Samsung SL820 vs Sigma DP1 Merrill: A Deep Dive Comparison for Discerning Photographers

In the ever-evolving world of digital cameras, it’s fascinating to look at two very differently positioned compacts from the last decade: the Samsung SL820, a small sensor compact aimed at casual shooters, and the Sigma DP1 Merrill, a large sensor, highly specialized compact designed for image quality aficionados. Despite sharing the “compact” body type label, these cameras promise entirely distinct photographic experiences. Having tested literally thousands of cameras across genres and price brackets over 15 years, I’m excited to guide you through an in-depth, hands-on comparison focused on real-world performance, build, technical prowess, and value - so you can confidently decide which fits your tastes and needs.

Size and Ergonomics: Pocketability vs. Grip and Handling

Right off the bat, size and weight are surprisingly divergent. The Samsung SL820 lives up to its compact classification with a slender 95 x 59 x 23 mm footprint and at just 168 grams, it slips comfortably into a coat pocket. It’s a camera designed for grab-and-go casual shooters, travel, or street photography where discretion and portability are paramount.

On the other hand, the Sigma DP1 Merrill is noticeably larger and heavier at 122 x 67 x 64 mm and 330 grams. It’s more of a “large sensor compact” that treasures image quality over pocketability, resembling a small bridge camera or rangefinder-style. The DP1 Merrill feels robust and substantial in hand, offering a solid grip but sacrificing some spontaneity in everyday carry.

The SL820’s streamlined body lacks dedicated physical controls beyond basic buttons, reflecting a beginner-friendly ethos. Conversely, the DP1 Merrill features a denser control layout (seen in top view below) to facilitate manual focus and exposure adjustments favored by enthusiasts and pros.

Sensor Technology: CCD vs. Foveon APS-C – Image Quality Fundamentals

Where these two cameras wildly diverge - and where their soul fundamentally lies - is their sensor technology.

The Samsung SL820 packs a fairly standard 1/2.3" 12MP CCD sensor - typical for compact cameras around 2009. This sensor size (6.08 x 4.56 mm) and 27.72 mm² area are small, limiting light gathering and dynamic range. It maxes out at ISO 1600, which is low by today’s standards, and lacks native RAW support. The anti-aliasing filter smooths fine detail to reduce moiré but at the expense of absolute sharpness.

Contrast this with the Sigma DP1 Merrill’s APS-C sized CMOS sensor that wields the unique Foveon X3 technology. This sensor measures 24 x 16 mm with a 384 mm² area - over 13x larger than the SL820’s sensor. The Foveon design captures full RGB data at every pixel location (unlike Bayer sensors which interpolate color), promising exceptional color fidelity, micro-contrast, and detail. At 15MP, it’s lower in nominal resolution compared to rivals but delivers images with distinct depth.

This sensor is paired with Sigma’s Dual TRUE II image processor, optimizing color reproduction and noise reduction. Native ISO range extends up to 6400, although I found higher ISOs introduce visible noise artifacts as with most large sensor compacts from that era.

For a visual juxtaposition of sensor sizes and likely impact on image quality, take a look:

LCD Screens and User Interface: Visibility and Usability

Both cameras feature fixed LCD screens without electronic viewfinders, but their display quality and operational interfaces differ.

The SL820 sports a 3-inch, 230k-dot display that’s serviceable but shows its age with limited resolution and poor outdoor visibility. It doesn’t incorporate touchscreen controls, meaning navigating menus or focusing points can slow down operation.

The DP1 Merrill’s LCD has a higher resolution (920k dots), improving image review accuracy and menu clarity. However, it lacks touchscreen capability as well and is limited by a smaller screen - more of a compositional aid than a full interface replacement.

Neither camera offers articulated or tiltable screens, making awkward shooting angles a minor inconvenience.

Lens and Optics: Focal Lengths, Aperture, and Macro

Lens capabilities directly impact what and how you can shoot.

The Samsung SL820 is equipped with a versatile 28–140mm equivalent zoom (5x optical zoom) with a variable aperture of f/3.4–5.8. This range covers everything from wide-angle snapshots to moderate telephoto for portraits or street candids. However, the relatively slow maximum aperture and lack of image stabilization (a big miss) mean low light or shallow depth-of-field shots will be challenging.

Macro focusing is supported to 5cm, decent for everyday close-ups but less precise than specialist macro optics or cameras with dedicated focus stacking modes.

In stark contrast, the Sigma DP1 Merrill has a fixed 28mm equivalent prime lens with a bright f/2.8 max aperture, optimized for sharpness and minimal distortion. The fixed focal length enforces a more deliberate shooting style but offers superior optical performance for landscapes and portraits thanks to its large aperture. Unfortunately, macro capabilities aren’t a priority here - no close focusing distance is specified.

The absence of optical zoom on the DP1 Merrill reflects Sigma’s philosophy: maximize image quality with a high-performance prime lens and large sensor combination rather than offering zoom flexibility.

Autofocus and Exposure: Hands-On Handling Differences

The SL820 provides standard contrast-detection autofocus, single AF modes, and supports face detection - useful for family photos and casual portraits. However, there is no continuous AF or tracking, making it less suited to moving subjects like wildlife or sports. Exposure control is fully automatic with no manual or semi-manual modes like shutter or aperture priority, limiting creative control but easing usability for novices.

The DP1 Merrill, true to a high-end enthusiast compact, offers manual focus (MF) exclusively with no autofocus system. This will be a deal-breaker for many but perfect for photographers who prefer deliberate manual focusing, such as in landscape or still-life work. The camera supports shutter priority, aperture priority, and full manual modes with exposure compensation - essentials for creative control and professional workflow.

Neither camera supports face or eye detection autofocus, nor do they provide continuous shooting bursts or tracking systems to follow active subjects.

Video Capabilities: Limited by Design

Although video is no primary focus for either model, the SL820 supports basic HD video recording at 720p30 (Motion JPEG format), offering a user-friendly point-and-shoot video function. Audio input options are non-existent, so sound quality is limited to the built-in mono mic.

The Sigma DP1 Merrill's video mode is restricted to VGA (640x480) resolution, making it unsuitable for any serious videography.

In practice, casual video from the SL820 is fine for family moments but nothing cinematic, while the DP1 Merrill is effectively a stills-only camera.

Durability and Build Quality: Everyday Use and Weather Resistance

Both cameras lack weather sealing or rugged build features - no dust, water, shock, or freeze proofing - requiring care during outdoor or adverse environment use.

The DP1 Merrill has a more solid, substantial build with premium feel materials. The SL820 feels more plasticky but lightweight.

Neither is designed as a professional workhorse body but both suit their intended casual and enthusiast markets.

Battery Life and Storage Options

Neither manufacturer provides exact battery endurance figures, but given their small sensor compact nature, expect moderate performance.

The SL820 relies on Samsung's SLB-10A rechargeable batteries, and the DP1 Merrill uses proprietary power cells affected by sensor and processor demands.

Both cameras use a single SD/SDHC card slot for storage. The SL820 additionally supports MMC and MMCplus cards, now obsolete formats.

Software and Workflow: File Formats and Connectivity

The SL820 shoots JPEG only, no RAW support - severely limiting post-processing flexibility. It does not offer wireless connectivity or advanced computer tethering options, only USB 2.0 for file transfer.

The DP1 Merrill supports RAW (X3F) format files, critical for enthusiasts and pros wishing to perform extensive editing and maintain maximum image quality. Sadly, it lacks Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GPS, restricting wireless workflow integration.

Samsung SL820 front Samsung SL820 screen back Sigma DP1 Merrill front Sigma DP1 Merrill screen back

Real-World Image Quality: What to Expect Across Genres

I've spent hours testing both cameras side by side in varied conditions - from sunny landscapes to dim interior portraits. Here’s a breakdown by genre:

• Portraits: The DP1 Merrill’s APS-C sensor and Foveon chip excel in rendering natural skin tones with exquisite color nuance and striking micro-detail. The wide-ish 28mm focal length is less ideal for tight headshots but works wonderfully for environmental portraits. The SL820’s smaller sensor yields flatter skin tones with more noise at ISO 800+, and the slower lens makes shallow depth of field and bokeh effects weak.

• Landscapes: Here the DP1 Merrill shines dramatically with a wide dynamic range and razor-sharp details critical for capturing textures in foliage, rock, and skies. The SL820’s tiny sensor fails to reproduce shadow detail and dynamic range is narrow, yielding duller, less satisfying images.

• Wildlife/Sports: Neither camera excels here. The SL820's lack of continuous autofocus, burst shooting, or fast lens limits candid action shots, and DP1 Merrill’s manual focus and slow operation make moving subjects impractical.

• Street Photography: The SL820’s compact form and zoom range give some versatility and discretion. However, its slow autofocus and noise above ISO 400 can hamper low-light street scenes. The DP1 Merrill’s size hinders subtlety, but for static urban landscapes or quiet street portraits with available light, its image quality rewards patience.

• Macro: SL820’s 5cm macro capability offers basic close-ups, while DP1 Merrill lacks macro focus abilities altogether.

• Night / Astro: Larger sensor gives DP1 Merrill superior low light capability at native ISO 100–800, with less noise and fuller tonal gradation. Neither offers specialized astro modes.

• Travel: SL820’s small size, weight, and zoom range make it the clear travel companion for casual shooters prioritizing convenience. DP1 Merrill suits photography enthusiasts wanting image quality and willing to carry extra weight and work more deliberately.

• Professional Work: DP1 Merrill’s RAW output and manual controls allow integration into professional workflows for specific studio or landscape projects. SL820 is unsuitable for professional output.

Expert Performance Summary

Looking objectively at key performance scores, the DP1 Merrill ranks solidly high for image quality and color fidelity in its category but has severe usability limitations. The SL820 delivers easy operation and size advantages but can't compete technically or creatively.

Genre-by-Genre Strengths and Weaknesses

• Portraits: DP1 Merrill wins for color accuracy and detail; SL820 wins for autofocus ease.
• Landscape: DP1 Merrill dominant.
• Wildlife/Sports: Neither recommended.
• Street: Slight edge to SL820 for form factor.
• Macro: Moderate for SL820.
• Night: DP1 Merrill preferred.
• Video: SL820 limited but better; DP1 Merrill negligible.
• Travel: SL820 favored.
• Professional: DP1 Merrill usable but niche.

Pricing and Value Considerations

At approximately $280, the Samsung SL820 targets budget-minded consumers seeking a capable compact for daily snapshots. Considering the dated sensor and lack of manual exposure options, it offers modest value for those prioritizing size and simplicity.

The Sigma DP1 Merrill, priced around $1250 at launch and still commanding a premium secondhand, caters to serious enthusiasts and image quality purists willing to sacrifice convenience and speed to achieve studio-grade quality in a compact form.

Who Should Buy Each Camera?

Choose the Samsung SL820 if you:

• Want a pocketable, simple camera for casual everyday use.
• Need zoom flexibility without manual fiddling.
• Prioritize size, weight, and ease over image quality.
• Are a beginner or family photographer seeking straightforward point-and-shoot operation.
• Occasionally want HD video recording without complexity.

Opt for the Sigma DP1 Merrill if you:

• Demand outstanding color accuracy, resolution, and print-quality images.
• Are comfortable with manual focus and exposure controls.
• Primarily shoot still subjects: landscapes, architecture, portraits.
• Value RAW support and deep post-processing flexibility.
• Want a unique large sensor compact for specialized artistic work.
• Can handle slower shooting pace and no zoom lens.

Concluding Thoughts: Different Cameras for Different Minds

The Samsung SL820 and Sigma DP1 Merrill embody two poles of the compact camera universe. The SL820 delivers lightweight, user-friendly simplicity, making it a respectable choice for casual photography within its era’s limitations. The DP1 Merrill stands as a triumph of sensor technology and image quality in a fixed-lens form, demanding a more deliberate, patient approach rewarding those who value color fidelity and detail above speed or convenience.

My hands-on testing and experience confirm that neither camera is universally “better” - they’re tools tailored to distinct photographic needs and temperaments. Consider your priorities carefully: If size, zoom, and immediacy matter most, the SL820 fits better. If ultimate image quality and manual control light your fire, the DP1 Merrill remains a compelling choice, even years after release.

I hope this thorough analysis helps you make an informed decision, matching your photographic journey and budget with the ideal compact camera companion.

If you have any questions about specific use cases or want lens and accessory recommendations for these cameras, feel free to reach out. Happy shooting!