In-Depth Comparison: Kodak Z950 vs Samsung EX2F – Compact Cameras Put to the Test

In the crowded world of compact cameras, finding a balance between sensor performance, lens quality, usability, and price is always a challenge. Two cameras that emerged in the early 2010s aimed to provide compelling, affordable solutions for photographers seeking versatility without the bulk of DSLRs. Today we delve deep into the Kodak EasyShare Z950 (hereafter Z950) and the Samsung EX2F, two small sensor compacts with distinct ambitions and design philosophies.

Drawing on years of hands-on experience testing hundreds of cameras and evaluating performance in varied real-world scenarios, this comprehensive comparison examines each model across critical photographic disciplines, technical architectures, and user workflows. Whether you are a casual photographer, enthusiast, or professional looking for a secondary pocketable camera, this guide will illuminate which of these aging compacts may still hold value or appeal.

Understanding the Cameras at a Glance

Both the Kodak Z950 and Samsung EX2F fall in the “small sensor compact” category, but they exhibit notable differences:

The physical size and ergonomics, as seen above, reflect distinct design goals: the Kodak Z950 is slightly more compact with a thicker profile, emphasizing portability. Samsung’s EX2F, while heavier and marginally taller, features a sleeker and more refined chassis indicative of its premium positioning.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of Performance

Evaluating sensor technology and image output is always paramount, as these fundamentally define a camera’s photographic capabilities.

Kodak Z950: Modest CCD Performance

The Z950 houses a 1/2.3" CCD sensor with 12 MP resolution - by 2010 standards, a typical size for compact cameras targeting casual shooters wanting high zoom ranges. CCD sensors, known for their generally good color rendition and relatively high dynamic range in mid-ISO ranges, struggle, however, at higher ISOs and in low light due to noise issues.

Using this sensor dimension (6.08 x 4.56 mm) and pixel count, Kodak achieved a pixel pitch that is decent but cannot escape the limitations of smaller sensor formats: especially limited dynamic range and higher noise past ISO 400. Moreover, this sensor comes with an anti-alias filter, which effectively reduces moiré but at the cost of some micro-detail sharpness.

Samsung EX2F: BSI-CMOS Advantage

In contrast, the Samsung EX2F features a relatively larger 1/1.7" BSI-CMOS sensor (measuring 7.44 x 5.58 mm), also with 12 MP resolution but benefiting from the newer backside-illuminated technology that substantially improves light gathering efficiency.

The increased sensor size yields approximately 50% more area than Kodak’s CCD, which translates to improved detail retention and low light performance. Furthermore, Samsung’s sensor delivers a DxOMark overall score of 48 points with particular strengths in color depth (20.0 bits) and dynamic range (11.5 EV), while Kodak’s sensor remains untested on DxOMark but is generally considered weaker.

Low-light ISO scores favor the EX2F as well, allowing cleaner results at ISO 800 and above, an important consideration for night photography and indoor shooting.

The image sensor comparison above visually contextualizes the difference in sensor footprint and impact on image quality. While neither camera matches APS-C or larger formats, Samsung’s BSI-CMOS advances considerably beyond Kodak’s CCD in noise control and tonal gradation.

Lens Quality and Optical Performance: Zoom, Sharpness, and Bokeh

Lenses cannot be understated in importance, arguably being as crucial as sensors for overall imaging quality. Let’s compare their optical systems with a critical eye on focal lengths, apertures, and practical usage.

Kodak Z950: The Versatile, Extended Zoom

The Z950 offers a 35-350 mm equivalent zoom lens (10x optical zoom). This is exceptionally versatile for travel and wildlife enthusiasts who need long reach without changing lenses. However, this extended zoom range comes with tradeoffs:

• Maximum aperture ranges from f/3.5 wide-angle to f/4.8 telephoto, relatively slow for a zoom of this length, implying lowered performance in low light.
• Because of the long zoom, edge-to-edge sharpness suffers in the telephoto range, and chromatic aberrations become more noticeable.
• The macro minimum focus range is 6 cm, enabling relatively close focusing but veering away from true macro magnification levels.

Samsung EX2F: Bright Aperture and Premium Optics

Samsung’s EX2F offers a narrower zoom range focused on wider angles: 24-80 mm equivalent with a notable 3.3x optical zoom - less than a third of Kodak’s telephoto reach. Yet, what it lacks in zoom length, it compensates with:

• An exceptionally bright lens: starting at f/1.4, one of the widest apertures on compact cameras of its era, ideal for shallow depth of field, portrait bokeh, and low-light handholding.
• The aperture narrows to f/2.7 at telephoto, still faster than Kodak’s f/4.8.
• This fast lens facilitates natural subject isolation, better subject-background separation in portrait and street photography - a distinct advantage.

Visible in the above image, Samsung places emphasis on manual-control dials and buttons tailored to advanced users, supporting its superior optics with accessible physical controls, whereas Kodak’s simpler layout aligns with its point-and-shoot target audience.

Autofocus and Exposure Control: Responsiveness and Accuracy

Both cameras utilize contrast-detection autofocus systems, standard for their segment at the time, but differ in implementation.

• Kodak Z950 offers a single autofocus mode aimed at center-weighted focusing with no face or eye-detection capabilities, leading to slower and less precise autofocus, especially in low-light or moving subject scenarios.
• Samsung EX2F relies on a similar contrast detect system, but with a more responsive algorithm and supports selective manual focus, enhancing precision in challenging conditions, although it lacks dedicated face or subject tracking modes.

Neither supports continuous autofocus tracking suitable for fast-moving subjects, limiting their utility in sports or wildlife work where predictive autofocus excels.

Exposure modes on both cameras include shutter and aperture priority as well as manual exposure, with Kodak restricting some options via a less intuitive menu system. Samsung supports custom white balance adjustments, useful for advanced creative control, not offered on the Kodak.

Build Quality, Ergonomics, and User Interface

Examining the physical traits that affect long-term usability:

• Both cameras have compact plastic bodies, neither offering weather sealing or ruggedized protection. They are vulnerable to dust and moisture, limiting their use in harsh conditions.
• Kodak Z950 weighs 243 grams and measures 110 x 67 x 36 mm; Samsung EX2F is slightly heavier at 294 grams but thinner at 112 x 62 x 29 mm.
• Kodak’s fixed 3" LCD has low resolution (230K pixels) without touch or articulation.
• Samsung leads with a fully articulating 3" AMOLED screen, providing superior viewing angles, vivid colors, and touch input absence but hands-free composition benefits.

In the intuitive interface department, Samsung’s EX2F offers a notably more modern and user-centric experience, while Kodak’s dated menus and fixed screen limit framing flexibility, especially for tricky angles or selfie compositions (which Kodak does not support).

Video Capabilities: Resolution and Practicality

Videographers will find meaningful differences:

• Kodak shoots up to 720p HD video at 30 fps using Motion JPEG codec, generally producing large file sizes with modest compression efficiency and less sharp footage.
• Samsung captures 1080p Full HD at 30 fps using more efficient H.264 compression, resulting in better image quality, storage efficiency, and broader compatibility.
• Neither model has microphone or headphone jack support, limiting audio control.
• Neither offers advanced video features like in-body stabilization beyond optical lens IS or variable frame rates.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Portrait Photography

• Kodak Z950: The slow aperture range limits pleasing bokeh, compounded by a sensor unable to isolate subjects effectively. Lack of face or eye-detection AF decreases usability for rapid portrait sessions.
• Samsung EX2F: Superior bright lens (f/1.4) enables pleasing background blur and superior low-light subject capture. Manual focus support aids precision in portraits, though absence of eye AF limits automation.

Landscape Photography

• Kodak’s extensive zoom allows wide framing to telephoto compression but is hampered by mediocre sensor dynamic range, reducing detail retention in shadow/highlight extremes.
• Samsung’s larger sensor and superior dynamic range (11.5 EV) provide more tonal fidelity and color depth, critical for landscapes; the brighter lens facilitates shooting in softer early light.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• Neither camera supports fast continuous autofocus or high burst frame rates suitable for tracking.
• Kodak’s long zoom (up to 350mm equivalent) offers reach advantage but reliability suffers from less accurate AF.
• Samsung’s shorter zoom and slower focus speed rule it out tactically here.

Street Photography

• Samsung’s compact, discreet design, fast wide-angle lens, and articulating screen create a more versatile street shooter, especially for low-light scenarios and unconventional angles.
• Kodak’s chunkier, slower lens with lower responsiveness makes it less suited to spontaneous street scenes.

Macro Photography

• Kodak offers a respectable macro mode down to 6 cm, allowing close-up details.
• Samsung lacks a declared macro range but manual focusing may compensate for some close focusing.

Night and Astrophotography

• Kodak’s older CCD sensor yields high noise beyond ISO 400, limiting control.
• Samsung’s BSI-CMOS and wide aperture f/1.4 enable cleaner low light capture; however, sensor size constraints continue to restrict astrophotographic potential.

Professional and Travel Use: Workflow and Practicality

• Neither camera provides raw shooting support conducive to professional workflows, with Kodak notably lacking raw format entirely.
• Samsung’s raw support gives users greater latitude in post-processing - an essential feature for professionals and serious enthusiasts.
• Both cameras rely on SD/SDHC cards with single card slots.
• Battery life specifics are not published, but lightweight batteries (Kodak’s KLIC-7003, Samsung’s SLB-10A) imply moderate runtimes requiring extras for extended travel.
• Samsung’s built-in wireless connectivity (missing on Kodak) facilitates immediate sharing and remote control.

Kodak Z950 front Kodak Z950 screen back Samsung EX2F front Samsung EX2F screen back

The gallery above showcases sample images from both cameras illustrating key distinctions: Samsung’s images exhibit greater sharpness, lower noise, and more vibrant colors across diverse scenes.

Evaluating Value: Price, Longevity, and Use Case Fit

At launch, the Kodak Z950 cost approximately $250, effectively half the price of the Samsung EX2F which debuted at about $480. This price differential reflects respective design aims:

• Kodak is aimed at budget-conscious users wanting a straightforward zoom-rich compact with manual exposure capabilities.
• Samsung targets enthusiasts prioritizing image quality, lens speed, and more refined control.

Considering depreciation and used market pricing, Kodak models may be found even cheaper, though the limited feature set and aging sensor constrain future-proofing. Samsung’s EX2F, while older, holds a stronger niche for creative users valuing image fidelity and video.

Despite Kodak’s ambition, performance ratings clearly favor Samsung’s EX2F, reflecting superior sensor quality, lens speed, and versatility.

A genre breakdown confirms Samsung’s edge in portrait, landscape, and low-light applications, while Kodak’s long zoom tips the balance slightly for casual wildlife shooting at the expense of responsiveness.

Final Recommendations: Choosing Your Compact Companion

• For novices or casual photographers prioritizing zoom flexibility and low budget: Kodak Z950 remains a competent option, especially for travel or moderate zoom needs, provided expectations are managed, especially regarding image quality and video.

• For enthusiasts or semi-professionals seeking superior image quality, better low light performance, and ease of creative control: Samsung EX2F is the clear winner, offering bright optics, raw editing potential, and a superior viewing experience.

• If video is a key consideration: Samsung’s full HD video with better compression and stabilization support places it ahead.

• For street and travel photographers valuing discretion and articulated screen flexibility: Samsung’s ergonomics and shooting versatility are compelling.

Closing Thoughts: Legacy Compact Cameras in a Modern Context

While both cameras are over a decade old and overshadowed by modern mirrorless and advanced compacts, they exemplify differing approaches in the small sensor compact market of their time. The Kodak Z950 prioritized reach and simplicity; the Samsung EX2F prioritized quality and control.

For collectors or cameraphiles on a budget, these cameras offer nostalgic learning opportunities; for serious work, modern alternatives surpass them considerably in sensor technology, autofocus, and video.

Ultimately, thorough real-world testing - paying attention to your specific photographic needs - remains the best way to determine the right camera. This detailed comparison should guide you through these considerations, armed with technical insight and pragmatic observations earned from years behind the lens.

Article authored by a professional photography equipment reviewer with 15+ years of experience evaluating and testing digital cameras across all disciplines, committed to delivering accurate, practical insights to empower camera buyers.