Samsung CL5 vs. EX2F: A Decisive Comparison from an Expert's Lens

In the realm of compact cameras, Samsung’s offerings have spanned a variety of designs and target users. Here, we pit two distinct models - the Samsung CL5 (announced 2009) and the EX2F (2012) - against one another. Although both are compact units, they cater to photographers with widely different expectations and priorities, owing to their generational gap and feature sets. Drawing on my extensive hands-on testing experience with cameras ranging from basic point-and-shoots to professional-grade systems, I’ll take you through an in-depth comparison assessing everything from sensor tech and image quality to ergonomics and use-case suitability.

If you are contemplating between these two Samsung compacts, this article will provide clear, unbiased, and detailed insights to help you make an informed choice - whether for casual snapshots or more serious photography.

Putting Size and Ergonomics Under the Microscope

When choosing a camera, size and handling can be the deciding factor - especially in compact categories designed for portability.

From the outset, the Samsung CL5 impresses with its ultraportable ultracompact body (93×60×19 mm, 141 g). The slim, pocket-friendly profile is perfect for those who want minimal bulk and immediate grab-and-go readiness. By contrast, the EX2F is a more substantial compact (112×62×29 mm, 294 g) - noticeably thicker and heftier, roughly double the weight of the CL5. This reflects its more advanced feature set and larger sensor.

The CL5’s slim design means fewer physical controls, relying more on automated shooting modes and menus - ideal for beginners or casual users wanting straightforward operation. However, the EX2F adopts a conventional compact’s body with a robust grip, a range of manual controls, and a versatile fully articulating AMOLED screen (more on that below). The ergonomics favor enthusiasts seeking more tactile precision and greater handling confidence.

The EX2F’s size tipples the scales toward a committed shooter rather than a quick-snapper. Its design is clearly intended for users who value control and image quality over ultimate portability, while the CL5 leans heavily into pocketability and simplicity.

Control Layout and Handling: Simple vs. Sophisticated

Taking a look at the top control layout reveals the philosophy behind each camera's user interface.

The CL5’s sparse button array reflects limited exposure options - no manual aperture or shutter priority. Its fixed lens lacks zoom rings or dedicated focus controls, and exposure compensation is absent. This underlines its role as an effortless travel companion where convenience rules. The inclusion of a flash with multiple modes adds some creative lighting options, though external flash compatibility is nonexistent.

Meanwhile, the EX2F sports clearly labelled dials and buttons for shutter and aperture priority modes, manual exposure, and exposure compensation - features that appeal to enthusiasts who want to fine-tune their shots. The addition of optical image stabilization (absent on the CL5) further demonstrates its design for more challenging shooting conditions. External flash support via hot shoe allows off-camera lighting setups, a feature unheard of in the simpler CL5.

Both cameras provide live view on a rear screen, but the EX2F adds the versatility of a fully articulated AMOLED display, making framing at awkward angles or creative selfies more feasible. This flexibility, combined with superior exposure options and stabilization, positions the EX2F as a sophisticated tool rather than a pure point-and-shoot.

Decoding Sensor Technology and Image Quality

Arguably the heart of any camera’s image capability is its sensor. Two cameras released three years apart show distinct approaches here.

The CL5 features a 1/2.5” CCD sensor with 9MP resolution, modest by even 2009 standards but in line with most ultracompacts. CCD sensors traditionally excelled at rendering colors accurately but lag behind CMOS in dynamic range and high ISO performance. Its sensor area of approximately 24.74 mm² supports a maximum ISO of 3200, yet noise performance at that level is poor. Moreover, the fixed optical low-end lens with a 38-114 mm equivalent range on a 6.3x crop factor further restricts light-gathering.

In contrast, the EX2F boasts a much larger 1/1.7” backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor with 12MP resolution. The sensor area of 41.52 mm² - which is nearly double - combined with BSI design significantly improves light sensitivity and dynamic range. The EX2F’s native ISO range extends from 80 to 3200, with better controlled noise across this spectrum, making it more versatile for a broad range of lighting conditions.

Critically, the EX2F supports RAW formats, allowing post-processing latitude absent in the CL5, which is limited to JPEG only. This alone makes the EX2F a much more serious choice for photographers who want to extract maximum image quality. Its lens (24-80 mm equivalent, f/1.4-2.7 aperture) further enhances low-light capability and depth of field control compared to the narrower and slower lens of the CL5 ring-fenced at f/3.5-4.5.

In hands-on shooting, the EX2F's superior sensor translates to visibly cleaner images, punchier color reproduction, and more detail retention especially in shadows and highlights - a huge advantage for landscape, portrait, and indoor photography.

Viewing and Composing Your Shots: Screen and Viewfinder Insights

Both compacts lack traditional optical viewfinders, but their choices in display tech differ meaningfully.

The CL5 features a fixed 2.7" LCD with merely 230k-dot resolution. While reasonably bright, it suffers in bright daylight and limits framing precision due to its smaller size and modest resolution. The lack of touchscreen or articulation restricts compositional flexibility.

In contrast, the EX2F sports a 3" fully articulating AMOLED display. AMOLED technology delivers vivid colors and deep blacks, greatly aiding in exposure and color accuracy assessments on-the-fly. While the screen resolution detail is unspecified, AMOLED’s quality is detectable when reviewing images or navigating menus. Moreover, the articulation is a boon for creative compositions - low or overhead angles become more approachable.

Optional is an electronic viewfinder accessory for the EX2F - though not standard, it notably adds flexible shooting advantages in bright conditions where LCDs struggle. This is a further indication that Samsung positioned the EX2F towards photographers with more advanced habits who can exploit such features.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Tracking and Responsiveness

When it comes to autofocus (AF), both cameras rely on contrast-detection AF systems, typical of compact cameras from their respective eras, but differ in sophistication.

The CL5 offers a single center AF point with face detection and contrast-based AF. While face detection can aid portraiture, the absence of continuous AF or tracking means it’s best suited to static subjects.

The EX2F supports contrast-detection AF as well, but its system is faster and more responsive in practical shooting, thanks to refined algorithms and the more powerful Exmor sensor. Though it lacks continuous AF and tracking found in DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, it performs admirably in candid street shooting and low-light focusing, with fewer hunting issues than the CL5.

Neither offers burst shooting or high frame-rate continuous capture - continuity is limited or absent. Thus, for wildlife or sports professionals focusing on action, neither model is optimal, but the EX2F’s speed advantage is notable in casual action capture.

Flash and Low-Light Capabilities

Flash capability can be critical for indoor, event, or night street photography.

The CL5 includes a built-in flash with several modes - auto, red-eye reduction, fill-in, slow sync, and off. With an effective range of approximately 4 meters, it performs adequately for small group fills but is prone to the harsh shadows and overexposure characteristic of pop-up flashes in ultracompacts. No external flash support is provided.

The EX2F offers a more flexible built-in flash, including manual control and slow sync modes, with optional external flash support via hot shoe - an unusual feature for a compact camera and highly prized by advanced users. Optical image stabilization (OIS) combined with the bright f/1.4 front lens element drastically improves handheld low-light capability, relying less on flash in poor lighting.

In practice, the EX2F enables cleaner images in dim environments with less reliance on fill flash, and its ability to use external flash opens creative lighting possibilities unimaginable with the CL5.

Video Recording Differences

Video capabilities represent an increasingly relevant aspect for many consumers and enthusiasts.

The CL5 provides basic video capture at 640x480 resolution (VGA) at 30fps, using Motion JPEG format. It lacks stereo sound and any manual video controls, making it suitable only for casual, low-resolution clips.

Conversely, the EX2F records full HD 1920x1080p video, utilizing the more efficient H.264 codec, resulting in superior video quality and manageable file sizes. Despite the absence of microphone or headphone ports, video is arguably better suited for enthusiast use due to higher resolution, better lenses, and stabilization - which is critical for smoother footage.

For travel or casual videographers, the EX2F clearly outperforms, while the CL5’s video role remains rudimentary.

Specialized Photography Applications

Let’s explore how these cameras fare across key photography genres and specific use cases.

Portrait Photography

The EX2F’s fast lens (f/1.4-2.7) delivers more discernible background blur (bokeh) and better low-light eye detection than the CL5’s slower f/3.5-4.5 lens. While neither uses advanced phase-detection AF or AI animal eye AF common in recent models, the EX2F’s contrast-detection AF combined with face detection can produce pleasing results when used carefully. The ability to shoot RAW also allows retouching skin tones more effectively.

Landscape Photography

Landscape shooters benefit from sensor resolution and dynamic range. The EX2F’s larger 1/1.7” CMOS sensor with ~12MP and 11.5 EV dynamic range far exceeds the CL5’s 1/2.5” CCD with 9MP and unknown but presumably inferior dynamic range. Neither camera has weather sealing or robust build, limiting outdoor ruggedness. The EX2F’s wider 24mm (equiv.) wide-angle setting and improved exposure control allows more creativity.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Neither camera supports rapid burst modes, advanced tracking, or telephoto zoom typical of wildlife or sports cameras. The CL5’s 114mm max focal length and slow AF limit utility in this space. The EX2F’s faster lens and better AF speed offer marginally better candid shooting but are not replacements for dedicated zoom or DSLR/ mirrorless systems.

Street Photography

For discreet street photography, the CL5’s tiny size and lightweight design excel - ideal for unobtrusive shooting. The limited control and fixed LCD are tradeoffs. The EX2F is larger and more conspicuous but benefits from faster AF, a brighter lens, and the articulated screen to capture shots from creative angles in crowds. Battery life and lens versatility will often influence user choice here.

Macro Photography

The CL5 offers a macro minimum focus distance of 5cm, suitable for casual close-up shots - though image stabilization is absent, increasing the risk of blur. The EX2F’s macro specifications are less clear, but its optical stabilization and manual focus capability provide more precision essential in macro work, allowing sharper images despite small subject distances.

Night and Astrophotography

The EX2F’s larger sensor area, BSI technology, and optical stabilization significantly improve high ISO performance, critical for low-light and astrophotography shots. The CL5’s smaller CCD and lack of stabilization place it at a steep disadvantage here. Neither camera offers dedicated long-exposure modes common in specialist astro gear.

Video Creators

The EX2F’s full HD video at 30fps, optical stabilization, and flexible exposure modes appeal to casual videographers. The CL5’s VGA video is outdated and limited. The lack of microphone inputs on either restricts more serious video work.

Travel Photography

Travel shooters require versatility, size efficiency, and reliability. The CL5’s classic ultracompact form and simple operation are excellent for minimalists, while the EX2F, despite being heavier, provides broader focal range (24-80 mm eq.) and superior image quality plus RAW capability, often preferred by those seeking creative freedom on the road.

Professional Workflow Integration

Professional photographers need RAW support, manual controls, reliable exposures, and comprehensive file management. The EX2F includes RAW and manual modes, supporting professional editing workflows. CL5’s JPEG-only approach and lack of manual exposure modes limit professional utility.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance, and Battery Life

Neither camera boasts weather sealing, dustproofing, shockproofing, or freezeproofing. Both are primarily suited for casual outdoor use in fair conditions.

Regarding battery life, specific figures are unavailable for the CL5. The EX2F uses the SLB-10A battery, which in my testing provides respectable but not outstanding endurance - enough for a day of moderate shooting but requiring spares for extended trips.

Storage-wise, the CL5 uses SD/SDHC/MMC cards, whereas the EX2F supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards offering more capacity options - helpful for high-resolution RAW files and Full HD video.

Connectivity, Wireless, and Extras

Samsung’s EX2F includes built-in wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi), enabling image transfer - a feature entirely absent on the CL5. This connectivity is a major convenience for instant sharing or remote control from smartphones. The inclusion of USB 2.0 and HDMI (micro) ports on the EX2F also facilitates image transfer and video playback on external displays, features missing on the CL5.

Overall, the EX2F integrates modern conveniences impossible on the CL5’s older platform.

Pricing and Value Proposition

At the time of release, the CL5 carried a price tag around $391, while the EX2F debuted near $478. The difference is modest given the substantial leap in technology and features.

For photographers on a strict budget seeking a highly pocketable, simple camera, the CL5 remains an affordable entry point - though it is dated and limited in versatility.

The EX2F offers a much richer feature set, better image quality, and future-proofing through RAW and Wi-Fi, arguably providing stronger value for casual enthusiasts ready to step beyond basic compacts.

Comprehensive Performance Scores

Let’s review summarized performance evaluations to contextualize these observations.

Data - from lab measurements and real-world shooting - consistently show the EX2F outperforms the CL5 across image quality, autofocus speed, and feature sets.

For critical genres like portrait, landscape, and travel, the EX2F commands a much higher score. The CL5 scores a niche win in street photography based on compactness but is otherwise overshadowed.

Sample Images: Side-by-Side Real-World Comparisons

Nothing beats viewing sample photos to assess image quality and character. Here’s a gallery illustrating outputs from both cameras under varied lighting and scenes.

Samsung CL5 front Samsung CL5 screen back Samsung EX2F front Samsung EX2F screen back

Notice the EX2F’s richer detail in shadows, better color fidelity, and lower noise at higher ISO. The CL5’s JPGs appear flatter with less tonal gradation.

Final Evaluation: Which Camera Fits Your Needs?

After detailed analysis and testing, here’s how I recommend choosing between these two Samsung compacts:

• Choose the Samsung CL5 if:

  • You want a truly pocketable ultracompact camera with straightforward point-and-shoot operation
  • Your photography needs are casual, limited mostly to bright daytime shooting and snapshots
  • Budget constraints prevent you from investing in more advanced gear
  • You prioritize minimalism over image quality or manual controls

• Opt for the Samsung EX2F if:

  • You desire significantly better image quality courtesy of a larger sensor and brighter lens
  • Manual exposure modes, RAW support, and optical stabilization are important to your workflow
  • You shoot video regularly and value Full HD recording with stabilization
  • Wireless connectivity and articulated screens matter to your photographic style
  • You want a versatile, travel-friendly compact capable of handling diverse shooting scenarios
  • Willing to carry a slightly larger camera to achieve better results and creative control

While both cameras have their place, it’s clear the EX2F represents a meaningful progression in imaging capability and user empowerment. Its design accommodates enthusiasts who want to push beyond conventional snapshots but aren’t quite ready or willing to invest in mirrorless or DSLR systems.

Closing Thoughts

Experience has taught me that camera choice is rarely about specs alone but how systems integrate into your creative habits. The CL5’s charm lies in simplicity and portability - perfect for those who want to document life effortlessly without fuss. The EX2F is more demanding but rewarding, inviting photographers to explore manual exposure, raw processing, and more thoughtful composition.

If you find yourself intrigued by manual controls and superior image quality but desire compact form, the EX2F should be your clear contender. For casual users valuing convenience, the CL5 holds some appeal, albeit showing its age.

Choosing either model delivers a snapshot into Samsung’s evolving compact camera journey - a journey marked by steady technological progress and varied user demands. Whichever you select, armed with this analysis, you’re better equipped to make an informed, satisfying choice.

I hope this comprehensive hands-on comparison helps you decide which Samsung compact matches your photographic aspirations. Feel free to share your experiences or questions below.