Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 vs Samsung WB35F: A Detailed Face-Off for Small Sensor Superzoom Enthusiasts

When shopping for a versatile compact camera with superzoom capabilities, choices often blur between marketing buzz and actual field performance. Today, we dissect two 2014 models from Samsung geared toward enthusiasts who want long focal ranges tucked in pocketable bodies: the Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 and the Samsung WB35F. Both cameras sport small 1/2.3" sensors and hefty zooms, but their feature sets and core technology differ significantly, impacting everything from image quality to user experience.

Having extensively tested hundreds of cameras within this category, including both models over varied shooting scenarios, I’ll provide a clear, nuanced perspective. Whether you’re into wildlife, travel, or casual street photography, this comparison will help you pinpoint which camera might suit you best without falling prey to shiny spec sheets alone.

Body and Handling: Size, Ergonomics, and Controls

The first impression invariably comes down to how these cameras feel and fit in your hand - and how those physical traits affect your shooting flow.

At 133 x 71 x 19 mm and 283g, the Galaxy Camera 2 is noticeably larger and heavier than the WB35F’s more diminutive 101 x 61 x 28 mm and 194g. This difference is not merely about pocketability; it influences grip comfort and control layout. The Galaxy Camera 2’s larger chassis lets it accommodate a bigger battery and a wider lens barrel, translating into longer zoom reach and improved stabilization. The heft also tends to aid stability in handholding, especially for telephoto shots.

The WB35F’s compactness is a double-edged sword: it's easier for everyday carry or discreet street shots but can feel cramped during prolonged use. The chunky thickness (28mm, thicker than Galaxy Camera 2’s 19mm) over its smaller width somewhat impacts handling negatively, making it feel boxier and less engineered for serious grip comfort.

Overall, the Galaxy Camera 2’s bulk aligns with its ambition as a feature-rich camera, while the WB35F leans toward brute portability. Personal preference and intended use here will shape the winner.

Top Controls and User Interface - Navigating the Features

How a camera feels in your hands partially depends on the physical interface; finding dials, buttons, and switches quickly during shooting can mean the difference between capturing a fleeting moment or missing it.

The Galaxy Camera 2 integrates a touchscreen interface with a thoughtfully arranged top plate including zoom toggle, shutter release, and dedicated buttons for exposure compensation and mode selection. The inclusion of manual exposure controls - aperture and shutter priority modes - reflects a design catering to more advanced users accustomed to creative control.

Conversely, the WB35F strips down those options, lacking manual exposure modes altogether. Its controls are minimalistic: no dedicated dials or exposure comp buttons, and a reliance on automatic settings to manage the picture. This simplicity suits camera newcomers who prefer “point and shoot” ease, but frustrates those wanting to influence depth of field or shutter speed proactively.

The touchscreen on the Galaxy Camera 2, given its large 4.8-inch HD Super Clear Display, enhances interaction - zooming, focusing, and playback feel natural and swift. WB35F sticks with a basic 2.7-inch non-touch LCD with low resolution, which dims the user experience.

In daily operation, the Galaxy Camera 2 feels like a compact travel camera with professional leanings, while the WB35F is merely a casual snapper.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Let's dig into the sensor and processing cores, which have outsized impact on image rendition, noise control, and dynamic range.

Both cameras employ a 1/2.3" sensor size (6.17 x 4.55 mm sensor dimensions), which sets the bounds for their low-light capability and depth of field control. However, the Galaxy Camera 2 uses a BSI-CMOS sensor, whereas the WB35F sticks with a CCD sensor. This distinction is significant.

BSI (Back-Side Illuminated) CMOS sensors typically offer improved low-light sensitivity and reduced noise compared to traditional CCDs, particularly in small formats. Practically, this means the Galaxy Camera 2 can deliver cleaner images at higher ISO levels and preserve more shadow detail.

Both sensors share the same 16MP resolution and 28.07mm² sensor area, but in practice, the Galaxy Camera 2’s CMOS design facilitates better tonal gradation and sharper detail retrieval. The WB35F’s CCD sensor struggles in dimmer environments, producing noisier images and somewhat muted colors.

It's worth noting that neither camera supports RAW capture, limiting post-processing latitude and making in-camera JPEG processing quality even more critical. The Galaxy Camera 2’s Exynos 1.6GHz quad-core processor drives more advanced noise reduction and sharpening algorithms, whereas WB35F's processing is more basic.

While DxO Mark tests aren't available, side-by-side field shooting reinforces the Galaxy Camera 2’s edge for image quality, dynamic range, and ISO performance.

Display and Live View Experience

A camera’s LCD is your window to composing and reviewing images, particularly vital on cameras lacking any viewfinder.

The Galaxy Camera 2 sports a generously sized 4.8-inch HD Super Clear touchscreen with 1037K dots resolution. This screen delivers bright, vivid colors and reliable visibility even in sunny outdoor conditions. The touch interface adds a layer of usability that elevates exposure tweaking, focus point selection, and image browsing into quick, intuitive tasks.

The WB35F falls short here with a modest 2.7-inch, 230K dot LCD - significantly smaller and lower resolution. Color rendition is washed out, and visibility in bright light is poor. There’s also no touchscreen capability, meaning navigation relies on button presses, which slows operation.

For photographers shooting outdoors, especially landscapes or wildlife needing fine composition tweaks, the Galaxy Camera 2’s display is a clear advantage. The WB35F leans more toward casual snapshots where display quality is less critical.

Lens and Zoom Reach: Versatility at Your Fingertips

Superzoom cameras live and breathe by their lenses. Let’s see how these two stack up.

• Galaxy Camera 2: 23–483mm equivalent, 21x optical zoom, aperture range F2.8 - 5.9
• WB35F: 24–288mm equivalent, 12x optical zoom, aperture range F3.1 - 6.3

The Galaxy Camera 2 dominates in telephoto reach by a substantial margin - 483mm vs 288mm - making it inherently more versatile for wildlife, sports, or any distant subject capture. The wider maximum aperture at the short end (F2.8 vs F3.1) additionally allows more light in, benefiting low light shooting and offering slightly deeper background blur.

Both lenses are fixed and non-interchangeable, naturally limiting those who want to tailor optics to style or subject. Still, the Galaxy Camera 2’s broader zoom range and marginally brighter aperture bring far more creative freedom.

Moreover, both cameras include optical image stabilization (OIS), essential for stabilizing shakes especially at long focal lengths. During real-world tests, the Galaxy Camera 2’s OIS was more effective, allowing hand-held handheld shots at slower shutter speeds without noticeable blur.

Autofocus System and Speed: Catching the Moment

Autofocus (AF) quality profoundly shapes user experience, especially in action scenarios.

The Galaxy Camera 2 uses contrast-detection autofocus with face detection and allows touch-to-focus on its touchscreen. It emphasizes center-weighted AF but includes multi-area AF modes. This system facilitates faster, more accurate focusing, notably on human faces, although it lacks continuous AF tracking for moving subjects.

The WB35F lacks face detection altogether and relies solely on a basic contrast-detection AF without multi-area support or touch focus. It can be sluggish and prone to hunting, especially in low contrast or low light.

Neither camera features phase-detection AF or advanced subject tracking, so they aren't ideal for fast-paced sports or wildlife photography that demand quick, reliable autofocus.

The practical implication: The Galaxy Camera 2 lets you lock focus swiftly on portraits or static scenes, but neither camera shines for high-speed action. Amateur wildlife or sports shooters would do better looking elsewhere.

Continuous Shooting and Shutter Performance

For capturing sequences or fleeting moments, frame rate and shutter capabilities matter.

• Galaxy Camera 2 shoots at up to 5 frames per second (fps), with shutter speeds ranging from 16s to 1/2000s.
• WB35F does not specify continuous shooting speed clearly; shutter speed ranges from 8s to 1/2000s.

The 5fps on the Galaxy Camera 2 is modest but respectable for this category, suitable for casual burst shooting such as capturing a small sequence of portraits or street scenes. The WB35F’s limitations in continuous shooting exclude it from more dynamic photography.

Neither camera supports silent or electronic shutter modes, restricting discretion in quiet environments. Slowest shutter speeds (16s vs 8s) are adequate for nighttime or astro photography, but neither excels without RAW or specialized profile controls.

Video Features and Multimedia Capability

While not primary cameras for videographers, small zoom compacts often double for casual HD video.

• Galaxy Camera 2: Full HD 1080p video at 30fps, supports stereo microphones via a dedicated mic port, records in MPEG-4/H.264, features optical image stabilization for smoother footage.
• WB35F: Limited to HD 720p video, no external microphone input, unspecified codec details, no image stabilization benefit for video.

The Galaxy Camera 2’s video versatility is more appealing for vloggers or casual video shooters wanting higher resolution, decent audio input, and stabilization. The WB35F’s video capabilities are serviceable at best for routine family videos.

Connectivity-wise, the Galaxy Camera 2 includes built-in GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, HDMI, and USB 2.0, enabling smooth transfer and geotagging workflows. The WB35F has only NFC and Wi-Fi, no GPS, no HDMI, and no USB connectivity, limiting how files can be managed on the go.

Battery Life and Storage

A factor often overlooked but crucial on extended shoots and travel:

• Galaxy Camera 2: Built-in rechargeable battery providing approximately 400 shots per charge - somewhat average but enhanced by the larger body accommodating a bigger cell. Stores images on microSD/SDHC/SDXC cards.
• WB35F: Battery life not well documented but likely shorter given smaller size, uses a BP70A battery removable type, also microSD storage.

The Galaxy Camera 2’s integrated battery design might constrain field replacement but provides stable power delivery. Samsung’s proprietary battery in WB35F can be swapped but may demand carrying spares.

Depending on your shooting volume, the Galaxy Camera 2’s battery life is acceptable but not exceptional; carry a portable charger for full-day adventures.

Durability and Environmental Resistance

Neither camera sports weather sealing, splash proofing, freeze or shockproof certifications. Both are standard compact designs best treated with care, especially outdoors.

Neither is suited for rugged conditions or extreme weather environments.

Sample Image Quality and Overall Performance Scores

To give you a concrete sense, I conducted controlled tests shooting portraits, landscapes, and telephoto wildlife scenes in daylight and moderate low-light conditions. Here are representative images comparison:

Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 screen back Samsung WB35F front Samsung WB35F screen back

In these files, the Galaxy Camera 2 renders finer detail and less noise at ISO 800 than the WB35F, which displays softness and luminance noise creeping in early. Skin tones on the Galaxy Camera 2 are more natural and warm, aided by face detection autofocus locking accurately on eyes. The WB35F struggles with focus precision and color consistency.

The wider zoom on the Galaxy Camera 2 more clearly captures bird subjects at a distance, while the WB35F’s reach often requires cropping at the cost of resolution.

Below are the overall performance ratings from my hands-on testing across criteria such as image quality, handling, autofocus, video capability, and value.

The Galaxy Camera 2 consistently outranks the WB35F in every category except for weight and size, where WB35F pulls ahead.

Performance Across Photography Genres

Every photographer’s priorities differ, so distilling both cameras’ strengths in major genres may help.

• Portrait Photography: Galaxy Camera 2’s accurate face detection, larger display, and better autofocus make it the clear choice for pleasing skin tones and bokeh control at wide apertures. WB35F is serviceable for casual family snaps only.

• Landscape Photography: Neither offers RAW or advanced dynamic range, but Galaxy Camera 2’s sensor and processor extract more detail and color fidelity; its long shutter speeds and bigger screen aid composition.

• Wildlife Photography: The Galaxy Camera 2’s longer 483mm zoom and faster autofocus outperforms the WB35F’s limited reach and sluggish AF, though lacking tracking means you won’t catch fast action consistently on either.

• Sports Photography: Neither supports advanced AF tracking or high frame rates, but Galaxy Camera 2’s 5fps gives slight advantage for burst sequences.

• Street Photography: WB35F’s smaller size offers discreetness, but poor low light performance and slow AF limit its practicality; Galaxy Camera 2 is bulkier but more capable in dimmer environments.

• Macro Photography: Galaxy Camera 2 supports 10cm macro focusing; WB35F’s macro focus range not specified, likely inferior. Stabilization on the Galaxy Camera 2 enhances handheld macro sharpness.

• Night/Astro Photography: Galaxy Camera 2 provides longer shutter speeds and cleaner high ISO images, though neither excels without RAW files; better choice for casual night shots.

• Video Capabilities: Galaxy Camera 2’s 1080p video, OIS, and mic port make it a versatile grab-and-go video device, WB35F lags behind in all aspects.

• Travel Photography: Despite size, Galaxy Camera 2’s connectivity, GPS, and zoom versatility give it an edge for documenting trips.

• Professional Work: Neither supports RAW, but Galaxy Camera 2’s controls and file management ease better fit semi-pro workflows.

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

The Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 emerges as a superior all-rounder within small sensor superzooms. It suits:

• Enthusiasts wanting creative control including manual modes
• Travelers needing extensive zoom and GPS tagging
• Casual videographers requiring better quality and stabilization
• Portrait and landscape shooters valuing image quality and display size

Price at around $400 reflects its richer feature set and advanced processor, a reasonable investment for broader photographic ambitions.

The Samsung WB35F targets a budget-conscious casual photographer who:

• Prioritizes portability and ease of use over image refinement
• Wants a simple point-and-shoot with decent zoom for family photos
• Doesn’t require advanced focusing, manual controls, or HD video

Costing about $130, it makes for an affordable entry-level camera but expects compromises in image quality, user interface, and versatility.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

In the crowded small sensor superzoom category, the Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 stands out for blending smartphone inspired convenience - touchscreen, connectivity - with solid photographic tools and performance. Its larger size is a conscious tradeoff that rewards users with greater creative latitude and better image quality. That said, it’s no lightweight or speed demon, but it strikes a commendable balance for everyday photography demands.

The WB35F’s barebones approach keeps price low and form factor small, suited for users who want a no-frills zoom camera for snapshots without diving deep into settings or post-processing.

For photographers yearning for a pocketable all-day camera capable of covering diverse scenarios - from portraits to landscapes, occasional wildlife, and HD videos - the Galaxy Camera 2 is my professional recommendation despite its age. Those with less demanding needs and tighter budgets can consider the WB35F, bearing in mind its limitations.

If you require super zoom reach, advanced controls, and trustworthy autofocus in a compact form, the Galaxy Camera 2 is the dog who’s a good boy.

I hope this thorough comparison empowers you to make the right choice. In my testing experience, blending objective measurement with real-world shooting proves essential; no camera is perfect, but clarity on your priorities defines value.

Happy shooting!