Nikon 1 J2 vs Samsung NX500

Following is a thorough assessment of the Nikon 1 J2 and Samsung NX500, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Nikon and Samsung. There is a huge difference among the sensor resolutions of the 1 J2 (10MP) and NX500 (28MP) and the 1 J2 (1") and NX500 (APS-C) use totally different sensor size.

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The 1 J2 was announced 3 years earlier than the NX500 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight into a complete comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the 1 J2 scores against the NX500 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon 1 J2 and Samsung NX500. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon 1 J2 Gallery and Samsung NX500 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry around your camera regularly, you should factor its weight and size. The Nikon 1 J2 provides outside measurements of 106mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 238 grams (0.52 lbs) and the Samsung NX500 has specifications of 120mm x 64mm x 43mm (4.7" x 2.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

See the Nikon 1 J2 and Samsung NX500 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you use at that moment. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the 1 J2 against the NX500.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the 1 J2 and NX500 is 91 and 87 respectively.

Often, it is very hard to visualise the contrast in sensor sizes only by checking out specifications. The image below might offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 J2 and NX500.

To sum up, both cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The 1 J2 using its smaller sensor will make getting shallower DOF more difficult and the Samsung NX500 will provide greater detail with its extra 18MP. Higher resolution will help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged 1 J2 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.