Sigma DP2 Merrill vs Sony Alpha NEX-3: A Specialist’s Take on Two Distinct APS-C Contenders

Choosing your next camera is an exciting juncture, but with so many options out there, understanding precisely how different models stack up in real-world use is crucial. Today, we’re diving deep into a detailed comparison between two APS-C sensor cameras that occupy distinct corners of the photography spectrum: the Sigma DP2 Merrill, a niche large sensor compact with a unique approach to image quality, and the Sony Alpha NEX-3, an entry-level mirrorless designed for versatility and user-friendly performance.

Both cameras come from respected manufacturers but differ fundamentally in design philosophy, target audience, and photographic capabilities. As seasoned testers who have physically handled and shot thousands of cameras across genres, we’ll walk you through everything - from sensor technology to real-world use cases - to help you decide which might best suit your creative journey.

First Impressions: Build, Size, and Ergonomics

The Sigma DP2 Merrill and Sony NEX-3 cater to distinct ergonomic preferences, which immediately influence how comfortable you feel during shoots.

• Sigma DP2 Merrill is a “Large Sensor Compact,” a rare breed blending large APS-C imaging quality with pocketable form. It measures a chunky 122 x 67 x 59 mm and weighs 330 grams, with a minimalist design centered around a fixed 50mm f/2.8 lens. Its body lacks a viewfinder and instead relies solely on a fixed 3-inch LCD for composing shots. The solid feel is undeniable, but without extensive physical controls or a grip, it takes some getting used to.

• Sony NEX-3 adopts a compact rangefinder-style mirrorless design, smaller and lighter at 117 x 62 x 33 mm and 297 grams. It has a more traditional mirrorless layout with interchangeable lenses thanks to Sony’s E-mount that opens a vast optical world. Its tilting 3-inch screen adds flexibility, and its body ergonomics are more friendly for beginners with several physical buttons and dials.

Ergonomic takeaway: If you prioritize physical controls and lens interchangeability on a light body, the Sony takes the lead. The Sigma appeals to those who want a high-quality fixed-lens experience but are comfortable tolerating a non-traditional interface.

Control Layout and Interface: Navigating Your Camera

While size and shape matter, how you interact with the camera day-to-day matters just as much.

The Sony NEX-3 offers a conventional DSLR-inspired layout with exposure compensation dial, shutter release on top, mode dial, and several function buttons making manual control accessible - even for newcomers. Its menu system is intuitive, and thanks to autofocus system options, it allows more versatility.

The Sigma DP2 Merrill adopts a pared-down top design, opting for fewer buttons to streamline image capture with minimal distractions. However, this minimalist approach means many key adjustments require using menus or fiddling while looking at the rear screen. Additionally, the lack of an autofocus system demands manual focus skill, which can be a hurdle for many photographers.

For photographers who thrive on tactile, quick access controls and straightforward menus, the NEX-3’s layout is more effective. The Sigma’s controls signal a more deliberate, slow shooting style, often favored by landscape or studio photographers.

The Heart of the Matter: Sensor Technology and Imaging

At the core of every camera comparison is sensor performance, which fundamentally influences image quality.

The Sigma’s Foveon X3 sensor technology is the standout here. Unlike conventional sensors that use a Bayer filter array, the Foveon records red, green, and blue light at every pixel location by stacking three layers of photodiodes. This unique approach leads to incredibly rich, detailed, and color-accurate images that traditional CMOS sensors can struggle to match, especially in texture rendition and color fidelity.

However, the Foveon sensor comes with caveats:

• The effective megapixel count is complex; while it outputs crisp 15-megapixel images, it doesn’t translate linearly to Bayer sensor performance. Expect superior detail-to-resolution ratio but slower processing times.

• Noise performance at higher ISOs is less favorable; Sigma DP2 Merrill’s max native ISO of 6400 is modest, and noise degradation is more noticeable compared to the Sony.

The Sony NEX-3, meanwhile, employs a standard CMOS sensor with an anti-aliasing filter, slightly larger in effective area as well. This sensor is well-rounded, with greater ISO range and higher maximum shutter speed (up to 1/4000 sec), enabling faster action capture and lower-light shooting flexibility.

Real-World Image Quality: Evaluating Color, Sharpness, and Dynamic Range

Sigma DP2 Merrill front Sigma DP2 Merrill screen back Sony NEX 3 front Sony NEX 3 screen back

How do these specifications translate into images? We captured a range of portrait, landscape, and street photos under varied conditions, and here’s how each camera performed.

• Sigma DP2 Merrill images exhibit stunning color accuracy and exceptional micro-detail, especially at base ISO. Portrait skin tones retain natural gradation without the waxy appearance common with Bayer sensors. The 50mm f/2.8 lens produces pleasing bokeh but remains somewhat restrained - good for subtle background separation but not the most dramatic blurring effect.

• Sony NEX-3 delivers vibrant, punchy colors with smooth tonal transitions. Its images are less “clinical” than you might expect and offer good sharpness across the frame with interchangeable lenses allowing tailored optical characteristics. In dynamic range tests, the NEX-3 edges ahead with greater exposure latitude - helpful for capturing high-contrast scenes like landscapes with bright skies and dark shadows.

Autofocus and Speed: Capturing the Moment

The Sigma DP2 Merrill lacks any autofocus system entirely, requiring you to focus manually. This is a critical consideration: it frames the camera firmly towards photographers who relish deliberate composition and control and are comfortable focusing by eye or with the help of focus peaking aids (which the DP2 Merrill unfortunately lacks).

By contrast, the Sony NEX-3 shines in autofocus capabilities, sporting 25 contrast-detect AF points with live view focusing and face detection. This significantly enhances your ability to shoot moving subjects or capture decisive moments in dynamic environments such as street photography, wildlife, or sports.

At 7 frames per second burst speed, the NEX-3 also outperforms Sigma’s modest 4 fps, giving it a clear advantage for capturing fast action sequences.

Handling Different Genres: Which Camera Suits Your Passions?

Let’s break down performance by photography style:

Portrait Photography

• Sigma DP2 Merrill: The Foveon sensor’s color depth offers nuanced skin tones, excellent gradation, and detail in hair and eyes. The fixed 50mm lens at f/2.8 produces decent background separation but limited framing flexibility. The lack of autofocus means portraits require patience and manual focus precision.

• Sony NEX-3: Offers flexibility with interchangeable lenses, many with wide apertures suitable for portraiture. Face detection autofocus assists in achieving tack-sharp eyes. Its color reproduction is vibrant but slightly less subdued than Sigma’s rendition.

Landscape Photography

• Sigma DP2 Merrill: Exceptional at capturing fine texture - rocks, foliage, water - due to Foveon’s layering technology. However, limited dynamic range challenges shooting high contrast scenes, and no weather sealing limits its use in adverse conditions.

• Sony NEX-3: Greater dynamic range and more flexible lens options make it versatile for sweeping landscapes and environmental portraiture. Although sensor detail is high quality, the Sigma holds a slight edge in fine texture.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• Sigma DP2 Merrill: Not designed for fast action. Manual focus and slow burst rates severely limit usability.

• Sony NEX-3: Contrast-detect autofocus is capable for entry-level wildlife, but tracking moving subjects can be challenging. Fast burst and interchangeable telephoto lenses make it a better option here.

Street Photography

• Sigma DP2 Merrill: Compact yet chunky; its quiet operation and fixed 50mm focal length suits deliberate street portraiture and environmental shots. Manual focus demands experience but yields thoughtful images.

• Sony NEX-3: Slimmer and more discreet, with fast autofocus able to pick off candid moments. Lens choice can optimize portability and focal length for quick shooting.

Macro Photography

Both cameras lack specialized macro lenses built-in. The Sony’s E-mount means you can add dedicated macro lenses, which the Sigma cannot.

Night and Astro Photography

• Sony NEX-3: Higher ISO range and faster shutter speed favor low-light and astro photography. Manual controls support bulb mode on some lenses.

• Sigma DP2 Merrill: ISO ceiling and long exposure options are limited. Noise is higher at elevated ISOs.

Video Capabilities: Beyond Stills

Video enthusiasts will find the Sony NEX-3 clearly better equipped with HD 720p video capability, making it more suitable for casual recording or vlog-style clips. The Sigma’s video is limited to VGA resolution making it impractical for serious video work.

Usability, Connectivity, and Workflow Integration

• Both cameras lack touchscreen interfaces but offer live view displays of 3 inches with 920k dot resolution.

• Sony NEX-3 provides Eye-Fi wireless SD card support for wireless image transfers, HDMI output, and supports a variety of storage media (SD, SDHC, SDXC, Memory Stick). Battery life offer ~330 shots per charge.

• Sigma DP2 Merrill has no wireless connectivity or HDMI out. Its USB 2.0 port supports tethered shooting in practice but lacks the speed of modern interfaces. Battery life is undocumented but generally modest for a compact fixed-lens camera of its age.

Storage options are limited to a single card slot on both cameras, which is standard for entry-level and compact systems.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers weather sealing or rugged protection, important considerations for travel and landscape photographers operating in varied conditions.

Price and Value: What Do You Get for Your Money?

• As of the last available pricing, the Sigma DP2 Merrill sits around $930, reflecting its niche sensor and fixed prime craftsmanship.

• The Sony NEX-3 is generally available second-hand at a much lower price point (originally entry-level priced below $500), offering a wider feature set with interchangeable lenses.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Who Should Choose Which? Clear Recommendations

Pick the Sigma DP2 Merrill if:

• You value ultimate color accuracy and detailed still images above speed or versatility.
• Your photography is mostly deliberate, contemplative work like landscape or studio-style portraiture.
• You’re an enthusiast or professional seeking a highly specialized tool for still imaging.
• Manual focus is second nature, and you prefer a unique shooting experience.
• You cherish a compact, prime-centric camera that delivers images with an exclusive signature.

Opt for the Sony NEX-3 if:

• You desire an affordable, versatile camera able to grow with you thanks to the E-mount lens ecosystem.
• You shoot fast-moving subjects, street scenes, or want improved autofocus capabilities.
• You plan to explore video alongside stills.
• Portability, connectivity, and usability matter for travel and casual everyday photography.
• You want a camera with accessible controls suitable for beginners or stepping up from point-and-shoot.

Final Thoughts: Understanding Your Creative Needs

Both the Sigma DP2 Merrill and Sony NEX-3 are intriguing choices but serve very different photographic approaches. Sigma’s outstanding sensor tech thrills detail-focused photographers craving the ultimate image quality in a compact form factor - provided you can handle manual focus and limited features. The Sony NEX-3 is a more well-rounded, user-friendly mirrorless camera that offers greater flexibility, faster performance, and video capabilities for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

If you’re starting your creative journey or need a reliable versatile shooter, the NEX-3 wins hands down. If you’re a specialist or advanced user focused on image fidelity in controlled environments, the Sigma still holds an irreplaceable spot.

Next Steps: Get Hands-On and Explore

When possible, test both cameras via rental or in-store demos to see firsthand how their size, handling, and interface suit your workflow. Pair them with the right accessories: for the Sony, experiment with prime or zoom lenses from Sigma, Sony, and third-parties. For the Sigma, practice manual focus techniques and explore tethered shooting to maximize your creative control.

Whichever path you choose, remember that mastery comes from practice and passion. Cameras like these are tools to help tell your story - not just specs on paper. So grab your gear, get out shooting, and let your vision unfold.

If you found this comparison helpful, be sure to check out our other detailed camera reviews and guides tailored for photographers at every skill level.