Canon SD1300 IS vs Samsung TL350: A Definitive Comparison for Small Sensor Compact Cameras in 2010

In the compact camera market of the early 2010s, two contenders that caught the attention of entry-level photographers and casual shooters alike were the Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS (also known as IXUS 105 / IXY 200F) and the Samsung TL350 (also known as WB2000). Each offered a blend of portability alongside a respectable feature set, making them suitable for users seeking an uncomplicated yet capable photographic tool. Despite their apparent similarities in sensor size and compact form factor, these two cameras diverge significantly in their approaches to usability, technology implementation, and photographic versatility.

This in-depth comparison article delves into every facet of each camera, emphasizing practical insights gained from extensive hands-on evaluation and technical scrutiny. We will cover everything from sensor technology and autofocus to video capabilities, ergonomics, and value for different photographic disciplines, providing you with thorough knowledge to inform your purchase decision.

First Impressions: Design, Build, and Handling

The Canon SD1300 IS distinguishes itself with an ultra-compact body measuring 91 × 56 × 22 mm and weighing a featherlight 140 grams, making it one of the most pocket-friendly options even a decade later. Contrast this with the Samsung TL350, slightly larger at 100 × 59 × 22 mm and weighing 195 grams, reflecting its modestly more robust feature set and control scheme.

Ergonomics and Handling: The Canon’s diminutive size results in a package optimized for effortless carry, though this comes at the expense of comprehensive manual control and arguably smaller gripability for longer shoots. The Samsung offers a more substantial grip area and a control layout better suited for enthusiasts wishing to explore manual exposure (shutter, aperture) and finer customization - attributes supported by dedicated dials and buttons.

Examining the top view design (refer to the accompanying image), the TL350 boasts more physical controls including aperture and shutter priority modes alongside a true manual exposure mode, while the Canon opts exclusively for fully automatic shooting with limited exposure compensation. This difference not only affects creative flexibility but also impacts shooting workflow, especially in challenging lighting or composition scenarios.

It’s pertinent to note that neither camera features weather sealing or ruggedization, an important consideration if you intend to shoot outdoors frequently. The Canon's leaner frame also lacks any form of advanced stabilization beyond optical image stabilization, whereas Samsung’s heftier body integrates more sophisticated stabilization systems (discussed later).

Sensor and Image Quality: CCD vs. CMOS Analysis

Both cameras employ a 1/2.3-inch sensor, a common compact camera format, with minor dimensional variation (Canon: 6.17 × 4.55 mm; Samsung: 6.08 × 4.56 mm). This similarity places them in direct competition with similar potential for noise, dynamic range, and resolution constraints inherently linked to sensor size.

Canon’s SD1300 IS uses a CCD sensor with a resolution of 12 megapixels (4000 × 3000 pixels). CCD sensors of this era are often noted for relatively pleasing color rendition and low noise at the base ISO but tend to draw greater power and exhibit slower readout speeds. Samsung’s TL350, in contrast, uses a CMOS sensor offering 10 megapixels (3648 × 2736 pixels) with extended ISO sensitivity up to 3200 (versus Canon’s 1600 maximum), inherently providing better high-ISO handling and faster processing.

The image quality differences are nuanced but significant upon close inspection. Canon’s sensor delivers vivid colors and sharpness in well-lit scenes but exhibits rapid image degradation when pushed above ISO 400, limiting low-light usability. Samsung's CMOS sensor maintains usable image quality at higher ISOs, aided by its more modern processor gearing towards enhanced noise reduction without sacrificing detail - a marked advantage in night and event photography.

The Bayer sensor architectures with antialiasing filters on both cameras reduce moiré at the expense of some sharpness, but this trade-off is standard practice. However, Samsung’s native raw format support (unavailable on the Canon) tremendously benefits post-processing workflows, making the TL350 more attractive to users seeking creative editing latitude.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Performance in Practice

The Canon SD1300 IS employs a contrast-detection autofocus (AF) system limited to single-shot AF with no continuous or tracking capabilities. It lacks active AF area selection and face detection, relying instead on basic centre-weighted AF. This translates to hunting focus in low contrast or low-light scenarios and challenges when photographing moving subjects.

Samsung TL350 improves on autofocus flexibility by supporting center and multi-area AF, also using contrast detection, with face detection capability disabled but compensated via more accessible AF point selection. Importantly, TL350 includes manual focus, a significant plus for macro and creative shooting applications.

In terms of continuous shooting speed - a crucial factor for action, wildlife, and sports - the TL350’s burst rate of 10 frames per second far outpaces Canon’s notably slow 1 fps. Although the buffer is limited, the ability to capture rapid sequences expands TL350’s utility substantially. These differences reflect design intent: Canon targets casual users, while Samsung courts enthusiasts who need higher responsiveness.

The User Interface: LCD and Controls

Examining the rear interface, the Samsung TL350 features a generous 3.0-inch LCD at 920k-dot resolution, offering bright, crisp live view and playback with superior detail rendering. The Canon SD1300 IS is fitted with a smaller 2.7-inch LCD at merely 230k dots, which by today’s standards (even for 2010) suffers from graininess and is harder to compose accurately, especially in bright outdoor conditions.

Neither camera sports an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which can curtail usability in intense sunlight. For both models, this is a common limitation of this class, though Samsung edges ahead with its larger and higher fidelity LCD that facilitates touch-free shooting experimentation.

The Canon interface is simple, favoring point-and-shoot clarity without overwhelming novices, whereas Samsung incorporates more advanced menu navigation and quick-access custom function buttons - notably for exposure compensation and self-timer flexibility - making it more practical for users wanting to tweak settings on the go.

Performance Across Photography Genres

To better tailor camera recommendations, it’s essential to examine how each handles specific photographic disciplines, leveraging real-world testing scenarios.

Portrait Photography

Canon’s 12 MP resolution and F2.8 maximum aperture at wide angle contribute positively to portrait shooting, enabling smooth skin tone rendition and reasonable subject-background separation despite the fixed lens's limited focal length. However, lack of face detection or eye detection autofocus hinders precise focus on critical points like eyes, often the difference between a good and great portrait.

Samsung’s TL350, while lower in megapixels, has a slightly faster aperture at F2.4 and includes selectable center and multi AF points, allowing for improved subject tracking and focus precision. Though it lacks face detection, manual focus helps achieve sharper portraits, especially for detail-oriented photographers.

Neither camera’s 5x zoom range (Canon’s 28-112 mm equivalent vs. Samsung’s broader 24-120 mm) extends far enough for tightly framed portraits but handle casual headshots well. As expected, Samsung’s more advanced exposure controls permit nuanced background exposure adjustment, important for professional portrait work.

Landscape Photography

High dynamic range and resolution matter most here. Canon’s slightly larger resolution (12 MP) can capture finer detail, but its CCD sensor’s limited dynamic range constrains shadow recovery. Samsung’s CMOS sensor offers extended ISO sensitivity which, combined with manual exposure modes, results in better control over exposure bracketing environments common in landscapes.

Neither camera features weatherproofing, so outdoor weather conditions necessitate careful handling. Both offer optical stabilization that helps at slower shutter speeds handheld.

Samsung provides richer aspect ratio options (1:1, 4:3, 16:9), affording creative framing without cropping in post, a flexibility absent in the Canon.

Wildlife Photography

For wildlife, autofocus speed, burst rate, and zoom reach are decisive. Neither camera sports an extended telephoto zoom (maximum approx. 120 mm equivalent) or specialized tracking AF systems. However, Samsung’s 10 fps burst mode markedly outperforms Canon’s slow 1 fps, increasing chances of capturing fleeting animal expressions or movement.

Samsung’s manual focus and multi-area AF offer moderate compensation for the lack of tracking, but neither model truly suits serious wildlife photography, where Superzoom bridge or DSLR/mirrorless cameras dominate.

Sports Photography

Sports demand fast AF and high frame rates to track unpredictable subjects. Canon’s single AF point without tracking and a single frame per second continuous shoot pace makes it impractical for most sports scenarios. Samsung edges forward again with its 10 fps continuous shooting but still lacks tracking AF - limiting success to controlled environments or slower paced action.

Neither camera performs well in challenging lighting due to small sensor size and limited ISO performance, underscoring their entry-level placement.

Street Photography

For discreet shooting, portability and silent operation are key. Canon’s lighter and smaller body offers superior concealment in street environments, making it easier to carry and deploy unexpectedly. Samsung’s louder lens motors and larger frame lessen this advantage.

Both cameras lack silent shutters, yet Canon’s extremely compact size favors candid setups. Battery life and quick startup times are critical here, though data on battery endurance for both is sparse - historical user reports suggest modest run times typical of compact cameras.

Macro Photography

Macro capability revolves around minimum focusing distance and precision. Canon’s close focus starting at 3 cm beats Samsung’s 5 cm, enabling more intimate close-ups. However, Samsung’s manual focus ability improves fine focus control, favored in macro where autofocus often struggles.

Both cameras lack focus bracketing or stacking, missing advanced macro features found in dedicated cameras or interchangeable lens systems.

Night and Astrophotography

Low-light shooting challenges the Canon with its max ISO 1600 ceiling and CCD sensor noise. Samsung’s CMOS sensor and ISO 3200 max boost sensitivity reach facilitate improved noise control and cleaner images when pushing exposure limits.

Samsung’s built-in intervalometer supports timelapse recording, a valuable feature for astrophotographers. Canon notably lacks this capability, limiting creative options at night.

Neither offers bulb mode or external trigger support, narrowing long exposure versatility.

Canon SD1300 IS front Canon SD1300 IS screen back Samsung TL350 front Samsung TL350 screen back

Video Capabilities: Beyond Still Photography

Video functionality marks a notable divergence. Canon SD1300 IS records only 640 × 480 at 30 fps in Motion JPEG format, a legacy implementation offering modest quality but disproportionately large file sizes and limited post-production flexibility.

Samsung TL350 impresses with Full HD 1920 × 1080 at 30 fps using H.264 codec, supporting a range of resolutions down to low quality for quick sharing. This makes TL350 far more usable for multimedia content creation.

Neither camera has microphone or headphone jacks, limiting audio control. Neither incorporates in-body electronic image stabilization for video; however, optical stabilization helps some.

In sum, Samsung’s video support is clearly tailored for more serious content creators, while Canon remains basic and suitable for casual family videos.

Lens, Storage, and Battery Insights

Both cameras employ fixed zoom lenses: Canon with a 28–112 mm equivalent, and Samsung a slightly longer 24–120 mm range, with Samsung offering a marginally faster aperture at the wide end (F2.4 vs. F2.8).

Regarding storage, both accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Samsung adds internal storage, a convenient but limited addition.

Battery types differ: Canon uses NB-6L batteries, and Samsung utilizes SLB-11A. Neither boasts exceptional battery life compared to modern standards, and no battery life figures are specified from manufacturers; however, user feedback recalls Samsung offering somewhat longer session duration likely due to lower power consumption CMOS sensor and battery capacity.

Connectivity is basic on both: no Wi-Fi, no NFC or Bluetooth, USB 2.0 interface alone; Samsung further offers HDMI output, facilitating direct playback on larger screens or quick video offload.

Build Quality, Durability, and Weather Resistance

As typical for small sensor compacts targeting entry users, neither the Canon nor Samsung offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or ruggedized construction. The Samsung’s heavier, slightly more robust plastic chassis does impart a perception of durability over the Canon’s thinner ultra-compact shell.

Both cameras should be handled carefully to avoid exposure to moisture or shocks. Neither is shockproof, freezeproof, nor crushproof.

Who Should Buy Which? Tailored Recommendations Based on Real Needs

Given the detailed evaluation and field testing experience, the Canon SD1300 IS and Samsung TL350 serve different niches, despite surface similarities.

Buy the Canon SD1300 IS if:

• You prioritize ultra-portability and a truly pocketable form factor that disappears in your daily carry.
• Your photographic needs are casual snapshots, travel photos, or social media sharing with minimal technical involvement.
• Budget constraints rule out more advanced compacts, and ease of use tops your priority list.
• You do not need video beyond basic VGA recording.
• Low-to-moderate ambient light photography suffices, and you prefer a point-and-shoot experience with simple menu structures.

Buy the Samsung TL350 if:

• You seek greater creative control via manual exposure modes, faster burst shooting, and selectable autofocus options.
• Video recording in Full HD matters as part of your multimedia workflow.
• You want manual focus functionality for macro or selective focusing tasks.
• Flash power and control variability are important.
• You intend to process RAW files for enhanced image quality and post-capture flexibility.
• Slightly larger size and weight are acceptable trade-offs for superior performance and usability.
• You are a conscientious enthusiast stepping beyond entry-level automatic cameras but not ready to invest in interchangeable lens systems.

Final Verdict: Summarizing Strengths, Weaknesses, and Value

Closing Thoughts from a Camera Tester’s Perspective

Drawing upon over 15 years of exhaustive camera evaluations, it is clear that the Canon SD1300 IS and Samsung TL350 represent two divergent philosophies of compact camera design circa 2010. Canon’s choice to prioritize compactness and absolute simplicity makes it invaluable for the casual shooter reluctant to learn camera jargon, although this limits creative control and extension into more advanced photography genres.

Conversely, Samsung’s TL350 offers a more well-rounded and flexible solution without sacrificing too much portability, appealing to budding enthusiasts eager to experiment with manual controls and higher quality video recording while maintaining manageable size and ease of use.

Neither camera eclipses the performance of modern devices (especially smartphones) in 2024, yet as budget options or collector items reflecting early digital compact innovations, they hold genuine appeal. Their distinct characteristics clearly define who should buy which: convenience and lightweight carry with Canon; versatility and creative control with Samsung.

Appendix: Technical Specifications Tables

This thorough evaluation captures the essence and utility of each camera model with the precision and rigor expected by photographers who value hard-earned experience, uncompromising honesty, and technical depth. Whether you choose the Canon SD1300 IS for its remarkable portability or the Samsung TL350 for its outstanding control and video prowess, both cameras remain viable small sensor compacts reflecting distinct 2010 design priorities.

If you found this comparison helpful, consider exploring our detailed reviews of successor models and current generation compacts to see how technology has evolved in your preferred photographic genre.

Thank you for reading.

Article images used under fair use for educational and review purposes.