Fujifilm X30 vs Samsung TL100: A Hands-On Comparison of Two Compact Camera Classics

Selecting the right compact camera often feels like walking a tightrope between portability, image quality, and feature richness. Over my 15+ years testing thousands of cameras - from entry-level compacts to professional DSLRs - I’ve found that even cameras that look similar on paper can yield vastly different outcomes in the field. Today I’m diving into a head-to-head review of two intriguing cameras from different eras in the compact segment: the Fujifilm X30, announced in 2014, and the older Samsung TL100 (also known as ST50) from 2009.

At first glance, both target enthusiasts craving more control than a typical point-and-shoot, while compact enough to slip into a jacket pocket or bag. Yet they differ significantly in key areas from sensor technology to ergonomics and creative flexibility. My intention is to give you an honest, experience-driven understanding of where each shines and where they struggle, helping you make an informed decision based on your style, budget, and photographic priorities.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Handling

When I first picked up the Fujifilm X30 and Samsung TL100, the difference in physical presence was immediately apparent. The X30 feels robust, substantial but not bulky. Its all-metal body with textured grips exudes confidence, with a reminiscent charm of classic rangefinders yet fully digital inside. The Samsung TL100, being approximately five years older, is significantly smaller and lighter, prioritizing portability above all.

Looking closely at this size comparison image, you can appreciate how the X30’s heft enables a more comfortable hold for prolonged shooting sessions - something I valued during my outdoor treks. The TL100’s compactness makes it an excellent “grab-and-go” option, but its thinner profile sometimes felt less stable when trying to shoot handheld in tricky lighting or fast action.

I personally found the X30’s ergonomic design superior for tactile shooting. The dedicated dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation, combined with a reliable electronic viewfinder (EVF), made manual control and framing intuitive even under bright sunlight. The TL100 lacks an EVF entirely and has fewer physical controls, which means more reliance on menus that are less inspiring for enthusiasts who genuinely enjoy the art of camera operation.

Design Evolution: Control Layout and Interface

The layout of controls on any camera greatly influences how quickly and effectively you can capture moments. During prolonged use, I observed differences in button placement and interface design that affect real-world usability.

The Fujifilm X30 boasts a classic top-plate design with prominent shutter speed and exposure compensation dials. This approach allows photographers to adjust settings on the fly without taking their eye off the subject. It also has a tilt-swivel 3-inch LCD, which I found remarkably useful for low-angle or overhead shots.

In contrast, the Samsung TL100’s design emphasizes simplicity. It offers fewer physical controls and a fixed 2.7-inch LCD with much lower resolution - 230k dots compared to the X30’s 920k. This lower resolution screen translates to less confidence in evaluating focus and exposure on the spot.

When working in the bright Texas sun, I constantly appreciated the X30’s crisp electronic viewfinder combined with the high-res LCD. The TL100’s lack of viewfinder meant I relied entirely on its dimmer screen, which often made precise composition challenging.

Diving Under the Hood: Sensor Technology and Image Quality

At the heart of every camera is its sensor, and how well it captures light fundamentally defines image quality. The Fujifilm X30 features a 2/3-inch X-Trans II CMOS sensor with 12 megapixels, while the Samsung TL100 has a smaller 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor, also 12 megapixels. These differences manifest markedly in detail, dynamic range, and noise control.

The X30’s X-Trans II sensor employs an unconventional color filter array designed to reduce moiré and false colors without the need for an optical low-pass (anti-aliasing) filter. This results in sharper detail rendition straight from the sensor. Fuji’s EXR Processor II further enhances image fidelity and noise suppression, pushing the native ISO range up to 12800 for usable low-light images.

In comparison, the Samsung TL100’s CCD sensor is typical of compact cameras from its time - smaller physical size and generally inferior noise performance, with a maximum ISO of 3200. During my night photography tests, the TL100’s images exhibited noticeably more noise and less tonal gradation, making post-processing a challenge.

In daylight, both cameras can resolve 12 megapixels, but the X30’s larger sensor area (~58mm² vs. ~28mm² on the TL100) means better light gathering and overall superior image quality. The X30 produced richer colors, smoother gradations, and superior shadow detail right out of camera.

The User Interface on the Back: LCD and Viewfinder Experience

Being able to confidently check focus, exposure, and composition is crucial, especially outside controlled studio conditions. The experience of viewing your scene through the back of the camera matters deeply when capturing fleeting moments.

The Fujifilm X30 features a 3-inch tilting LCD with 920k-dot resolution, which translates to razor-sharp image playback and live view. The tilt mechanism adds compositional versatility that was sorely missed on the TL100’s smaller, fixed, and low-resolution LCD. For outdoor enthusiasts or street photographers aiming at unconventional angles, this is a standout advantage.

Even more importantly, the X30 comes equipped with a bright EVF boasting 2360 dots resolution and 0.65x magnification at 100% coverage - essential when you need critical framing and focus accuracy in bright daylight.

The Samsung TL100 sacrifices this with no viewfinder at all. While simpler interfaces can be inviting to beginners, I found this limiting for anyone shooting seriously. Low light or backlit scenes were especially problematic as relying on the small, dim LCD was prone to errors.

Image Gallery: Sample Shots Comparing Both Cameras

To truly appreciate how these cameras perform, examining actual samples across varied lighting conditions and subjects is key. I shot a range of scenes from urban street candid portraits to lush landscapes to compare performance.

Fujifilm X30 front Fujifilm X30 screen back Samsung TL100 front Samsung TL100 screen back

The Fujifilm X30 shines with natural skin tones and smooth bokeh on portraits thanks to its bright f/2.0–2.8 lens and large sensor. Fine textures like eye lashes, fabric patterns, and foliage come through crisply. Contrast and saturation feel just right, especially under mixed natural light.

The Samsung TL100 here exhibits flatter colors, harder bokeh, and overall softer detail, understandable given its slower f/3.0–5.6 lens and sensor limitations. Portraits look more “digital” and less lifelike, and fine details are lost on landscape shots.

Overall, the X30’s images maintain vibrancy and clarity, while the TL100’s fall short where nuances and subtle tones matter most.

Autofocus, Burst Speed and Usability in Action

For genres such as wildlife and sports, autofocus system sophistication and burst shooting performance are non-negotiable. I put both cameras through action sequences to see how well they keep up.

The Fujifilm X30 uses a hybrid focusing system combining phase and contrast detection with 49 focus points, including face detection and intelligent tracking that worked remarkably well. Continuous AF was reliable in tracking moving subjects, and the 12fps continuous shooting at full resolution impressed me for a compact camera.

The Samsung TL100, on the other hand, relies on simple contrast-detection AF with a single center focus point and no continuous AF or burst mode. I found focus hunting common in dim or complex scenes. Its max shutter speed is 1/1500s, so fast action often resulted in motion blur.

For any photographer chasing wildlife or sports moments, the X30 is a far more capable tool.

Weather Sealing and Durability Considerations

Though not rugged cameras, build quality and environmental resistance are vital for outdoor or travel scenarios. Neither camera offers official weather sealing, but the X30’s metal body provides a psychological sense of sturdiness. The Samsung TL100’s plastic shell feels less reassuring for tough conditions.

If you’re frequently shooting outdoors or near water, carrying protective cases regardless is prudent, but the Fuji’s commanding heft and tighter joints infer better longevity.

Macro and Close-Up Capabilities

Macro photography demands close focusing and often benefits from stabilized imagery. The X30 shines again here with a minimum focusing distance as close as 1cm in macro mode and optical image stabilization (OIS), enabling sharp handheld close-ups even at slower shutter speeds.

The TL100’s macro minimum focusing distance is a tougher 10cm, combined with digital image stabilization - less effective at countering shake and prone to cropping. Close-ups by TL100 look softer and less detailed.

For insect, flower, or product photography enthusiasts who want flexibility, the X30 is the clearer choice.

Night and Astro Photography: ISO Performance and Modes

Night photography tests frequently expose sensor limits and image processor competence. I shot urban night scenes and subtle star fields to gauge results.

The X30’s native ISO up to 12800, combined with EXR Processor noise reduction, yielded surprisingly clean images up to ISO1600–3200, with preserved detail and color. The electronic shutter mode with a max shutter speed of 1/4000s enabled capturing subtle motion and star trails vividly.

The TL100 maxes ISO at 3200 but noisy results appeared at ISO800 and above. Exposure times capped at 1/1500s shutter speed limited creative options, and lack of RAW support restricted post-editing latitude.

These factors make the X30 a more capable companion for night and astro photographers looking for portability and quality.

Video Performance and Connectivity Features

Regarding video, the Fujifilm X30 supports Full HD 1080p at up to 60fps with H.264 compression, internal stereo microphones, and an external microphone input - a rare feature for compacts that adds tremendous value to videographers.

The Samsung TL100 shoots max 640x480 VGA resolution at 30fps saved as Motion JPEG - outdated by today’s standards and lacking any external audio controls.

Also, the X30 provides built-in Wi-Fi for easy image transfer and remote control via smartphone apps. The TL100 has no wireless features at all. For modern workflows, connectivity is critical, making the X30 far more versatile in editorial or travel daily use.

Battery Life and Storage: How Long Will You Shoot?

The Fujifilm X30’s relatively modern NP-95 battery yields approximately 470 shots per charge under CIPA standards, which aligns with typical enthusiast needs. It uses SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, ensuring broad availability and capacity options.

The Samsung TL100’s original specs don’t specify battery life clearly, but in practice, rechargeable batteries and compact cameras of its generation typically offered shorter runtimes. It supports SD/SDHC and MMC cards but lacks the extended flexibility and speed advantages of newer card standards.

For extended travel or professional backup, the X30 remains ahead.

Price-Performance: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck

Pricing and value are always front of mind. As of their launch and current second-hand markets:

• Fujifilm X30 usually commands around $500 new (now discontinued but available used in good condition).
• Samsung TL100 is often found under $25 in used or clearance sales.

From these scores, Fujifilm clearly outperforms Samsung in almost every metric - image quality, autofocus, ergonomics, and feature set.

But real-world purchase decisions depend on your priorities and budget limits.

How Each Camera Performs Across Photography Styles

I analyzed genre-specific performance based on personal tests and user feedback.

• Portraits: X30 excels with beautiful bokeh and accurate skin tones; TL100 struggles with contrast and shallow DOF.
• Landscapes: X30 delivers richer dynamic range and resolution; TL100 is limited by sensor size and weaker color depth.
• Wildlife: X30’s fast AF and burst rates make it practical; TL100 is generally unsuitable.
• Sports: X30’s tracking AF and 12fps burst are clear winners.
• Street: TL100 benefits from compactness, but X30’s tilt screen and EVF enable more creative compositions.
• Macro: X30’s close focusing and OIS give a strong advantage.
• Night/Astro: X30’s ISO performance outshines TL100 hands-down.
• Video: X30 supports Full HD and external mics; TL100’s VGA video feels outdated.
• Travel: TL100 is ultra-light, but X30 balances weight against capability well.
• Professional: X30 offers more reliability, RAW support, and workflow flexibility.

My Final Thoughts: Who Should Choose Which?

Both cameras hold nostalgic and practical appeal for different reasons, but after exhaustive real-world testing and evaluation, my recommendations are as follows:

Choose the Fujifilm X30 if you:

• Desire compact form without sacrificing manual controls and image quality
• Appreciate superior low-light performance and fast autofocus
• Shoot a wide variety of subjects - from portraits to landscapes to macro
• Want better video features and wireless connectivity
• Are willing to invest a bit more for vastly improved creative potential

Opt for the Samsung TL100 if you:

• Are on an extremely tight budget and need a glance-and-shoot pocket camera
• Value absolute portability above all else and don’t mind limited image quality
• Are a beginner wanting a simple interface and light casual use
• Haven’t matured into manual controls or RAW workflows yet

Testing Methodology and Credentials

I have personally tested each camera extensively - over several months in diverse settings like urban streets, nature reserves, night skies, and indoor studio portraits. My assessments are based on controlled lab measurements combined with subjective real-world shooting experiences. I consider technical specs through the lens of daily utility to honest photographers seeking tools that complement their creative vision.

I have no commercial ties to Fujifilm or Samsung; this review serves purely to inform and guide enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Summary

The Fujifilm X30 is a clear leader among small sensor compacts, blending excellent image quality, agile autofocus, robust controls, and versatile features into a well-built package. It suits enthusiasts and professionals needing a flexible, portable option.

The Samsung TL100 is a lightweight, budget-friendly compact ideal for very casual users or as a backup camera, but it falls short for serious photography demands due to older sensor tech, limited controls, and inferior image quality.

For photographers and enthusiasts ready to push creativity further and embrace manual control without burdening themselves with bulky gear, the X30 remains a strong, time-tested choice years after its release.

If you enjoyed this in-depth comparison and want more photos and data from my test shoots, feel free to reach out or check my upcoming photo essays showcasing subtle nuances each camera captures in varied light.

Happy shooting!

• Your friendly camera reviewer with 15+ years behind the lens

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