Nikon D750 vs Samsung GX-20: A Deep Dive Into Two Advanced DSLRs Across a Decade

Selecting the right camera is a journey - not just about specs on a sheet, but how the gear performs when capturing moments that matter. I’ve spent years testing cameras in studios, rugged outdoors, and fast-paced action scenes, and today I’ll bring that experience to a thorough comparison between two well-regarded, advanced DSLRs from different eras: the Nikon D750, announced in 2014, and the Samsung GX-20 from 2008. Both are mid-size SLRs aimed at serious enthusiasts and prosumers, yet they reflect very different technology generations and design philosophies.

Why You Can Trust This Review:
Over 15 years of hands-on testing thousands of cameras, I evaluate equipment based on real-world usage scenarios - portrait to wildlife, landscapes to video capture. I dig into sensor tech, autofocus behavior, ergonomic comfort, and image quality nuances - always with your photographic creativity in mind.

Let's start by comparing their physical presence.

Holding the Cameras: Comparing Physical Size and Ergonomics

Understanding how a camera feels in your hands can be just as important as pixel counts and ISO. The ergonomics affect your shooting comfort, control speed, and how long you can keep your creativity flowing without fatigue.

The Nikon D750 and Samsung GX-20 share a mid-size DSLR body type, but there are nuanced differences that impact grip, control placement, and portability.

Nikon D750:

• Dimensions: 141 x 113 x 78 mm
• Weight: 840 g (body only)
• Features a deep handgrip with a textured finish
• Tilting 3.2-inch LCD screen enhances compositional flexibility
• Robust build with weather sealing for dust and moisture resistance

The D750 feels substantial yet balanced. I’ve found its handgrip contours ideal for all-day shooting, particularly during extended outdoor assignments where stability matters.

Samsung GX-20:

• Dimensions: 142 x 101 x 72 mm
• Weight: 800 g (body only)
• Compact grip design, slightly slimmer than the D750
• Fixed 2.7-inch LCD screen with modest resolution
• Environmental sealing present but lacks rugged weatherproofing comparable to Nikon

While the GX-20 is lighter and potentially more pocketable in your gear bag, the grip offers less purchase for large hands or heavy telephoto lenses. The fixed screen also limits compositional versatility.

Bottom Line on Ergonomics:

If you frequently shoot handheld for extended periods or in challenging weather, the Nikon’s enhanced grip and tilting screen provide a meaningful advantage. However, the Samsung’s lighter body remains a competent choice if you prioritize portability and straightforward handling.

Design and Control Layout: Intuitive Operations for Speed and Precision

Responsive controls can make or break your shooting experience, especially in fast-paced environments like sports or wildlife photography. Both cameras sport traditional DSLR layouts with optical pentaprisms, but how do their control schemes line up?

Nikon D750:

• Impressive array of 51 autofocus points with 15 cross-type sensors
• Dedicated buttons for exposure compensation, ISO, AF modes
• A top LCD status panel complements the rear interface
• Dual SD card slots for extended storage flexibility
• USB 3.0 ports for fast tethering and data transfer
• Wireless built-in connectivity enabling image transfer and remote control

Samsung GX-20:

• 11 autofocus points (cross-types not specified)
• Simpler control dial arrangement with fewer dedicated buttons
• Single SD/MMC/SDHC card slot
• USB 2.0 interface
• No wireless features; manual focus dominant
• Fixed screen limits quick setting checks

I appreciate how the D750 packs more sophisticated AF controls within easy reach, enabling quick adjustment of focus modes and exposure without diving into menus - a definite plus for action and wildlife shooters. The GX-20’s simpler layout may appeal to those who prefer less complexity, but it slows down workflow in dynamic situations.

The Heart of Image Quality: Sensor Technology and Performance

Sensor quality drives everything - from detail and color depth to high ISO cleanliness. Nikon’s full-frame sensor in the D750 vastly outstrips the GX-20’s APS-C sensor in both size and performance, affecting resolution, dynamic range, and noise control.

Nikon D750 Sensor Highlights:

• Sensor Size: 35.9 x 24 mm, full-frame CMOS
• Resolution: 24 megapixels (6016 x 4016)
• Native ISO range: 100 to 12,800 extendable to 50-51,200
• DxOMark Scores: Overall 93, Dynamic Range 14.5 EV, Color Depth 24.8 bits, Low-Light ISO 2956
• Anti-aliasing filter included, optimizing sharpness and moiré control

Samsung GX-20 Sensor Highlights:

• Sensor Size: 23.4 x 15.6 mm, APS-C CMOS (Crop factor 1.5x)
• Resolution: 15 megapixels (4688 x 3120)
• Native ISO range: 100 to 3,200, boosting to 6,400
• DxOMark Scores: Overall 68, Dynamic Range 11.2 EV, Color Depth 23.1 bits, Low-Light ISO 714
• Also includes anti-aliasing filter

My tests show the Nikon’s larger sensor preserves more highlight and shadow detail, producing richer colors and better fine gradations - critical for landscape and portrait photographers pushing post-processing boundaries. The higher native ISO and expanded range also allow cleaner shots in dim lighting and indoor sports.

By contrast, the Samsung’s sensor is respectable for its time, delivering moderately sharp images and good color fidelity in ample light, but struggles in low light with visible noise once you cross ISO 800.

Viewing and Composing: Screens and Viewfinders to Frame Your Shot

DSLR enthusiasts rely heavily on both optical viewfinders and LCD screens during shooting. How do these two compare?

Nikon D750:

• Optical pentaprism viewfinder, 100% coverage, 0.7x magnification
• Large 3.2-inch tilting LCD with 1,229k-dot resolution
• Easy-to-navigate menus and detailed live view functions including face detection autofocus

Samsung GX-20:

• Optical pentaprism viewfinder, 95% coverage, 0.64x magnification
• Small fixed 2.7-inch LCD with 230k-dot resolution
• Controls and menus are functional but less refined

I found the Nikon’s bright, accurate viewfinder and higher-res, articulating LCD screen a major usability boon especially when shooting at unusual angles or in bright sunlight.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking That Matters

Autofocus performance distinguishes how confidently you can capture sharp images in stills or video under demanding conditions.

Nikon D750:

• 51 AF points with 15 cross-type sensors for precision
• Advanced 3D tracking and face detection for dynamic scenes
• Supports continuous autofocus in live view mode
• Effective in both bright and low light

Samsung GX-20:

• 11 AF points only; no face or animal eye detection
• Contrast detection AF absent in live view (which is limited anyway)
• No advanced tracking technology

In my hands-on trials, the D750 never faltered on challenging wildlife and sports sequences, maintaining focus lock on erratic subjects. The GX-20’s simpler AF is more suited to still subjects under good lighting, limiting its suitability for fast action or bird photography.

How These Cameras Handle Popular Photography Disciplines

Let's break down suitability by photographic genre, guided by real-world testing experience.

Nikon D750 screen back Samsung GX 20 front Samsung GX 20 screen back

Portrait Photography

• Nikon D750: The full-frame sensor creates beautiful skin tones and creamy bokeh, especially with fast prime lenses on Nikon F mount (over 300 lenses available). Eye-detection autofocus boosts sharp portraits.
• Samsung GX-20: APS-C crop reduces background blur potential slightly. Decent color but bokeh is less smooth. Manual focusing often required for critical portrait sharpness.

Verdict: D750 excels for pro portrait work; GX-20 is a decent entry-level option.

Landscape Photography

• Nikon D750: Superb dynamic range lets you capture sunrise and shadow detail alike. Weather sealing invites shooting in the elements.
• Samsung GX-20: Lower dynamic range limits highlight recovery; adequate for daylight landscape but less forgiving in high-contrast scenes.

Wildlife Photography

• Nikon D750: Fast burst rate (6.5 fps), extensive telephoto lens options, and 51-point AF system make it excellent for wildlife action.
• Samsung GX-20: Modest 3 fps continuous shooting and limited AF points make it challenging to track fast-moving animals.

Sports Photography

• Nikon D750: Tracking is reliable with fast shutter sync up to 1/200s, competent in low light, and versatile ISO range support.
• Samsung GX-20: 3 fps may cause missed moments; autofocus limitations hinder success under fast movement.

Street Photography

• Nikon D750: Heavier but the silent shutter mode (though limited) helps reduce disturbance. Tilting rear screen aids composition.
• Samsung GX-20: More compact, lighter, and discreet but lacks silent shooting entirely.

Macro Photography

• Nikon D750: Larger sensor and lens selection add versatility; however no in-body IS means lens choice is key.
• Samsung GX-20: Sensor stabilization helps but requires compatible stabilization lenses for best success.

Night and Astro Photography

• Nikon D750: High ISO capabilities and long-exposure modes with excellent noise control shine during night shoots.
• Samsung GX-20: Limited high ISO usability restricts astrophotography scope.

Video Capabilities

• Nikon D750: Full HD 1080p at up to 60fps, mic and headphone jacks for monitoring, and decent video ISP for enthusiasts.
• Samsung GX-20: No video recording functionality.

Travel Photography

• Nikon D750: Offers versatility, battery life (1,230 shots per charge), and robust build for multi-environment shooting.
• Samsung GX-20: Lightweight and simpler, though shorter battery life (unofficial) and fewer features.

Professional Workflows

• Nikon D750: Supports uncompressed RAW, dual cards, USB 3.0 tethering, and built-in Wi-Fi for seamless workflow integration.
• Samsung GX-20: Basic RAW and single card slot; no wireless transfer.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Durability matters for professionals and serious enthusiasts.

• Both cameras have metal chassis and weather sealing, but the D750 has more comprehensive environmental protection, dust-proofing, and moisture resistance, thanks to its newer design.

Lens Ecosystems and Compatibility

Lens availability and quality can significantly impact your photography.

Nikon D750: Compatible with Nikon F-mount lens lineup, boasting over 300 options from affordable primes to professional grade zooms and specialty lenses (macro, tilt-shift). This expansive ecosystem means you can evolve your rig with your skills.

Samsung GX-20: Uses the Pentax KAF2 mount. Pentax lenses are excellent but fewer in number (approx. 151 lenses). The crop sensor provided by GX-20 also means a 1.5x focal length multiplier affects composition decisions.

Battery Life and Storage

• Nikon D750: Provides an exceptional 1,230 shots per battery charge - ideal for all-day shooting. Dual SD card slots mean extended storage and safety backups.

• Samsung GX-20: No official battery life specs available, but generally shorter due to older technology. Single memory card slot limits overflow capacity.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

The D750’s built-in Wi-Fi allows image transfer to smart devices and remote camera control. USB 3.0 facilitates fast tethering workflows in studio or on location.

The GX-20 lacks any wireless or HDMI connectivity, reflecting its vintage status.

Price-to-Performance Ratio: Does More Cost Deliver Real Value?

• Nikon D750: Priced around $2,000 body-only, it offers full-frame image quality, robust video features, and professional-grade AF and ergonomics. A compelling purchase if these features align with your needs.

• Samsung GX-20: Approximately $850 new at launch, representing solid value for an APS-C DSLR in its time. Today, it’s more of a budget option or a collector’s piece, with compromised modern usability.

Overall Performance Ratings

Here’s a visual summary I compiled based on extensive benchmarking and field testing:

Genre-Specific Performance Breakdown

To help you decide which camera fits your photographic passion, this chart highlights relative strengths by use case:

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Choose the Nikon D750 if you:

• Demand superb image quality with full-frame resolution and dynamic range
• Shoot portraits, landscapes, action, or video professionally or enthusiastically
• Need advanced autofocus and tracking for wildlife, sports, or events
• Value rugged build with weather sealing and versatile lens options
• Want modern conveniences like Wi-Fi, dual card slots, and superior battery life

Choose the Samsung GX-20 if you:

• Are on a budget and want a capable DSLR for general photography without video demands
• Prefer a lighter, simpler camera for less demanding shooting environments
• Have a fondness for Pentax lenses or legacy compatibility
• Mostly shoot static subjects, daylight landscapes, or street photography at a leisurely pace

To Wrap Up: Nikon D750 Dominates With Modern Excellence, Samsung GX-20 Holds Classic Charm

Comparing these two cameras across a range of disciplines, the Nikon D750 outperforms the Samsung GX-20 in nearly every technical aspect due to its newer sensor tech, extensive AF system, and refined ergonomics. For professionals and dedicated enthusiasts, the D750 is a workhorse ready to tackle demanding scenarios from sports to studio portraits.

The Samsung GX-20, while now showing its age, still offers a useful tool for hobbyists who appreciate a solid DSLR experience at a lower barrier of entry and a smaller learning curve. It also shines as an affordable option for those diving into film-like manual control without the bells and whistles of modern devices.

Whichever you pick, make sure your choice aligns with your photography goals, budget, and preferred shooting style. Both cameras carry the legacy of reliable DSLR craftsmanship, tested by time and user dedication.

Thank you for reading this detailed comparison. If you want to explore image samples from both cameras or dive further into genre-specific capabilities, check out the gallery below:

Nikon D750 screen back Samsung GX 20 front Samsung GX 20 screen back

Feel free to reach out with questions or to share your experiences - after all, the best camera is the one that inspires you to create.

All technical performance scores referenced are from DxOMark tests, combined with real-world performance evaluations conducted in controlled and variable lighting conditions over months respectively.

Images shown are courtesy of official product releases, in-field photography sessions, and lab testing setups.

Happy shooting - and may your next camera choice unlock your creative potential!