Sigma DP1 Merrill vs Sigma fp L

On this page, we will be evaluating the Sigma DP1 Merrill versus Sigma fp L, one being a Large Sensor Compact and the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless and both are produced by Sigma. There exists a crucial gap among the image resolutions of the DP1 Merrill (15MP) and fp L (61MP) and the DP1 Merrill (APS-C) and fp L (Full frame) posses totally different sensor measurements.

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The DP1 Merrill was introduced 10 years earlier than the fp L and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Sigma DP1 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sigma fp L being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going right into a complete comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the DP1 Merrill matches up against the fp L with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Sigma DP1 Merrill and Sigma fp L. The whole galleries are provided at Sigma DP1 Merrill Gallery and Sigma fp L Gallery.

For those who are planning to lug around your camera, you should factor its weight and measurements. The Sigma DP1 Merrill comes with exterior measurements of 122mm x 67mm x 64mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.5") with a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs) and the Sigma fp L has proportions of 113mm x 70mm x 45mm (4.4" x 2.8" x 1.8") and a weight of 427 grams (0.94 lbs).

Compare the Sigma DP1 Merrill versus Sigma fp L in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the DP1 Merrill versus the fp L.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the DP1 Merrill and fp L is 82 and 83 respectively.

Sometimes, its difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor measurements simply by researching technical specs. The graphic below should give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the DP1 Merrill and fp L.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras have different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The DP1 Merrill having a smaller sensor will make shooting shallower DOF more difficult and the Sigma fp L will result in extra detail using its extra 46MP. Higher resolution will help you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The older DP1 Merrill will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.