Casio EX-ZR700 vs. Samsung NX mini: In-Depth Comparative Analysis for Photographers

In the crowded landscape of digital cameras, choosing the right model requires a clear understanding of how specific features align with your photographic aspirations and workflow. The Casio EX-ZR700, introduced in early 2013, and the Samsung NX mini, a 2014 entry-level mirrorless model, target distinct segments within the enthusiast market. This comparison offers a granular examination grounded in extensive hands-on testing, considering sensor capabilities, autofocus systems, ergonomics, and suitability across key photographic genres. Our goal is to provide an authoritative guide for photographers weighing their options between these two technically divergent cameras.

Size, Ergonomics, and Handling

When it comes to portability and form factor, these two cameras embody markedly different design philosophies that directly impact usability and intended application.

Casio EX-ZR700

• Form: Compact, pocketable camera classified as a "Small Sensor Superzoom."
• Dimensions: 108 x 60 x 31 mm
• Weight: 222 grams
• Grip & Control: Limited physical controls, no customizable buttons, no mechanical dials for exposure or ISO.
• Screen: Fixed 3-inch Super Clear TFT LCD with 922k-dot resolution; non-touch.
• Viewfinder: None, complete reliance on LCD framing.

The EX-ZR700 favors a minimalist, travel-friendly form but sacrifices tactile control. Sensor-shift image stabilization adds value considering the lack of built-in manual focus aids or advanced autofocus control. The ergonomics are straightforward but better suited to casual shooting rather than prolonged, professional use.

Samsung NX mini

• Form: Rangefinder-style mirrorless body.
• Dimensions: 110 x 62 x 23 mm
• Weight: 196 grams (lighter than Casio despite additional features and interchangeable lens mount)
• Grip & Control: Combination of on-body controls and touchscreen interface; tilt-enabled 3-inch TFT-LCD (461k-dot), supporting 180-degree tilt and touch operation.
• Viewfinder: Absent, but LCD-based framing and composition.

The NX mini emphasizes flexibility, prioritizing a thinner, stylish design with touchscreen interaction. Despite no viewfinder, the tilting screen is favorable for creative angles, including selfies (although no explicit "selfie-friendly" mode is noted). The mirrorless body offers advanced manual control possibilities through lenses.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Metrics

Sensor size and performance remains the foundational determinant of image quality. We assessed resolution, dynamic range, ISO sensitivity, and color fidelity during real-world shooting and controlled test charts.

Casio EX-ZR700 Sensor

• Type: CMOS
• Size: 1/2.3 inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm), total area ~28.07 mm²
• Resolution: 16 megapixels (4608 x 3456)
• ISO Range: 80 to 3200 native
• Anti-Aliasing Filter: Present
• Raw Support: No

This small sensor is typical of superzoom compacts, limiting potential for very low noise and shallow depth of field effects. The native ISO ceiling of 3200 is restrictive for low-light conditions, and the lack of raw file support narrows post-processing latitude. The anti-aliasing filter enhances moire suppression but sacrifices some micro-detail.

Samsung NX mini Sensor

• Type: BSI-CMOS (Backside Illuminated)
• Size: 1 inch (13.2 x 8.8 mm), approx 116.16 mm² sensor area
• Resolution: 20.5 megapixels (5472 x 3648)
• ISO Range: 100 to 12800 native; 25600 boosted available
• Anti-Aliasing Filter: Present
• Raw Support: Yes

The NX mini’s significantly larger 1-inch BSI sensor offers superior dynamic range and low light performance by design. Higher resolution coupled with raw support grants the enthusiast or professional much greater creative control. Noise at elevated ISO is markedly better controlled versus the Casio, evidenced by testing both indoors under tungsten lighting and in dim street scenes.

Autofocus System and Speed

Experienced photographers know autofocus (AF) sophistication strongly impacts usability across genres, particularly when shooting wildlife, sports, or rapidly changing scenes.

Casio EX-ZR700 AF Analysis

• System: Contrast-detection only
• Focus Points: Unknown number; center-weighted primarily
• Face Detection: Yes
• Continuous AF: No
• AF Modes: Center, multi-area, manual focus available
• AF Tracking: Yes (limited effectiveness)

While basic face detection and multi-area AF are present, autofocus speed and tracking precision are modest due to hardware and algorithm constraints. No phase detection or hybrid AF system exists, which reduces reliability in fast-action scenarios. Manual focus is supported but without focus peaking or magnification aids.

Samsung NX mini AF Analysis

• System: Contrast-detection only (no phase-detect sensor)
• Focus Points: 21 points selectable
• Face Detection: Yes
• Continuous AF: Supported
• AF Modes: Single AF, continuous AF, selective AF, multi-area AF
• Touch AF: Supported via screen interaction
• AF Live View: Yes

NX mini’s more advanced contrast-detection implementation combined with multiple AF points and touch selection enhances focus acquisition speed and accuracy, particularly in good light. While autofocus tracking lags behind professional mirrorless models with phase detection, it provides a smoother experience for amateur action photography and street shooting.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance, and Durability

Neither camera is rated for environmental sealing, dustproofing, or freezeproofing - critical parameters for rugged outdoor use.

• Casio EX-ZR700: Plastic body, no weather sealing, no shockproofing.
• Samsung NX mini: Plastic body with metal trim, also lacks any environmental protection.

Neither camera is suited for professional outdoor duty in inclement conditions. Users prioritizing durability should consider separate protective gear or more robust camera models.

Ergonomics and User Interface

Where the Casio adopts a conventional, minimal button layout optimized for casual users, the Samsung leverages touchscreen technology and a tilting LCD to maximize compositional versatility.

Casio EX-ZR700 Interface

• Fixed, non-touch screen reduces accidental inputs.
• Physical buttons are straightforward but limited; ISO changes and manual settings require menu navigation.
• No rear mechanical dials for direct control make exposure adjustment slower.

Samsung NX mini Interface

• The 3-inch tilting touchscreen enhances compositional freedom and quick control over AF point selection.
• Touch functionality expedites menu navigation and focus control, a notable advantage.
• Lack of a physical viewfinder is partially offset by comfortable screen usability and optional external flashes.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

One pivotal difference is lens interchangeability.

• Casio EX-ZR700: Fixed 25-450 mm equivalent zoom lens (18x optical zoom, F3.5-5.9). This superzoom compromises maximum aperture for reach, affecting low-light and bokeh performance.
• Samsung NX mini: Samsung NX-M mount with two native lenses available at launch, an 9mm pancake prime and 9-27mm zoom, offering more lens flexibility and effectively equivalent to 24-72mm field of view (due to 2.7x crop factor).

While Casio’s all-in-one zoom is convenient and capable for travel and event snapshots, the NX mini’s removable lens capability supports diverse photographic styles, including portrait primes and wider apertures for creative depth of field control.

Burst Rate and Buffer Performance

High-speed burst shooting performance impacts sports and wildlife shooting.

• Casio EX-ZR700: 3 FPS continuous shooting, limited buffer size.
• Samsung NX mini: 6 FPS continuous shooting, better suited to moderate action sequences.

The NX mini’s higher frame rate and raw capture option enable better post-processing flexibility for dynamic shooting, although neither camera reaches professional sports shutter speeds.

Video Capabilities

Both cameras offer HD video with subtle differences in audio and format options.

Casio EX-ZR700

• Max resolution: 1920x1080p at 30 fps (MPEG-4, H.264).
• No external microphone jack.
• No in-body image stabilization for video, relying on sensor-shift during stills.

Samsung NX mini

• Max resolution: 1920x1080p at 30 fps (MPEG-4, H.264).
• Includes external microphone input, improving sound recording options.
• No in-body stabilization; depends on lens or electronic stabilization modes.
• Touchscreen enabled video controls add usability.

For video enthusiasts, the NX mini’s external mic port is a decisive advantage for cleaner audio capture, while the Casio remains constrained to internal mics. Neither camera supports 4K or high frame rate video capture.

Battery Life and Storage

• Casio EX-ZR700: Rated for 470 shots per charge using NP-130 battery.
• Samsung NX mini: Rated for 650 shots per charge using B740 battery.

The NX mini’s larger capacity better supports extended shooting sessions. However, Casio’s battery still delivers respectable endurance given the compact form factor.

Regarding storage, Casio uses SD/SDHC/SDXC cards while Samsung takes microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC cards - the former providing broader compatibility in prosumer environments.

Specialized Photography Use Cases

Portrait Photography

• EX-ZR700: Small sensor and fixed lens limit shallow depth of field and highlight separation. Face detection AF aids basic portraits, but bokeh quality is average at best.
• NX mini: Larger sensor and interchangeable lenses enable superior subject isolation and skin tone rendering, further enhanced by raw processing.

Landscape Photography

• EX-ZR700: Modest dynamic range and limited resolution reduce detail rendering, unfit for large prints or critical editing.
• NX mini: Better dynamic range and resolution offer detailed landscapes, though weather sealing absence limits shooting in rough conditions.

Wildlife Photography

• EX-ZR700: Advantageous long zoom (450mm equivalent) but slow AF and lower burst rate limit tracking fast-moving subjects.
• NX mini: Shorter native zoom range but faster autofocus and higher frame rates; requires telephoto lenses to compete with Casio’s reach.

Sports Photography

• EX-ZR700: Not designed for fast sports action.
• NX mini: 6 FPS burst and better AF smoothness improve candid sports capture but lag behind dedicated sports cameras.

Street Photography

• EX-ZR700: Small size aids discretion but limited AF and viewing constraints reduce responsiveness.
• NX mini: More compact, touchscreen-driven interface facilitates quick framing and exposure adjustments; better for candid use.

Macro Photography

• EX-ZR700: Supports focusing as close as 5 cm, beneficial for casual macro.
• NX mini: No specified macro range; reliant on optional lenses designed for close focusing.

Night / Astro Photography

• EX-ZR700: Limited ISO ceiling and lack of raw support hamper night shooting.
• NX mini: High ISO capability and raw support expand creative options in low light; no specialized astro features.

Travel Photography

• EX-ZR700: Superzoom lens and compact size offer all-in-one versatility.
• NX mini: Lighter, lens interchangeability offers quality over reach; longer battery life supports longer trips.

Professional Workflows

• EX-ZR700: No raw files, non-expandable control scheme, limits professional use.
• NX mini: Raw capture and manual control better suit professional workflows though limited lens options and lack of weather sealing constrain serious pros.

Casio EX ZR700 front Casio EX ZR700 screen back Samsung NX mini front Samsung NX mini screen back

Connectivity and Additional Features

• Casio EX-ZR700: No wireless connectivity, HDMI output only.
• Samsung NX mini: Built-in Wi-Fi for wireless transfer, HDMI, microphone input.

Wireless capabilities in the NX mini enhance remote control, instant sharing, and streamline tethered shooting - essential in modern photographic workflows.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

• Casio EX-ZR700: Approx. $370 at launch.
• Samsung NX mini: Approx. $530 at launch.

The Casio’s lower cost may appeal to budget-conscious users needing a superzoom all-in-one. The Samsung’s higher price reflects its larger sensor, raw capabilities, and expandable system.

Summary and Recommendations

Final Thoughts

The Casio EX-ZR700 and Samsung NX mini serve fundamentally different user needs. The Casio is a pocket superzoom compact tailored for straightforward shooting with ample reach, making it attractive for casual users and travelers who value simplicity and zoom power over image quality nuances. Conversely, the NX mini’s larger sensor, advanced manual controls, and interchangeable lens ecosystem cater to enthusiasts and creative photographers prioritizing quality and versatility within a compact mirrorless package. While both cameras exhibit limits in build robustness and advanced AF technologies expected by professionals, the NX mini’s technical merits and connectivity options justify its higher investment.

For those prioritizing image quality, creative manual control, and genre-spanning capability - particularly in portrait, landscapes, or low light - the Samsung NX mini is clearly the more competent platform. The Casio remains appealing as an accessible, low-maintenance choice for versatile zoom and straightforward operation.

This comparative evaluation draws from standardized laboratory tests, extended shoot sessions in diverse settings, and empirical use case trials conducted using consistent methodology across models. Readers seeking further detailed sample images, full technical charts, and direct comparison galleries are encouraged to reference the included image headers throughout the article.

End of article.