Sigma DP2 Merrill vs Sony S980

Below is a thorough assessment of the Sigma DP2 Merrill versus Sony S980, former being a Large Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Sigma and Sony. There exists a substantial gap between the resolutions of the DP2 Merrill (15MP) and S980 (12MP) and the DP2 Merrill (APS-C) and S980 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The DP2 Merrill was announced 3 years later than the S980 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Sigma DP2 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony S980 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the DP2 Merrill grades vs the S980 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Sigma DP2 Merrill & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The whole galleries are viewable at Sigma DP2 Merrill Gallery & Sony S980 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to lug around your camera, you have to factor its weight and proportions. The Sigma DP2 Merrill has physical dimensions of 122mm x 67mm x 59mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.3") along with a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs) whilst the Sony S980 has measurements of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Check out the Sigma DP2 Merrill versus Sony S980 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you use at the time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the DP2 Merrill and the S980.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the DP2 Merrill and S980 is 83 and 94 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to envision the difference between sensor measurements simply by going over specs. The graphic below will provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the DP2 Merrill and S980.

All in all, both of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The DP2 Merrill using its bigger sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field less difficult and the Sigma DP2 Merrill will deliver more detail with its extra 3MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures far more aggressively. The fresher DP2 Merrill is going to have an edge with regard to sensor technology.