Sigma DP3 Merrill vs Zeiss ZX1

Lets take a closer look at the Sigma DP3 Merrill versus Zeiss ZX1, both Large Sensor Compact cameras by brands Sigma and Zeiss. There exists a significant gap among the sensor resolutions of the DP3 Merrill (15MP) and ZX1 (37MP) and the DP3 Merrill (APS-C) and ZX1 (Full frame) offer different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The DP3 Merrill was announced 6 years earlier than the ZX1 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras feature the same body design (Large Sensor Compact).

Before going into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple summation of how the DP3 Merrill matches up vs the ZX1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Sigma DP3 Merrill and Zeiss ZX1. The whole galleries are provided at Sigma DP3 Merrill Gallery and Zeiss ZX1 Gallery.

When you are aiming to travel with your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Sigma DP3 Merrill comes with external measurements 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 Zeiss ZX1 has proportions of 142mm x 93mm x 46mm (5.6" x 3.7" x 1.8") along with a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Examine the Sigma DP3 Merrill versus Zeiss ZX1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use at the time. The following is a front view over all size comparison of the DP3 Merrill against the ZX1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the DP3 Merrill and ZX1 is 83 and 67 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to picture the gap in sensor dimensions only by seeing specifications. The pic underneath will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the DP3 Merrill and ZX1.

Plainly, both cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The DP3 Merrill with its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF trickier and the Zeiss ZX1 will produce more detail with its extra 22MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The more aged DP3 Merrill will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.