Casio EX-ZR700 vs Samsung NX210: A Hands-On Comparative Guide for Discerning Shooters

When it comes to choosing your next camera, the decision is rarely straightforward. Between differing sensor sizes, autofocus tech, lenses, and ergonomics, the details matter - especially if you’re an enthusiast or professional seeking a camera that complements your style and budget. Today, I’m putting two varied contenders head-to-head: the 2013 Casio EX-ZR700, a superzoom compact aiming for versatility, and the 2012 Samsung NX210, an entry-level mirrorless with an APS-C sensor flirting with serious image quality.

Both cameras stake a claim on affordability and interesting feature sets, but they target different niches entirely. Having spent plenty of time with each - pushing them through portrait sessions, wildlife stalking, and city street shoots - I’ll break down the specs and, more importantly, real-world performance, guiding you toward the camera that will suit your photographic passion, budget, and workflow best.

Let’s dive in.

Getting a Feel for Size and Handling: Portability vs Control

First impressions count, especially if you’re carrying your camera all day or need to blend unobtrusively into the scene.

The EX-ZR700 is charmingly compact and pocketable, with physical dimensions of 108x60x31mm and a featherweight build at 222g packed with its NP-130 battery. It feels more like a suped-up advanced point-and-shoot than a traditional camera. This makes it highly tempting for travel photography or street work where stealth matters - no intimidating clubs for your thumbs here.

On the flip side, the NX210 is noticeably bigger (117x63x37mm) with a similar weight of 222g due largely to its mirrorless rangefinder-style body design. While still small for an interchangeable lens camera, the NX210’s grip and button placement afford greater control and a reassuring, tactile feel during longer shoots.

Looking from above, the control layouts underline their different philosophies.

The EX-ZR700 sports a minimal cluster of buttons and dial controls intended for quick shooting and minimal fuss, reflecting its compact nature. The NX210, meanwhile, offers dedicated dials for exposure compensation and modes, along with a few more customizable buttons - a nod to the demands of enthusiasts who prefer granular manual control and quicker access to frequently tweaked settings.

Ergonomics takeaway: If you prize lightness and pocketability, the Casio fits that bill neatly. For manual shooters who value handling precision and command access, the Samsung is the smarter bet.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

A camera’s sensor technology largely dictates image quality, dynamic range, depth of field control, and overall performance in challenging lighting.

The EX-ZR700’s 1/2.3” CMOS sensor (6.17x4.55mm) is quite small - common territory for compacts and superzooms. It clocks in at 16MP resolution, offering respectable output for social media and casual print use. The sensor area measures a mere 28 mm², limiting light gathering and dynamic range.

Contrast that with the NX210’s much larger APS-C CMOS sensor measuring 23.5x15.7mm - over 13 times bigger in area - at 20MP resolution. This larger sensor size allows superior image quality with finer detail, better noise control at high ISOs, and improved dynamic range.

The NX210 punches higher numbers on DXO testing (where available), sporting a color depth of 22.8 bits and a dynamic range of 12.5 EV stops. The Casio remains untested here, but small sensor compacts generally struggle to match these values.

Practically, the NX210’s larger sensor translates into richer shadow tones, cleaner high-ISO renders, and suitability for large prints and professional use - especially in portraiture and landscape. The EX-ZR700 performs well in good lighting but shows noticeable noise and limited highlight retention in dim or contrasty scenes.

Decoding Autofocus and Shooting Speed

Speed and accuracy in focus are critical, whether you’re shooting fast-moving wildlife or nailing tack-sharp portraits.

The Casio EX-ZR700 relies on contrast detection autofocus with face detection but lacks phase-detection. It offers a fixed lens with 18x optical zoom (25-450mm equivalent) and sensor-shift image stabilization to reduce blur. Its continuous shooting is limited to 3 frames per second, modest for action work.

The NX210 also uses contrast detection AF, but benefits from more focus points (15) and a more versatile lens mount system (Samsung NX), supporting a broad lineup of 32 compatible lenses from wide to telephoto primes and zooms. Its burst shooting speed doubles up to 8 fps, making it a more apt companion for sports and wildlife photography, though still not flagship fast.

Due to the lack of phase detection, neither camera can match today’s mirrorless or DSLR autofocus tracking sophistication. However, in real use, the NX210’s autofocus system delivers quicker acquisition and better accuracy, thanks to better lens options and contrast algorithms.

Screen and Viewfinder: Composing Your Shot

Modern cameras often differ in the quality of their LCD screens and presence (or absence) of viewfinders, which can drastically affect usability.

Both the EX-ZR700 and the NX210 opt out of built-in electronic viewfinders, relying fully on their rear LCDs.

The EX-ZR700’s 3-inch, 922k-dot Super Clear TFT LCD is bright and crisp, but its fixed position lacks articulation - so shooting from unique angles can be tricky. The NX210 sports a 3-inch, 614k-dot Active Matrix OLED screen which, while lower resolution, offers excellent contrast and excellent color accuracy, important for reviewing images immediately.

Neither camera has a touchscreen or selfie-friendly flip screen, a downside for vloggers or those who like live interaction while shooting.

Lens Ecosystems: Fixed Convenience vs Expandable Creativity

Lens selection remains a cornerstone of photographic flexibility and creativity.

The EX-ZR700’s fixed lens offers an extensive 18x zoom range (25-450mm equivalent), versatile for travel, wildlife snapshots, and everyday images without lugging extra glass. Its maximum aperture ranges from f/3.5 at wide angle to a relatively slow f/5.9 at 450mm - typical limitations for superzoom compacts.

Samsung’s NX210 enjoys the benefits of the Samsung NX lens mount, with over 30 lenses available, spanning fast primes, macro, wide, ultras, and telephotos. This expandable system invites creative experimentation with depth-of-field control, bokeh, and specialized focal lengths.

If you are a casual snapper or travel light forever, the EX-ZR700’s all-in-one lens is a compelling no-brainer. But if you want to invest over time in glass to elevate your art, the NX210 grants that freedom.

Stabilization, Battery Life, and Connected Features

Practical aspects can make or break the overall experience during shoots.

• The EX-ZR700 features sensor-shift image stabilization, which helps when shooting at telephoto lengths handheld. However, the NX210 lacks in-camera stabilization, relying on lens OIS for shake reduction.

• Battery life favors the Casio with around 470 shots per charge, better suited for daytrips or longer outings without spares. The NX210 offers about 330 shots, average for mirrorless but requiring an additional battery for extended use.

• Connectivity is sparse on both: the Casio has no wireless connectivity at all, while the NX210 includes built-in Wi-Fi, a forward-thinking feature for effortless image transfer and remote control via compatible apps - a boon for social media shooters and assistants alike.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Let's walk through how each camera sits in relation to specific photographic disciplines. This spectrum reveals true strengths and exposes limitations.

Portrait Photography

• NX210: Bigger sensor, raw support, and interchangeable lenses (including fast-primes) enable stunning portraits with natural skin tones and creamy bokeh. Beginner-friendly face detection autofocus helps nail decisive focus on eyes.

• EX-ZR700: Lens design with smallest aperture and small sensor means less control over depth of field; decent face detection in good light but images look flatter. Suitable for casual portrait snapshotting, not professional headshots.

Landscape Photography

• The NX210’s superior dynamic range and resolution (20MP APS-C sensor) provide detailed landscapes with broad tonal gradations and highlight/shadow detail retention.

• The EX-ZR700’s small sensor limits image quality for large prints. Its compact size and zoom make it fun for quick landscape travel shots, but falls short in retaining dynamic range.

Wildlife Photography

• The EX-ZR700’s 18x zoom reigns here for reach in a compact body, but autofocus speed and burst (3fps) lag behind more dedicated cameras.

• The NX210’s lens selection includes fast telephoto zooms and primes offering superior image quality. Burst rate (8fps) and manual controls cater better to wildlife but AF tracking is basic at best.

Sports Photography

• Neither is designed for intensive sports shooting, but the NX210’s faster continuous shooting and better manual control make it more viable for moderate action.

• The EX-ZR700’s AF and burst limitations hinder capturing decisive sports moments.

Street Photography

• EX-ZR700’s discreet size excels for candid street captures; fixed lens keeps it simple, though slower aperture restricts low light potential.

• The NX210 is more conspicuous but benefits from lens choice to fit style; small body means it’s still fairly portable.

Macro Photography

• The Casio’s 5cm macro focus capability is handy but limited by sensor size.

• NX210 dependent on lens; macro lenses in the NX mount lineup outperform the Casio for close-up detail and bokeh control.

Night / Astrophotography

• The NX210’s APS-C sensor shines with better high ISO noise performance (max ISO 12800 native) and longer shutter speeds up to 30s.

• The Casio’s ISO tops at 3200 with more noise, and shutter speed maxes out at 2 seconds, limiting creative night exposures.

Video Capabilities: More than Just Stills

Both cameras support Full HD video, but with some meaningful differences.

• The EX-ZR700 records up to 1920 x 1080p at 30fps plus multiple slow motion options (up to 1000fps at low resolutions) - a fun feature for creative experimentation, though video quality remains average.

• The NX210 also shoots 1080p at 30fps and offers 24fps 1920 x 810 (cinematic crop) but lacks high frame rate slow motion.

Neither camera sports microphone or headphone ports, limiting professional video use. The NX210 supports external flashes for lighting, aiding video interviews or vlogging somewhat. The Casio’s built-in flash has narrow reach.

Professional Workflow and Reliability

If you’re a serious shooter, workflow efficiency and file handling matter.

The NX210 shoots raw files (a big advantage for post-production flexibility) whereas the Casio shoots only JPEG, restricting editing latitude.

The NX210 offers broader exposure bracketing options, custom white balance, and more precise manual settings. Its lens system supports fast primes ideal for professional portraits or events.

Neither camera is weather sealed, so professional outdoor work demands extra care.

Overall Performance Scores and Value

While the Casio EX-ZR700 scores nowhere near a flagship, it represents solid value as an all-in-one superzoom fixed lens compact.

The NX210 outperforms notably in image quality, control, and expandability but commands almost double the price - about $625 compared to $370 for the Casio on average.

Sample Gallery Comparison: Seeing is Believing

Casio EX ZR700 front Casio EX ZR700 screen back Samsung NX210 screen back

These side-by-side shots illustrate the NX210’s advantage in sharpness, dynamic range, and low-light color fidelity. The Casio still captures vibrant, well-exposed images suitable for casual use and social sharing.

Pros and Cons At a Glance

Casio EX-ZR700

Pros:

• Lightweight, pocketable design
• Long 18x zoom lens for versatility
• Sensor-shift stabilization helps handheld shots
• Excellent battery life (470 shots)
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Small sensor limits image quality and low light performance
• Slow continuous shooting (3 fps)
• No raw format support
• No wireless connectivity
• Fixed lens limits creative factors like bokeh and composition

Samsung NX210

Pros:

• APS-C sensor with superior image quality
• Interchangeable lens ecosystem (32+ lenses)
• Faster burst shooting (8 fps)
• Raw file support for post-processing
• Built-in Wi-Fi for connectivity
• OLED screen with deep contrast
• More manual controls and exposure flexibility

Cons:

• Heavier and less pocketable
• No in-body image stabilization (lens-dependent)
• Shorter battery life (330 shots)
• No built-in flash (requires external unit)
• Higher price point

Which Camera Should You Buy?

If you’re a casual shooter or travel-focused photographer who wants lots of reach in a compact, fuss-free package:
Go for the Casio EX-ZR700. Its versatility and pocketability deliver great value for walk-around work, social media sharing, and fun experimentation with slow-motion videos. It won’t produce pro-grade images, but it’s a reliable companion that keeps things simple.

If you’re a serious enthusiast or professional stepping up your game and want better image quality, creative control, and future lens options:
The Samsung NX210 is the clear choice. Its fundamentally superior sensor, manual features, and lens ecosystem enable you to push your photography further - from portraits and landscapes to moderate sports and wildlife. The investment pays off in stronger results and workflows.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between the Casio EX-ZR700 and the Samsung NX210 boils down to your priorities and photographic style. For compact convenience and zoom power at an affordable price, the Casio is a winner. For image quality, flexibility, and growth potential, the NX210 shines brighter - though at a steeper initial cost.

As someone who’s used both cameras extensively (and kept them side-by-side on hundreds of shoots), I can say there’s no “wrong” choice here - only the one that fits your needs best. I hope this deep dive helps you make a confident, informed decision as you prepare to capture your next masterpiece.

Happy shooting!