Sigma SD1 Merrill: Conclusion

By Andy Stanton , DigitalCameraReview Staff | | 6479 Reads

Conclusion

The Sigma SD1 Merrill is a contradiction. It's a well-constructed DSLR with good ergonomics, a useful quick-set menu and great image quality thanks to its use of Foveon technology. However the camera's performance is hampered by auto focus problems in low light and all-too-frequent writing to the memory card that causes the camera to freeze until the writing is completed. Further, the camera lacks several features that other mid-range DSLRs have such as a video mode, live view and an LCD on the camera's top plate. In addition, the camera's battery life is rather short compared to the competition.

Overall it's hard to recommend this camera wholeheartedly, especially at its premium price. For some, its superb image quality will be reason enough to buy it. However, its performance issues and absence of some popular features will cause others to look elsewhere.

Pros:

Excellent build quality
Useful quick-set menu
Excellent image quality

Cons:

Auto focusing problems in low light
Frequent writing to the memory card
Lacks video, live view, top LCD

Individual Ratings: *

Image/Video Quality
Features
Design/Ease of Use
Performance
Expandability
* Ratings averaged to produce final score

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Sigma SD1 Merrill: Conclusion

Individual Ratings: *

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