Casio EX-H30 vs Samsung CL5
92 Imaging
38 Features
40 Overall
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95 Imaging
32 Features
14 Overall
24
Casio EX-H30 vs Samsung CL5 Key Specs
(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
(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

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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
Casio Exilim EX-H30 | Samsung 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 |