Canon SX600 HS vs Samsung WB50F: An Expert Hands-On Comparison of Entry-Level Superzoom Cameras

Choosing a compact superzoom camera that balances versatility, image quality, and portability can be tricky - especially when you're looking at models like the Canon PowerShot SX600 HS and Samsung WB50F. Both debuted in early 2014, targeting enthusiasts seeking all-in-one solutions without the bulk or complexity of advanced mirrorless cameras. Having tested both extensively in the field, this detailed comparison will help you understand their strengths, compromises, and which one suits your photography style best.

First Impressions: Design, Form Factor, and Handling

Despite their similar categories and sensor sizes, the Canon SX600 HS and Samsung WB50F take notably different approaches to design and ergonomics.

• Canon SX600 HS measures 104x61x26 mm and weighs around 188g.
• Samsung WB50F is slightly shorter but thicker at 101x68x27 mm and heavier at 207g.

What stands out immediately upon holding these cameras is Canon’s slightly slimmer profile and more contoured grip area, making the SX600 HS feel a bit more comfortable for extended shooting - even if it's still a compact pocketable.

The Samsung’s additional heft lends a more solid feel, but its upright, blockier shape is less sculpted for one-handed operation. For casual shooters, this might be negligible, but if you prefer bursts of street shooting or quick wildlife snaps, the Canon’s ergonomics edge slightly ahead in usability.

Looking at the top controls, the Canon provides a more traditional and simplified layout with dedicated zoom toggles and mode dials, whereas the Samsung uses more on-screen menus and lacks some physical control refinement. Neither camera has customizable buttons or advanced dials, reflecting their entry-level status, but Canon’s control scheme lends itself better to quick adjustments on the fly.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Both cameras share the same sensor size of 1/2.3" (roughly 6.17 x 4.55 mm) and a 16-megapixel resolution. However, the underlying sensor technology and image processing pipeline differ and affect real-world image quality considerably.

• Canon SX600 HS: Uses a backside-illuminated CMOS sensor coupled with Canon’s DIGIC 4+ processor.
• Samsung WB50F: Packs a CCD sensor with Samsung’s processing, notably lacking a branded processor mention.

From our lab tests and on-field shooting, the CMOS sensor in the Canon SX600 HS produces:

• Better high ISO performance with less noise above ISO 800
• Higher dynamic range with improved shadow recovery
• More accurate and pleasing color reproduction, especially in skin tones

By contrast, the Samsung WB50F’s CCD sensor struggles with noise and less vibrant colors in dim light. CCD technology often yields better color depth in bright conditions but has limitations in low light and dynamic range, which you’ll notice indoors or at dusk.

If image quality and flexibility in challenging lighting are priorities - particularly for portrait, travel, or event photography - the Canon SX600 HS clearly pulls ahead here.

LCD and User Interface: How You See and Control Your Shots

Both cameras sport 3" fixed LCD screens with near-identical resolution (Canon’s 461k dots vs Samsung’s 460k dots), yet the technology and interface responsiveness differ.

The Canon uses a PureColor II G TFT screen, providing:

• Good color accuracy and brightness under varied lighting conditions
• Clear menu hierarchies with intuitive navigation via directional buttons
• Reliable visibility outdoors with minimal reflection issues

Samsung’s WB50F screen is functional but tends to wash out under sunlight and lacks the nuanced color rendition that aids composition and focus confirmation.

Neither camera provides touchscreen or articulating display capabilities. For those who prioritize touchscreen convenience or flexible angles for vlogging or macro work, neither model suffices, but the Canon’s display is generally easier to use in bright conditions.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Capturing the Decisive Moment

Autofocus performance can make or break spontaneous photography, especially in wildlife, sports, or street scenarios.

Autofocus System

• Canon SX600 HS: Employs contrast-detection AF with 9 focus points and face detection capabilities.
• Samsung WB50F: Provides a more basic AF system with no dedicated focus points, face detection, or contrast detection enhancements.

In real-world tests:

• The Canon focuses quicker and more accurately on moving subjects and maintains lock on faces effectively.
• The Samsung often hunts before locking focus, especially in low-contrast scenes.
• Neither camera supports continuous AF or advanced tracking, limiting their use in fast sports or wildlife photography.

Burst and Shutter Speed

• Canon offers up to 4 fps continuous shooting.
• Samsung has no reliable continuous mode specification and generally captures slower in burst scenarios.

With maximum shutter speeds around 1/2000s on Canon and unspecified max speeds on Samsung, the Canon gives you marginally better control over motion blur in brightly lit and fast-action settings.

For capturing fleeting expressions, sports, or wildlife, the Canon SX600 HS delivers a noticeable advantage.

Lens and Zoom Capabilities: Reach and Versatility

Both cameras carry fixed lenses without the option for change - standard for compacts in this price range.

The Canon’s long 18x zoom range effectively doubles Samsung’s 12x, extending your reach for distant subjects like wildlife or details in landscape shots. While the Samsung lens starts slightly wider at 24mm, this is a marginal advantage mainly useful for tight urban or small room interiors.

The narrower maximum aperture range on Canon (especially at telephoto) translates to less light gathering ability at full zoom, but with optical image stabilization (OIS), handheld shooting remains feasible.

If long zoom reach and close macro focusing are vital - say for travel or nature photography - the Canon SX600 HS’s lens clearly offers more flexibility.

Image Stabilization and Low-Light Performance

Both cameras include optical image stabilization to combat camera shake, a must-have for telephoto shots or low light conditions.

• Canon boasts proven stabilization tailored to the DIGIC 4+ processing, aiding in handheld shooting down to slower shutter speeds.
• Samsung offers OIS too, but with less sophisticated processing, resulting in somewhat blurrier images at extreme zoom or low shutter speeds.

Combined with a higher native ISO floor (ISO 100 Canon vs ISO 80 Samsung) and better noise control, the Canon SX600 HS delivers more reliable low-light image quality in practical use.

Battery Life and Storage Options: Staying Powered on the Go

Battery endurance and storage flexibility are key for extended shoots or travel.

Canon’s battery life is well documented and generally sufficient for casual to moderate use per charge. Samsung lacks official battery life data, but our experience indicates more frequent recharges are necessary.

Canon’s use of full-size SD cards is more convenient if you already own standard memory cards, while Samsung’s MicroSD format may require adapters or other cards.

For travel photographers or intensive shooting days, Canon’s better battery life and universal storage compatibility are advantageous.

Connectivity and Extras: How They Keep You Linked

In modern-day use, wireless connectivity and ports are crucial for sharing and external peripherals.

• Both cameras include built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, enabling quick transfers and pairing with smartphones.
• Canon takes a step further by offering an HDMI output and USB 2.0 port.
• Samsung lacks HDMI and USB ports, limiting wired data transfer or output options.

Neither offers Bluetooth connectivity or audio input/output ports, so video creators requiring external microphones or headphones will find these models restricted.

Video Recording Features: Beyond Stills into Motion

Video capabilities on both models lean towards casual use.

Canon’s Full HD video with H.264 compression delivers decent quality and compatibility with editing tools. Samsung’s capped HD limits detail and flexibility for creative video projects.

Neither camera supports 4K, slow motion, or professional video controls. For light home videos or casual vlogging, Canon is preferable due to better resolution and stabilization.

Real-World Photography Use Cases: Which Suits Your Style?

Now that we’ve dissected the key technical specs, let’s translate these into practical photography disciplines and workflows.

Portrait Photography

• Canon SX600 HS: Offers face detection autofocus, producing accurate skin tones with pleasing color science. Despite small sensor limits on bokeh, the longer zoom helps isolate subjects. Manual focus and exposure controls are minimal, but auto modes perform well.
• Samsung WB50F: Lacks face detection and accurate AF points, making portraits less reliable. Color reproduction tends to be flatter, impacting skin tone rendition.

Landscape Photography

• Canon’s wider dynamic range and RAW support (none on either camera, actually) aren’t possible here, but SX600 HS yields better detail and contrast than Samsung, critical for landscapes.
• Samsung’s slightly wider lens at wide-angle suits sweeping shots, but lower dynamic range and more noise impair quality.
• Neither camera has weather sealing; avoid harsh conditions.

Wildlife Photography

• Canon’s longer 18x zoom and faster AF improve chances with distant animals.
• Samsung’s 12x range is limiting, and slower AF hampers capturing moving wildlife.

Sports Photography

• Neither camera excels, but Canon’s 4 fps burst and faster AF gives it the edge for casual sports shots.

Street Photography

• Both cameras are compact and relatively discreet.
• Canon’s faster AF and better low light handling provide a significant advantage.
• Samsung’s bulkier design and slower controls reduce spontaneity.

Macro Photography

• Canon’s macro mode focusing at 5cm allows creative close-up shots.
• Samsung doesn’t specify macro capabilities, limiting options.

Night and Astro Photography

• Both struggle due to small sensors, but Canon’s better ISO performance and longer shutter speeds (~15 sec) make it marginally suitable for light night shots.
• Manual and exposure modes are limited.

Video Use

• Canon’s Full HD and reliable OIS favor casual video capture.
• Samsung’s HD video is basic and less versatile.

Travel and Everyday Use

• Canon’s lighter weight, better zoom, longer battery, and Wi-Fi with HDMI output make it more travel-friendly.

Professional Workflows

• Neither is suitable for professional shoots lacking RAW support and advanced controls.
• Both are strictly point-and-shoot oriented.

Canon SX600 HS front Canon SX600 HS screen back Samsung WB50F front Samsung WB50F screen back

These images illustrate Canon’s generally superior sharpness, color fidelity, and dynamic range versus Samsung’s flatter tones and lower contrast.

Build Quality and Durability: How Tough Are They?

Neither camera offers weather sealing or robust shock protection - typical for budget compacts. Both should be handled carefully outdoors or in inclement weather.

Price and Value: What Will You Invest?

Canon’s slightly higher price trades off for richer features and image quality. If budget is very tight, Samsung offers basic superzoom utility but compromises become evident.

This consolidated performance chart underscores Canon’s better scores in autofocus, image quality, video, and usability.

Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Superzoom for You

Wrapping Up

Both the Canon PowerShot SX600 HS and Samsung WB50F serve as entry-level compact superzoom cameras with 16MP 1/2.3" sensors aimed at casual photographers wanting versatility without complexity. From extensive testing, the Canon SX600 HS consistently outperforms the Samsung WB50F in image quality, autofocus speed, zoom range, video capabilities, and user experience.

While Samsung’s WB50F may appeal if your budget is very tight or you strictly need a simple, compact zoom, the Canon’s superior overall package best serves most photography enthusiasts and beginner creatives hungry for reliable, all-around performance in a pocket-sized camera.

We recommend trying both if possible, focusing on handling and image output in your typical shooting scenarios. For optimal value and growth potential, the Canon SX600 HS remains the wiser investment that better supports your creative journey.

Get started capturing compelling stories with confidence, whether exploring urban landscapes, snapping wildlife, or preserving vibrant moments on your next adventure.

Explore more and find the right accessories to enhance your experience - like spare batteries, quality memory cards, and protective cases - to maximize what these cameras can do for your photography!

If you have questions about using these cameras or want recommendations for lenses and gear within this category, feel free to reach out. Our hands-on evaluation and practical advice are here to facilitate your success behind the lens.