Sigma DP3 Merrill vs Sony W690

Below, we are matching up the Sigma DP3 Merrill and Sony W690, one being a Large Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Sigma and Sony. The image resolution of the DP3 Merrill (15MP) and the W690 (16MP) is very close but the DP3 Merrill (APS-C) and W690 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The DP3 Merrill was unveiled 11 months later than the W690 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Sigma DP3 Merrill being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony W690 being a Compact camera.

Before going through a detailed comparison, below is a quick overview of how the DP3 Merrill scores against the W690 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Sigma DP3 Merrill and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W690. The full galleries are viewable at Sigma DP3 Merrill Gallery and Sony W690 Gallery.

For those who are looking to lug around your camera regularly, you'll need to factor its weight and volume. The Sigma DP3 Merrill enjoys external measurements of 122mm x 67mm x 59mm (4.8" x 2.6" x 2.3") accompanied by a weight of 330 grams (0.73 lbs) and the Sony W690 has sizing of 94mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs).

Look at the Sigma DP3 Merrill and Sony W690 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Here is the front view over all size comparison of the DP3 Merrill compared to the W690.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the DP3 Merrill and W690 is 83 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's tough to envision the contrast in sensor measurements merely by viewing a spec sheet. The graphic here should give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the DP3 Merrill and W690.

As you can see, the two cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The DP3 Merrill using its larger sensor will make getting shallower depth of field easier and the Sony W690 will result in greater detail having an extra 1MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop pics much more aggressively. The newer DP3 Merrill is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.