Samsung NX10 Digital Camera

ReviewGist Report for Samsung NX10

Overview

The Samsung NX10 was launched in October 2009 as the world's first mirror-less interchangeable-lens camera in a compact, feature-rich and affordable design. Over 22 reviews that include authority sites such as Digitalcamerainfo, CNet, PCadvisor, DPReview are analyzed. What we bring you is a succinct summary of the expert reviews that put the Samsung NX10 under their respective microscopes. We round off the review with buying advice on the Samsung NX10.

What the Manufacturer Says

Samsung launched the 15.1 mega pixel Samsung NX10 as the world's first mirrorless interchangeable-lens digital single lens camera with a host of new features in a compact and lightweight design measuring at 123 x 87 x 39.8 mm and 353g.

Samsung has included its exclusive "Fast and decisive contrast AF" which gives users of the Samsung NX10 access to fast image processing through its DRIMe II Pro image processor that helps capture detailed and clear images. The NX10's supersonic dust reduction technology further enhances image quality by preventing dust particles on the image sensor.

The AMOLED technology reduces power consumption, while enabling better images in bright sunshine and more colorful images. The AMOLED conserves power by going into standby mode automatically and offers clear and bright display without reflections or discolorations even in bright sunlight. It has a higher color gamut than TFT screens with faster response rate.

The fully functional electronic viewfinder offers 100% vision field and 86% magnification.

The NX10's HD Video recording HDMI Anynet+ technology lets users record professional quality 720p HD videos in various formats with the 1280 x 720, 16:9 ratio function.

Other introductions worth noting are:

• The high precision electronic view finder replaces the conventional reflective mirror and prism used in DSLR cameras
• The launch of an exclusive series of NX Lens, filters, external flashlights and K Lens mount for the NX10 to add to its functionality.
• The APS-C CMOS sensor feature enabling advanced imaging comparable with Digital Single Lens Reflex cameras.

What the Reviews Say

Almost all of Samsung NX10's expert reviews praise its compact size that packs in a built in flash and electronic view finder that shoots great pictures in various light conditions. All reviewers complimented the Samsung NX10's lens quality which produces sharp photos, citing it as better than its peers.

Most of the reviews agree that the Samsung NX10 had good focusing capability and speed. While Zedomax opined that the NX10 has a fast and decisive autofocus driven by Samsung's new DRIMe II Pro engine, expert reviewer DigitalCameraInfo felt that the autofocus does not deliver like a regular camcorder.

Most of the reviews found the NX10's built in viewfinder and flash impressive, as it was it ready to shoot in any light conditions. Test shots produced good quality images. PC Advisor's review highlighted the NX10's electronic view finder, citing it as the best part of the camera, although CNet expressed that the EVF's low resolution makes it difficult for manual focus.

Endorsing Samsung's claim that the NX10's image quality is comparable to DSLR cameras, most of the expert reviews reported excellent quality images both in bright and dark light conditions. The NX10's 18-55mm kit lens and 50-200mm telephoto zoom lens stabilize optical image and reduce blur from camera shake. Reviewers Stuff.tv and CNet remarked about the lack of a built-in image stabilizer.

The video quality got mixed reviews and the experts feel that it is advisable to shoot videos with the camera on a tripod to avoid shaky videos. They also pointed out a lag between hitting the record button and actual recording. While it is easy to operate, there do seem to be some issues with handling, making it fall short of a camcorder.

The 'ReviewGist'

Most reviewers support Samsung's claims of a compact size camera that offers above par image quality in almost all light conditions through its mirrorless interchangeable lens and power-conserving high resolution AMOLED screen, good video quality and acceptable battery life. Almost all reviews mourn the lack of an inbuilt image stabilizer.

The Samsung NX10 is a highly functional "next generation" camera that offers DSLR quality that shoots quality pictures at an affordable price, according to the experts.

Buying Advice

The Samsung NX10 is ideal for street photography, amateurs and for those who want a shoot and go camera, with the lens attached. It is also a great choice for budget conscious photographers looking for a compact professional quality camera.

Just before you order your NX10, you may want to take a look at the Panasonic DMC-GF1 which also offers interchangeable lens, superb images, and performance in a comfortable body. Both the NX10 and GF1 are perfect for novices and pros alike. However, in the GF1, the EVF is optional and costs extra. So the NX10 definitely scores over the Panasonic GF1 with its battery life and its nifty viewfinder, which is included in its price. And don't forget Samsung's exclusive accessories for the NX10.