Casio EX-H15 vs Samsung NX10

Comparing the Casio EX-H15 and Samsung NX10: An Expert Examination for Discerning Photographers

Choosing between the Casio EX-H15 and Samsung NX10 involves evaluating two distinctly different cameras launched around the same period in early 2010, yet targeting very different users and photographic ambitions. Both models mark notable points within their categories - the Casio as a versatile compact zoom with sensor-shift stabilization, the Samsung as an entry-level mirrorless system with interchangeable lenses and a much larger APS-C sensor.

Having extensively field-tested thousands of cameras over 15 years, this detailed comparison aims to provide photography enthusiasts and professionals with a granular understanding of key technical and operational differences, performance trade-offs, and practical suitability across a gamut of photographic disciplines from portraiture to travel. This is not a superficial spec sheet rewrite but an authoritative breakdown rooted in hands-on evaluation and industry-standard assessment criteria.

Physical Design and Handling: Portability Versus Control

The Casio EX-H15’s compact, pocketable body (101 x 60 x 28 mm, 161g) emphasizes travel-friendliness and uncomplicated operation. Its slim profile fits easily into small bags or large pockets, though the narrow grip and lack of a dedicated viewfinder entail a less confident hold during extended use. Conversely, the Samsung NX10’s considerably larger SLR-style body (123 x 87 x 40 mm, 499g) echoes established DSLR ergonomics, offering substantial grip real estate and more manual control access. The weight difference is significant, impacting prolonged handheld operation and portability.

The ergonomics of the NX10 afford better tactile feedback with physical dials and buttons, which enhances efficiency during fast-changing shooting conditions. In contrast, Casio’s simplified control layout is sufficient for casual shooting but limits responsiveness and customization. Users with medium to large hands may find the EX-H15’s small form factor somewhat cramped.

The lack of customizable manual exposure modes or dedicated exposure compensation on the Casio renders control less flexible compared to the NX10’s traditional PASM dial options and programmable buttons. For photographers valuing nuanced control, the NX10’s interface is decidedly superior.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: CCD Compact Versus APS-C CMOS

This is where the two cameras fundamentally diverge: the Casio employs a 1/2.3" CCD sensor (6.17 x 4.55 mm) with 14MP resolution, while the Samsung features a substantially larger APS-C CMOS sensor (23.4 x 15.6 mm) with a comparable 15MP count. The approximate sensor area ratio of 1:13 directly affects critical image attributes - dynamic range, noise performance, color fidelity, and depth of field control.

In practical terms, the Samsung NX10’s larger sensor offers:

• Superior low-light sensitivity: The CMOS sensor benefits from deeper well capacity and lower read noise, translating to usable ISOs up to 3200 compared to Casio’s native 3200 ISO limit but with degraded signal-to-noise ratio.
• Richer tonal gradation: The NX10 scored 22.8 bits in color depth and a dynamic range around 10.8 EV stops (per DxOMark data). Casio lacks objective testing data but CCD sensors at this size generally exhibit limited dynamic range (~6-7 EV) and color depth.
• Shallow depth of field potential: Thanks to the 1.5x crop factor and the ability to mount fast lenses, photographers can achieve more pronounced subject separation, benefiting portrait and macro disciplines.
• Image files: NX10’s raw shooting capability offers significant post-processing latitude, absent on the EX-H15, which only supports JPEG.

Casio’s sensor, while less competitive technically, delivers adequate results for casual shooting in well-lit conditions. The inherent limitations become evident at high ISO or in scenes demanding detail recovery from shadows and highlights.

Autofocus Systems: Single-Point Contrast Detection Versus Multi-Point Hybrid

The Casio EX-H15 maintains a simple contrast detection AF system without face or subject recognition, limiting focus speed and accuracy especially in low contrast or moving subjects. Autofocus is single-point only, lacking continuous tracking or multi-area evaluation. This restricts effectiveness for fast-moving subjects such as wildlife or sports.

The Samsung NX10 implements a 15-point contrast detection AF with selectable zones and face detection capabilities. While it also lacks phase-detection (typical of mirrorless cameras in 2010), the added points and face recognition afford more reliable focusing in challenging compositions. AF speed is moderate but generally adequate for everyday scenarios, and continuous AF during live view shooting is supported.

Photographers requiring swift, precise autofocus for action or tracking should lean towards the NX10.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing

Neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or shockproofing, which is typical for their respective classes and price points. The Casio’s plastic-shell compact body is vulnerable to rough use, while the NX10’s more robust build and SLR-style casing provide slightly better durability, though still not professional-grade.

Neither is recommended for adverse environmental shooting (rain, dust storms) without external protection.

User Interface, Display, and Viewfinder Considerations

Both feature 3-inch LCDs but differ markedly in resolution and quality. The NX10’s OLED display with 614k dots delivers higher contrast, better color reproduction, and improved viewing angles compared to Casio’s fixed LCD at 461k resolution.

The NX10 additionally features a 920k-dot electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage and 0.57x magnification, a significant usability advantage, allowing precise framing and shooting under bright ambient light. The EX-H15 lacks any viewfinder, relying solely on the rear screen, which hampers outdoor visibility and stability.

From a usability and compositional precision standpoint, the Samsung NX10's hybrid electronic viewfinder/LCD combination is more conducive to disciplined photography workflows, especially for professionals and enthusiasts.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: Fixed Zoom Versus Interchangeable System

The EX-H15 comes equipped with a fixed 10x zoom lens equivalent to 24-240mm f/3.2-5.7. While versatile for general purpose shooting, quick aperture changes, or specialized optics are impossible. The 5.8x focal length multiplier corresponding to the small sensor size results in modest control over depth of field and limited low-light capability.

Conversely, the NX10 uses the Samsung NX mount, supporting 32 native lenses ranging from wide-angle primes to telephoto zooms, including fast apertures and macro optics. This adaptability dramatically increases creative and technical potential across all genres, from wildlife telephoto reach to portraiture bokeh and landscape clarity.

The availability of third-party adapters for NX lenses enhances versatility further, offering integration with legacy optics. The Casio’s fixed lens setup, while simpler, precludes such growth.

Continuous Shooting, Buffering, and Burst Performance

The NX10 delivers a continuous shooting speed of 3 fps, manageable but modest for capturing fast action sequences typical in sports or wildlife. The Casio lacks continuous burst specifications, implying no or very limited multi-frame capture.

In real-world use, the NX10’s capacity allows freeze-frame sequences with reasonable buffer depth for brief bursts. For action photography practitioners, 3 fps can be limiting but adequate for casual sports or family events.

Image Stabilization and Low-Light Usability

The Casio includes sensor-shift image stabilization, which is beneficial at its small sensor size and telephoto focal lengths to counteract handshake and enable sharper handheld shots at slower shutter speeds. However, the effectiveness is inherently limited by sensor characteristics.

The Samsung NX10 does not feature in-body stabilization, relying solely on lens-based optical stabilization if available. This places more emphasis on technique or tripod support when shooting in low-light or at long focal lengths.

Users who prioritize casual travel and low-light shooting without carrying lenses might prefer the Casio’s built-in stabilization, whereas the NX10’s system trade-off reflects its interchangeable-lens design philosophy.

Video Capabilities: Basic HD Versus Quality Compression

Both cameras support HD video capture at 1280x720, 30 fps, but differ in codec and recording quality. The Casio records Motion JPEG, resulting in large files with lower compression efficiency. The NX10’s H.264 codec provides better compression balance and quality retention.

Neither offers advanced video features such as external microphone input, 4K recording, or in-body stabilization during video, limiting their utility for serious videographers.

Battery Life and Storage Flexibility

The NX10’s battery life rated at 400 shots per charge outperforms typical compact expectations, owing to the more efficient battery pack and power management. The Casio’s battery life is unspecified but typically compacts offer less stamina due to smaller batteries and less efficient power draw during LCD-only operation.

Both use single SD/SDHC slots for storage, with the NX10 advantageously supporting higher capacity and faster cards via USB 2.0 interface.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

The Casio is Eye-Fi compatible, allowing wireless image transfer with compatible SD cards, an early form of wireless integration. The NX10 lacks any built-in wireless but includes HDMI output and supports optional GPS modules.

Photographers valuing direct camera-to-device connectivity will find the Casio’s limited wireless more immediately practical, but with considerable caveats such as reliance on proprietary SD cards.

Price and Value Assessment

At launch pricing, the Casio EX-H15 retailed near $300, positioning it as an affordable, all-in-one travel companion for casual photographers seeking a long zoom within a compact form.

The Samsung NX10’s approximate $626 price places it at entry-level mirrorless territory in 2010, offering expanded creative control, superior image quality, and lens system flexibility, catering to enthusiasts progressing beyond point-and-shoot cameras.

The value balance depends heavily on photographic goals: portability and simple operation favor Casio; technical and creative expansiveness favor Samsung.

Performance Across Photography Genres

Portraiture:
Samsung NX10’s larger sensor and interchangeable lens support produce superior bokeh and realistic skin tones with detailed gradation. Its face detection autofocus further aids in achieving sharp eye focus. The Casio’s smaller sensor and fixed aperture range limit background blur potential, rendering portraits less distinctive.

Landscape:
Dynamic range and resolution advantages make the NX10 better suited for fine detail and tonal nuance in landscapes. Casio’s limited sensor size and JPEG-only output constrain exposure latitude and detail retention. Neither camera offers weather sealing critical for harsh outdoor environments.

Wildlife and Sports:
NX10’s 3 fps burst and flexible lenses can accommodate some wildlife and sports shooting but lack the speed and autofocus sophistication prized by professionals. Casio’s simpler AF and absence of burst capability render it ill-suited beyond casual snaps.

Street Photography:
Casio’s compact size and discreet operation align well with street shooting preferences for portability and low profile. However, limited low-light autofocus and fixed lens versatility are constraints. NX10’s bulkier form is less covert but offers more creative control.

Macro:
Lens selection on the NX10 facilitates dedicated macro shooting with precise focus and magnification. Casio does not specify macro focusing capabilities, limiting close-up performance.

Night and Astro:
NX10’s better high ISO performance and manual exposure modes suit night photography and astrophotography modalities. Casio’s minimal ISO capabilities and restricted exposure control preclude extensive night shooting.

Video:
Basic HD video from both cameras fulfills casual use. Samsung’s H.264 compression provides slight edge in file management but neither meets modern videography standards.

Travel:
Casio excels as a lightweight, all-in-one travel camera with built-in stabilization and long zoom. NX10 sacrifices portability for versatility and image quality.

Professional Work:
NX10 supports raw files, manual exposure, and expandable lens support enabling integration into professional workflows. Casio is oriented toward snapshots with limited post-processing latitude.

Practical Recommendations

• For Beginners and Casual Photographers:
  The Casio EX-H15 offers simplicity, compactness, and a handy zoom, suitable for travel or social photography without the hassle of interchangeable lenses. Its stabilization assists in handheld conditions, but users must accept image quality limitations and lack of manual controls.

• For Enthusiasts and Aspiring Professionals:
  The Samsung NX10 presents a more futureproof platform, larger sensor benefits, and exposure versatility needed for deliberate artistry in diverse genres. Its lens ecosystem supports specialized photography, but at the cost of size, weight, and price.

• For Travel and Street Photographers Prioritizing Discretion:
  Casio’s compact dimensions and weight provide clear advantages, although image quality compromises are significant. The NX10’s size hampers discreet use but yields superior imaging potential.

• For Portrait and Landscape Specialists:
  NX10’s sensor size, raw support, and lens interchangeability decisively outperform the EX-H15, enabling superior creative control and image fidelity essential to these genres.

• For Action and Wildlife Shooters:
  Neither camera is ideal due to limited AF tracking and burst rates, but the NX10’s faster AF and buffer present a marginal benefit.

Summary Assessment of Overall Performance

The Samsung NX10’s technical superiority in sensor size, lens flexibility, and manual control capabilities offset its heavier, bulkier nature, offering a compelling entry point into mirrorless systems for serious photography.

The Casio EX-H15 remains an accessible, no-frills compact zoom meant for casual everyday photography where convenience trumps image quality or versatility.

In-Depth Sample Image Comparison

Casio EX H15 front Casio EX H15 screen back

Examining photo samples from both cameras reveals the tangible outcomes of sensor size and processing differences. The NX10’s images exhibit sharper details, richer colors, and better highlight retention. Casio photos tend toward flatter contrast and visible noise in shadows. JPEG compression artifacts are more apparent in the EX-H15 output.

Final Thoughts

This comparison underscores a fundamental division in photographic toolsets: convenience and compactness versus technical capability and creative expansion.

• The Casio EX-H15 suits photographers valuing a light, easy-to-carry camera for snapshots and travel without demanding customization or image quality criticality.
• The Samsung NX10 appeals to those seeking the foundations of a more sophisticated photographic system, willing to accept higher cost, weight, and complexity for enhanced results and workflow integration.

Each choice aligns with distinct photographic personalities and use cases, with neither camera achieving excellence across all metrics but each fulfilling its intended role in 2010’s competitive market.

For detailed hands-on advice or comparisons with modern equivalents, photographers should consider sensor technology advances, autofocus improvements, and lens availability made over the past decade to ensure their choice reflects current creative and technical requirements.