Sigma DP3 Merrill vs Sony NEX-3

Let's take a closer look at the Sigma DP3 Merrill and Sony NEX-3, one being a Large Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Sigma and Sony. The sensor resolution of the DP3 Merrill (15MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is relatively well matched and they possess the same exact sensor sizing (APS-C).

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The DP3 Merrill was revealed 2 years later than the NEX-3 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Sigma DP3 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony NEX-3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving through a more detailed comparison, below is a brief summation of how the DP3 Merrill scores versus the NEX-3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Sigma DP3 Merrill and Sony Alpha NEX-3. The full galleries are viewable at Sigma DP3 Merrill Gallery and Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera frequently, you will want to factor its weight and volume. The Sigma DP3 Merrill features outer measurements of 122mm x 67mm x 59mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.3") having a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs) while the Sony NEX-3 has sizing of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Compare the Sigma DP3 Merrill and Sony NEX-3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the DP3 Merrill against the NEX-3.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the DP3 Merrill and NEX-3 is 83 and 89 respectively.

Quite often, it is tough to envision the difference between sensor sizing simply by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic below should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the DP3 Merrill and NEX-3.

Clearly, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Sigma DP3 Merrill to give extra detail because of its extra 1MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots far more aggressively. The more modern DP3 Merrill is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.