Canon SX40 HS vs Samsung NX5

Here is a in-depth overview of the Canon SX40 HS versus Samsung NX5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Canon and Samsung. The image resolution of the SX40 HS (12MP) and the NX5 (15MP) is fairly well matched but the SX40 HS (1/2.3") and NX5 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The SX40 HS was revealed 16 months later than the NX5 making them a generation apart from one another. The two cameras have different body design with the Canon SX40 HS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the SX40 HS scores against the NX5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX40 HS and Samsung NX5. The full galleries are provided at Canon SX40 HS Gallery and Samsung NX5 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera frequently, you should factor its weight and volume. The Canon SX40 HS has got exterior measurements of 123mm x 92mm x 108mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 4.3") along with a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) while the Samsung NX5 has sizing of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") and a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

See the Canon SX40 HS versus Samsung NX5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the SX40 HS vs the NX5.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SX40 HS and NX5 is 64 and 80 respectively.

Quite often, it can be hard to visualise the gap between sensor sizing merely by looking at technical specs. The visual below will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SX40 HS and NX5.

As you can tell, both of those cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SX40 HS using its tinier sensor will make achieving bokeh more challenging and the Samsung NX5 will resolve extra detail because of its extra 3MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The newer SX40 HS is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.