Canon PowerShot N Facebook ready vs. Samsung WB35F: A Detailed Practical Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals

When it comes to small sensor compacts, the market offers a surprising variety of options tailored for casual shooters, travel buffs, or even emerging photographers who want portability without sacrificing too much control. Two such contenders, the Canon PowerShot N Facebook ready and the Samsung WB35F, both launched in the early 2010s, deliver distinct takes on compact photography. While neither is a professional-grade powerhouse, I’ve personally tested both over extended shoots to uncover where their real strengths and compromises lie.

If you’re exploring these models for your next point-and-shoot companion, or simply want an honest dive beneath spec sheets to see which fits your style, this comparison will walk you through everything - from sensor tech to ergonomics, autofocus nuances to image quality, plus how they perform across popular photography genres. Ready? Let’s dissect these two pocket-sized contenders from Canon and Samsung and see which earns a spot in your kit.

Understanding the Basics: Design and Handling

At first glance, both cameras occupy the same compact category, though their physical footprints hint at different design philosophies. The Canon N Facebook ready sports a very distinctive, almost cube-like shape, measuring 79 x 60 x 29 mm and weighing 195 grams. Meanwhile, the Samsung WB35F follows a more traditional elongated compact form with dimensions of 101 x 61 x 28 mm, coming in at 194 grams - basically the same weight but with added length.

Holding both side-by-side, you’ll notice the Canon’s squarer body is surprisingly comfortable for front-heavy gripping, owes to its minimal protrusions and clear access points. It’s almost playful in design, with a notable tilting 2.8-inch touchscreen that feels reactive and bright for its vintage. On the other hand, the Samsung sticks to a fixed 2.7-inch screen with considerably lower resolution and no touchscreen functionality, making menu navigation less fluid but familiar to compact shooters used to button-based controls.

The Canon’s touchscreen is one of its selling points in usability, especially for evolving shooters who appreciate tactile feedback combined with the swiping and tapping convenience. Samsung’s classic button interface might feel more deliberate, but it lacks the intuitiveness and quick setting changes enabled by touchscreen systems.

A top-down sweep also illustrates key differences in control layout - Canon’s interface appears minimalist and user-focused, while Samsung’s offers more traditional dial and button placements, albeit fewer illuminated elements.

So, if you prioritize a fresh, touch-friendly interface and a compact form that fits nicely in smaller hands or pockets, the Canon edges ahead ergonomically. But if you prefer traditional, button-driven controls with no fuss, Samsung’s conventional design suits best.

Sensor and Image Quality: Fighting Within the Same 1/2.3-inch Arena

Both these cameras sport a 1/2.3-inch sensor, quite standard for compact cameras in that price tier. The Canon N uses a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor empowered by the DIGIC 5 processor, while the Samsung WB35F upgrades resolution with a 16-megapixel CCD sensor.

These differences are important. CMOS sensors, particularly when paired with Canon’s DIGIC processor lineage, tend to offer better noise handling and dynamic range compared to CCD chips, which, although historically praised for color rendition, typically generate more noise at higher ISO settings and consume more power.

The Canon tops out at ISO 6400 (though practical use above 1600 is limited), while Samsung’s max ISO is 3200. In real-world shooting, the Canon’s images retain better clarity and lower noise at elevated ISOs, a critical advantage in low-light and indoor scenarios like casual portraits or events.

In terms of resolution, Samsung delivers more pixels, enabling larger print sizes or more cropping flexibility, but suffer some image softness and higher noise at default sensitivities. The Canon’s lower output, balanced by cleaner processing, often results in punchier results and smoother gradations.

The sensor area comparison reveals both cameras have identical active sensor dimensions (6.17 x 4.55 mm), making these differences largely tied to sensor tech and image processing rather than physical hardware size.

For enthusiasts who care about starting with cleaner base images, Canon’s CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 combo provide the superior foundation. Samsung’s CCD, while capable, lags slightly in noise control and dynamic range, so expect more intervention in post-processing.

Display and Interface: One Touch vs. Traditional Buttons

Arguably, the user interface is where the biggest experiential divide lies. The Canon PowerShot N Facebook ready’s 2.8-inch PureColor II G touch-screen is bright with 461K dots resolution, making image review and menu navigation a breeze. If you’re accustomed to smartphones or mirrorless touch displays, this immediacy makes shooting worlds easier from framing shots to toggling modes.

The Samsung WB35F’s 2.7-inch fixed screen clocks in at a measly 230K dots resolution, noticeably dimmer and harder to read in daylight. It lacks any touchscreen capabilities, and menu navigation relies entirely on physical buttons - slower for adjustments but less prone to smudges or accidental taps.

Though purists might argue traditional buttons prevent accidental setting changes, in my experience, the Canon’s responsive touchscreen is a major usability upgrade even for amateur shooters. It speeds up operations like zooming, setting timers, and adjusting exposure settings without pausing the creative flow.

Lens Versatility and Optical Reach: Zooming In On the Details

Choosing a compact often means compromising on optical quality and versatility, but here both cameras offer impressive superzoom ranges for their class.

• Canon PowerShot N: 28-224 mm equivalent (8x zoom), maximum aperture range F3.0-5.9
• Samsung WB35F: 24-288 mm equivalent (12x zoom), maximum aperture range F3.1-6.3

Samsung’s lens offers a longer zoom reach with a wider starting focal length (24mm) - perfect for landscapes and street photography where ultra-wide views are desirable, plus the telephoto extension is better suited for wildlife or vacation snapshots at a distance.

Canon’s lens begins slightly narrower but maintains a relatively bright aperture at the wide end and surprisingly decent close focus down to 1 cm macro distance, opening creative possibilities for close-up shots unseen in Samsung’s specs.

Neither lens supports optical zoom stabilization beyond basic optical IS, but the Canon touts optical image stabilization, arguably a vital feature given the strip-down bulk - worth noting that Samsung also includes optical IS but without detailed specifications.

In practical use, the Samsung’s longer reach and wider angle make it more versatile for travel and events requiring varied framing, but the Canon’s macro abilities and somewhat brighter lens edges offer more creativity in studio or casual close-up conditions.

Autofocus and Performance: Speed or Simplicity?

Both models eschew phase-detection autofocus (PDAF), relying instead on contrast-detection AF systems that tend to be slower and noisier. However, the Canon PowerShot N does not provide manual focus capability, which could frustrate seasoned users who prefer fine control.

Samsung takes a slight lead here, allowing manual focus adjustments via buttons, granting more creative control for challenging subjects or macro work - a neat feature rarely found in compact cameras aimed at casual shooters.

Neither camera has continuous autofocus or face/eye detection, limiting their appeal for fast-action genres like sports or wildlife photography where advanced subject tracking is essential. Their burst rates also fall short for such uses - Canon’s max 2 fps, Samsung unspecified but known to be limited.

Therefore, these cameras mostly suit still, carefully composed shots rather than fast-paced action sequences. Expect some focusing lag in low light, especially with Samsung’s CCD sensor.

Burst Speed and Shutter Range: Can You Catch the Moment?

For fleeting moments, burst rate and shutter speed matter. Canon’s 15-second slowest shutter speed is useful for long exposures in night photography, while the max speed is 1/2000s, standard but not remarkable. Samsung’s shutter speeds also top out at 1/2000s but start from 8 seconds minimum exposure - slightly less versatile for night shooting.

On continuous shooting, Canon’s modest 2 fps can capture simple sequences but falls short for sports or wildlife. Samsung doesn’t specify a burst figure, implying similar or lower performance.

Given this, neither camera is geared to sports, action, or fast wildlife photography, but their shutter ranges suffice for general photography including landscapes, portraiture, and casual travel snaps.

Video Capabilities: Modest Yet Useful

Canon’s video specs are superior here, producing Full HD 1920x1080p at 24 fps and 720p at 30 fps, including slow-motion modes at 120 and even 240 fps at lower resolutions for fun creative effects. It records in the widely supported H.264 format.

Samsung tops out at 1280x720 HD video at 30 fps, with no slow-motion options. Neither camera has external microphone jacks or headphone outputs, limiting professional audio flexibility.

If video matters, Canon’s higher resolution and frame rate options give it the edge for casual filmmakers or vloggers looking for lightweight equipment compatible with social media sharing.

Battery Endurance and Storage: Powering Your Shoots

Battery life is modest and similar between the two cameras - Canon rates around 200 shots per charge using its NB-9L battery pack, a low figure compared to modern compacts. Samsung doesn’t provide official battery life specs, but anecdotal experiences suggest comparable endurance.

Both cameras rely on small, proprietary rechargeable batteries, which means packing spares is wise for prolonged excursions.

Storage-wise, both accept microSD cards (including microSDHC and microSDXC), granting you ample expandable capacity.

Connectivity and Extra Features

Canon adds built-in wireless connectivity for instant sharing, though NFC and Bluetooth are absent - relatively standard for 2013-2014 models. Samsung’s WB35F includes NFC but lacks Bluetooth, GPS, or HDMI ports on either model.

Neither supports RAW file output, limiting post-processing flexibility, so their appeal gravitates toward JPEG shooters.

Real-World Photo Tests Across Genres

To decide which camera suits your needs, I put both through their paces across popular photography types:

Portraiture: Skin Tone & Background Blur

• Canon’s 12MP CMOS sensor delivers natural skin tones and handles low light better, especially indoors.
• The limited aperture and sensor size restrict bokeh capabilities on both, but Canon’s macro focus and slight lens advantage edge ahead.
• Lack of face-detection AF on either means manual composition matters more.

Landscape: Dynamic Range & Detail

• Both cameras struggle in dynamic range compared to larger sensor rivals but Canon’s DIGIC 5 helps retain detail in shadows.
• Samsung’s higher pixels provide more cropping opportunities but at cost of noise in shadows.
• Neither is weather sealed, so caution outdoors.

Wildlife & Sports: Autofocus & Burst

• Neither suitable for serious action photography.
• Canon’s 2 fps burst rate can capture moments casually; Samsung’s slower focusing and lack of burst limit use.
• Telephoto reach favors Samsung’s 12x zoom for distant shots.

Street Photography: Discreetness & Portability

• Canon’s compact shape and tilting touchscreen support quick candid shots.
• Samsung’s longer body and fixed screen are less compact.
• Both quiet but lack advanced AF for spontaneous focus locking.

Macro: Magnification & Stability

• Canon’s 1cm macro focus beats Samsung, enabling creative close-ups.
• Optical IS on both helps handheld shots, but Canon’s detail holds up better.

Night/Astro: High ISO & Exposure Control

• Canon’s high ISO performance and exposure range favor night shots; Samsung limited by sensor noise and max ISO 3200.
• Neither has advanced astro modes, but Canon’s slow shutter down to 15s offers more creative flexibility.

Video: Resolution & Usability

• Canon’s Full HD video at 24 fps versus Samsung’s 720p at 30 fps is a clear win.
• Canon’s slow motion options add creative elements absent on Samsung.

Travel & General Use: Versatility & Battery

• Samsung’s longer zoom and NFC sharing suit travel better.
• Canon’s lighter, compact shape and touchscreen convenience also appeal for travel shooting.
• Both require spare batteries for extended outings.

Professional Work: Reliability & Workflow

• Neither is designed for professional workflows: no RAW support, limited controls, and modest sensors.
• Canon’s image processing yields more ePublish-ready JPGs.
• Workflow integration favors Canon thanks to better wireless connectivity.

Overall Performance Scores and Genre Ratings

To sum up objective scoring from my hands-on evaluation (based on image quality, autofocus, usability, and features), here’s a quick snapshot:

And broken down by shooting disciplines:

Canon PowerShot N Facebook ready leads in image quality, video, and usability, while Samsung WB35F scores points on zoom range and battery endurance.

Sample Images: Visual Proof in the Frame

Here’s a side-by-side gallery of real-world shots under varied conditions. Notice the sharper details and cleaner colors from the Canon, alongside the Samsung’s extended zoom framing opportunities.

Canon N Facebook ready screen back Samsung WB35F front Samsung WB35F screen back

Final Thoughts: Which Compact Small Sensor Fits You?

Choosing between the Canon PowerShot N Facebook ready and the Samsung WB35F boils down to your priorities:

• For enthusiasts prioritizing image quality, ease of use, and video capabilities, the Canon N stands out. Its touchscreen, DIGIC processor, and macro focus range unlock more creative possibilities, backed by an ergonomic form factor and better high ISO handling.

• For budget-conscious travelers wanting longer zoom reach and basic shooting with easy NFC sharing, Samsung WB35F delivers decent value. But concessions include weaker low-light performance, absence of touchscreen, and limited video support.

Both are dated in today’s market, but if you find them secondhand or on steep discount and want an ultra-compact with simple controls and respectable image quality within their category, you’ll find a niche for them.

Dear Canon, please consider updating this quirky and charming form factor with RAW support and face detection in your next iteration!

Summary Table at a Glance

If you want my detailed video review breakdown, including field tests under street and macro conditions, just let me know - sometimes seeing these cameras in action can seal the deal better than specs.

In the end, both cameras serve as gentle introductions to compact photography rather than professional tools, but with this knowledge in hand, you can confidently match features to your shooting style, budget, and creative ambitions.

Happy shooting!