Sigma DP2 Merrill Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£530
  • Sensor size: APS-C
  • Lens mount: N/A
  • Main camera pixel size: 4.99 µm
  • Weight: 330 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 97 shots

Sigma DP2 Merrill review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

4.9

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.4

Technical Score

10.0%

9.2

User score

Poor
4.4

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

6.8

Sensor & Image

25.0%

2.6

Photo Features

18.0%

3.7

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.5

Display & Design

8.0%

3.7

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.0

Connectivity & Storage

Poor
9.2

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(176)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(183)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Exceptional
  • 5.5
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    9.2

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    1.3

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 3.5
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    8.2

    Weight

    30.0%

    1.0

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 4.5
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.7

    Price

    20.0%

    8.2

    Weight

    20.0%

    1.0

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    1.0

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 8.1
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.2

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    9.7

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

  • 5.9
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.2

    Weight

    25.0%

    6.3

    Thickness

    20.0%

    ?

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 6.7
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    9.7

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    9.2

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 3.5
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.2

    Weight

    25.0%

    1.0

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • sigma-dp2-merrill
sigma-dp2-merrill

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Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Sigma DP2 Merrill is a niche compact camera featuring a unique 46-megapixel APS-C Foveon X3 Direct Image sensor that captures full-colour information at every pixel layer, paired with a high-performance fixed 30mm f/2.8 lens (45mm full-frame equivalent). Its primary characteristics include an industrial, no-frills metal body and a Dual TRUE II processing engine designed to deliver extraordinary image sharpness, micro-contrast, and lifelike colour rendition that often rivals medium-format systems at base ISO. Major pros include its class-leading resolving power, impressive monochromatic performance, and compact portability for its sensor size. However, the camera suffers from significant cons, such as abysmal battery life (often under 100 shots per charge), exceptionally slow write speeds, poor low-light performance above ISO 400, and a reliance on sluggish proprietary software for processing its complex RAW files.

Technical Specifications of Sigma DP2 Merrill

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

6.8

Sensor & Image

25.0%

2.6

Photo Features

18.0%

3.7

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.5

Display & Design

8.0%

3.7

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.0

Connectivity & Storage

4.4
Sigma DP2 Merrill has a technical score of 4.43 points, which is lower than 73.3% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(176)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(183)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

9.2
Sigma DP2 Merrill has a user score of 9.16 points, which is higher than 90% of cameras.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
10
Sigma DP2 Merrill has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 66.1% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.9

Overall score

40.0%

7.7

Price

5.7
Sigma DP2 Merrill has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.7 points, which is lower than 80.3% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

APS-C
Sigma DP2 Merrill uses a sensor classified as APS-C; it is larger than the sensor in 57.4% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 25.7% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

46 MP
Sigma DP2 Merrill has a main camera resolution of 46 MP, which is higher than that of 95.7% of cameras and equal to that of 0.3% of cameras.
Foveon layered sensor.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

4.99 µm
Sigma DP2 Merrill has a main camera pixel size of 4.99 µm which is larger than in 82.6% of cameras and equal to the size in 0.2% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

200
Sigma DP2 Merrill has a base ISO of 200 which is higher than that of 84.9% of cameras and equal to that of 14.2% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

6,400
Sigma DP2 Merrill reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 6,400, which is higher than that of 37.3% of cameras and equal to that of 16.2% of cameras.
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Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

no
Sigma DP2 Merrill does not have a built-in focus motor. 11% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

9
Sigma DP2 Merrill has 9 focus points, fewer than the number offered by 67.1% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 26% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

no
Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.5% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support AF tracking. 88.1% of cameras support this feature.
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Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

640 px
Sigma DP2 Merrill supports 640 px video recording which is lower quality than that of 90.6% of cameras and equal to that of 1.1% of cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

?
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

8 bit
Sigma DP2 Merrill supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

4:2:0
Sigma DP2 Merrill supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

Motion JPEG
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Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

compact
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

330 g
Sigma DP2 Merrill weighs 330 g which is lighter than 58.6% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.3% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

121.5 mm
Sigma DP2 Merrill has a width of 121.5 mm which is wider than 53.2% of cameras and equal to that of 0.3% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

66.7 mm
Sigma DP2 Merrill has a height of 66.7 mm which is shorter than 62.5% of cameras and equal to that of 0.2% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

59.2 mm
Sigma DP2 Merrill has a thickness of 59.2 mm which is thicker than 57% of cameras.
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Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

97 shots
Sigma DP2 Merrill has a CIPA-rated battery life of 97 shots, which is shorter than that of 99.8% of cameras and equal to that of 0.2% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

1,250 mAh
Sigma DP2 Merrill has a battery capacity of 1,250 mAh which is larger than the batteries in 60.4% of cameras and equal to those in 3.9% of cameras.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sigma DP2 Merrill has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

no
Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support Wi-Fi. 47.9% of cameras include this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Sigma DP2 Merrill does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Sigma DP2 Merrill does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
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Sigma DP2 Merrill vs the average camera

  • 29.8 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (46 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
    Foveon layered sensor.
    What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
    When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 20 MP

    Sigma DP2 Merrill has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (46 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.46 MP vs 16.2 MP
  • 1.65 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (5 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
    What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
    When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3.5 µm

    Sigma DP2 Merrill has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (5 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.4.99 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • Lossless compressed RAW
    Sigma DP2 Merrill supports lossless compressed RAW, while the average camera does not.
    Lossless RAW capture is supported.
    What it is: Support for RAW image files compressed without losing image data, reducing file size while preserving editing latitude.
    When it matters: When you want RAW editing flexibility but also need to keep file sizes more manageable.

    Importance: LOW

    Sigma DP2 Merrill supports lossless compressed RAW, while the average camera does not.
  • Built-in timelapse
    Sigma DP2 Merrill includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
    What it is: A mode that captures frames at set intervals so long events can be played back as accelerated video.
    When it matters: When you want to show long processes like sunsets, clouds, or city movement in a short finished clip.

    Importance: LOW

    Sigma DP2 Merrill includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
  • 14.5% higher user score
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has a higher user score than the average camera (9.16 vs 8.000).
    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.
    When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has a higher user score than the average camera (9.16 vs 8.000).9.16 vs 8
  • 2 more customizable buttons
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has more customizable buttons than the average camera (2 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.
    What it is: The number of physical buttons the user can assign to custom functions or shortcuts.
    When it matters: When quick access to your preferred settings matters and you want a camera that can be tailored to your workflow.

    Importance: LOW

    Sigma DP2 Merrill has more customizable buttons than the average camera (2 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.2 vs 0
  • 10x more popular
    Sigma DP2 Merrill is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
    When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
    Sigma DP2 Merrill is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
  • 130 mAh larger battery capacity
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,250 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
    What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
    When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

    Sigma DP2 Merrill has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,250 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.1250 mAh vs 1120 mAh
  • 2 more customizable buttons
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has more customizable buttons than the average camera (2 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.
  • 16.5% lighter
    Sigma DP2 Merrill is lighter than the average camera (330 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 29.8 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (46 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • 1.65 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (5 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • Lossless compressed RAW
    Sigma DP2 Merrill supports lossless compressed RAW, while the average camera does not.
  • Built-in timelapse
    Sigma DP2 Merrill includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
  • 130 mAh larger battery capacity
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,250 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
  • No flash
    Sigma DP2 Merrill does not have a built-in flash, the average camera does. 73.4% of cameras have a flash.
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Sigma DP2 Merrill supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
  • 1 older
    Sigma DP2 Merrill is older than the average camera (2012 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
    July 2012
  • No AF tracking
    Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support AF tracking, the average camera does. 88% of cameras support it.
  • 14 fewer AF points
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has fewer focus points than the average camera (9 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
  • 1.7 fps slower mechanical burst
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (4 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
    Lower-resolution mode reaches 5 fps.
  • 1280 px lower video resolution
    Sigma DP2 Merrill records lower-resolution video than the average camera (640 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
  • No continuous video AF
    Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
  • 233 shots shorter battery life
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has shorter battery life than the average camera (97 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
  • No HDMI output
    Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support HDMI output, the average camera does. 78.7% of cameras support HDMI output.
  • No AF tracking
    Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support AF tracking, the average camera does. 88% of cameras support it.
    What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
    When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support AF tracking, the average camera does. 88% of cameras support it.
  • 1280 px lower video resolution
    Sigma DP2 Merrill records lower-resolution video than the average camera (640 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
    What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
    When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3840 px

    Sigma DP2 Merrill records lower-resolution video than the average camera (640 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.640 px vs 1920 px
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
    What it is: High Dynamic Range mode for photos, which combines multiple exposures to retain detail in both shadows and highlights.
    When it matters: When you take photos in high-contrast scenes, like a bright sky against a dark landscape.

    Importance: LOW

    Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • No continuous video AF
    Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
    What it is: The ability of the camera to keep adjusting focus automatically while video recording is in progress.
    When it matters: When you film while subjects or camera distance keep changing and manual refocusing is impractical.

    Importance: LOW

    Sigma DP2 Merrill does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Sigma DP2 Merrill supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
    What it is: The number of bits used to encode color and tonal information in RAW files captured by the camera.
    When it matters: When you heavily edit RAW photos and want more tonal information for aggressive adjustments.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 14-bit

    Sigma DP2 Merrill supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.12-bit vs 14-bit
  • 233 shots shorter battery life
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has shorter battery life than the average camera (97 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
    What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
    When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 400 shots

    Sigma DP2 Merrill has shorter battery life than the average camera (97 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.97 shots vs 330 shots
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
    What it is: The number of built-in microphones used to capture audio while recording video.
    When it matters: More built-in microphones can capture broader, clearer sound when you record without an external microphone.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: At least 2 microphones

    Sigma DP2 Merrill has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.1 vs 2
  • 14 fewer AF points
    Sigma DP2 Merrill has fewer focus points than the average camera (9 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
    What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
    When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 200 points

    Sigma DP2 Merrill has fewer focus points than the average camera (9 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.9 vs 23

Graphic comparison of Sigma DP2 Merrill and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
United States

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Sigma DP2 Merrill?

  • Unmatched image quality at low ISO, often compared to medium format cameras
  • Extreme levels of detail and sharpness due to the 46MP Foveon X3 sensor
  • Superb color reproduction and life-like textures
  • High-quality fixed 30mm f/2.8 lens (45mm equivalent) with edge-to-edge sharpness
  • Solid, minimalist, and compact all-metal build quality
  • Simple, intuitive menu system and dedicated manual focus ring

What customers dislike about Sigma DP2 Merrill?

  • Dismal battery life (typically requiring several spares for a single day)
  • Excruciatingly slow write speeds to the SD card
  • Poor low-light and high ISO performance (significant noise above ISO 400-800)
  • Slow autofocus that struggles in low-contrast conditions
  • Requirement to use proprietary Sigma Photo Pro software for best RAW processing
  • No built-in viewfinder or flash
  • In-camera JPEG processing is significantly inferior to RAW results

Expert reviews

T
theabsolutesound.com
07/10/2012

The Sigma DP2 Merrill, as reviewed by The Absolute Sound, is a specialized, niche camera offering unmatched, medium-format-rivaling image quality through its 46-megapixel APS-C Foveon X3 sensor. Its key strengths include extraordinary edge-to-edge sharpness, stunning micro-contrast, and realistic texture detail, rivaling far more expensive systems when used in optimal, bright...Read more

S
stevehuffphoto.com
29/08/2012

The Sigma DP2 Merrill features a 46-megapixel APS-C Foveon X3 sensor paired with a razor-sharp 30mm f/2.8 lens (45mm equivalent) that produces flat-out amazing, three-dimensional image quality at low ISO settings, surpassing competitors like the Leica X2 and Sony NEX-7. The camera excels in capturing luxurious color, rich tonality, and exceptional fine detail in both JPEG format and...Read more

T
thelightslide.com
29/10/2021

The Sigma DP Merrill series (comprising the dp1, dp2, and dp3) is a unique line of heavy, metal-bodied fixed-lens compact cameras praised for delivering "unreal" sharpness and an astonishing visual presence. Their primary advantage lies in the proprietary Foveon sensor, which features three full-size sensor layers—one for each color—eliminating the need for color interpolation and...Read more

E
ephotozine.com
14/11/2012

The Sigma DP2 Merrill, as reviewed by ePHOTOzine, is a highly specialized camera delivering exceptional image quality through its 46-megapixel APS-C Foveon X3 sensor and sharp 30mm f/2.8 lens. It is praised for producing medium-format-like, detailed images with realistic color reproduction, all housed within a solid, well-built metal body. However, the review highlights that...Read more

P
pcmag.com
03/05/2013

The PCMag review highlights the Sigma DP2 Merrill as a specialized camera delivering exceptional image resolution and optical clarity, largely due to its Foveon X3 APS-C sensor. It features an extremely sharp fixed 30mm f/2.8 lens and an improved in-camera JPEG engine. However, the camera suffers from a slow, 46-second buffer clearing time, a demanding Raw workflow, and a lack of HD...Read more

S
sharkandpalm.com
17/08/2017

The ⁠Shark & Palm review positions the Sigma DP2 Merrill (DP2m) as an unapologetic, slow-operating point-and-shoot digital camera that yields spectacular, medium-format-level image quality. The reviewer lauds the 14.8-megapixel Foveon X3 sensor paired with a fixed 30mm f/2.8 lens (45mm equivalent), highlighting its unique capability to separate RGB colors into three distinct layers...Read more

V
vieribottazzini.com
21/01/2013

This real-world review explores the Sigma DP1 Merrill (19mm f/2.8 lens) and DP2 Merrill (30mm f/2.8 lens) compact cameras during a landscape and fine art photography trip to Venice. The standout feature of both cameras is their exceptional image quality, driven by the APS-C sized Foveon sensor that captures 46 Foveon-megapixels (15.36 regular megapixels across three colour layers)....Read more

5
50mmf2.com
22/10/2020

The Sigma DP2 Merrill is a highly unique compact camera from 2012 that is defined entirely by its specialized, multi-layered Foveon sensor. The reviewer praises the camera's exceptional image quality, stating that it produces some of the sharpest digital files of any camera they have used, with performance reminiscent of medium format digital cameras or film. Its 30mm f/2.8 lens...Read more

G
gizmodo.com
09/10/2012

The Sigma DP2 Merrill is a compact $1,000 camera that functions primarily as a mobile vehicle for its unique 46-megapixel Foveon X3 image sensor, which utilizes three stacked 15.4-megapixel layers to capture distinct primary colors. The absolute best part of this device is its remarkable imaging technology, delivering impeccable color rendition and entirely noise-free photos when...Read more

A
amateurphotographer.com
Undated

The Amateur Photographer review highlights the Sigma DP2 Merrill as a specialized camera delivering medium-format, high-resolution imagery via its 44.3-million effective pixel Foveon X3 sensor and 30mm f/2.8 lens, yielding exceptional sharpness and color. Key advantages include its compact, solid metal design, excellent tone, and bright 3-inch LCD screen. Conversely, the camera...Read more

S
spiegel.de
31/08/2012

The Sigma DP2 Merrill is a highly specialized niche compact camera praised for its exceptional, medium-format-like image quality under ideal lighting conditions. Its biggest pro is the unique 46-megapixel Foveon X3 sensor (15.3 MP per RGB layer), which captures breathtaking detail, sharpness, and rich, lifelike color reproduction. The camera features a noticeably improved data...Read more

C
connect-living.de
11/10/2012

The Sigma DP2 Merrill is a highly specialized compact camera designed for ambitious users, pairing a minimalist 378g metal body with a fixed 30mm f/2.8 lens (45mm full-frame equivalent) and an advanced APS-C sized Foveon X3 sensor. The standout feature of this camera is its exceptional full-frame-level image quality at low sensitivities like ISO 100 and 400, achieved because its...Read more

D
digitalkamera.de
23/07/2026

The Sigma DP2 Merrill is a premium, specialized compact featuring a 46-megapixel Foveon X3 sensor, praised for delivering exceptional image resolution and true-to-life color, though it is hampered by slow processing speeds and poor, restrictive high-ISO performance. Conversely, the Samsung Galaxy Camera is an innovative Android-powered device that offers extreme connectivity and a...Read more

S
street-photo.fr
06/07/2024

The Sigma DP2 Merrill is a highly unconventional compact digital camera celebrated by photography purists for its unique design and exceptional image performance. The defining feature of this camera is its innovative APS-C Foveon X3 sensor, which captures all primary red, green, and blue light colors at every single pixel location using a stacked three-layer technology. Combined...Read more

A
apprendre-la-photo.fr
04/12/2023

The Sigma DP2 Merrill is a highly specialized compact camera defined by its unique APS-C Foveon sensor, which utilizes three stacked layers to capture color rather than a traditional Bayer filter. This design allows the camera to bypass a low-pass filter, resulting in exceptional image sharpness and fine detail that rivals much larger medium-format systems when shooting in ideal...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
23/10/2012

The Les Numériques review evaluates the Sigma DP2 Merrill as a highly niche, expert compact camera that scores a low 2 out of 5 stars overall due to severe performance trade-offs. On the positive side, the standout feature is the unique combination of its 30mm f/2.8 fixed lens (a 45mm full-frame equivalent) and the 15 Mpx Foveon X3 APS-C sensor. This pairing yields exceptional,...Read more

Video reviews

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