Sigma DP1 Merrill vs Sony A290

In this article, we are reviewing the Sigma DP1 Merrill vs Sony A290, former being a Large Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by companies Sigma and Sony. The sensor resolution of the DP1 Merrill (15MP) and the A290 (14MP) is fairly comparable and they possess the same exact sensor sizes (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The DP1 Merrill was manufactured 21 months later than the A290 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Sigma DP1 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony A290 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a quick view of how the DP1 Merrill grades versus the A290 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sigma DP1 Merrill & Sony Alpha DSLR-A290. The entire galleries are viewable at Sigma DP1 Merrill Gallery & Sony A290 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to factor its weight and volume. The Sigma DP1 Merrill features physical measurements of 122mm x 67mm x 64mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.5") and a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs) and the Sony A290 has sizing of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") with a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs).

Examine the Sigma DP1 Merrill vs Sony A290 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilising at the time. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the DP1 Merrill versus the A290.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the DP1 Merrill and A290 is 82 and 66 respectively.

Sometimes, it is hard to see the contrast in sensor sizing merely by going through technical specs. The photograph below should give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the DP1 Merrill and A290.

As you can tell, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You can anticipate the Sigma DP1 Merrill to show greater detail due to its extra 1 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop images far more aggressively. The newer DP1 Merrill is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.