Canon PowerShot SX120 IS vs Samsung EX2F: A Thorough Comparison for Photographers Seeking Compact Excellence

Stepping into the compact camera world can be both exciting and overwhelming. You want a device that fits your creative vision, whether that’s capturing sweeping landscapes, candid street moments, or crisp portraits. Today, we’ll zero in on two small sensor compacts with very different strengths - the 2009 Canon PowerShot SX120 IS and the 2012 Samsung EX2F. Both aimed at discerning enthusiasts looking for portable versatility, these models reflect subtly divergent philosophies in image quality, control, and usability. Drawing on our extensive hands-on testing of thousands of cameras, we’ll unpack how these two stack up in real-world use.

First Impressions: Design, Build, and Handling

What You Hold and How It Feels

Handling comfort often shapes your shooting experience more than specs - bulky grips or fiddly buttons can spoil a day in the field. Both cameras are compact, but their design approaches diverge significantly:

• Canon SX120 IS: Measures 111×71×45 mm and weighs 285 grams, powered by two AA batteries. Its relatively chunky profile gives it a comfortable, secure grip, though the button layout can feel slightly dated. It sticks to a rigid compact design with a fixed rear screen.

• Samsung EX2F: Slightly longer and slimmer at 112×62×29 mm, weighing 294 grams with a proprietary rechargeable battery. It sports a sleek metal body and features a fully articulated 3-inch AMOLED screen, fostering flexibility in composition. The EX2F’s design feels more modern and travel-friendly.

Ergonomics matter hugely during long shoots or tricky angles. The Samsung’s articulating screen and compact footprint may appeal to vloggers or street shooters, while the Canon’s traditional shape benefits those craving a substantial grip.

Controls at a Glance

• Canon SX120 IS: Offers dedicated manual exposure modes (P, Av, Tv, M), aperture and shutter priority with physical buttons and dials, but no touchscreen. The camera relies on a fixed 3-inch display with modest 230k-dot resolution, which can make precise focus confirmation challenging.

• Samsung EX2F: Also has full manual modes plus a handy external flash hot shoe (rare for compacts), though no touchscreen. The EX2F’s bright AMOLED screen enhances preview clarity, and many settings are within easy reach via a simple top dial and buttons.

The advantage here leans toward Samsung’s cleaner, more intuitive interface, especially for users who want fast access while on the move.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Fundamentals

For photographers, the sensor is where the “magic” happens. It’s crucial to understand how sensor size and technology impact image quality.

Technical Insight: CCD vs BSI-CMOS

The Canon uses an older CCD sensor technology, which traditionally offered good color fidelity but struggles in low light and high ISO scenarios. The smaller 1/2.5" sensor inherently limits dynamic range and noise performance.

In contrast, the Samsung features a larger 1/1.7" BSI-CMOS sensor, known for greater light-gathering efficiency thanks to backside illumination. This translates to better low-light sensitivity, wider dynamic range, and more detailed images. Notably, Samsung’s sensor supports RAW capture - a massive plus if you like post-processing flexibility and want to maximize image quality.

Real-World Image Quality Observations

• Canon performs well in good light; colors are pleasant and images are noise-free up to ISO 400. However, images at ISO 800+ show visible noise and softer tones.
• Samsung’s EX2F delivers sharper detail and cleaner images at higher ISOs (up to 1600 and beyond), making it functionally superior for dim environments.
• The Samsung’s wider aperture lens (f/1.4 at wide end) enhances its low-light prowess and ability to create pleasing background separation.

Focal Range and Lens Performance

Lens versatility and optical quality often define a camera’s utility across photography genres.

The Canon’s Superzoom Specialty

The Canon’s 10× zoom lens covering 36-360mm equivalent makes it highly versatile:

• Great for wildlife, sports, and distant subjects.
• Less ideal for wide-angle landscapes or cramped interiors due to starting focal length.

Its macro capability down to 1cm is impressive for capturing fine details, helpful for nature shots and creative close-ups.

The Samsung’s Fast Standard Zoom

The Samsung opts for a shorter 3.3× zoom but with a significantly faster aperture:

• At wide-angle 24mm f/1.4, the EX2F excels in low light and provides attractive bokeh for portraits.
• The longer end is just 80mm equivalent, making it less suitable for distant wildlife or sports but superb for portraits, street photography, and general travel.

The external flash support is a boon if you like off-camera flash setups or more creative lighting.

Autofocus System and Shooting Responsiveness

AF speed and accuracy can make or break action and wildlife photography.

Both cameras rely on basic contrast-detection autofocus:

• Canon’s AF is slow and can hunt, especially in low-contrast or low-light scenes.
• Samsung’s system is slightly more responsive, aided by the newer sensor and lens design.

Neither camera is ideal for fast-moving subjects or continuous tracking sports/wildlife photography. If burst shooting is your priority, these compacts are limited, with Canon maxing out at 1fps.

Viewing and Framing: Screen and Viewfinder Comparison

Rear Screen and EVF

Screen quality affects how you compose and review images, especially outdoors and at awkward angles.

• Canon SX120 IS: Fixed, non-touch, 3-inch LCD with 230k dots - functional but outdated by today’s standards. Bright sunlight reduces visibility.
• Samsung EX2F: Fully articulated 3-inch AMOLED screen offering vibrant colors and great contrast, excellent for video and creative shooting angles. No touch functionality but bright and lively.

On viewfinder options:

• Canon has no viewfinder.
• Samsung offers an optional electronic viewfinder accessory, adding compositional flexibility not found on the Canon.

Sample Image Comparison: What You Can Expect Out of the Box

Canon SX120 IS screen back Samsung EX2F front Samsung EX2F screen back

Analyzing sample images from both:

• Canon images exhibit punchy colors but struggle in dynamic range and sharpness, especially in shadows and highlights.
• Samsung output shows richer detail, better highlight retention, and more balanced colors.
• Portraits with EX2F demonstrate more effective background separation thanks to the lens speed.
• Macro and telephoto shots favor Canon’s zoom reach but suffer from softness beyond mid-zoom lengths.

Performance Ratings and Genre Suitability

Canon SX120 IS

• Strengths: Compact, affordable, long zoom range, solid daylight image quality.
• Weaknesses: Outdated sensor and slow autofocus; poor low light and video specs.
• Score: Lower overall due to technological limitations but respectable in its target niche.

Samsung EX2F

• Strengths: Larger sensor, fast bright lens, articulated AMOLED touchscreen, RAW file support.
• Weaknesses: Limited zoom range, less suitable for telephoto needs.
• Score: Stronger overall, excelling especially in image quality and low light performance.

How They Perform by Photography Type

Video Capability: Moving Beyond Stills

For content creators who want video:

• Canon SX120 IS: Max 640×480 (VGA) resolution at 30fps with MJPEG compression - outdated by today’s standards, limiting professional videography.
• Samsung EX2F: Full HD 1080p at 30fps using H.264 codec - impressively crisp for a compact. Supports external HDMI output and an external hot shoe flash for lighting, broadening creative options.

The EX2F is clearly the more video-capable choice for casual vlogging or documenting travels.

Battery Life and Connectivity

• Canon runs on 2 x AA batteries - a double-edged sword: convenient replacements globally but shorter lifespan and added bulk.
• Samsung uses a rechargeable SLB-10A lithium-ion battery, typical for compacts, offering good endurance for the class.

Connectivity:

• Canon SX120 IS has no wireless features and only USB 2.0.
• Samsung EX2F includes built-in wireless transfer, allowing you to share images easily, plus USB 2.0 and HDMI for outputs.

Price-to-Performance and Value Analysis

If budget is your primary concern and you need long zoom reach, Canon may be the sensible choice. But if image quality, handling, and video matter more, Samsung’s EX2F justifies the premium.

Who Should Choose Which?

Canon PowerShot SX120 IS Is Best For:

• Enthusiasts wanting a simple, low-cost compact with a long telephoto zoom.
• Casual nature or wildlife photographers on a budget.
• Those who prefer AA battery power for convenience during travel.

Samsung EX2F Shines For:

• Photographers prioritizing low-light performance and portrait quality.
• Those who want flexible shooting angles and video options.
• Enthusiasts who appreciate RAW support and superior sensor technology.
• Travel and street photographers who value a compact yet versatile tool.

Summing It Up: Your Next Compact Camera Companion

Choosing between these two compact cameras depends largely on your shooting priorities and workflow preferences. The Canon SX120 IS remains a capable superzoom with straightforward controls, excellent for daylight telephoto shots and macro work on a tight budget. However, its older sensor and limited video capacities mark it as a more entry-level choice.

The Samsung EX2F impresses with significant technological advances: a larger and more modern 1/1.7" BSI-CMOS sensor, blazing f/1.4 lens facilitating beautiful portraits and low-light photography, articulated AMOLED screen, and solid Full HD video capture. This camera better suits photographers who want a compact with advanced image quality and creative control, accepting a shorter zoom range as a trade-off.

At the end of the day, we recommend handling both cameras if possible. Nothing replaces real-world feel and shooting experience. Check out sample images, test menus, and if you’re a videographer, take some test footage. Pair the camera with lenses or accessories that expand your creative toolkit.

Getting Started and Accessorizing

For the Canon SX120 IS:

• Consider high-quality AA rechargeable batteries for cost-effective power.
• Use a comfortable hand strap or neckstrap for extended wildlife shooting.
• A UV filter helps protect the lens since it’s fixed.

For the Samsung EX2F:

• Invest in the optional electronic viewfinder for precise framing.
• Explore external flashes via the hot shoe for creative lighting.
• Use SDXC cards for ample storage if you shoot RAW or Full HD video.

Photography is a journey enriched by the tools you select. Whether you lean toward Canon’s telephoto reach or Samsung’s high-quality sensor and lens, both cameras open doors to new creative possibilities. Dive in, experiment, and let your images tell your story.

Happy shooting!