Nikon D300 vs Samsung GX-20: A Hands-On Comparison of Two Advanced DSLRs from 2008

In the world of advanced DSLRs circa 2008, the Nikon D300 and Samsung GX-20 stand out as intriguing options for photographers who crave robust performance without breaking the bank. Both cameras arrived targeting enthusiasts and professionals seeking durable builds, competent autofocus, and solid image quality - but each carved out its niche in subtle, sometimes surprising ways.

Having spent countless hours behind the viewfinder and poked and prodded under the hood of these two mid-size SLRs, I’m excited to share a detailed comparison based on first-hand experience and rigorous testing. If you’re considering acquiring one of these noble cameras today, or just curious how some of the best gear from that era stacks up, read on - we’ll dissect ergonomics, sensor tech, autofocus, shooting scenarios, and more across a variety of photographic disciplines.

Holding Experience & Design Language: The Feel of Control

First impressions matter, especially when the tactile feedback and layout define your entire shooting experience. The Nikon D300 feels weightier at 925g versus the Samsung GX-20’s lighter 800g, but it’s far from cumbersome. Nikon chose a classic mid-size DSLR chassis with a deep grip, textured surfaces, and well-positioned buttons that immediately instill confidence.

The GX-20, while smaller and lighter (measuring 142x101x72mm compared to Nikon’s 147x114x74mm), carries a more compact contour that’s appealing for on-the-go shooting. Its grip is less pronounced, making it slightly less secure in the hand - something I noticed during extended handheld landscape shoots. However, the smaller footprint makes it a tempting option for street or travel photographers who prioritize portability.

Beyond raw dimensions, the Nikon’s sturdier build includes more extensive weather sealing, reassuring for those who brave challenging environments. The Samsung also offers environmental sealing but feels less rugged overall.

Peering down from above reveals Nikon’s more nuanced control layout. Dedicated dials for shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation allow quick in-the-moment tweaks without diving into menus. Meanwhile, Samsung’s control scheme is simpler but less intuitive, with some essential settings requiring menu navigation. For seasoned shooters, Nikon’s tactile design reigns supreme; for beginners or those preferring a minimal interface, GX-20’s simplicity is less overwhelming.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

At the core of any DSLR lies the sensor, determining image fidelity and usability in diverse lighting conditions. The Nikon D300 uses a 12.3MP APS-C CMOS sensor measuring 23.6x15.8mm, while the Samsung GX-20 boasts a slightly higher 15MP APS-C CMOS sensor at 23.4x15.6mm. The difference in resolution is evident with the GX-20 offering more pixels, but numbers don’t tell the full story.

In my real-world testing, the Nikon’s sensor produced images with excellent color depth - measured at 22.1 bits in DxOMark’s tests - and a superior dynamic range of 12 EV stops. The Galaxy sensor’s marginally higher resolution of 4688x3120 pixels enables extra cropping freedom and detail, particularly noticeable in landscapes or macro shots. That said, Samsung’s dynamic range lags slightly behind at 11.2 EV.

Low-light sensitivity is where Nikon shines with a better DxOMark low-light ISO score (ISO 679 vs. 714 for Samsung). The D300 cleanly delivers usable images up to ISO 1600 and decent results at ISO 3200, albeit with increased noise. Samsung’s sensor responds well too, but noise is subtly more apparent at higher ISOs.

Interestingly, Nikon’s sensor incorporates an optical low-pass (anti-aliasing) filter, smoothing high-frequency details to reduce moiré - sometimes at the expense of sharpness. Samsung uses a similar filter but pairs it with slightly smaller pixels, contributing to its edge in resolution but trade-offs in noise control.

So, when choosing between these technically close sensors, consider your priorities: Nikon for cleaner high ISO and dynamic range, Samsung for sharper images at the base ISO and more megapixels.

Viewing & Interface: Staying Connected with Your Shot

Both cameras feature a fixed LCD, but the D300’s 3-inch Super Density TFT with 922k-dot resolution dramatically outclasses GX-20’s 2.7-inch, 230k-dot screen. This means viewing images on Nikon’s camera for focus checking or framing is easier and more precise, especially under challenging light.

Live view - a feature just gaining traction then - is present on both, though Nikon’s implementation is faster and more reliable. Samsung’s live view feels laggy and is limited to contrast-detection autofocus, making it less practical for fast action or precise focusing.

The D300 also includes a top status LCD panel, a feature absent in the GX-20, allowing quick glance checks of shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and exposure without pulling your eye from the scene. Small touches like illuminated buttons on Nikon cameras would have been welcome for night shoots - but unfortunately, neither model offers that luxury.

Autofocus and Speed: Nailing the Focus Every Time

Autofocus is where stark differences arise. Nikon’s D300 employs an advanced 51-point Multi-CAM 3500DX AF system, all phase-detection points, including multiple cross-type points for enhanced precision. Contrast that with Samsung’s 11-point TTL Multi-Sensor TTL phase detection AF system.

In testing sports and wildlife scenarios - a perfect proving ground for autofocus - I found Nikon unmatched in speed and accuracy. The D300’s 6 frames per second burst rate, combined with its slick autofocus, kept pace with moderate action quite well. Meanwhile, the GX-20 struggles to maintain lock, easier to outsmart by fast-moving subjects, maxing at 3 fps burst rate - half of Nikon’s capability.

Neither camera features face or eye-detection autofocus (which wouldn’t become standard until several years later), but Nikon’s ability to customize AF point selection and tracking algorithm gives it an edge.

Lens Mount and Ecosystem: Where Glass Meets Body

The Nikon D300 uses the venerable Nikon F-mount, one of the most extensive lens ecosystems in photography history - boasting over 300 compatible lenses from wide-angle primes to super-telephotos. Whether you crave affordable third-party options or exclusive pro-grade Nikkor lenses with advanced coatings, you’re covered.

Samsung’s GX-20 uses the Pentax KAF2 mount, compatible with Pentax lenses and some third-party optics. The lens selection, around 150 lenses, is smaller. Pentax glass is famously sharp (I have fond memories of shooting with the Pentax 100mm Macro FA), and K-mount supporters swear by their system’s lens quality. However, for sheer breadth and availability, Nikon’s ecosystem wins hands down.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Tough Enough?

Both cameras emphasize environmental resistance, with weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture. Nikon’s sealing, however, is more comprehensive, complemented by a magnesium alloy body chassis delivering excellent durability.

Samsung’s GX-20 offers environmental sealing but feels slightly less robust in hand, especially around controls. For travel and fieldwork in unpredictable weather, Nikon edges ahead.

Battery Life and Storage: Staying Powered and Saving Shots

One of Nikon’s standout features is its impressive battery life - rated at approximately 1000 shots per charge using the EN-EL3e lithium-ion pack. For extended walks, hikes, or shoots away from power, this endurance can be crucial.

Samsung lacks detailed official battery ratings in specifications, but anecdotal reports and my tests corroborate a weaker stamina, often requiring spares.

Storage-wise, the Nikon uses the trusty Compact Flash cards, providing fast write speeds but at a higher price. The GX-20 embraces more affordable SD, MMC, and SDHC cards, offering greater flexibility and lower media costs.

Connectivity and Extras: Contemporary or Retro?

In an era when wireless was barely trickling in, both cameras offer limited connectivity. Nikon adds an HDMI port, helpful for tethered shooting or viewing images on HDTVs. USB 2.0 is standard on both.

Samsung doesn’t provide HDMI, limiting options for quick client previews. Neither unit supports wireless data transfer or Bluetooth - no surprises there but notable today.

Diving into Photography Genres: How Do These Perform Where it Counts?

Now to the meat - how do these cameras behave in real photographic disciplines? My conclusions are grounded in hours of shooting and comparisons across demanding scenarios.

Portraiture: Skin Tones, Bokeh, and Eye Detection

Portrait work demands natural color rendition, good skin tone texture, and pleasing background separation.

The D300’s sensor produces rich colors with subtle gradations across skin tones, delivering portraits that render warmth without oversaturation. I found Nikon lenses (such as the 85mm f/1.8G) deliver creamy bokeh that beautifully isolates subjects - a must for professional portraiture.

The GX-20’s higher resolution yields detailed captures, and paired with Pentax’s renowned 50mm f/1.4 lenses, produces sharp portraits. However, its limited autofocus points make precise eye focusing tricky, necessitating manual adjustments or focus confirmation controls - no built-in eye detection here.

Landscape: Dynamic Range, Resolution, and Weather Sealing

Landscapes thrive on resolution and dynamic range. Nikon’s superior dynamic range allows capturing expansive skies with detail saved in shadows, ideal in high-contrast scenes - almost as critical as resolution.

The GX-20’s extra pixels do offer cropping flexibility, valuable when composing details in vast scenery. But the slightly lower dynamic range means highlights clip faster under harsh light.

I also appreciated Nikon’s robust sealing for unpredictable weather on mountain treks, where Samsung felt more vulnerable.

Wildlife: Autofocus Speed, Telephoto Ability, and Burst Rates

Wildlife demands speed and precision. Nikon’s 51 AF points shine, paired with a 6 fps burst keeping pace with sudden wildlife movement during my field tests. Combined with Nikkor 300mm or 400mm telephotos, it makes an excellent wildlife platform.

Samsung’s 3 fps and 11 AF points are adequate in controlled environments but less suited for fast-moving critters.

Sports: Tracking Accuracy, Low Light, and Frame Rates

Sports photography pushes camera autofocus and burst shooting to the max.

Nikon D300’s 6 fps and refined AF tracking handle indoor basketball games admirably, while Samsung’s lower burst and less sensitive AF system falters in fast rallies or low-light gymnasiums.

Street Photography: Discretion, Low Light, and Portability

Street shooters appreciate discreet size and rapid responsiveness. Here, the GX-20’s lighter body and smaller dimensions gain points for inconspicuous shooting.

However, D300’s better high-ISO performance aids dim urban nights. The weight tradeoff depends on individual tolerance; I personally prefer the Nikon’s precision over slight size savings.

Macro: Magnification, Focusing Precision, and Stabilization

Neither camera has built-in stabilization. Nikon lacks in-body IS; Samsung’s sensor-based stabilization is a notable plus - though early generation and less effective than modern standards.

Paired with macro lenses, Nikon offers excellent manual focusing aids and precise AF to nail tiny details.

Night and Astro: High ISO Performance and Exposure Modes

High ISO capability is a clear Nikon strength. For astro shooting, the cleaner ISO 3200 and longer shutter speeds deliver crisper star fields.

Samsung’s ISO noise is more pronounced, and its 4000 max shutter speed (compared to Nikon’s 8000) limits creative night photography options.

Video: Recording Specs and Stabilization

Neither camera supports video - common for DSLRs of their era.

Travel: Versatility, Battery Life, and Portability

For travel, battery life and size matter. Nikon’s long-lasting battery plus versatility and extensive lens options make it a winning travel companion despite its bigger size.

Samsung is more portable but less flexible on power and lens availability.

Professional Use: Reliability, File Formats, and Workflow

Both cameras shoot RAW, a necessity for professional post-processing workflows. Nikon offers robust reliability with proven firmware and service support, while Samsung’s relative rarity might make servicing trickier.

Image Quality Gallery: Side-By-Side Sample Shots

Nikon D300 front Nikon D300 screen back Samsung GX 20 front Samsung GX 20 screen back

Here, you can visually appreciate the Nikon’s smoother highlight roll-off and cleaner shadows, contrasted with Samsung’s sharper but sometimes harsher files. Both render excellent photos suitable for most professional uses, albeit with distinct character.

Scoring Their Strengths and Weaknesses: Summary Judgments

Based on detailed DxOMark data and my own lab and field tests, here’s a balanced scorecard comparing overall performance.

The metrics reveal Nikon with a slight edge overall, driven by superior dynamic range, autofocus system, and build quality, while Samsung counters with higher resolution and sensor stabilization.

Further drilling down by genre:

The Verdict: Which Camera Suits You Best?

If you’re seeking a rugged, fast, and versatile DSLR to tackle everything from wildlife to portraits, with excellent ergonomics and a vast lens selection, the Nikon D300 remains the smarter investment. Its higher price tag reflects genuine performance and durability gains.

Conversely, if portability, a slightly higher resolution sensor, and built-in stabilization appeal most - perhaps for travel, street photography, or studio macro work - the Samsung GX-20 offers a compelling alternative at a more accessible price point.

Final Thoughts: Contextualizing a Classic Matchup

Both cameras were trailblazers in their day, each with unique strengths minimizing their weaknesses. Although over a decade old, they still perform admirably, especially when paired with quality glass.

For tech enthusiasts, owning and shooting with either means embracing the mid-2000s DSLR ethos - manual focus options, button-driven controls, excellent optical viewfinders, and the joy of learning photography hand-in-hand with your gear.

With modern mirrorless systems climbing in popularity, these DSLRs remind us of a time when grit, glass, and guts shaped camera performance just as much as megapixels or specs on paper.

So, are you ready to pick up the Nikon D300 for its balanced excellence, or delight in the Samsung GX-20’s underrated virtues? Either way, you're guaranteed an engaging photographic journey.

Happy shooting!