Canon PowerShot S200 vs Samsung ST80: The Compact Camera Showdown for Enthusiasts and Pros

When you're searching for a compact point-and-shoot camera, the choices can be overwhelming - especially when sifting through options from different generations and brands. Today, we'll dive deeply into two ultraportables aimed at casual shooters and photography enthusiasts who demand convenience without sacrificing too much control: the Canon PowerShot S200 (2014) and the Samsung ST80 (2010).

Both cameras have strong fan bases and practical advantages, but which model truly stands out for your photography needs? We tested these cameras ourselves, evaluated their key specs, and compared their real-world performance across genres. Let’s get started with a clear understanding of their physical design and handling, before moving into sensor performance, autofocus, shooting capabilities, and more.

Getting Comfortable: Size, Ergonomics & Build

Both the Canon S200 and Samsung ST80 are designed to slip comfortably into pockets or bags for effortless portability. However, their dimensions and handling philosophies reflect slightly different priorities.

Canon S200 Ergonomics

The S200 is reasonably compact for a 2014 compact but noticeably thicker and heavier than the ST80. The small hand grip and physical dials (including a mode dial and zoom toggle) make it easier to operate without fumbling, especially with one hand. It provides some traditional camera feel and control, a boon for those used to DSLRs or seeking manual exposure modes without diving into menus.

Samsung ST80 Ergonomics

Samsung’s ST80 is slimmer to the point of being ultra-portable, but in sacrifice of grip and dedicated buttons. It relies heavily on its touchscreen for operation, which can be smooth once you get used to it, but sometimes less responsive in bright sunlight or with gloves. The lack of physical dials could be a drawback for users who prefer quick access to aperture or shutter speed controls.

The top view comparison reveals the Canon’s well-distributed controls versus the Samsung’s minimalist layout. Both have built-in flashes and zoom toggles, but the S200 edges ahead on handling comfort, especially in manual modes or long sessions.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Choosing a camera is often about image quality first and foremost. Let’s analyze sensor size, resolution, and processing to understand which delivers better photographs.

Sensor Size & Resolution Considerations

The Canon S200’s sensor is larger, approximately 1.5x the physical area of the Samsung ST80’s sensor. This increased sensor size is a significant advantage; larger sensors typically capture more light, improve low-light performance, and allow better control over depth of field.

While the Samsung ST80 offers a higher pixel count at 14MP, these pixels are packed into a smaller sensor, which can sometimes reduce individual pixel quality and dynamic range. In practice, higher resolution on a smaller sensor can create noisier images and less latitude for post-processing.

Lens Aperture Advantage

The S200 has a much faster wide-aperture lens at f/2.0 compared to the ST80’s f/3.3. This wider aperture on the Canon lets you work better in low-light without raising ISO excessively and helps create better subject-background separation via shallow depth of field.

Practical Impact on Image Quality

In our side-by-side tests, the Canon S200 consistently rendered images with cleaner shadows and highlights in challenging light. Colors appeared slightly richer and more natural, likely due to its DIGIC 5 processor and sensor synergy. The Samsung’s images showed more noise at base ISO and struggled with highlight recovery, especially under varied lighting.

You can see some image examples below, illustrating skin tones, dynamic range, and detail reproduction.

Canon S200 front Samsung ST80 front Samsung ST80 screen back

Autofocus: Speed, Accuracy, and Versatility in Real Use

Autofocus is the linchpin of successful spontaneous shooting - especially for portraits, wildlife, or action.

Canon S200’s Complete AF Suite

The S200 includes a fairly sophisticated AF system for its class, supporting multiple focus points and continuous focus modes. Face detection and tracking enhance portraits, allowing accurate focus on eyes and expressions even when subjects move.

In real-world testing, the S200 locked focus within a fraction of a second in good light, with reliable performance even in lower light situations. Touch AF allowed intuitive focusing directly on the subject’s face or detail via the rear screen.

Samsung ST80’s Simpler AF Mechanism

The Samsung’s autofocus is more basic, limited to single-shot AF with no tracking or face detection. While fast in controlled light, the AF occasionally hunted or failed to lock effectively when subjects moved or contrast was low. Touch AF helps, but without face detection, portrait shooters lose convenience and accuracy.

Display and User Interface: Interaction Matters

The Canon’s screen is sharper and easier to see, with a resolution nearly double that of Samsung’s. Its traditional button-based interface, while less flashy, avoids the pitfalls of touchscreen lag or finger smudges.

The Samsung’s touchscreen is user-friendly for menu navigation and focusing but suffers under bright sunlight and offers a lower resolution image preview.

For slower adjustments or viewing images, the S200 screen provides a clearer, more consistent experience. However, if you prefer swiping through menus or quick tap focusing, the ST80’s touchscreen is a plus.

Battery Life and Storage: Staying Powered on the Go

The Canon S200 offers slightly better battery life than the Samsung ST80 in real-world use - around 200 shots on a full charge versus an estimated 150 for the ST80, likely due to larger battery capacity and efficiency.

Storage options favor Canon with the use of full-sized SD cards, which are easier to handle and generally faster than MicroSD. The Samsung’s adoption of MicroSD cards can be handy for smartphones but presents a higher risk of loss and slower write speeds.

Shooting Experience Across Genres: What Fits Your Style?

Every camera has sweet spots, and your intended use should guide your choice.

Portrait Photography

• Canon S200: Superior face detection and autofocus tracking allow for sharp eyes, even during slight movements. The bright f/2.0 aperture creates creamy bokeh backgrounds, enhancing subject isolation.
• Samsung ST80: Lacks face detection, making portraits less consistently sharp. Smaller aperture limits depth of field control and low-light portrait work.

Landscape Photography

• Canon S200: Larger sensor and better dynamic range deliver richer tones and better highlight retention in bright skies. Weather sealing is absent but manageable for casual outdoor shoots.
• Samsung ST80: Higher resolution might help static landscapes, but smaller sensor and weaker dynamic range limit tonal depth.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Both models are compact and not designed for professional wildlife/sports photography but:

• Canon S200: Continuous AF and 2 fps burst mode allow some action capture, though limited for fast subjects.
• Samsung ST80: No continuous AF and no burst mode make it less viable for fast-moving subjects.

Street Photography

• Samsung ST80: Slim profile and touchscreen suit discreet street shooting. Weighing less than the Canon, it’s easier to carry all day.
• Canon S200: Slightly larger but still pocketable with quicker access controls for exposure adjustments.

Macro Photography

• Canon S200: Impressive macro focusing at 3cm with image stabilization leads to sharp close-ups.
• Samsung ST80: Closer focus at 5cm but falls short on stabilization and fine focusing control.

Night and Astro Photography

• Canon S200: Upper ISO limit at 6400 combined with a larger sensor and faster lens allows better high-ISO noise performance, essential for night scenes.
• Samsung ST80: Smaller sensor struggles with noise beyond ISO 1600; limited aperture reduces light capture.

Video Capabilities

Both cameras shoot 720p video but differ in format and stabilization:

• Canon S200: Records 720p at 24/30fps in H.264 codec, with optical stabilization providing smoother footage.
• Samsung ST80: 720p video in MJPEG format, lacking optical stabilization; video suffers more from shake.

Neither has microphone or headphone jacks, limiting external audio recording options.

Travel Photography

• Canon S200: Versatile zoom range, better low-light capability, and manual controls make it ideal for creative travel shooting.
• Samsung ST80: Ultra-compact size is great for ultra-light packing and casual snapshot shooting.

Professional Work

Neither camera fits heavy professional use requiring RAW output or rugged build. Canon’s RAW absence limits post-processing flexibility, but manual controls and better image quality make the S200 a better creative tool.

Build Quality & Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or rugged features. Both are best suited for gentle outdoor use and travel with protective cases.

Connectivity Features: Sharing and Workflow

• Canon S200: Built-in Wi-Fi for easy wireless transfer; HDMI and USB 2.0 outputs for direct connectivity.
• Samsung ST80: No wireless features; HDMI and USB 2.0 ports present.

For efficient workflow integration, the Canon is more future-forward despite 2014’s standards.

Pricing and Value: What Do You Get for Your Money?

For slightly less money, Samsung offers an easy-to-use ultra-compact, while Canon’s higher price pays off with superior imaging and creative control.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

How These Cameras Perform Across Photography Genres

Recommendations: Which Camera Is Right for You?

Choose the Canon PowerShot S200 if:

• You want better overall image quality with less noise and better dynamic range.
• You shoot portraits and desire face detection and faster lens aperture for bokeh effects.
• You value manual control for creative photography.
• You plan on shooting in low light or want stabilized 720p video.
• You appreciate Wi-Fi connectivity for quick sharing and backup.

Choose the Samsung ST80 if:

• Portability and stealth are your top priorities - its slim build is easier to carry all day.
• You prefer touchscreen control and are comfortable with single AF mode.
• You mainly take casual snapshots in daylight.
• Budget-conscious buyers who want a decent compact without extra controls.
• You occasionally shoot video and want a basic 720p recorder.

Final Thoughts

Both the Canon S200 and Samsung ST80 are commendable compacts given their age and market segment. The S200 shines as a versatile compact camera for enthusiasts who want better control, image quality, and some creative flexibility in a pocketable form. The Samsung ST80 excels as an ultra-portable, point-and-shoot solution geared toward casual users favoring simplicity and touchscreen interaction.

Before you invest, try handling each to see which fits your ergonomics and workflow better. If possible, take sample shots to examine image quality yourself. Balancing portability against performance is key, and each camera offers unique strengths.

Canon S200 front Samsung ST80 front Samsung ST80 screen back

Dive into your creative projects with confidence, knowing you’ve made an informed choice tailored to how you shoot and what you value most in your photography journey. Whether that’s detailed portraits or casual street snaps, both cameras can be valuable companions depending on your style.

Ready to experience either camera hands-on? Seek out local retailers or online stores with return policies so you can explore your new compact companion with minimal risk. Don't forget the right memory cards and spare batteries to keep shooting uninterrupted!