Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Sony A290 and Sigma DP1 Merrill side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Sony A290 has external dimensions of 128 x 97 x 86 mm (5.04 x 3.82 x 3.39″) and weighs 549 g (1.21 lb / 19.37 oz) (including batteries). Sigma DP1 Merrill has external dimensions of 122 x 67 x 64 mm (4.8 x 2.64 x 2.52″) and weighs 330 g (0.73 lb / 11.64 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Sony A290 and the Sigma DP1 Merrill. Sigma DP1 Merrill is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 6mm narrower, 30mm shorter and 22mm thinner than Sony A290. As you can tell, actually this is not a fair size comparison since Sigma DP1 Merrill has a built-in lens but Sony A290 doesn't. Once you put a lens on A290, its thickness will increase significantly.
Comparison image of the Sony A290 and the Sigma DP1 Merrill Size, Weight and External Dimensions - Front View
Here is the back view size comparison of the Sony A290 and Sigma DP1 Merrill.
Comparison image of the Sony A290 and the Sigma DP1 Merrill Size and Weight - Back View
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Sony A290 and Sigma DP1 Merrill.
Top View Comparison image of the Sony A290 and the Sigma DP1 Merrill Size
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Sigma DP1 Merrill is significantly lighter (219g ) than the Sony A290 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Again, this comparison may not be very useful in real life as we are comparing the weight of a camera with a built-in lens to the body-only weight of an interchangeable lens camera. Once you put a lens on A290, the total kit will weigh much higher.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Sony Alpha DSLR-A290 nor Sigma DP1 Merrill provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top DSLR Cameras with Weather Sealing Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Sony A290's 2.70" LCD screen is slightly larger than Sigma DP1 Merrill's screen.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.
