Pentax WG-3 GPS vs Sigma DP2 Merrill

Here is a detailed overview of the Pentax WG-3 GPS versus Sigma DP2 Merrill, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Pentax and Sigma. The resolution of the WG-3 GPS (16MP) and the DP2 Merrill (15MP) is very comparable but the WG-3 GPS (1/2.3") and DP2 Merrill (APS-C) posses different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The WG-3 GPS was revealed 18 months later than the DP2 Merrill making them a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Pentax WG-3 GPS being a Compact camera and the Sigma DP2 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before getting straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief overview of how the WG-3 GPS matches up versus the DP2 Merrill in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax WG-3 GPS and Sigma DP2 Merrill. The full galleries are available at Pentax WG-3 GPS Gallery and Sigma DP2 Merrill Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera frequently, you'll need to factor its weight and size. The Pentax WG-3 GPS comes with outer measurements of 125mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 238 grams (0.52 lbs) and the Sigma DP2 Merrill has specifications of 122mm x 67mm x 59mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.3") and a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs).

See the Pentax WG-3 GPS versus Sigma DP2 Merrill in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are employing at that time. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the WG-3 GPS versus the DP2 Merrill.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the WG-3 GPS and DP2 Merrill is 90 and 83 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to picture the difference in sensor sizing only by checking out technical specs. The graphic underneath will offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the WG-3 GPS and DP2 Merrill.

As you have seen, both cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The WG-3 GPS with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field harder and the Pentax WG-3 GPS will produce extra detail because of its extra 1 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop images way more aggressively. The younger WG-3 GPS provides an edge with regard to sensor technology.