Sigma DP1 Merrill vs Sony HX10V

In this write-up, we are contrasting the Sigma DP1 Merrill and Sony HX10V, one is a Large Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Sigma and Sony. The sensor resolution of the DP1 Merrill (15MP) and the HX10V (18MP) is very similar but the DP1 Merrill (APS-C) and HX10V (1/2.3") use different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The DP1 Merrill was released about the same time to the HX10V which means that they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Sigma DP1 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony HX10V being a Compact camera.

Before delving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a short view of how the DP1 Merrill grades against the HX10V in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Sigma DP1 Merrill and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX10V. The complete galleries are available at Sigma DP1 Merrill Gallery and Sony HX10V Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera frequently, you should factor its weight and proportions. The Sigma DP1 Merrill provides outside 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 HX10V has measurements of 105mm x 60mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 234 grams (0.52 lbs).

Check the Sigma DP1 Merrill and Sony HX10V in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are employing at that time. Underneath is the front view proportions comparison of the DP1 Merrill vs the HX10V.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the DP1 Merrill and HX10V is 82 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to visualize the contrast between sensor sizes just by reviewing technical specs. The pic below will provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the DP1 Merrill and HX10V.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The DP1 Merrill due to its larger sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF easier and the Sony HX10V will deliver extra detail as a result of its extra 3MP. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop images a little more aggressively.