Pentax WG-3 vs Sigma DP1 Merrill

Lets look much closer at the Pentax WG-3 versus Sigma DP1 Merrill, former being a Waterproof while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Pentax and Sigma. The resolution of the WG-3 (16MP) and the DP1 Merrill (15MP) is relatively close but the WG-3 (1/2.3") and DP1 Merrill (APS-C) use different sensor sizing.

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The WG-3 was introduced 18 months later than the DP1 Merrill which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both cameras offer different body type with the Pentax WG-3 being a Compact camera and the Sigma DP1 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go in to a more detailed comparison, below is a concise summary of how the WG-3 matches up versus the DP1 Merrill when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax WG-3 & Sigma DP1 Merrill. The whole galleries are provided at Pentax WG-3 Gallery & Sigma DP1 Merrill Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Pentax WG-3 features physical dimensions of 124mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs) whilst the Sigma DP1 Merrill has proportions of 122mm x 67mm x 64mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.5") with a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs).

Examine the Pentax WG-3 versus Sigma DP1 Merrill in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are using at that moment. Underneath is the front view dimension comparison of the WG-3 versus the DP1 Merrill.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the WG-3 and DP1 Merrill is 90 and 82 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to picture the contrast in sensor sizing purely by looking through specs. The visual below will give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the WG-3 and DP1 Merrill.

All in all, each of the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The WG-3 using its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF harder and the Pentax WG-3 will render greater detail using its extra 1MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The younger WG-3 should have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.