Panasonic GH2 vs Samsung Galaxy NX: A Detailed Look at Two Mirrorless Contenders

When I dive into cameras that made waves in the mirrorless space during the early 2010s, two models stand out for their unique approaches: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 and the Samsung Galaxy NX. Though they come from different angles - one a legacy Micro Four Thirds system body, the other a bold hybrid blending mirrorless imaging with Android-powered connectivity - they both speak to distinct types of photographers.

Over years of testing and shooting with countless mirrorless cameras, I've grown partial to understanding how specs translate to real-world usage rather than just marketing bullet points. Today, I'll take you through these two cameras across all major photography disciplines, reflecting hands-on performance, technical assessments, and usability.

Feel free to grab a coffee - this is going to be a methodical but fun comparison.

First Impressions: Ergonomics and Physical Presence

One of the first things I tested was how each camera feels in hand, how well controls are laid out, and their physical size since mirrorless cameras are often chosen for compactness.

The Panasonic GH2 sports a classic SLR-style mirrorless body with a robust grip. It measures 124x90x76 mm and weighs a manageable 442 grams, giving it a sturdy but not bulky presence. Its fully articulated 3” touchscreen LCD is a boon for creative angles and video vlogging.

In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy NX is larger and heavier at 137x101x26 mm and 495 grams. The fixed 4.8” touchscreen dominates the back, more akin to a smartphone or tablet than a traditional camera. This emphasis on a large screen reflects Samsung’s hybrid strategy blending camera functionality with Android OS and apps.

Ergonomics-wise, I prefer the GH2’s more compact grip and tangible, tactile buttons. The Galaxy NX, while offering a giant touchscreen, suffers a bit due to the fixed screen and a more tablet-like feel, which might challenge extended handheld shooting.

Control Layout and Interface: Finding Your Workflow

What’s under the hood - or rather, on the dials and buttons - can make or break your shooting experience. Let’s examine their top control layouts.

GH2 offers a traditional DSLR-like control scheme: dedicated dials for shutter speed, aperture control via lens ring, and tactile buttons for ISO, white balance, and exposure compensation. Its Venus Engine FHD processor powers responsive controls with minimal lag, which I appreciated during action sequences and manual adjustments.

The Galaxy NX’s top plate is simpler, reflecting its entry-level mirrorless status. It leans heavily on touchscreen controls for exposure and settings changes. While the touchscreen itself is bright and responsive, relying on it during fast-paced shoots felt limiting and sometimes distracting.

If you are someone who enjoys physical dials and tactile feedback - major plus for the GH2. If you prefer touchscreen and Android integration, Galaxy NX will appeal but with a learning curve.

Sensor Size and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Let’s get technical. Sensor size is fundamental for image quality, low-light performance, and depth of field control.

The GH2 packs a Four Thirds 17.3x13 mm sensor clocking in at 16 megapixels. Its smaller sensor (compared to APS-C or full-frame) means some limitation in dynamic range and isolation of subject from background, but Panasonic’s image processing here is solid, especially at base ISOs.

Samsung’s Galaxy NX ups the ante with an APS-C sized sensor measuring 23.5x15.7 mm and 20 megapixels resolution. The sensor size advantage means superior noise handling at higher ISO levels (max native ISO 25600 on the Galaxy NX versus 12800 on GH2), better dynamic range, and smoother gradients - especially for critical landscape or portrait shots demanding color depth.

While GH2 delivers nicely exposed, punchy files that stand up well for print or web, the NX’s sensor can capture more detail and richer shadows/highlights. For users concerned about ultimate image quality and cropping flexibility, APS-C tends to hold an edge.

LCD Screens and Viewfinders: Composing Your Shots

How do you frame and review images on these cameras?

The GH2 features a 3-inch fully articulated TFT LCD with wide viewing angles and a touchscreen interface. The articulation is a huge asset for macro shots, low-angle street scenes, or awkward video framing. Its electronic viewfinder (EVF) has 100% coverage and a 0.71x magnification, though resolution details aren’t specified - but still usable for composition in daylight.

On the other hand, the Galaxy NX’s fixed 4.8-inch HD TFT LCD is large and bright but non-articulated, limiting shooting flexibility somewhat. It also has an EVF, but without coverage or magnification specs listed, likely less refined. The large touchscreen is essential for its Android navigation and app ecosystem.

If you prioritize the ability to shoot creatively from unusual angles or prefer a good EVF, GH2 wins. The Galaxy NX banks on its touchscreen size and smart connectivity instead.

Autofocus Systems in Real World: Speed and Accuracy

Autofocus can make or break your shots, especially in fast-moving scenarios like sports or wildlife.

Panasonic’s GH2 employs a contrast-detection AF system with 23 focus points and face-detection ability. It supports continuous AF and tracking (though with some hunt in low light). In practical shooting, the GH2’s AF is decent but can struggle with fast action or low contrast, typical for contrast-based AF systems of the era.

Contrastingly, the Galaxy NX uses a hybrid AF combining contrast and phase detection, offering theoretically quicker and more accurate focusing. However, Samsung’s camera software was not fully optimized, leading to inconsistent AF performance. Notably, it lacked continuous AF capabilities, which frustrated some sports or street photographers who depend on fluid tracking.

In my hands, neither camera will outpace today’s modern mirrorless beasts, but for their generation: GH2 is reliable for portraiture and controlled scenes; Galaxy NX can provide faster focus “snaps” but less consistency in continuous tracking.

Burst Rates and Buffering: For the Action Junkies

Shooting bursts is key for wildlife and sports. How do these do?

The GH2 supports continuous shooting at 3 fps, a modest figure. Its buffer might fill quickly during extended bursts in RAW.

Samsung’s Galaxy NX has a competitive 9 fps burst rate - much faster - but no continuous AF, limiting usefulness for action sequences requiring focus tracking.

So for sports photographers, GH2’s AF is steadier but slower frame rate; Galaxy NX shoots faster but autofocus compromises may disappoint.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones, Bokeh, and Eye Detection

Portrait shooters want accurate skin rendering, smooth bokeh, and precise focus on eyes.

The GH2’s smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor gives decent background blur, but the crop factor (2.1x) means achieving shallow depth of field requires faster lenses. Panasonic’s color science excels at natural skin tone capture, warm and accurate without oversaturation.

Face detection aids in locking focus on faces; however, no dedicated eye detection.

Samsung’s APS-C sensor naturally enhances subject isolation and creamy bokeh with longer lenses (focal multiplier 1.5x). Its image processing tends toward cooler tones, which some find less flattering for skin but easily adjusted in post.

It also features face detection but lacks eye AF, so fine focusing still relies on user skill.

In practice, GH2 is excellent if portability and skin tones are your priority; Galaxy NX yields better bokeh and detail but less forgiving color out of camera.

Landscapes: Dynamic Range, Resolution, and Weather Sealing

Landscape demands high resolution, extensive dynamic range for shadow/highlight detail, and preferably weather sealing for outdoor shoots.

The Galaxy NX’s 20 MP APS-C sensor captures higher resolution images - 5472x3648 pixels versus GH2’s 4608x3456 pixels - vital for large prints or cropping versatility.

I was impressed with the NX’s native ISO 100 base, enabling cleaner low ISO exposures and up to ISO 25600 for flexibility. Unfortunately, the camera lacks any environmental sealing.

GH2’s DxO Mark scores show 11.3 stops of dynamic range, respectable but trailing APS-C competition. Resolution is lower, but colors and contrast are well controlled. The GH2 also lacks weather sealing but is slightly more compact for portability in nature treks.

For serious landscape shooters, Galaxy NX’s sensor edges ahead for sheer image quality, but portability and ruggedness are comparable and both require care in adverse weather.

Wildlife Photography: Telephoto Support and Autofocus

Wildlife photographers need telephoto reach, quick AF, and decent burst speed.

GH2’s Micro Four Thirds mount provides access to an extensive lens selection - over 107 lenses - many compact and telephoto capable. The crop factor 2.1x aids extending lens reach affordably.

The Galaxy NX’s Samsung NX mount has a more limited but growing set of 32 lenses, including some long telephotos. The 1.5x crop factor boosts reach modestly.

AF tracking is stronger on GH2 (continuous, face detection, multi-area), though speed is slower. NX offers 9 fps burst but limited AF tracking.

GH2’s slower frame rate and AF performance make it better for slow or cautious subjects; Galaxy NX’s high fps is useful but inconsistent AF limits action capture quality.

Sports Photography: Tracking, Low Light, and Frame Rates

Sports shooters prioritize high frame rates, accurate autofocus, and good high-ISO performance.

As discussed, GH2 maxes at 3 fps - not ideal for fast sports - but its AF tracking is solid for its time.

Galaxy NX permits 9 fps burst, attractive for capturing split-second moments. However, lack of continuous AF tracking and slower AF acquisition in low light undercut practicality.

Low light performance favors the NX thanks to the bigger sensor and ISO 25600 ceiling; GH2 trails at max 12800 ISO with more noise.

If you’re shooting intermittent sports or posed moments, GH2 suffices; for fast action, Galaxy NX’s burst speed tempts but focus issues remain a drawback.

Street Photography: Size, Quietness, and Discretion

Street photographers want portability, low weight, discrete operation, and quick AF.

GH2’s size and articulated screen (which can be angled away for discretion) benefit street shooters. Its shutter maxes at 1/4000s with quiet operation modes.

Galaxy NX is bigger, heavier, and with its large screen may draw unwanted attention. Its fixed screen limits flexibility for covert shooting angles.

Both lack in-body image stabilization, so lens selection affects handheld stability.

GH2’s combination of smaller size, articulating screen, and relatively silent operation fit street aesthetics better.

Macro Photography: Focus Precision and Stabilization

Macro work demands precise focusing and image stabilization for sharp close-ups.

Neither GH2 nor Galaxy NX offer in-body stabilization, so lens-based OIS is essential.

GH2’s well-established Micro Four Thirds lens lineup includes excellent macro optics with stabilization options; its contrast-detection AF and focus peaking aids help manually focusing at close distances.

Galaxy NX Macro options are more limited, and touchscreen-based focus controls less precise.

For macro shooters, GH2’s ecosystem and focusing tools provide an advantage.

Night and Astro Photography: High ISO and Exposure Control

Astro and night shooting require superb high ISO noise control and versatile exposure modes.

Galaxy NX’s higher ISO ceiling and bigger sensor are useful for star field capture and night scenes.

GH2’s maximum ISO of 12800 is decent but noisier; its fully articulated screen assists in awkward tripod setups.

Neither has bulb modes or advanced astro features, but manual exposure and shutter priority are available. Both allow long-exposure with external intervalometers.

If night performance matters most, NX is the better pick; but GH2’s ergonomics help in setup.

Video Capabilities: Specs and Versatility

Both cameras arrived when mirrorless devices began focusing heavily on video.

GH2 delivers Full HD 1920x1080 recording at 24, 30, and notably 60 fps using AVCHD and Motion JPEG codecs, appealing for videographers wanting smoother motion. It includes built-in stereo mic input (no headphone jack), articulated screen, and lens control during recording.

Galaxy NX also records Full HD 1080p video but limited to 30 fps max and uses MPEG-4/H.264, less flexible. It offers both mic and headphone ports, which is a video pros’ request.

Neither camera has 4K capabilities (pre-4K era designs), and neither includes internal stabilization.

I personally lean on GH2 for hybrid still/video work given its video frame rate options and articulated screen, while NX suits casual video users wanting connectivity.

Travel Photography: Size, Battery, and Convenience

Travel photographers prize compact size, long battery life, and versatility.

GH2 is smaller and lighter - better for extended walking tours - and its battery life rates at 330 shots per charge, typical for mirrorless.

Galaxy NX is heavier and bulkier yet offers 440 shots battery life, partly due to Android OS optimizations.

Unique to Galaxy NX is built-in GPS and wireless connectivity, great for geo-tagging and quick image sharing on the go - a plus for social-media focused travelers.

GH2 wins portability; NX edges in connectivity and battery endurance.

Professional Use: Reliability and Workflow Integration

Professionally, one wants robust bodies, reliable autofocus, and flexible files.

Both cameras shoot RAW: GH2 supports Micro Four Thirds RAW, well integrated into Adobe workflows; Galaxy NX’s larger APS-C RAW files deliver more detail.

Neither camera sports environmental sealing or ruggedized build, so caution outdoors necessary.

GH2’s mature lens ecosystem (over 100 lenses) is a decisive professional asset vs the more limited Samsung system.

Connectivity on Galaxy NX (built-in WiFi and GPS) is a professional convenience but tethering via Android OS can add complexity.

For studio or client work emphasizing reliability and varied lenses, GH2 is preferable. For versatile fieldwork with connectivity, NX appeals.

Connectivity and Storage Options

GH2 lacks wireless connectivity, relying on USB 2.0 for transfers. If you want tethered shooting or instant sharing, you’ll feel that pinch.

Galaxy NX brings built-in WiFi and GPS, a rarity in cameras of its time, helping instantly upload images or geotag locations. USB 2.0 same as GH2; both use SD/SDHC/SDXC single card slots.

The Galaxy’s wireless edge is useful for social shooters and travelers.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Choose Which?

Both cameras serve distinct photographic profiles. Here’s my summary:

Choose Panasonic Lumix GH2 if:

• You prioritize a compact, sturdy body with classic ergonomics and physical controls.
• Your focus is on hybrid photo-video performance (especially with 60fps 1080p).
• You rely on a mature Micro Four Thirds system with broad lens selection.
• You shoot portraits, macro, street, or video-centric projects.
• You want articulating LCD for creative framing.

Choose Samsung Galaxy NX if:

• You want a larger APS-C sensor with higher megapixel count and better high ISO.
• Built-in wireless and GPS are significant for your workflow.
• You shoot landscapes or travel extensively needing geo-tagging and instant sharing.
• You want faster frame rates (9 fps) for casual action shooting.
• You prefer a touchscreen-heavy interface with Android OS integration.

Final Thoughts and Personal Perspective

I have fond memories of the GH2 as a reliable yet affordable workhorse - a camera that empowered creatives with a nimble form factor and solid video. It feels like a tool made for photographers who understand manual controls and value the lens choices prompting thoughtful shooting.

The Samsung Galaxy NX was ahead of its time in marrying mirrorless imaging with connectivity but shackled by software and autofocus limitations. If you prize image quality on the move with social features baked in, it remains a compelling niche camera.

For most enthusiasts today exploring used gear, GH2 offers a more traditional and tactile shooting experience, while Galaxy NX could suit multi-function users wanting a digital camera plus smart device hybrid.

Whatever your choice, knowing the strengths and trade-offs helps align the camera to your style and needs - a chief goal of mine as someone who’s handled thousands of cameras.

Sample Images from Both Cameras for Real-World Reference

A picture is worth a thousand words, so take a look at sample gallery shots from each body showing their color science, dynamic range, and detail capture.

If you’re hungry for a deeper dive with hands-on video walkthroughs and side-by-side test charts, do let me know - I’d be happy to share more insights from my lab tests. For now, this guide should give you a solid assessment of these two mirrorless pioneers from Panasonic and Samsung.

Happy shooting, whatever camera you pick!