Olympus FE-5010 vs Samsung EX2F: A Detailed Dive into Two Compact Cameras for Enthusiasts and Pros

Choosing the right compact camera can be a tricky task, especially when models span different generations and usabilities. Today, we’re putting two small sensor compacts head-to-head: the Olympus FE-5010, launched in early 2009, and the Samsung EX2F, released towards the end of 2012. Both cameras target enthusiasts who want a pocketable camera with more manual control and better image quality than typical smartphones, yet their approach and features differ significantly.

In this detailed comparison, we’ll explore how these models perform across multiple photography disciplines, analyze their technical qualities, and help you make an informed choice based on your photographic goals and budget.

Feel and Handling: Size, Ergonomics, and Controls

When assessing cameras, the first impression often comes from how they feel in your hands and the layout of their controls. Ergonomics affect shooting comfort, usability, and quick access to key functions.

Olympus FE-5010: This camera boasts a very small form factor and lightweight design. It's ideal if your priority is pocketability or having a no-frills point-and-shoot experience. The fixed 2.7” screen has limited resolution and no articulation, which can hinder creativity for video or low-angle shooting. Controls are minimal with no manual focus or exposure options.

Samsung EX2F: This model is noticeably larger and heavier but incorporates a deeper grip, creating a more DSLR-like handling experience. The bigger 3” AMOLED screen articulates fully, enhancing flexibility for vlogging, macro, or street photography angles. It includes dedicated dials for shutter speed and aperture making manual control intuitive.

Our Take: If you prioritize an ultra-compact carry and simplicity, FE-5010 wins. For more serious ergonomics and creative control, EX2F clearly shines.

Sensor and Image Quality: Understanding What Lies Beneath

The sensor defines the photographic heart of any camera. It determines resolution, image quality, dynamic range, and performance in low light.

Technical Insight: The EX2F’s 1/1.7" BSI-CMOS sensor is a step above the FE-5010’s smaller 1/2.3" CCD sensor. BSI technology enhances light gathering efficiency, improving low-light performance and dynamic range. The larger sensor area combined with a higher max ISO gives EX2F an advantage when shooting in dim conditions or requiring cleaner images. Additionally, Samsung’s support for RAW files provides greater creative control in post-processing - a notable edge for enthusiasts and pros.

Real-World Performance: Olympus’ sensor can capture decent daylight shots but struggles with noise by ISO 800 and above. Dynamic range is also limited compared to the EX2F, making highlights and shadows less forgiving.

Bottom Line: If image quality under varied conditions matters, EX2F delivers a more robust sensor experience that will reward your photography skills.

Lens Capabilities: Zoom, Aperture, and Macro Performance

Lens design impacts everything from field of view to depth of field control and close-up ability. Let’s compare the two optics.

The FE-5010’s zoom range covers a useful telephoto reach at 180mm equivalent, excellent for distant subjects, but this is achieved with a slower aperture, limiting depth-of-field control and low light capability.

The EX2F’s shorter zoom of 24-80mm covers versatile wide to short telephoto, great for landscapes, portraits, and street photography. Its standout feature is the extremely bright f/1.4 aperture at wide-angle, allowing superior low-light capture and beautiful background blur - a rarity in compact cameras.

Macro & Close-ups: Olympus excels with a true close focusing distance of 3 cm, enabling impressive macro shots. The EX2F lacks specific macro mode data, so while manual focus and articulation aid creative close-ups, maximum magnification will be less.

Optical Stabilization: Both employ image stabilization but with different methods. Olympus uses sensor-shift, which can be effective but limited by the sensor and shutter constraints. Samsung applies optical stabilization integrated into the lens, which generally provides more effective compensation, especially for moving subjects or longer exposures.

Autofocus and Exposure Controls: Speed, Accuracy, and Creative Freedom

Olympus FE-5010: The autofocus system is basic contrast-detection with single-point focusing. Without manual focus, you lack direct control which limits shooting in tricky lighting or macro. Exposure is fully auto, with no shutter or aperture priority modes, reducing creative flexibility.

Samsung EX2F: Supports manual focusing, allowing you to fine-tune focus for landscapes, macros, and portraits. It offers shutter priority, aperture priority, and full manual modes - an essential toolkit for enthusiasts who want to learn and experiment with exposure. Exposure compensation lets you adjust brightness without leaving creative modes. However, focus tracking and face detection are absent, so tracking moving subjects requires steady technique.

Our Observation: For anyone moving beyond snapshot photography into experimenting with depth of field and exposure, the EX2F's manual options open new creative pathways. The FE-5010 remains strictly automatic and beginner-friendly.

Display, Viewfinder, and Interface: Composition and Preview Experience

Olympus: The basic fixed LCD is functional but cramped and low resolution. It doesn’t help much during bright daylight or when shooting from unusual angles.

Samsung: The bright AMOLED screen with full articulation greatly enhances framing flexibility. Whether you're shooting vlogs, low-angle street scenes, or macro shots, being able to flip and tilt the screen is a significant advantage for creative composition.

Viewfinder: Neither has a built-in optical viewfinder, but the EX2F offers an optional electronic viewfinder accessory, elevating its usability in bright conditions and for precise focus.

Video Recording: Specs and Stabilization

Samsung’s EX2F offers full HD video with a modern H.264 codec, superior image quality, and more detail when compared to the Olympus’s VGA 640x480 capture. While neither support microphone input, the EX2F’s articulating screen makes it a more versatile option for casual videography and vlogging.

Battery, Storage, and Connectivity

While battery life specifics are sparse for both, the Samsung’s use of SD cards is advantageous as SD is widely supported and available in high capacities. Built-in WiFi in the EX2F allows wireless image transfer, a feature missing in the Olympus.

Additionally, Samsung includes HDMI output, facilitating direct connection to HD displays for immediate image and video review.

Performance Summary: How They Stack Up Across Photography Types

Let’s evaluate how these cameras perform in distinct photography genres:

• Portraits: EX2F’s fast lens (f/1.4) combined with a larger sensor creates pleasing bokeh and better skin tones. FE-5010’s slower lens and sensor limit background separation.
• Landscape: The EX2F again shines with higher dynamic range and wider angle lens. Olympus’s longer zoom is less relevant here.
• Wildlife & Sports: FE-5010’s longer zoom helps reach distant subjects but lacks autofocus speed or tracking. Neither camera supports continuous AF or high burst rates.
• Street: EX2F’s articulated screen and better low light (due to faster lens and sensor) make it superior for nightly street photography.
• Macro: FE-5010’s 3cm macro focus outperforms EX2F.
• Night / Astro: EX2F beats Olympus with better ISO performance and longer exposures.
• Travel: FE-5010’s smaller size is convenient, but EX2F offers more versatility with better image quality and features.
• Professional work: Neither camera is ideal; EX2F’s RAW support and manual controls make it better for serious enthusiasts.

Olympus FE 5010 front Olympus FE 5010 screen back Samsung EX2F front Samsung EX2F screen back

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

The Olympus FE-5010 boasts environmental sealing, an unusual feature in its category, though it is not waterproof, dustproof, or shockproof. This adds some protection against light rain or dust - a benefit for outdoor photographers.

Samsung EX2F lacks weather sealing, so extra care is necessary if shooting in adverse conditions.

Price and Value-for-Money Analysis

At a glance, the FE-5010 represents a budget-friendly choice for casual shooters prioritizing portability and zoom reach. The EX2F commands a premium for its advanced optics, larger sensor, manual controls, and video capabilities.

For those willing to invest in a compact packed with creative tools, the EX2F provides a substantially better all-around experience.

Final Scores and Recommendations

Olympus FE-5010

• Pros:

  • Ultra-compact and lightweight
  • 5× telephoto zoom
  • Sensor-shift stabilization
  • Basic environmental sealing

• Cons:

  • Fixed aperture and fully automatic exposure
  • Small, low-resolution screen
  • No RAW support, limited low-light performance
  • No manual focus or exposure options
  • Very limited video capabilities

Samsung EX2F

• Pros:

  • Larger 1/1.7” BSI CMOS sensor with RAW support
  • Bright f/1.4 wide-angle lens
  • Articulating AMOLED screen
  • Manual focus and exposure modes
  • Full HD video recording with optical IS
  • Built-in WiFi and HDMI output

• Cons:

  • Larger and heavier body
  • No environmental sealing
  • No advanced autofocus features like face detection or tracking
  • Higher price point

Who Should Choose Which?

If you want an ultra-portable, simple-to-use camera for everyday snapshots, travel, or casual macro shooting with telephoto reach - Olympus FE-5010 is a worthy budget option. It suits beginners or as a pocketable backup in a larger kit.

If you seek greater image quality, creative control, and versatility - whether for portraits, landscapes, street, or video - the Samsung EX2F is a more capable and future-proof choice. It rewards the enthusiast willing to master manual modes and invest in post-processing with RAW files.

Closing Thoughts: Exploring Your Next Compact Camera

Choosing your next camera involves balancing size, image quality, features, and budget. Both Olympus FE-5010 and Samsung EX2F serve different niches within the compact camera market. Our hands-on testing and technical assessment confirm that the FE-5010 is a no-fuss snapshot machine while EX2F targets photographers stepping up their game.

We encourage you to try these cameras in person, if possible, or at least examine sample images (like those above), to see which style and output resonate more. Complementing your choice with suitable SD cards, carrying solutions, and possibly external accessories will also extend your photographic creativity.

Happy shooting - every photo is a step forward in your creative journey!