Olympus XZ-1 vs Samsung NX11

Olympus XZ-1 vs Samsung NX11: A Thorough Comparison for the Discerning Photographer

In the competitive world of digital photography, choosing the right camera often involves more than just glancing at the megapixel count or brand name. Instead, one must consider sensor performance, handling, system flexibility, and specific real-world shooting scenarios. Today, we pit the Olympus XZ-1 compact against the Samsung NX11 entry-level mirrorless – both released around the same time yet designed for fundamentally different users. Having personally tested countless cameras over the years, this in-depth comparison leverages a hands-on approach and industry-standard benchmarks to help photographers make an informed decision.

Meeting the Contenders: A Compact and a Mirrorless with Unique Appeals

Both cameras were announced in early 2011, yet their design philosophies diverge markedly:

• Olympus XZ-1: A compact camera with a fixed lens but bright optics and sensor-shift image stabilization. It boasts a small 1/1.63" CCD sensor.

• Samsung NX11: An entry-level mirrorless featuring a larger APS-C CMOS sensor and interchangeable lenses via the Samsung NX mount.

This distinction fundamentally shapes their capabilities, handling, and target users. The XZ-1 aims at enthusiast street or travel shooters valuing portability, while the NX11 sits closer to DSLR-style handling with system expandability.

Physical Design and Ergonomics: Handling Meets Portability

Evaluating physical attributes provides the first tactile impressions that influence user experience.

Dimensions & Weight:

• Olympus XZ-1: Revolving around compactness, the body measures just 111x65x42mm and weighs a mere 275 grams. This allows for pocketability and effortless day-long carry.

• Samsung NX11: Exhibits an SLR-style form factor at 123x87x40mm and 499 grams, nearly double in weight reflecting its larger sensor and interchangeable lens mount.

While the NX11 offers more robust handgrip space and physical camera presence favored by users transitioning from DSLRs, the XZ-1 excels in discreetness suitable for street or travel photography.

Control Layout:

Although both cameras feature three-inch OLED displays (discussed later), the NX11 integrates more physical control dials and buttons arranged in a traditional mirrorless stance, offering quicker access to settings. The XZ-1’s minimalist approach suits those preferring simpler operation but still includes manual exposure modes, aperture and shutter priority, and an electronic viewfinder option.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Pixel Realities Behind the Scenes

Arguably the most critical determinant in image quality lies in sensor design and implementation.

Sensor Size and Type:

• Olympus XZ-1: Employs a 1/1.63" CCD sensor measuring 8.07x5.56mm with 10 megapixels resolution.

• Samsung NX11: Houses an APS-C CMOS sensor sized at 23.4x15.6mm delivering 15 megapixels.

The NX11’s sensor is approximately eight times larger by surface area, theoretically providing superior low-light performance, dynamic range, and noise control – common advantages of larger sensors with backside illumination and CMOS technology versus small-size CCDs.

Image Quality Metrics:

Referencing DxOMark benchmark scores (a credible third-party measurement), we see:

These values reflect the NX11’s markedly better performance, particularly in low light and color fidelity – critical for professional quality. The XZ-1, however, still maintains respectable dynamic range for a compact sensor and benefits from Olympus’ TruePic V image processor in noise control.

LCD Screen and Viewfinder Experience: Framing Creativity

Both cameras feature 3-inch OLED screens with similar resolution (614k dots), but handling nuances in user interface and viewfinder options matter.

LCD Screen:

Both fixed, non-touch OLED panels render vibrant colors with good viewing angles crucial for composition under diverse lighting.

Electronic Viewfinder (EVF):

• Olympus XZ-1 lacks a built-in EVF but supports an optional external electronic finder.

• Samsung NX11 includes a built-in, 100% coverage EVF with 0.57x magnification, offering an immersive DSLR-like preview beneficial in bright conditions or for static shooting.

For photographers accustomed to viewfinder shooting or requiring steady framing, the NX11’s EVF offers a distinct advantage, while the XZ-1 leans on its LCD with a smaller physical footprint.

Autofocus System and Speed: Responsiveness for Action

Autofocus performance profoundly impacts different photography genres, especially wildlife, sports, and macro.

• Olympus XZ-1: Features 11 contrast-detection points with face detection and continuous AF absent. Its sensor-shift stabilization compensates for minor shakes but AF hunting can be noticeable in low light or fast scenes, limiting burst usability with only 2 fps continuous shooting.

• Samsung NX11: Equipped with 15 contrast-detection points, including AF tracking and multi-area AF. Also supports manual focusing with focus peaking. The NX11 achieves 3 fps burst rates, outperforming the XZ-1 in action scenarios.

While neither camera sports phase-detection AF (common in DSLRs of the era), the NX11’s more sophisticated AF area coverage and better burst handling advantage sports, wildlife, and any motion-intensive shooting.

Lens Ecosystem and Flexibility: Fixed vs Interchangeable

Lens choice directly influences artistic control, sharpness, and adaptability.

• Olympus XZ-1: Fixed 28-112mm equivalent 4x zoom lens with fast aperture range (F1.8-2.5) optimized for low-light and shallow depth of field. The bright lens provides creamy bokeh and close macro focusing down to 1 cm, ideal for portraits and macro enthusiasts.

• Samsung NX11: Compatible with 32 native NX mount lenses spanning wide angle, primes, telephoto, and macro options, enhancing creativity and specialization.

While the XZ-1’s lens is excellent within its focal range and aperture, the fundamental limitation of a fixed lens restricts versatility. In contrast, the NX11 supports system growth, critical for professionals or enthusiasts planning long-term investment.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Durability Considerations

Neither camera offers environmental sealing, dustproofing, or weather resistance, which restricts serious outdoor use in harsh conditions without protective gear. However, the XZ-1 boasts a robust metal body with traditional compact ruggedness, whereas the NX11’s polycarbonate shell balances weight and durability but feels less premium.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Shooting Considerations

Battery endurance affects day-long shoots, especially in travel or events:

• Olympus XZ-1: Rated at 320 shots per charge using the Li-50B battery, adequate for casual outings but potentially limiting in intensive sessions.

• Samsung NX11: Rated at 400 shots with the BP1130 battery, providing longer stamina, desirable for active usage.

Both utilize SD card slots but only the XZ-1 supports SDXC, allowing use of larger cards for extensive shooting.

Video Capabilities: Content Creation Options

While neither camera targets video-centric users, lightweight 720p recording is available:

• Olympus XZ-1: Outputs 1280x720p video at 30 fps in Motion JPEG format, resulting in larger files but easier editing. Lacks microphone or headphone jacks and image stabilization aids video steadiness.

• Samsung NX11: Offers H.264 encoded 720p at 30 fps with more versatile flash sync and exposure bracketing features. No audio ports are present.

Neither camera offers 4K or advanced video tools yet the XZ-1’s stabilization benefits handheld shooting, albeit with lower codec efficiency.

Specialized Use Cases: How Each Camera Excels or Falls Short

Portrait Photography:

• XZ-1’s fast lens (F1.8 at wide angle) and small sensor combine to deliver pleasant bokeh and good skin tone rendering despite limited resolution.

• NX11 benefits from greater detail and color accuracy with interchangeable lenses allowing for portrait primes.

Landscape Photography:

• The NX11’s larger, higher resolution sensor coupled with broader lens selection allows capturing expansive dynamic range and fine detail ideal for landscapers.

• XZ-1’s limited angle and sensor size restrict resolution, though its compact nature may suit casual scenarios.

Wildlife and Sports:

• The NX11’s faster burst rate, improved autofocus area, and telephoto lens options clearly outperform the XZ-1 in tracking fast subjects.

Street Photography:

• The XZ-1’s pocketable size, discrete design, and swift wide lens aperture favor street shooters seeking unobtrusive setup.

Macro Photography:

• The XZ-1 excels with a 1cm macro focus distance and sensor-shift stabilization aiding sharp close-ups. The NX11 offers macro lenses but requires additional investment.

Night and Astrophotography:

• Larger sensor with higher native ISO (NX11 max 3200 vs XZ-1 max 6400 but with higher noise) gives the NX11 a theoretical advantage, though longer exposures are hindered by limited minimum shutter speeds (XZ-1 max 2 sec vs NX11 max 30 sec self-timer).

Professional Use:

• The NX11’s raw support, color depth, and workflow integration via interchangeable lenses suit professionals, while the XZ-1 remains a high-quality enthusiast compact.

Olympus XZ 1 front Olympus XZ 1 screen back Samsung NX11 screen back

Technical Summary: Putting It All Together With Performance Scores

Consolidating performance across categories:

• The NX11’s greater sensor size and more versatile system translates to higher scores in image quality, autofocus, and handling.

• The XZ-1 performs well in portability, stabilization, and burst-limiting compact operation.

Genre-specific breakdown:

Connectivity and Extras: Modern Conveniences

Both cameras are similarly limited:

• No wireless (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) or GPS features built-in, though NX11 supports optional GPS.

• HDMI and USB 2.0 present on both allow basic tethering and monitoring.

Which Should You Choose? Recommendations by User Type

• Travel and Street Photographers Seeking Portability: Olympus XZ-1’s compact size, fast lens, and image stabilization make it the better companion for quick shots and low-light candid images.

• Entry-Level Users Wanting System Growth: Samsung NX11 stands out with its APS-C sensor, lens flexibility, and improved low-light capabilities, suitable for evolving photographic interests.

• Wildlife, Sports, and Action Shooters: The NX11’s faster AF and burst rate, combined with telephoto options, make it the clear choice.

• Macro Enthusiasts on a Budget: While the XZ-1 fixed lens shines for close-up work without extra investment, NX11’s macro lenses require further outlay.

• Aspiring Professionals or Hybrid Shooters: NX11’s raw format support, dynamic range, and less constrained controls better fit.

Final Thoughts: Balancing Strengths and Limitations

While the Olympus XZ-1 impresses with its thoughtfully engineered compact design, bright lens, and stabilization for everyday shooting, it is inevitably limited by a small sensor and slower shooting mechanics. It remains a solid tool for casual enthusiasts valuing mobility without sacrificing image quality too much.

On the other hand, the Samsung NX11 delivers superior image quality, greater creative flexibility, and better performance for varied photography disciplines at the expense of larger size and a steeper learning curve. Its system approach future-proofs the user who plans to expand beyond basic shooting.

Each camera addresses a distinct niche with complementary strengths. Understanding your priorities and photographic needs will make the difference in selecting the right model.

For detailed hands-on reviews involving test charts, side-by-side RAW sample analyses, and extended shooting trials, visit our dedicated photography review portal.

Summary Table: Olympus XZ-1 vs Samsung NX11

This comprehensive appraisal should assist photographers in making nuanced, experience-based camera selections aligned with their creative ambitions.