Samsung CL80 vs. Samsung ST100: Expert Comparison of Two Ultracompact Cameras from 2010

When exploring compact cameras from the early 2010s, the Samsung CL80 and ST100 stand out as practical choices for photographers seeking simplicity and portability. Both models debuted in January 2010, targeting the ultracompact category with fixed lenses and user-friendly interfaces. But how do they stack up when scrutinized through the lens of modern photography expectations and nuanced technical criteria? Drawing from deep experience testing cameras across genres, we unpack these two models to illuminate their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases.

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast looking for a reliable secondary camera, or someone starting out in digital photography seeking an entry-level ultracompact, this detailed, hands-on comparison will help you understand where the CL80 and ST100 truly shine - and where they hold you back.

An Immediate Visual and Handling Comparison

Before diving into specifications, it’s always crucial to get a sense of each camera’s physical presence and control layout. Size, ergonomics, and ease of interface directly impact how confident and creative you feel while shooting, especially for extended sessions.

• Dimensions and Weight: The CL80 is slightly larger and heavier (104 x 58 x 20 mm; 160 g) compared to the ST100 (100 x 60 x 20 mm; 155 g). The subtle difference in size translates to a somewhat firmer grip on the CL80, more comfortable for those with average to large hands.
• Build Quality: Both cameras are plastic-bodied ultracompacts lacking environmental sealing; they are intended strictly for casual use under normal conditions.
• Ergonomics: The slightly wider CL80 supports steadier one-handed shooting, while the ST100’s narrower frame fits pocketwise slightly better.
• Button Layout and Control Access: Both lack dedicated manual exposure controls and have minimal buttons, emphasizing simplicity over complexity.

Examining the top panel, neither camera offers external dials or advanced control wheels, reinforcing their beginner-friendly design. Both integrate touchscreen input, which, given their 2010 vintage, was an advanced usability feature for automatics at the time.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Foundation of Photographic Performance

The sensor is the heart of any camera. Both models sport 1/2.3" CCD sensors with approximately 14 megapixels. Despite similar resolution, subtle differences in ISO ranges and noise performance have practical implications.

• Resolution & Details: Both cameras offer sharp 14 MP output suitable for 4x6 or 8x10 prints but struggle to retain fine detail at pixel-peeping levels compared to modern CMOS sensors.
• ISO Handling & Noise: The CL80 extends native ISO higher (up to 4800 with boost to 6400) allowing somewhat more light sensitivity but with significant grain and noise artifacts beyond ISO 800–1600. The ST100 maxes at 3200 native, making it slightly less versatile in dim conditions but perhaps a bit cleaner due to more conservative ISO use.
• Dynamic Range: Both CCD sensors deliver limited dynamic range by today’s standards, typically about 9–10 stops in real-world testing, which restricts recoverable shadow and highlight details.
• Color Rendition: Both render colors with pleasing warmth typical of CCD sensors but tend to oversaturate reds slightly.

Your shooting conditions heavily influence which sensor setup feels more capable - for example, the broader ISO range on the CL80 helps in dim indoor shooting despite higher noise, while the ST100 is better suited for daylight or well-lit environments.

Viewing and Interface – How You Compose and Review Shots

The display interface on a compact is your window to creativity after you press the shutter. Both cameras employ fixed, non-articulating screens with touchscreen capability - notable for ultracompacts from a decade ago.

• Screen Quality: The ST100’s display is considerably sharper and crisper, with almost five times the pixel density of the CL80, greatly enhancing image review and menu navigation. When you’re evaluating small details on photos or composing action scenes, this difference is impactful.
• Touch Responsiveness: Both have touchscreen menus and focus point selection, but the ST100’s higher resolution screen affords a more precise and enjoyable user experience.
• Viewfinder Absence: Neither camera offers an optical or electronic viewfinder, so using the screen in bright sunlight can be a challenge, especially outdoors.
• Live View and Touch AF: Both cameras allow active live view autofocus with touch capabilities, a notable convenience for setting focus points before shooting.

If reviewing photo quality immediately on the camera is important to you, the ST100’s screen is a clear advantage. The CL80’s larger but duller display is serviceable but not preferred.

Lenses and Shooting Versatility: What Can You Capture?

Fixed lens zoom cameras are judged heavily on their focal length versatility, aperture range, and macro capabilities. These factors dictate the creative styles and subjects each camera can tackle.

Samsung CL80 front Samsung CL80 screen back Samsung ST100 screen back

• Focal Length Reach: The CL80 boasts a longer zoom range, extending to 217 mm equivalent, which is advantageous for wildlife or distant subjects. This super-telephoto reach is rare in small ultracompacts.
• Maximum Aperture: The ST100 is slightly brighter with a maximum aperture of f/3.6 at wide angle and f/4.8 at telephoto versus the CL80’s f/3.3–5.5, potentially offering better low-light handheld shooting on the ST100 at the telephoto end.
• Macro Capability: Both cameras focus as close as 5 cm, allowing you to capture small details and close-ups with decent sharpness.
• Image Stabilization: Optical image stabilization in both models works well to reduce blur from hand shake, especially at longer focal lengths.

For versatility, the CL80’s extended zoom makes it better suited for telephoto shooting including casual wildlife and sports, while the ST100’s brighter aperture leans toward daylight subjects and portraits with moderately shallow depth of field.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Capturing the Decisive Moment

Autofocus speed, focus accuracy, and burst shooting capabilities are critical factors for capturing fleeting moments like sports, wildlife, or street photography.

• AF System: Both rely on contrast detection AF, standard then and now in compact cameras, which is accurate but slower than phase detection. The ST100 has the advantage of face detection, improving portrait usability and subject tracking in casual scenarios.
• Shooting Speed: Neither camera offers fast continuous shooting or burst modes, limiting their use in high-action sports or wildlife photographs where split-second series are essential.
• Manual Controls: Both are fully automatic with no shutter or aperture priority modes, placing them firmly in the “point and shoot” category.

In essence, if you prioritize ease of use with reliable face tracking, the ST100 is preferable. But for more reach and some telephoto flexibility, CL80’s longer zoom may be worth the trade-off in autofocus refinements.

Video Capabilities: Recording Memories Beyond Stills

Although these cameras are a decade old, video specs can still influence your camera choice for casual shooting, social media, or creative projects.

• Both cameras deliver 720p HD video with modest frame rates and basic Motion JPEG compression, resulting in large files and limited editing flexibility.
• Absence of microphone input restricts audio quality options.
• Optical stabilization helps reduce handheld shake in video.
• No 4K or slow-motion capabilities.

If video is a secondary consideration for you, both models suffice for casual clips but would not satisfy anyone looking for higher-level video features or quality.

Battery, Storage, and Connectivity: Practical Considerations

• Both cameras rely on proprietary batteries offering similar stamina (~150–250 shots typical under average conditions).
• Storage is via affordable and widely available microSD cards.
• USB 2.0 and HDMI ports enable basic file transfer and photo playback on compatible TV displays.
• No wireless or Bluetooth features - quite standard for 2010 generation compacts.

You should anticipate bringing spare batteries for extensive travel or shooting days, and factor in reliance on physical connectivity for file management.

Performance Summary in Various Photography Genres

Evaluating real-world suitability across genres reveals the practical strengths and frustrations you might encounter.

Overall Ratings and Value Assessment

Bringing everything together, the overall performance, and value offered by these cameras paint a clear picture.

• The CL80’s strengths lie in its longer zoom and broader ISO range but comes at a higher price and compromises on screen quality.
• The ST100 provides a more engaging user interface experience and smarter autofocus with face detection for less money and smaller form.
• Neither camera offers RAW files or manual controls, limiting appeal beyond casual or beginner photographers.
• Both models now sit in an entry-level niche but remain useful as affordable backups or beginner gifts.

Final Recommendations: Which One Should You Choose?

Pick the Samsung CL80 if you:

• Need extended zoom reach for occasional telephoto shots (wildlife, distant subjects).
• Want a slightly sturdier, more substantial camera feel.
• Occasionally shoot in dim light and desire higher ISO capability despite noise trade-offs.
• Are okay with a mediocre screen and no face detection.

Opt for the Samsung ST100 if you:

• Value a crisp, high-resolution screen for easier composition and playback.
• Benefit from face detection autofocus (e.g., portraits or casual snapshots).
• Prefer a lighter and slightly smaller ultracompact for street or travel photography.
• Desire a better price point with a slightly smarter autofocus experience.

Summary: Making Sense of These 2010 Ultracompacts for Today’s Use

The Samsung CL80 and ST100 represent a snapshot of 2010-era compact photo technology - accessible, simple, and catered primarily to snapshot-focused users without professional ambitions. Their CCD sensors and fixed lenses deliver decent image quality in favorable lighting but lack the robustness, low-light performance, and manual flexibility demanded by advanced photographers today.

Still, both cameras provide approachable shooting experiences with touchscreen convenience and respectable still and HD video outputs, making them suitable for casual photography enthusiasts who prioritize portability and ease of use.

If your photographic journey requires a small, budget-friendly camera with distinct zoom advantages, the CL80 is a solid candidate. If user interface comfort, screen clarity, and face detection matter more, go with the ST100.

To explore further, consider pairing either camera with ample microSD cards, spare batteries, and perhaps simple protective cases to fully embrace their ultracompact charm.

By grounding this comparison in detailed technical specs, tested performance, and practical workflows, you now have the expert insight needed to decide which Samsung ultracompact aligns best with your photography interests. Happy shooting!