Ricoh GR vs Sigma SD1 Merrill

Below is a complete analysis of the Ricoh GR vs Sigma SD1 Merrill, one being a Large Sensor Compact and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Ricoh and Sigma. The image resolution of the GR (16MP) and the SD1 Merrill (15MP) is pretty comparable and they enjoy the same exact sensor size (APS-C).

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The GR was revealed 13 months later than the SD1 Merrill which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. The two cameras offer different body type with the Ricoh GR being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sigma SD1 Merrill being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a simple overview of how the GR matches up against the SD1 Merrill when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Ricoh GR and Sigma SD1 Merrill. The full galleries are viewable at Ricoh GR Gallery and Sigma SD1 Merrill Gallery.

For those who are intending to lug around your camera, you're going to have to consider its weight and size. The Ricoh GR enjoys outside dimensions of 117mm x 61mm x 35mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.4") and a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs) and the Sigma SD1 Merrill has specifications 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 out the Ricoh GR vs Sigma SD1 Merrill in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are using at that moment. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the GR against the SD1 Merrill.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the GR and SD1 Merrill is 90 and 57 respectively.

Often, it's hard to visualize the gap in sensor measurements just by seeing a spec sheet. The visual below should give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the GR and SD1 Merrill.

Clearly, the two cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You should expect the Ricoh GR to produce extra detail because of its extra 1 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The newer GR should have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.