Ricoh WG-50 vs Sigma DP3 Merrill

Here is a extended comparison of the Ricoh WG-50 and Sigma DP3 Merrill, former being a Waterproof while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Ricoh and Sigma. The resolution of the WG-50 (16MP) and the DP3 Merrill (15MP) is relatively close but the WG-50 (1/2.3") and DP3 Merrill (APS-C) offer totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The WG-50 was launched 4 years later than the DP3 Merrill and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Ricoh WG-50 being a Compact camera and the Sigma DP3 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go right into a in depth comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the WG-50 grades versus the DP3 Merrill with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Ricoh WG-50 & Sigma DP3 Merrill. The complete galleries are viewable at Ricoh WG-50 Gallery & Sigma DP3 Merrill Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Ricoh WG-50 comes with physical measurements of 123mm x 62mm x 30mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") having a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) whilst the Sigma DP3 Merrill has proportions of 122mm x 67mm x 59mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.3") along with a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs).

Take a look at the Ricoh WG-50 and Sigma DP3 Merrill in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are using at the time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the WG-50 compared to the DP3 Merrill.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the WG-50 and DP3 Merrill is 91 and 83 respectively.

Typically, it is very hard to see the contrast in sensor sizing purely by looking through technical specs. The visual here might offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the WG-50 and DP3 Merrill.

As you have seen, both of these cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The WG-50 featuring a smaller sensor will make shooting shallower DOF tougher and the Ricoh WG-50 will provide you with greater detail utilizing its extra 1MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more recent WG-50 will have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.