Nikon 1 J1 vs Samsung NX500

Below, we are evaluating the Nikon 1 J1 vs Samsung NX500, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by competitors Nikon and Samsung. There is a large difference between the resolutions of the 1 J1 (10MP) and NX500 (28MP) and the 1 J1 (1") and NX500 (APS-C) feature totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The 1 J1 was introduced 4 years prior to the NX500 and that is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief overview of how the 1 J1 scores against the NX500 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon 1 J1 & Samsung NX500. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 J1 Gallery & Samsung NX500 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera regularly, you will have to consider its weight and size. The Nikon 1 J1 provides external dimensions of 106mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.2") having a weight of 234 grams (0.52 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX500 has specifications of 120mm x 64mm x 43mm (4.7" x 2.5" x 1.7") along with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Check out the Nikon 1 J1 vs Samsung NX500 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have attached at that moment. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the 1 J1 and the NX500.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the 1 J1 and NX500 is 91 and 87 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to visualise the difference between sensor sizing simply by reading through technical specs. The visual below might give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the 1 J1 and NX500.

As you can tell, both cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The 1 J1 with its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field trickier and the Samsung NX500 will resolve greater detail using its extra 18 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The older 1 J1 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.