Sigma SD1 Merrill vs Sony A580

Here, we will be analyzing the Sigma SD1 Merrill versus Sony A580, one being a Advanced DSLR and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Sigma and Sony. The sensor resolution of the SD1 Merrill (15MP) and the A580 (16MP) is pretty close and both cameras offer the identical sensor sizing (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The SD1 Merrill was brought out 11 months later than the A580 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Sigma SD1 Merrill being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Sony A580 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the SD1 Merrill scores vs the A580 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Sigma SD1 Merrill and Sony Alpha DSLR-A580. The entire galleries are available at Sigma SD1 Merrill Gallery and Sony A580 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera, you should factor in its weight and size. The Sigma SD1 Merrill has outside dimensions of 146mm x 113mm x 80mm (5.7" x 4.4" x 3.1") accompanied by a weight of 790 grams (1.74 lbs) and the Sony A580 has specifications of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") accompanied by a weight of 599 grams (1.32 lbs).

Take a look at the Sigma SD1 Merrill versus Sony A580 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you use at that time. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the SD1 Merrill versus the A580.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SD1 Merrill and A580 is 57 and 64 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to picture the gap in sensor sizing simply by researching specs. The visual underneath will help give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SD1 Merrill and A580.

All in all, both of those cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Sony A580 to provide you with greater detail having its extra 1MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop photographs way more aggressively. The newer SD1 Merrill provides a benefit with regard to sensor technology.