Fujifilm X-A10 vs Samsung NX11: An Expert Comparison of Entry-Level Mirrorless Cameras

Choosing a mirrorless camera in the entry-level category often means balancing what matters most: image quality, usability, and value. Today, I’m diving deeply into two somewhat vintage but still intriguing models - Fujifilm’s X-A10 (2016) and Samsung’s NX11 (2010)**. Both cameras cater to enthusiasts eager to step into mirrorless photography without breaking the bank, yet they arrive from very different design philosophies and technology eras.

Having spent extensive time testing these cameras under varied real-world conditions - from the studio to the street, landscapes, and wildlife shoots - I’ll break down strengths, challenges, and suitability for diverse photography uses. By the end, you’ll have a clearer sense of which might fit your style and budget.

Design and Handling: Fuji’s Sleek Rangefinder Style vs Samsung’s SLR-Inspired Bulk

Handling and ergonomics fundamentally shape how quickly and comfortably you’ll shoot. At first glance, the Fuji X-A10 impresses with its compact, lightweight body (331g) and rangefinder-style form factor. It measures a trim 117 x 67 x 40mm - highly pocketable for travel and street photography. Absence of an electronic viewfinder (EVF) nudges you to rely on the rear LCD and live view, which affects framing but maintains the camera’s slim profile.

The Samsung NX11, on the other hand, boasts a more robust SLR-style body (499g). It’s larger (123 x 87 x 40mm) and somewhat bulkier, offering a better grip, which benefits sports or wildlife shooters needing steady handling with telephoto lenses. Crucially, it includes a 100% coverage electronic viewfinder with 0.57x magnification, an advantage in bright outdoor environments or for those who prefer eye-level shooting comfort.

The control layout reflects these design differences. The NX11’s DSLR-like approach places physical dials and buttons intuitively but with fewer shortcuts. The Fuji X-A10 leans on simplicity - a fresh tilt-screen but no touch input, no top LCD panel, and modest button count. While this reduces direct control, beginners may find its usability less intimidating.

From my extended grip tests, neither camera features illuminated buttons or advanced customizability - both are very much entry-level in interface design. For users craving direct control over exposure settings, the X-A10 feels more approachable, but the NX11’s presence of an EVF is a compelling ergonomic win.

Sensor, Image Quality & Processing: Fuji's 16MP Advantage vs Samsung’s 15MP CMOS

Both cameras wield APS-C sized CMOS sensors with similar physical dimensions (Fuji’s is 23.6 x 15.6mm; Samsung’s 23.4 x 15.6mm) and nearly identical crop factors (1.5x). However, Fujifilm’s 16MP sensor provides a slight edge in resolution compared to Samsung’s 15MP offering.

More telling is the difference in sensor technology and image processing. The X-A10’s sensor, though lacking an anti-aliasing filter, yields crisp details, which I confirmed by shooting a range of subjects from detailed landscapes to textile textures. The absence of this filter maximizes fine detail but can risk moiré under certain patterns.

The NX11 sensor integrates an anti-aliasing filter, which slightly softens images but reduces moiré artifacts - a trade favored by some for portrait subjects. Both cameras capture JPEGs with decent in-camera processing, but the Fuji’s film simulation modes (classic Chrome, Provia) give its JPEG output an artistic flair out of the box.

Dynamic range testing revealed Fuji’s newer sensor offers better latitude, notably in handling highlights. The NX11’s sensor tilts less towards highlight retention, requiring some exposure caution in scenes with bright skies or reflective surfaces.

Samsung’s 22.7-bit color depth and 553 ISO low-light rating (based on DxO Mark tests) contrasts with Fuji’s untested DxOMark results but practical ISO handling up to 6400 (boostable to 25600). In real shooting, I found the X-A10’s noise control at ISO 3200 better managed, enabling usable low-light files more often.

The Samsung’s max native ISO of 3200 caps its low-light versatility. For night or astrophotography, the X-A10's sensor has a definite edge.

Autofocus and Performance: Fast and Flexible in Fuji; Slower but Stable in Samsung

Both cameras use contrast-detection autofocus with face detection, albeit with different competencies. Fuji’s 49-point AF system felt snappier and more responsive during my burst shooting sessions, extending well to tracking static and moderately moving subjects. Its continuous AF mode delivers 6fps burst speeds - respectable for this class.

The Samsung NX11 mediates with a 15-point autofocus system and weaker continuous AF tracking, running at 3fps burst rate. Some wildlife and sports shots suffered from slower re-acquisition of focus, which I noticed particularly when switching between subjects at different distances.

Neither camera has phase-detection pixels or advanced AI-assisted focus features, meaning low-light or fast action focusing relies heavily on contrast detection alone - not ideal for demanding sports photography.

Still, both models lock focus reliably in good light on faces, making them competent for portraits and casual sharing. Fuji’s inclusion of face and eye detection AF delivers a modern advantage, enhancing portrait workflow.

Display and Viewfinder: Tilting Sharpness vs OLED Brilliance

While I praised Fuji’s slim form, its decision to omit an EVF forces reliance on its 3-inch tiltable LCD with 1.04 million dots. This screen is bright and rendered clear colors and contrast, which aids framing in bright daylight. The tilting mechanism is a boon for selfies and difficult angles, supporting the X-A10’s selfie-friendly marketing.

Samsung’s NX11 sports a fixed 3-inch AMOLED screen with 614k dots. The AMOLED panel offers deep blacks and vivid colors, but fixed placement restricts creative shooting angles. The tradeoff is the NX11’s electronic viewfinder, which I found indispensable under strong sunlight.

For street photographers or anyone who needs quick eye-view framing, the NX11’s EVF presence weighs heavily in its favor. However, casual enthusiasts and vloggers might prefer the Fuji’s flip screen versatility.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance, and Battery Life: Simple and Light vs Sturdy but Aging

Physically, neither camera offers weather sealing or ruggedized construction; both are not designed for harsh environments. The Fuji X-A10’s polycarbonate body feels modern, but modest. At 331g, it’s extremely light, removing fatigue from day-long travel shoots.

The NX11’s heavier 499g makes it feel more substantial and reliable, but its older age shows in battery tech. Both use proprietary battery packs - Fuji’s NP-W126S and Samsung’s BP1130 - delivering roughly 400-410 shots per charge.

Neither camera has dual card slots; just one SD card slot, which is standard for entry-level models but a limitation for pro users who prioritize data security.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: Vast Fuji Variety vs Limited Samsung Selection

Lens availability is a critical factor, especially for future-focused buyers.

Fuji’s X-mount lenses topped 54 options by 2016, ranging from affordable primes like the 35mm f/1.4 to versatile zooms, plus third-party support expanding versatility. This broad ecosystem covers macro, telephoto, wide-angle, and portrait lenses with excellent optical quality and Fuji’s distinctive color rendering.

Samsung’s NX mount, by contrast, has fewer than half this number of available lenses (around 32), with limited specialized optics and less aftermarket support. Samsung’s division exit means little ongoing lens development, curtailing long-term system growth.

From hands-on experience, investing in Fuji’s X system offers more futureproofing and artistic flexibility, critical for enthusiasts who want to evolve their kit.

Video Capabilities: Modest But Functional, Fuji Slightly Ahead

For those interested in video, the Fujifilm X-A10 provides Full HD 1080p recording at 30fps, plus slower-frame HD options. This modest output suits casual video work, vlogging, or family capture but lacks advanced movie features (no microphone input, no 4K). It does allow timelapse recording, a welcome creative bonus.

Samsung NX11 falls shorter with only 720p HD video at 30fps. In practical shooting, this limitation reduces appeal for multimedia creators or users expecting Full HD standard.

Neither system offers in-body stabilization; video shooters must rely on stabilized lenses to minimize shake.

Photography Specializations: Who Shines Where?

Portraiture

Fujifilm’s autofocus with eye detection, combined with high-resolution sensor and beautiful film simulations, makes the X-A10 a better pick for portraits. Its depth-of-field rendering and skin tone reproduction impressed me in studio and outdoor portraits, giving natural, pleasing results straight from the camera.

Samsung’s softer JPEGs and limited AF points mean portraits have a more vintage feel but require more post-processing for best color accuracy.

Landscape

Fuji’s broader dynamic range and higher resolution pay dividends in landscapes, capturing skies and shaded foliage with richer detail. The tilting screen also assists composition in awkward angles.

Samsung’s more sizable grip aids stability for tripod work, but the sensor’s limited dynamic range and pixel count hold it back slightly in demanding HDR scenes.

Wildlife & Sports

Neither has an ideal autofocus system for aggressive sports or fast wildlife photography, but for those on a strict budget, Fuji’s faster burst and better AF tracking give it the edge. Samsung’s slower 3fps rate and less sophisticated focus tracking felt limiting in trial runs.

Street & Travel Photography

Fuji’s lightweight profile, compact size, and selfie-friendly screen make it a winner for travel and street shooters prioritizing portability and discretion.

Samsung’s built-in EVF gives some advantage for eye-level street candid shots, but the bulk and fixed screen may deter those prioritizing agility.

Macro Photography

Neither camera offers specialized macro focusing features, but Fuji’s slightly more capable AF system and greater lens variety support macro work better.

Night & Astro Photography

Fuji’s higher ISO ceiling and cleaner noise control make it preferable for night scenes and astrophotography - though neither model excels in these specialized niches.

Fujifilm X A10 front Fujifilm X A10 screen back Samsung NX11 screen back

Examining side-by-side sample images, note Fuji’s sharper, more dynamic images with vivid but natural colors. Samsung photos lean softer, with slightly muted highlights but occasional color casts.

Connectivity and Storage: Modern Convenience vs Vintage Limitations

A standout Fuji X-A10 feature is built-in Wi-Fi for wireless sharing and remote control, a huge plus for casual users and social shooters.

Samsung NX11, since it predates many wireless standards, offers no onboard wireless connections. This difference impacts workflow fluidity significantly if you rely on smartphone integration or instant backup.

Both support standard USB 2.0 and HDMI, aiding tethering or external viewing.

Price-to-Performance: Stretching Budgets Wisely

The Fuji X-A10 retails at around $499, while Samsung’s NX11 usually sells for about $626 now used or new-old-stock. Fuji’s newer tech, faster burst, higher ISO, and wireless capabilities justify the lower price, offering better value.

From a cost-performance perspective, X-A10 feels like a more practical long-term investment for entry-level enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy Which?

Choose FujiFilm X-A10 if you:

• Want a lightweight, travel-friendly mirrorless camera
• Prioritize image quality, portrait performance, and video recording
• Value wireless sharing and live view versatility
• Seek a future-proof system with a vibrant lens ecosystem
• Are budget-conscious but want up-to-date features

Choose Samsung NX11 if you:

• Prefer an EVF for traditional framing, especially outdoors
• Appreciate a chunkier, DSLR-style grip for longer handheld use
• Already own Samsung NX lenses or gear
• Don’t mind older tech in exchange for solid solid-state OLED screen and electronic viewfinder

Summary: An Entry-Level Mirrorless Faceoff Rooted in Experience

Both cameras hold a nostalgic place in mirrorless history - Fuji’s X-A10 embracing simplicity and social media era conveniences, Samsung NX11 echoing its DSLR predecessors with solid ergonomics and EVF inclusion.

After literally hours of shooting and testing across disciplines, my experience favors the X-A10 for most newcomers or enthusiasts wanting a dependable, compact camera that punches above its weight in image quality and connectivity. The NX11 still offers unique advantages like an EVF and more substantial grip, appealing to certain niche shooters or collectors.

Ultimately, your choice should hinge on how you prioritize size, handling, image quality, and lens availability in your photographic journey.

I hope this detailed comparison helps you find the right mirrorless partner for your creative aspirations. Feel free to drop questions or share your own insights about these cameras - dialogue among photographers always enriches our community’s wisdom. Happy shooting!