, here is a short view of how the K-30 scores versus the SD1 Merrill when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax K-30 and Sigma SD1 Merrill. The entire galleries are provided at Pentax K-30 Gallery and Sigma SD1 Merrill Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera, you are going to need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Pentax K-30 provides outer measurements of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") and a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs) while the Sigma SD1 Merrill has dimensions of 146mm x 113mm x 80mm (5.7" x 4.4" x 3.1") along with a weight of 790 grams (1.74 lbs).

Check the Pentax K-30 and Sigma SD1 Merrill in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are employing at the time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the K-30 against the SD1 Merrill.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the K-30 and SD1 Merrill is 63 and 57 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to visualize the gap in sensor measurements only by viewing specs. The visual here will give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the K-30 and SD1 Merrill.

All in all, both the cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit different MP. You should expect the Pentax K-30 to render more detail due to its extra 1MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop photographs a good deal more aggressively. The more modern K-30 should have an edge in sensor tech.