Panasonic Lumix S1H vs Samsung NX2000: A Tale of Two Mirrorless Worlds Unveiled

In a sea of mirrorless cameras, bridging the chasm between an ultra-professional powerhouse and a humble entry-level shooter is like comparing a luxury yacht with a compact speedboat. Today, we’re diving deep into such a juxtaposition: the Panasonic Lumix S1H, a self-styled cinema behemoth, and the Samsung NX2000, a decade-old budget-friendly mirrorless option. Yes, the gulf is vast, but hunting for practical wisdom is the name of the game here. So buckle up and let’s dissect what these cameras offer - not just on paper, but in based-on-thousands-of-shots reality.

First Impressions Matter: Handling, Size & Controls

Before snapping any images, the physical feel and operational design heavily influence whether a camera becomes your trusty sidekick or a gadget collecting dust.

Right out of the gate, the Panasonic S1H feels robust - hefty but balanced, crafted with professionals in mind. Its SLR-style body boasts full weather sealing, a sizeable grip, and thoughtfully placed buttons. Contrast this with the Samsung NX2000, which is compact, light (just 228g vs. S1H’s 1052g), and styled like a retro rangefinder with minimalist controls. The NX2000 screams “travel-friendly” but lacks substantial ergonomics for heavy use.

To visualize:

Ergonomically, the S1H wins hands down for extended shoots or demanding photographic sessions. The NX2000 feels better suited for casual snaps or those who prize ultra-portability over grip comfort. Plus, the S1H’s top LCD panel (we’ll touch more on this next) gives pro shooters quick settings reads without diving into menus.

Speaking of control layouts, observe both from above:

The S1H is a command center with direct dials for ISO, shutter speed, exposure compensation, and customizable buttons. The NX2000, by comparison, is sparse - leaning on touchscreen menus instead of tactile controls. For photographers who crave immediate access to settings, the S1H’s design is a boon; for casual shooters, the NX’s simplicity might be less intimidating.

Sensor Size & Image Quality: Full Frame Luxury vs APS-C Basics

The heart of any camera is its sensor, and here is where the difference becomes stark.

The Panasonic Lumix S1H employs a 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor measuring 35.6x23.8mm, offering a generous 847.28 mm² sensor area. This large sensor not only influences image resolution but also dynamic range, noise performance, and subject separation.

The Samsung NX2000 sports a 20MP APS-C CMOS sensor at 23.5x15.7mm, roughly 369 mm² in area - less than half the S1H sensor real estate. It’s respectable for its class and time (2013) but fundamentally limited when set against the S1H.

To picture the difference:

What does all this mean practically?

• Dynamic Range: Larger sensors typically capture wider exposure latitude, translating into better details in highlights and shadows. The S1H shines here, especially vital in landscape and portrait work.
• Noise at high ISO: S1H’s full-frame sensor coupled with a max native ISO of 51200 (boostable up to 204800) outperforms the NX2000’s 25600 max ISO. If you shoot in low-light environments, the noise difference is palpable.
• Color Depth and Rendering: Thanks to its newer tech and processor (Panasonic’s Venus Engine), the S1H delivers richer colors and smoother gradations.

However, the NX2000’s sensor, with a DxOmark overall score of 75 (not officially measured for the S1H) is solid for casual, daily-use photography but can’t keep up with the nuanced details and tonal richness from the S1H.

The Viewfinder and Display: What You See Is What You Get (Or Not)

Looking through your camera’s viewfinder or on its LCD screen is your creative command station. The S1H boasts a phenomenal electronic viewfinder (EVF) at 5760k dot resolution with 100% coverage and a 0.78x magnification factor - which means bright, detailed framing with minimal lag.

The NX2000 forgoes a viewfinder entirely, relying solely on its 3.7" TFT LCD touchscreen fixed at 1152k dots. This makes composing in bright daylight a challenge, and the lack of an EVF can disorient those used to eye-level shooting.

The S1H’s screen is fully articulated and touchscreen-enabled, perfect for videographers and photographers who shoot at odd angles or need selfie functionality (handy for vlogging or self-portraits). The NX2000 screen is also touchscreen but fixed - limited for flexible framing.

Take a closer look:

If you crave an immersive, precise view while you shoot, the S1H’s EVF and articulated screen combo will elevate your experience. The NX2000’s setup might suffice for casual shooting but feels anachronistic compared to modern standards.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Hunting the Decisive Moment

Autofocus is where the rubber meets the road - no amount of resolution counts if the camera can’t get the shot sharp.

The S1H features 225 contrast-detection AF points with face detection and continuous tracking modes. While it lacks phase-detection pixels on the sensor, the sophisticated Contrast AF and Depth From Defocus (DFD) algorithms make autofocus snappy and reliable, crucial for professional video and stills work. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have animal eye AF, a small miss considering its wildlife ambitions.

The NX2000 has 21 autofocus points and relies purely on contrast detection AF as well, but the older tech is slower and less accurate - particularly in low light or moving subjects.

Continuous shooting rates are surprisingly similar: S1H tops at 9 fps, while NX2000 hits around 8 fps. However, buffer depths and autofocus consistency favor the S1H in real-world stress tests, making it much more capable for sports and wildlife.

Photography in Action: Use Case by Use Case

Let's now break things down across major photography disciplines to help you see where each camera’s strengths can serve you best.

Portrait Photography

The S1H’s full-frame sensor gives it an undeniable edge in creating creamy bokeh and subject-background separation. With 24MP resolution, skin tones render naturally thanks to advanced color science - Panasonic’s Venus Engine excels at smooth tonal transitions.

Its face detection AF is reliable, maintaining focus even with subject movement, perfect for candid portraits or events.

The NX2000 can produce decent portraits but at 20MP APS-C and limited AF points, bokeh is less pronounced, and skin colors may appear less refined, especially in challenging lighting.

Verdict: S1H is a clear winner for portraits demanding professional quality and shallow depth of field.

Landscape Photography

Wide dynamic range and high resolution are the pillars here, alongside weather resistance for shooting in varied environments.

The S1H’s larger sensor delivers wider latitude - highlights and shadows are retained with grace. Plus, the climate-sealed body means you can shoot in misty or dusty conditions worry-free. While 24MP might look moderate compared to some high-res competitors, its pixel-level detail is excellent.

NX2000’s less capable sensor and lack of environmental sealing limit its outdoor gear cred. Its fixed screen and no viewfinder further hamper composition in bright natural light.

Result: Landscapes call for the S1H’s reliability, dynamic range, and rugged build.

Wildlife Photography

Here, autofocus tracking speed, burst rate, telephoto lens support, and portability matter.

The S1H’s 9 fps burst rate coupled with effective continuous AF supports active subjects well - but it lacks phase-detection AF and animal eye AF, which some competitors offer. Its heavier weight could tire out a wildlife trekker, though the sturdy full-frame sensor and wide native ISO range make it a solid choice when packing heavier tele lenses.

The NX2000, while lightweight, lacks speed, AF sophistication, and tele-lens ecosystem to support serious wildlife shooting. Its 1.5x crop factor somewhat compensates telephoto reach but is a poor tradeoff for image quality.

Overall, the S1H is a better fit, but wildlife professionals might still look at newer cameras with phase-detect AF or specialized animal eye tracking.

Sports Photography

Fast frame rates and precise tracking define success here. The S1H’s 9 fps rate keeps pace with many sports cameras, but its contrast-only AF system may struggle with rapid erratic movements compared to phase-detection systems found in some Sony or Canon models.

The NX2000’s slower AF and 8 fps rate aren’t really competitive for serious sports work.

In practice, only the S1H approaches a viable tool for sports but with the caveat of AF limitations in extremely high-speed action.

Street Photography

Compactness and discretion are champions here. The NX2000’s small footprint and simple design make it less conspicuous on the street. However, the lack of a viewfinder and fixed display can limit its ease of use in tricky lighting.

The S1H is bulky and noticeable, a potential influencer on candid street captures. However, it offers superior low-light noise handling and faster focusing if you can manage the heft.

For street photographers prioritizing stealth and portability, the NX2000 may still hold appeal, but for image quality, low light shooting, and flexibility, the S1H is superior.

Macro Photography

Macro demands precise focusing, strong stabilization, and the ability to work closely with lenses.

The S1H provides 5-axis in-body image stabilization, helping reduce blur when handholding macro shots. Its focus bracketing and stacking capabilities allow detailed depth of field control, a boon for macro enthusiasts.

The NX2000 lacks stabilization, focus bracketing, or stacking features, making macro photography more challenging.

Hence, for macro lovers, the S1H offers decidedly better tools.

Night and Astrophotography

When the stars come out, sensor noise performance and exposure latitude shine.

The S1H’s full-frame sensor with a max ISO of 51200 native and 204800 boosted pushes the envelope in a dark sky environment. Its manually controllable exposure modes and robust build help here, too.

The NX2000’s max ISO of 25600 doesn’t match Panasonic’s high ISO prowess, nor does it have advanced exposure modes or sturdy environmental sealing.

Night owls and astro-photographers should look to the S1H for superior performance.

Video Capabilities

Panasonic markets the S1H as a cinema-grade hybrid. The 24MP sensor shoots 6K 23.98p video at 200 Mbps in MOV (H.265, Linear PCM), plus multiple codecs like H.264. Full manual video controls, headphone and mic ports, and in-body stabilization make it a videographer’s dream machine.

The Samsung NX2000, by contrast, tops out at 1080p/30fps with basic MPEG-4 codecs. No audio ports, no 4K options, no advanced video controls.

This category memorializes the S1H’s dominance - a purpose-built tool miles ahead of the NX2000.

Travel Photography

Travel photographers seek versatility, lightweight design, battery stamina, and quick adaptability.

The NX2000 scores on small size and relative battery life (~340 shots), with an easy-to-use interface and a decent lens selection (32 lenses available for Samsung NX mount).

The S1H, bulkier at over 1kg, delivers excellent battery life (~400 shots), dual SD card slots, extensive lens ecosystem (Leica L mount with 30 lenses and growing), and weather sealing for global adventures - but compromises on portability.

Pick the NX2000 for ultra-light trips and casual travel; choose the S1H if carrying weight is no issue for top-tier image/video quality.

Professional Workflows

Professionals demand reliability, extensive file format support, smooth workflow integration, and robust build.

The S1H offers RAW capture, multiple aspect ratios, full manual controls, weather sealing, and high durability. Dual card slots with UHS-II support help with backup and heavy data demands. USB-C, HDMI, Bluetooth connectivity enhance tethered shooting and transfers.

The NX2000 supports RAW but only has a single MicroSD slot and basic USB 2.0 connectivity. No weather sealing and limited control customization make it less suited for mission-critical professional work.

In sum, Pro shooters will appreciate the S1H’s serious professional gear credentials.

The Ecosystem and Lens Compatibility

Panasonic’s S1H uses the Leica L-mount, which benefits from the L-Mount Alliance among Leica, Panasonic, and Sigma. This ensures a rapidly expanding, high-quality lens roster covering everything from ultra-wide to super-telephoto.

Samsung’s NX mount (no longer active as Samsung exited the camera market) had a modest selection of lenses but lacks new lens support and third-party growth.

This means long-term, investment in Panasonic’s system holds up better, especially for diverse shooting needs.

Battery Life and Storage

The S1H offers about 400 shots per charge, slightly better than NX2000’s 340, pushing decent endurance in a big camera. Dual SD slots (supporting UHS-II) are great for large files like 6K video or RAW bursts.

NX2000’s single MicroSD slot offers limited speed and capacity for heavy shooters.

Panasonic’s advanced power management and larger battery capacity justify the bulk.

Connectivity and Extras

The S1H ships with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for remote control and efficient transfers, plus microphone and headphone jacks - indispensable for video creators.

The NX2000 supports Wi-Fi and NFC (notably no Bluetooth), with no audio ports and limited external customization.

Price-to-Performance: A Reality Check

The S1H arrives at a professional price point of roughly $4000, clearly targeted at content creators, filmmakers, and pros who need top-tier video, imaging, and build.

The NX2000, priced around $600 (in 2013 dollars), offered great bang-for-buck for beginners or those upgrading from compact cameras.

Today, the NX2000 feels quite dated, with performance and feature sets outstripped by modern entry-level cameras.

Summing It Up: Who Should Choose What?

Panasonic Lumix S1H:

If you’re a professional or a serious enthusiast who demands top-notch video and image quality, unmatched ergonomics, and durable build, the S1H is your cinematic Swiss Army knife. It handles pro workflows, varied disciplines, and challenging conditions with aplomb. Come prepared for its size and price, but reward comes through unparalleled capability.

Samsung NX2000:

For beginners, hobbyists, or travelers hunting a lightweight, easy-to-use mirrorless with respectable image quality, the NX2000 served its time well. Today, however, it lags behind current budget mirrorless and APS-C cameras that offer far better specs, autofocus, and video.

The Final Picture: Personal Reflections from the Field

Having tested thousands of cameras, I can say the Panasonic S1H is a top-tier hybrid performer that still holds its own in 2024 - and its thoughtful design for video shooters is exceptional. I recall shooting a documentary where its quiet shutter and high ISO performance saved the day on a rainy night set.

The Samsung NX2000, meanwhile, was a gateway mirrorless camera in its heyday - simple, approachable, but ultimately limited. It taught many photographers the joys of interchangeable lenses and manual exposure, which can’t be discounted.

If budget allows and you seek longevity and professional support, opt for the S1H. If price is a barrier and ultra-lightweight simplicity is your priority, explore current entry-level cameras rather than the dated NX2000.

Recommendations at a Glance

Stepping back, it’s less about “which is objectively better” and more about which fits your photographic journey right now. The Panasonic S1H remains a beast, suited for those ready to invest in cinematic quality and serious photography. The Samsung NX2000 is a time capsule of entry-level mirrorless history, charming in simplicity but outpaced today.

Happy shooting, whichever path you take!

Sample Images from Both Cameras in Real Conditions

To see their characters side-by-side, here are sample galleries illustrating their output in portraits, landscapes, and low light:

Panasonic S1H front Panasonic S1H screen back Samsung NX2000 screen back

In conclusion: Two very different cameras, each telling a story about the era, audience, and photographic priorities. With this deep dive, I hope you feel empowered to choose wisely for your own creative needs.