Sigma DP3 Merrill vs Sony W230

Here, we will be contrasting the Sigma DP3 Merrill versus Sony W230, one being a Large Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Sigma and Sony. There exists a crucial gap among the sensor resolutions of the DP3 Merrill (15MP) and W230 (12MP) and the DP3 Merrill (APS-C) and W230 (1/2.3") provide different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The DP3 Merrill was launched 3 years later than the W230 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Sigma DP3 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony W230 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a simple overview of how the DP3 Merrill scores versus the W230 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Sigma DP3 Merrill and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W230. The complete galleries are available at Sigma DP3 Merrill Gallery and Sony W230 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera frequently, you will have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Sigma DP3 Merrill has outside measurements of 122mm x 67mm x 59mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.3") and a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs) while the Sony W230 has measurements of 95mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Contrast the Sigma DP3 Merrill versus Sony W230 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you use at the time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the DP3 Merrill against the W230.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the DP3 Merrill and W230 is 83 and 95 respectively.

Typically, its tough to imagine the difference in sensor sizing just by viewing specs. The photograph below might give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the DP3 Merrill and W230.

All in all, both of these cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The DP3 Merrill featuring a bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field simpler and the Sigma DP3 Merrill will provide you with extra detail utilizing its extra 3MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop photographs way more aggressively. The newer DP3 Merrill should have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.