Samsung SL720 vs Sigma DP1 Merrill

In this write-up, we are evaluating the Samsung SL720 vs Sigma DP1 Merrill, one is a Ultracompact and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Samsung and Sigma. The image resolution of the SL720 (12MP) and the DP1 Merrill (15MP) is fairly similar but the SL720 (1/2.3") and DP1 Merrill (APS-C) enjoy different sensor measurements.

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The SL720 was unveiled 3 years before the DP1 Merrill which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Samsung SL720 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sigma DP1 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go in to a detailed comparison, below is a short summation of how the SL720 matches up against the DP1 Merrill in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Samsung SL720 and Sigma DP1 Merrill. The full galleries are provided at Samsung SL720 Gallery and Sigma DP1 Merrill Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry around your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor its weight and volume. The Samsung SL720 offers outer measurements of 92mm x 61mm x 23mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 168 grams (0.37 lbs) whilst the Sigma DP1 Merrill has sizing of 122mm x 67mm x 64mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.5") with a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs).

Contrast the Samsung SL720 vs Sigma DP1 Merrill in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you select at that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the SL720 and the DP1 Merrill.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the SL720 and DP1 Merrill is 94 and 82 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor sizes only by reading technical specs. The pic here will offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SL720 and DP1 Merrill.

As you have seen, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The SL720 using its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF tougher and the Sigma DP1 Merrill will offer extra detail having an extra 3 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop photos far more aggressively. The more aged SL720 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.