Olympus XZ-1 vs Samsung NX300M

The following is a in depth assessment of the Olympus XZ-1 and Samsung NX300M, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Samsung. There is a sizeable difference among the sensor resolutions of the XZ-1 (10MP) and NX300M (20MP) and the XZ-1 (1/1.63") and NX300M (APS-C) provide totally different sensor sizing.

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The XZ-1 was unveiled 23 months before the NX300M which makes them a generation away from each other. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus XZ-1 being a Compact camera and the Samsung NX300M being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief overview of how the XZ-1 grades against the NX300M with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus XZ-1 and Samsung NX300M. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus XZ-1 Gallery and Samsung NX300M Gallery.

In case you're intending to travel with your camera regularly, you will have to factor its weight and size. The Olympus XZ-1 enjoys exterior measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") having a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX300M has specifications of 122mm x 64mm x 41mm (4.8" x 2.5" x 1.6") along with a weight of 331 grams (0.73 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus XZ-1 and Samsung NX300M in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are working with at that moment. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the XZ-1 compared to the NX300M.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the XZ-1 and NX300M is 88 and 86 respectively.

Often, it can be hard to envision the gap in sensor dimensions merely by looking through technical specs. The picture below will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the XZ-1 and NX300M.

As you have seen, both of those cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The XZ-1 having a smaller sensor will make achieving bokeh more challenging and the Samsung NX300M will result in extra detail having an extra 10 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop photographs more aggressively. The more aged XZ-1 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.