Fujifilm X-T30 vs Samsung Galaxy NX: An Exhaustive Comparison for the Discerning Photographer

Selecting the right mirrorless camera demands a nuanced understanding of how design, technology, and practical usability converge to meet diverse photographic needs. The Fujifilm X-T30 and Samsung Galaxy NX, though both positioned as entry-level mirrorless systems, are separated by almost six years of technological evolution and distinct design philosophies. This in-depth comparison examines these two cameras through the lens of professional-grade testing and experience-driven analysis, addressing all pertinent photography disciplines and user scenarios.

Physical size and ergonomics comparison: Fujifilm X-T30 (left) vs Samsung Galaxy NX (right)

Design and Ergonomics: Handling and Control in Real Use

Fujifilm X-T30

The X-T30 embodies a compact SLR-style mirrorless design reminiscent of classic film camera ergonomics. At 118 x 83 x 47 mm and weighing only 383 grams, it is a lightweight companion without compromising on grip security. The body contours and control dials are aggressively sculpted for intuitive reach, which experienced users appreciate for manual adjustments on the fly. Although it lacks environmental sealing, the build quality evidences solid materials relative to its class.

Samsung Galaxy NX

Considerably larger and heavier at 137 x 101 x 26 mm and 495 grams, the Galaxy NX feels bulkier in hand. Its fixed 4.8-inch HD TFT LCD dominates the rear profile, lending a tablet-like presence atypical for a mirrorless camera. The control layout is less refined, with fewer dedicated dials and more menu-reliant adjustments, which can hinder rapid physical parameter tweaking. The absence of weather resistance further limits outdoor reliability.

Assessment: For photographers prioritizing portability without sacrificing robust manual control, the X-T30's design is superior. The Galaxy NX’s design caters more toward casual or hybrid users who value large rear-screen interactivity over classic camera handling.

Sensor and Image Quality: Core Photographic Capability

Sensor specifications and image quality discussion

Sensor Architecture and Resolution

Both cameras employ APS-C sized CMOS sensors with nearly identical sensor area - 366.6 mm² in the X-T30 versus 368.95 mm² in the Galaxy NX - resulting in comparable field-of-view and depth-of-field characteristics with the 1.5x crop factor.

• Fujifilm X-T30: 26.1 megapixels, back-illuminated (BSI-CMOS) design, no optical low-pass filter (no anti-aliasing filter), which enhances sharpness and micro-contrast.
• Samsung Galaxy NX: 20.3 megapixels, front-illuminated CMOS sensor with anti-aliasing filter to reduce moiré, but at the potential cost of fine detail resolution.

Dynamic Range and ISO Sensitivity

Although neither has been extensively benchmarked by DxOMark, empirical testing confirms the X-T30’s X-Processor 4 excels in extracting shadow and highlight detail, outperforming the Galaxy NX’s older DRIMe IV engine. The native ISO ranges further illustrate this:

• X-T30: ISO 160 to 12,800 (expandable to 80–51,200)
• Galaxy NX: ISO 100 to 25,600 (non-boosted)

Crucially, the X-T30 exhibits superior low-light performance due to sensor design and updated noise suppression algorithms, yielding cleaner images at elevated ISO, an essential factor for event, wildlife, and night photography.

Assessment: The Fujifilm X-T30’s newer sensor technology and higher resolution translate into sharper images with better dynamic range and high ISO usability, crucial for professional image quality demands.

Viewfinder and Display: User Interface and Composition Tools

LCD screen and interface comparison

Electronic Viewfinder (EVF)

• Fujifilm X-T30: Features a 2.36 million-dot OLED EVF with 0.62x magnification and 100% coverage, providing a bright, detailed, and lag-free preview conducive to precise composition under varying lighting.
• Samsung Galaxy NX: Lacks an electronic viewfinder entirely, relying solely on the large rear LCD for framing, which limits outdoor visibility and compromises traditional shooting posture.

Rear LCD Screen

• X-T30: A 3-inch tilting touchscreen with 1.04 million dots that’s responsive and sufficiently bright, enabling complex touch controls (focus selection, menu navigation).
• Galaxy NX: A fixed 4.8-inch HD TFT touchscreen (922k dots) offering ample visual workspace but lacks the ergonomics and versatility of tilt or swivel, hampering low/high-angle shooting comfort.

Assessment: The X-T30’s combination of a high-resolution EVF and tilting touchscreen makes it a far better tool for controlled shooting in diverse environments. The Galaxy NX’s lack of EVF is a critical omission for serious photographers.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Fujifilm X-T30

Its 425-point hybrid autofocus system integrates phase-detection and contrast-detection AF with advanced algorithms, including face and eye detection in real-time. Continuous AF tracking can run at 20 fps with the electronic shutter, a premium offering at this class.

Samsung Galaxy NX

Employs a hybrid AF system but limited to contrast-detection focus without continuous tracking or eye-detection features. Autofocus points are unspecified and less densely distributed. Continuous AF is non-functional, reducing performance in challenging, dynamic shooting scenarios.

Real-World Impact

In tests involving fast-moving subjects such as wildlife or sports, the X-T30’s predictive AF tracking and high frame-rate shooting result in higher keeper rates and sharper images. The Galaxy NX tends to exhibit hunting focus and slower lock times, requiring more manual intervention.

Assessment: The X-T30’s autofocus system far outpaces the Galaxy NX, particularly in demanding shooting conditions involving motion.

Burst Shooting and Buffer Depth

• Fujifilm X-T30: 20 fps continuous burst shooting with electronic shutter, max mechanical shutter speed 1/4000s, buffer depth adequate for sustained action sequences.
• Samsung Galaxy NX: 9 fps continuous shooting with mechanical shutter, max speed 1/6000s, a respectable shutter speed but shorter buffer depth limiting action shots.

The X-T30 enables professionals to capture critical moments in sports or wildlife via its faster frame rate and deeper buffer, critical in editorial and professional sports applications.

Video Capabilities

Fujifilm X-T30

Supports 4K UHD recording at 30p and Full HD up to 60p with 200 Mbps high-bitrate recording. Offers external microphone port but lacks headphone jack for audio monitoring. Video codec is H.264 with Linear PCM audio, adequate for semi-professional work. No in-body image stabilization, but sufficient electronic stabilization in-camera.

Samsung Galaxy NX

Limited to Full HD 1080p at 30 fps and lower resolutions. Microphone and headphone jacks support external audio but video codec options are limited to older MPEG-4 variants, lacking more modern, efficient codecs or 4K resolution.

Assessment: For hybrid shooters who prioritize video, the X-T30 is a clear winner with superior resolution, frame rates, and overall video quality capability.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

• Fujifilm X-T30: Utilizes Fujifilm’s X-mount lens system, boasting over 50 native lenses ranging from ultra-wide primes to long telephoto zooms, including high-performance optics with XF and XC designations. Third-party manufacturers like Sigma and Tamron offer high-quality options, enhancing versatility.

• Samsung Galaxy NX: Samsung NX mount has fewer lenses (around 32 legacy options), with limited ongoing support since Samsung exited the camera market. The lens lineup is relatively modest, and quality varies.

The broad lens availability for Fujifilm supports specialized genres such as macro, portrait, and wildlife, while the Galaxy NX limits user choice especially for professionals requiring specialty optics.

Top view design and control layout comparison

Physical Controls and Usability

The top control layout on the X-T30 includes dedicated ISO, shutter speed, and exposure compensation dials - features strongly favored by photographers who rely on tactile feedback for rapid exposure changes.

In contrast, the Galaxy NX’s top panel minimizes physical dials, relegating many exposure parameters to menus, which interrupts shooting flow in fast-paced environments.

Battery Life and Storage

• Fujifilm X-T30: Rated at approximately 380 shots per charge (CIPA standard), using NP-W126S batteries. UHS-I SD cards supported in a single storage slot.
• Samsung Galaxy NX: Slightly higher rating at 440 shots, utilizing a proprietary battery with standard SD/SDHC/SDXC support, also single slot.

Although the Galaxy offers nominally longer battery life, real-world endurance favors the X-T30’s more power-efficient processor and the ability to swap batteries readily. Neither camera supports dual slots, limiting backup options for professionals.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

• X-T30: Includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for smooth tethering and file transfer. USB 3.1 Type-C offers fast data offload, and HDMI output supports clean external video feeds - a boon for hybrid shooters.
• Galaxy NX: Features built-in Wi-Fi and GPS geotagging, but lacks Bluetooth. USB 2.0 port limits transfer speed, which can impede efficient workflows.

Specialized Photography Use Case Evaluations

Portrait Photography

• X-T30: Superior skin tone rendering, due to Fujifilm’s renowned color science; effective eye AF gives sharp focus on eyes for professional portraits; wider lens ecosystem to achieve creamy bokeh.
• Galaxy NX: Adequate skin tones with a slight tendency to flat color; no eye AF support limits precision; fewer compatible fast primes reduce bokeh quality.

Landscape Photography

• X-T30: High resolution and dynamic range capture sweeping vistas, color fidelity, and detail retention.
• Galaxy NX: Lower resolution and somewhat restricted DR impact fine detail recovery.

Wildlife Photography

• X-T30: Fast burst, excellent AF tracking, and telephoto lens compatibility give a decisive advantage.
• Galaxy NX: Slower AF and fewer lenses make action wildlife capturing challenging.

Sports Photography

• X-T30: 20 fps continuous shooting and tracking AF are pro-level assets.
• Galaxy NX: Less suited due to slower AF and frame rates.

Street Photography

• X-T30: Compact, discrete, and quick to operate.
• Galaxy NX: Larger size reduces portability and spontaneous shooting ease.

Macro Photography

• X-T30: Supports focus bracketing enhancing macro sharpness; wide choice of macro lenses.
• Galaxy NX: Lacks advanced macro features and limited lens selection.

Night/Astro Photography

• X-T30: Clean high ISO performance and extended shutter speeds paired with manual modes.
• Galaxy NX: Acceptable but higher noise levels and older sensor technology impair utility.

Video

• X-T30: 4K video and external mic port without headphone output streamlines prosumer workflow.
• Galaxy NX: Limited to Full HD with essential audio inputs, moderate video usefulness.

Travel Photography

• X-T30: Excellent size-to-performance ratio, solid battery, and robust app ecosystem.
• Galaxy NX: Bulkier construction and dated interface limit travel appeal.

Professional Workflow Integration

• X-T30: RAW support, USB 3.1, high-res EVF, and extensive lens availability facilitate smooth post-processing and adaptability.
• Galaxy NX: RAW support is present but USB 2.0 and older video codecs slow modern workflows.

Fujifilm X T30 front Fujifilm X T30 screen back Samsung Galaxy NX front Samsung Galaxy NX screen back

Overall Performance and Value Assessment

In aggregate scoring, the Fujifilm X-T30 outperforms the Samsung Galaxy NX across virtually all evaluation parameters that matter to serious photographers. While the Galaxy NX may appeal to users attracted to its large touchscreen and legacy integration with Android-like interface elements, its dated hardware and limited professional features detract from broader utility.

Summarizing Strengths and Limitations

Practical Recommendations Based on User Profile

For Enthusiast Photographers Seeking Versatility and Future-Proofing

The Fujifilm X-T30 is the unequivocal choice. Its modern autofocus, sensor technology, lens options, and video capability support a broad range of disciplines from portraits to wildlife to video, suited both for serious amateurs and professionals requiring a capable secondary camera.

For Casual Users Interested in Social Connectivity and Tablet-Like Interface

The Samsung Galaxy NX offers a unique touchscreen experience and built-in GPS suitable for casual travel and social sharing but is limited by dated imaging technology and narrow expansion options. Its higher price point relative to its performance is difficult to justify for serious photographers.

For Specialized Genres

• Sports and Wildlife: X-T30 due to AF and burst rate superiority.
• Landscape and Astro: X-T30 for dynamic range and ISO performance.
• Macro Photography: X-T30 based on focus bracketing and lens access.
• Video Creation: X-T30 with 4K and audio input advantage.
• Street and Travel: X-T30 for compactness and control.

Conclusion

After exhaustive evaluation grounded in hands-on testing and technical analysis, the Fujifilm X-T30 clearly establishes itself as a more advanced, flexible, and enduring investment for photographers demanding modern image quality, high responsiveness, and professional features in a compact form factor. The Samsung Galaxy NX, while pioneering in its integration of smartphone-style touchscreen real estate in its time, falls short when measured against real-world performance needs of today’s visual storytellers.

Prospective buyers should weigh the X-T30’s balanced and cohesive offering as a reliable workhorse for diverse photographic disciplines, and approach the Galaxy NX as a niche or legacy device with significant compromises.

This comprehensive comparative analysis aims to empower photographers with actionable intelligence drawn from expert testing, ensuring a fully informed purchase decision rooted in objective, user-centric evaluation.