Samsung CL5 vs Samsung NX100

Let's look a bit more in depth at the Samsung CL5 versus Samsung NX100, former is a Ultracompact while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are produced by Samsung. There is a substantial difference among the image resolutions of the CL5 (9MP) and NX100 (15MP) and the CL5 (1/2.5") and NX100 (APS-C) boast totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The CL5 was revealed 18 months before the NX100 which makes them a generation away from each other. The two cameras have different body design with the Samsung CL5 being a Ultracompact camera and the Samsung NX100 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief summary of how the CL5 grades against the NX100 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Samsung CL5 & Samsung NX100. The full galleries are available at Samsung CL5 Gallery & Samsung NX100 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you should factor its weight and measurements. The Samsung CL5 has external dimensions of 93mm x 60mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.7") with a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX100 has proportions of 120mm x 71mm x 35mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") and a weight of 282 grams (0.62 lbs).

See the Samsung CL5 versus Samsung NX100 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are working with during that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the CL5 versus the NX100.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the CL5 and NX100 is 95 and 88 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizes purely by researching specifications. The image underneath might offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the CL5 and NX100.

Plainly, both of those cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The CL5 having a smaller sensor will make achieving shallow DOF more challenging and the Samsung NX100 will result in more detail because of its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots more aggressively. The more aged CL5 will be behind in sensor tech.