FujiFilm X-T10 vs Samsung NX20: A Hands-On Comparison from the Trenches

Choosing between the Fujifilm X-T10 and the Samsung NX20 is a classic clash of two capable APS-C mirrorless cameras from a slightly earlier generation. Both models target enthusiasts looking to invest in quality gear without breaking the bank. As someone who’s tested hundreds of cameras including countless APS-C mirrorless bodies, I can say these two remain compelling options - each with distinct strengths and caveats worth dissecting. In this detailed, practical guide, I'll walk you through how each camera performs across the full spectrum of photographic disciplines, outline technical nuances, and provide recommendations tailored to serious hobbyists and budget-conscious pros alike.

Let’s dive in. But first, a quick look at their size and ergonomics to set the stage.

Getting a Feel for Size, Weight, and Handling

The Fujifilm X-T10 and Samsung NX20 both sport classic SLR-style mirrorless bodies but bring subtle ergonomic and size differences into play.

• Fuji X-T10: At 381g and measuring 118x83x41mm, the X-T10 is compact yet offers a textured grip and tactile dials that Fuji shooters love. Its build exudes a vintage charm blended with modern accessibility, giving you well-placed clubs for your thumbs and fingers. The slightly smaller footprint makes it comfortable for extended handheld use - an important factor if you shoot events or street photography.

• Samsung NX20: Lighter at 341g and a bit chunkier at 122x90x40mm, the NX20 tips the scales slightly differently. Its grip isn't as pronounced as the X-T10’s, but it still captures a solid handhold. The NX20’s design leans more contemporary; its clean lines make it discreet enough for street shooting, though less retro in feel.

For travel and daily carry, the minute bulk difference won’t topple most decisions - but the X-T10’s ergonomics do feel more refined once you start handling it for hours.

Next up, a peek at the camera controls and top-panel design helps illustrate their user interface philosophies.

Top Controls and Interface: Dialed-in or Cluttered?

I appreciate when controls invite intuitive use - that’s something these two cameras approach from differing angles:

• X-T10: Fuji manufacturers have always favored physical dials over menus and touchscreens (which this camera lacks). The shutter speed dial, exposure compensation dial, and dedicated ISO control offer quick adjustments, beloved by enthusiasts who want minimal menu diving. The tradeoff is a learning curve if you’re used to on-screen controls.

• NX20: Samsung took a different approach with fewer physical dials and more reliance on menu navigation. While the NX20 has convenient mode dials and function buttons, it’s less immediate than the Fuji. Its full articulation touchscreen helps somewhat (though it’s not a touch interface for menu control), especially for live view framing and selfies.

For fast-paced shooting - sports, events, wildlife - the X-T10’s mechanical dials can come across as superior for direct, muscle-memory control.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Deep Dive

Both feature APS-C sensors with a similar size (~23.5-23.6 x 15.6-15.7 mm), but the devil is in the details:

• Fuji X-T10 sports a 16MP X-Trans II CMOS sensor with no anti-aliasing filter - a Fuji signature designed to maximize sharpness and reduce moiré without a low-pass filter. The tradeoff here is slightly increased risk of false colors in some scenes, but Fuji’s unique color science and EXR II processor deliver rich tones and excellent in-camera JPEGs with pleasing skin reproduction.

• Samsung NX20 offers a 20MP conventional CMOS sensor with an anti-aliasing filter, providing slightly higher raw resolution. According to DxOMark, its sensor scored 75 points overall, with a standout color depth of 23.4 bits and a dynamic range of 12.9 EV - good but not groundbreaking.

In practice, the X-T10’s color depth and dynamic range outperform expectations for its generation, especially in JPEG output, thanks largely to Fuji’s engineered profiles. Meanwhile, the NX20’s extra megapixels may appeal to landscape or studio photographers who want maximum pixel count for cropping or large prints.

Understanding noise handling is crucial, especially for low-light or astrophotography:

• Fuji’s max native ISO of 51,000 is impressive on paper but realistically, ISO 3200–6400 represent practical upper limits before noise becomes intrusive.

• Samsung peaks at ISO 12,800 and exhibits smoother noise reduction but with less dynamic range preserved in shadows.

Overall, I’d give the nod in pure image quality terms to the Fuji X-T10 for its pleasing color science and flexibility, especially for skin tones and rich defail.

The Viewfinder and Screen: Your Window to the World

An often overlooked, yet vital aspect is how you compose and review images:

• X-T10: Offers a 2.36M dot OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 0.62x magnification and 100% coverage. It’s crisp, fast with minimal lag, and excellent in bright light conditions. The rear screen is a 3-inch, 920k-dot tilting LCD - not touch-enabled but handy for unconventional angles.

• NX20: Has a slightly larger 0.7x magnification EVF, but Samsung did not specify its resolution. It leans towards a more basic EVF experience. The 3-inch OLED touchscreen has 614k dots and fully articulates - great for vlogging, macro, and selfies. However, the NX20’s touchscreen does not support menu navigation, which limits its intuitiveness.

For photographers favoring traditional eye-level shooting and quick manual adjustments without taking eyes off the finder, the Fuji offers a more premium experience. However, the NX20’s articulating screen is a bonus if you prioritize video or creative framing.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking in Real Life

Both cameras feature contrast-detection AF but differ in nuances:

• Fuji X-T10: Employs hybrid autofocus by combining 77 AF points with both phase and contrast detection, enabling faster acquisition and better tracking. Although it lacks advanced AI modes like animal eye detection, the system is quite responsive and dependable under varying lighting - useful both for street and wildlife photography. Face detection is effective.

• Samsung NX20: Has 15 focus points, relying exclusively on contrast detection autofocus. While adequate for general shooting, the NX20 doesn’t shine in continuous AF or subject tracking, limiting its suitability for fast action or erratic wildlife subjects.

If you shoot anything moving - sports, wildlife, kids - the X-T10’s autofocus system offers a definitive edge. For static subjects or landscape where AF speed is less critical, both perform acceptably.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Performance

8 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting speed stats are identical on paper, but:

• The X-T10’s buffer capacity and faster processing allow it to sustain speed longer with JPEG and raw shooting, thanks to the EXR II processor’s efficiency.

• The NX20 can hit 8fps but often slows down sooner due to buffering limits.

Shutter speeds:

• X-T10 tops out at 1/4000 sec mechanical shutter, with electronic shutter speeds up to 1/32000 sec - great for bright daylight shooting wide open.

• NX20 provides a mechanical shutter max of 1/8000 sec, theoretically allowing better control for bright conditions, though absence of an electronic silent shutter means less versatility.

Video Capabilities: Can They Cut It?

• Fujifilm X-T10: Offers Full HD 1080p at 60fps in H.264 codec with microphone input, but no headphone jack. Videos are sharp with good color fidelity, and the lack of 4K is expected given its age and price point. No in-body stabilization can limit handheld video smoothness.

• Samsung NX20: Also shoots 1080p but maxes out at 30fps and includes more variety: 720p and others. It lacks headphone input and in-body stabilization as well. The fully articulating OLED screen is a plus for video authors.

Neither camera is a powerhouse for video creators by today’s standards, but Fuji’s frame rate advantage slightly tips the scale.

Durability and Build Quality: Weather Sealing and Reliability

Neither camera is weather sealed or ruggedized; both should be handled with care around elements.

Physically, Fuji’s superior firmware support and community longevity offer more confidence in long-term reliability. Samsung’s NX mount ecosystem is smaller and less supported nowadays.

Lens Ecosystems: Your Investment’s Future

• Fuji X mount has a robust ecosystem: Fuji currently offers 54 lenses, including high-quality primes and zooms with renowned optical performance.

• Samsung NX mount had around 32 lenses, but the system is no longer actively developed - limiting future upgrades.

For those investing with longevity in mind, Fuji’s lens lineup makes the X-T10 a safer bet.

Battery Life and Storage

• Fuji X-T10’s rated 350 shots per charge (tested with NP-W126 battery).
• Samsung NX20's rated 360 shots per charge with BP1130 battery.

Both use single SD card slots supporting high-speed UHS-I cards. Real-world usage aligns close to these numbers, though video mode drains faster.

Connectivity and Extras

Both feature built-in WiFi for image transfer, no Bluetooth or NFC, and optional GPS accessories.

Real-World Photography Scenarios and Recommendations

To help you understand how each camera performs across genres, here’s a breakdown based on my testing and use:

Fujifilm X T10 front Fujifilm X T10 screen back Samsung NX20 front Samsung NX20 screen back

Strengths and Weaknesses Summed Up

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

If you’re a cheapskate enthusiast or beginner stepping into interchangeable-lens cameras who values gorgeous color profiles, reliable autofocus, a satisfying analog experience, and the safety of a vibrant lens ecosystem, the Fujifilm X-T10 should be your pick. Its slightly smaller size and robust build make it a joy for general use, street, portrait, and most creative genres.

Conversely, if you find a good deal on the Samsung NX20 and prefer higher resolution output, value a flip-out OLED for video or odd-angle shooting, and primarily shoot controlled static subjects, it remains a viable albeit system-limited option. However, I wouldn’t recommend it for action, wildlife, or future-proofing your kit.

Parting Thoughts for You, the Photographer

Camera tech moves fast, and while both these mirrorless bodies are slightly aging now, their core strengths endure in real-world shooting. Don’t get dazzled purely by numbers - consider how each model’s handling, lens availability, and autofocus practicality fit your photographic style.

For me, if forced to recommend one today to walk into a shoot with confidence, I’ll gladly reach for the Fuji X-T10 every time.

Happy shooting!

Note: All image integrations above illustrate direct comparisons referenced in corresponding sections.