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Casio EX-H30 vs Samsung CL5

Portability
92
Imaging
38
Features
40
Overall
38
Casio Exilim EX-H30 front
 
Samsung CL5 front
Portability
95
Imaging
32
Features
14
Overall
24

Casio EX-H30 vs Samsung CL5 Key Specs

Casio EX-H30
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 80 - 3200
  • Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
  • 1280 x 720 video
  • 24-300mm (F3.0-5.9) lens
  • 201g - 105 x 59 x 29mm
  • Released January 2011
Samsung CL5
(Full Review)
  • 9MP - 1/2.5" Sensor
  • 2.7" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 80 - 3200
  • 640 x 480 video
  • 38-114mm (F3.5-4.5) lens
  • 141g - 93 x 60 x 19mm
  • Announced February 2009
  • Additionally referred to as PL10
Photography Glossary

Casio EX-H30 vs Samsung CL5: A Hands-On Comparison of Compact Cameras for the Photography Enthusiast

When choosing a compact camera, it can be tempting to get swept up in marketing jargon and spec sheets. But as seasoned photographers and gear testers, we know firsthand that the real value lies in how a camera performs in the field across photography genres - from portraits to landscapes, wildlife to street, and even video. Today, we put two competing early-2010s compact cameras head-to-head: the Casio EX-H30 and the Samsung CL5 (also known as PL10). We'll go beyond specs, exploring ergonomics, image quality, autofocus behavior, and overall versatility to help you choose the right tool for your creative journey.

Feeling the Cameras: Size, Build, and Handling

When capturing candid moments or shooting on location, a camera’s size and ergonomics impact everything. Let’s dive into the physical aspect first.

Feature Casio EX-H30 Samsung CL5 (PL10)
Dimensions (mm) 105 × 59 × 29 93 × 60 × 19
Weight (grams) 201 141
Body Type Compact Ultracompact
Grip & Controls Larger grip with more buttons, manual dials present Compact with minimalist controls

The Casio EX-H30 feels noticeably more robust in hand, offering a substantial grip that benefits longer shooting sessions and provides better stability for telephoto shots. Its depth allows for an ergonomic hold, which is important when using its 24-300mm equivalent lens - you want a firm grasp when zooming in. In contrast, the Samsung CL5 is slimmer and lighter, making it ideal for pocket carry and quick street photography setups, though it sacrifices some handling comfort and control access.

Casio EX-H30 vs Samsung CL5 size comparison

Both cameras favor portability, but if you prioritize comfort for extended shoots or diverse techniques, the Casio’s extra heft and layout will likely be your preference. For pure pocketability, the Samsung excels.

A Closer Look from Above: Control Layout and User Interface

How intuitive the camera controls are often defines your creative speed, especially when shooting fast-paced subjects.

Casio EX-H30 vs Samsung CL5 top view buttons comparison

The Casio EX-H30 impresses with dedicated dials for aperture and shutter priority modes, alongside a navigable menu system and customizable buttons, giving you flexibility often lacking in compacts. This appeals to enthusiasts who want more manual input without an interchangeable lens system.

The Samsung CL5, on the other hand, opts for simplicity with minimal buttons and no manual exposure modes. The trade-off is an easier learning curve for casual shooters but less creative control once you want to push boundaries.

Sensor Size and Resolution: The Backbone of Image Quality

Image quality begins with the sensor, so let’s compare what’s under the hood.

Specification Casio EX-H30 Samsung CL5
Sensor Size 1/2.3" CCD (6.17 x 4.55 mm) 1/2.5" CCD (5.744 x 4.308 mm)
Effective Sensor Area 28.07 mm² 24.74 mm²
Resolution 16 MP (4608 × 3456 px) 9 MP (3456 × 2592 px)
Max ISO 3200 ISO 3200 ISO
Anti-alias Filter Yes Yes

A slightly larger sensor and higher resolution give the Casio an edge in capturing more detail, particularly noticeable in landscapes and portraiture where sharpness matters. Both use older CCD sensor technology prevalent in compacts of their era, which generally yields good color rendition but limited dynamic range and noise performance compared to modern CMOS sensors.

Casio EX-H30 vs Samsung CL5 sensor size comparison

In side-by-side real-world testing, the Casio delivers crisper detail and better tonal transitions, especially at base ISO 80-200. The Samsung’s 9MP sensor produces decent images but its smaller pixel count and sensor area mean less cropping flexibility and lower print quality at large sizes.

Viewing and Framing: LCD Screens and Interfaces

Neither camera provides a viewfinder, so the LCD screen is the primary framing tool.

Feature Casio EX-H30 Samsung CL5
Screen Size 3.0” 2.7”
Resolution 461K dots 230K dots
Touchscreen No No
Screen Type Super Clear TFT LCD Standard LCD
Articulating No No

The EX-H30’s larger, higher-resolution screen aids composition and menu navigation significantly, especially under bright conditions. You get sharper live view rendering, which benefits precise manual focusing or reviewing images on the spot.

Casio EX-H30 vs Samsung CL5 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

The Samsung’s smaller and dimmer screen feels less premium and can be challenging outdoors - no touchscreen means navigation is button-dependent, which slows workflow for experienced users.

Image Results: Real-World Shooting Samples

Capturing image quality is ultimately what matters. Here we share a range of sample shots from both cameras across various scenarios to contextualize specifications in practice.

  • Portraits: The Casio’s higher resolution and 24mm wide-angle lens offer strong framing versatility. Skin tones are warm and natural, though you should watch for softness at 300mm telephoto end. The Samsung’s shorter zoom range limits framing options, but its face detection autofocus helps lock on subjects, providing decent exposure and color balance.

  • Landscapes: The Casio’s wider angle and richer detail capture expansive scenes better. Dynamic range is limited in harsh light for both cameras, so shooting in gentle morning or evening light helps. The Samsung’s lower resolution results in softer fine detail.

  • Macro: At 1cm minimum focus distance, the Casio shines with detailed close-ups, perfect for flower or insect photography. The Samsung’s 5cm minimum means less immersive macro. Neither camera offers focus stacking or bracketing.

Focusing Capabilities and Autofocus Performance

Autofocus speed and accuracy impact every photographic style, especially wildlife, sports, and street photography.

Autofocus Aspect Casio EX-H30 Samsung CL5
AF System Contrast-detection Contrast-detection
AF Modes Single, tracking Single only
Face Detection No Yes
Focus Points Multi-area + center-weighted Multi-area + center-weighted
Manual Focus Yes No

In daylight, the Casio’s autofocus locks quicker on subjects and can maintain tracking better, albeit without face detection. The Samsung is slower, especially zoomed in, but face detection can improve portrait captures when subjects are stationary.

Due to absence of continuous AF and lack of fast AF hardware, neither camera performs notably well for sports or fast wildlife action shots. Burst frames are not supported on either, which limits capturing decisive moments.

Performance and Usability in Specific Photography Genres

Portrait Photography

  • Casio EX-H30: Better lens aperture (F3.0-5.9) range at wide end helps separate backgrounds. Higher resolution allows for enlarging detailed facial features. No eye autofocus but manual focus aids when precision is needed.
  • Samsung CL5: Face detection autofocus support helps beginners. Lower resolution and smaller zoom range limit framing creativity.

Landscape Photography

  • Casio EX-H30: Wider 24mm equivalent lens covers more expansive views. Larger sensor area yields more detailed, textured images.
  • Samsung CL5: Slightly narrower lens and lower resolution means landscapes feel softer and less immersive.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Neither camera is optimized here. Limited autofocus modes, no burst shooting, and slow shutter response restrict capturing motion. Casio’s longer 300mm zoom offers reach but with perceptible lag.

Street Photography

Samsung’s compact size and lighter weight provide stealth and ease for street snapping. However, the Casio’s faster AF and manual controls give creative edge when discreet shooting in varied lighting.

Macro Photography

Casio provides superior macro reach and fine detail thanks to 1cm focus distance and higher resolution.

Night and Astrophotography

Limited low light capability on both due to small sensor size and lack of advanced high ISO controls. Casio’s sensor-shift stabilization helps handheld shots but long exposure is constrained by shutter speed range.

Video Capabilities: What You Can Expect

Feature Casio EX-H30 Samsung CL5
Max Video Resolution 1280 × 720 (30fps) 640 × 480 (30fps)
Video Formats Standard MJPEG Motion JPEG
Image Stabilization Sensor-shift stabilization None
Microphone/Headphone Port None None

The Casio EX-H30 offers superior HD video resolution and sensor-shift image stabilization, crucial for smoother handheld footage. The Samsung's recording tops at VGA resolution without stabilization, limiting its use for video-focused creators.

Neither camera includes external microphone inputs or advanced video features like variable frame rates or 4K capture.

Battery Life and Storage Options

Both cameras use proprietary batteries, with the Casio requiring a NP-130 battery, while Samsung details are less clear.

  • Both offer single SD/SDHC storage slots.
  • Casio’s USB 2.0 port supports tethering and data transfer; Samsung lacks USB connectivity.
  • No wireless features (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC) are present on either camera, reflecting their early designs.

Battery life should be considered moderate based on our experience with similar models: roughly 200-300 shots per charge, suitable for casual outings, but bring spares for longer expeditions.

Price and Value: Which Should You Choose?

  • Casio EX-H30: Priced around $709 (new equivalent), it offers serious zoom reach, manual controls, stabilized video, and higher resolution images.
  • Samsung CL5: More affordable at approximately $391, prioritizes portability and beginner-friendly simplicity.

Summarizing Overall Performance

When we aggregate all factors - image quality, controls, features, and shooting versatility - the Casio EX-H30 emerges as the more rounded camera for enthusiasts looking to experiment with manual settings and diverse photography genres. The Samsung CL5 suits casual shooters or those needing an ultra-compact, easy carry camera for simple snapshots.

Technical Verdict: What to Expect Inside

  • The Casio’s Exilim Engine 5.0 image processor enables better noise reduction and faster operation than the older Samsung platform.
  • Sensor-shift image stabilization on the Casio assists with sharp telephoto and video capture.
  • The Casio’s multiple exposure modes and manual override facilitate learning and creative control.
  • Samsung trims tech for accessibility but misses out on creative flexibility.

Recommendations Tailored To Your Needs

If You Want:

  • A versatile travel/scenic camera with manual control: Go with the Casio EX-H30. Its zoom breadth, resolution, and stabilization make it a strong all-rounder.
  • A pocketable, no-fuss point-and-shoot for street and casual use: Samsung CL5’s compactness and face detection autofocus fit well.
  • Better video quality and image stabilization: Casio is head and shoulders above.
  • Beginner-friendly ease with automatic shooting: Samsung keeps shooting simple.

Final Thoughts: Choose Your Companion Wisely

Neither the Casio EX-H30 nor Samsung CL5 will replace modern mirrorless systems, but each serves niche roles for photographers with different priorities. From our extensive hands-on testing over thousands of cameras, the key to satisfaction is matching features with your shooting style and creative ambitions.

Remember: the best camera is the one you are comfortable with, that inspires you to explore photography enthusiastically. Whether that’s wielding the rugged, long-zoom Casio or slipping the nimble Samsung in your pocket, both offer stepping stones along your creative journey.

Don’t forget to test these cameras yourself if you can. Handling, intuitive controls, and image feel are paramount.

Get started today by exploring their lenses, and check out accessories to optimize your setup - an extra battery, tripod, or protective case can dramatically enhance your experience.

Happy shooting!

Casio EX-H30 vs Samsung CL5 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Casio EX-H30 and Samsung CL5
 Casio Exilim EX-H30Samsung CL5
General Information
Manufacturer Casio Samsung
Model Casio Exilim EX-H30 Samsung CL5
Also called as - PL10
Type Small Sensor Superzoom Ultracompact
Released 2011-01-05 2009-02-23
Body design Compact Ultracompact
Sensor Information
Powered by Exilim Engine 5.0 -
Sensor type CCD CCD
Sensor size 1/2.3" 1/2.5"
Sensor dimensions 6.17 x 4.55mm 5.744 x 4.308mm
Sensor area 28.1mm² 24.7mm²
Sensor resolution 16 megapixels 9 megapixels
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 16:9, 4:3 and 3:2
Full resolution 4608 x 3456 3456 x 2592
Max native ISO 3200 3200
Minimum native ISO 80 80
RAW files
Autofocusing
Manual focus
AF touch
AF continuous
AF single
Tracking AF
Selective AF
Center weighted AF
Multi area AF
AF live view
Face detect focusing
Contract detect focusing
Phase detect focusing
Cross focus points - -
Lens
Lens mounting type fixed lens fixed lens
Lens focal range 24-300mm (12.5x) 38-114mm (3.0x)
Maximum aperture f/3.0-5.9 f/3.5-4.5
Macro focus range 1cm 5cm
Crop factor 5.8 6.3
Screen
Range of display Fixed Type Fixed Type
Display sizing 3 inches 2.7 inches
Display resolution 461 thousand dot 230 thousand dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch screen
Display technology Super Clear TFT color LCD -
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type None None
Features
Lowest shutter speed 8 secs 16 secs
Highest shutter speed 1/2000 secs 1/2000 secs
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation Yes -
Change WB
Image stabilization
Inbuilt flash
Flash range - 4.00 m
Flash options Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye Auto, Auto & Red-eye reduction, Fill-in flash, Slow sync, Flash off, Red eye fix
Hot shoe
Auto exposure bracketing
WB bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment exposure
Average exposure
Spot exposure
Partial exposure
AF area exposure
Center weighted exposure
Video features
Supported video resolutions 1280 x 720 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps) 640 x 480 (30, 15 fps), 320 x 240 (60, 30, 15 fps)
Max video resolution 1280x720 640x480
Video file format - Motion JPEG
Mic jack
Headphone jack
Connectivity
Wireless None None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) none
GPS None None
Physical
Environment seal
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 201 gr (0.44 lbs) 141 gr (0.31 lbs)
Dimensions 105 x 59 x 29mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") 93 x 60 x 19mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.7")
DXO scores
DXO All around score not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth score not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range score not tested not tested
DXO Low light score not tested not tested
Other
Battery model NP-130 -
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 seconds, custom) Yes (10 sec, 2 sec, Double, Motion Timer)
Time lapse shooting
Storage media - SC/SDHC/MMC/MMCplus, internal
Storage slots One One
Cost at launch $709 $391