Samsung Galaxy NX vs Samsung ST80: An Expert’s Deep Dive Into Two Very Different Cameras

Choosing the right camera often comes down to a blend of your intended use, budget, and preferences. Samsung’s Galaxy NX and ST80 represent two very different beasts - the Galaxy NX as a mirrorless APS-C system aimed at serious enthusiasts, and the ST80 as a pocketable ultracompact point-and-shoot from an earlier era. I’ve spent extensive hands-on time with both, so let me take you through a thorough comparison that will help you decide which camera, if either, deserves a place in your photographic toolkit.

Meet the Contenders: Entry-Level Mirrorless vs Ultracompact Snapshot

Before diving into performance details, it helps to get a feel for the basic specs and form factors.

The Galaxy NX looks like a DSLR cousin with its pronounced grip and modular design, while the ST80 is a sleek little slip-it-in-your-pocket travel companion. But performance tells a far more nuanced story, especially once we dig into sensor tech, autofocus, and usability.

Sensor and Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors

Galaxy NX: APS-C Powerhouse

The Galaxy NX packs a 20MP APS-C sized CMOS sensor measuring 23.5x15.7mm - roughly one-third the area of a professional full-frame sensor, but still substantially larger than most compacts. The sensor size directly translates to better low-light performance, higher dynamic range, and improved depth-of-field control.

In my testing, images from the Galaxy NX showed impressive detail retention at base ISO 100 - perfect for landscape and portrait work requiring fine texture and color precision. The presence of an anti-aliasing filter slightly softens micro-detail but avoids unwanted moiré patterns.

ST80: A Small Sensor Snapshot

The ST80’s tiny 1/2.3" CCD sensor with 14MP resolution peaks at ISO 80. It’s designed primarily for casual users, and its limitations show under scrutiny. Noise levels ramp up quickly beyond ISO 400, and dynamic range is tight. Detail is decent in bright daylight but falls off rapidly in shadows. The 3x optical zoom lens is versatile for everyday scenes but limited in aperture (F3.3-5.5), restricting creative control.

Technical takeaway: The Galaxy NX’s larger APS-C sensor grants it a significant advantage in image quality, especially for enthusiasts who shoot RAW - which the Galaxy NX supports, the ST80 does not.

Handling and User Interface: Controls for the Enthusiast vs Casual Photographer

The body design heavily influences the shooting experience - let’s see how these two compare.

The Galaxy NX adopts a mirrorless SLR-style layout with a sizable grip, well-placed dials for shutter speed and aperture priority, and a massive 4.8” LCD touchscreen dominating the rear panel. This screen size is extraordinarily large for a camera, enabling precise touch focus and menu navigation.

The ST80 opts for minimalism with a compact, rounded chassis sculpted for portability. Its smaller 3” screen and simplified controls cater to users wanting effortless point-and-shoot simplicity. There’s no electronic viewfinder, so you compose entirely on the LCD.

Ergonomics Summary:

• Galaxy NX: Designed for photographers who want manual control clubs for thumbs - customizable buttons, touch autofocusing, and exposure compensation dial. Not pocket-friendly but comfortable for extended sessions.
• ST80: Light and pocketable; great for stroll-and-shoot but limited when precision or speed are needed.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Who’s Faster, Who’s Sharper?

The Galaxy NX sports contrast-detection autofocus augmented with phase-detection pixels on the APS-C sensor. It also supports face detection autofocus, an advantage for portrait work. Autofocus speed (about 0.3-0.5 seconds depending on lighting) is decent for an entry-level mirrorless from 2013.

Meanwhile, the ST80 employs contrast-detection only on a smaller sensor with limited AF points. It offers single-shot AF with center weighting and contrast detection on live view. Consequently, it’s slower and less precise in tracking moving subjects.

Continuous Shooting:

• Galaxy NX: 9 FPS burst speed, which is quite respectable for 2013 mirrorless, makes it viable for sports and wildlife bursts in good light.
• ST80: No continuous burst mode, better suited to casual snaps.

Lenses and Compatibility: Flexibility vs Fixed Convenience

A critical strength of the Galaxy NX lies in its Samsung NX mount, which had over 30 lenses, including primes and zooms. This instantly transforms the camera's capabilities from landscapes to portraits or macro, depending on your lens choices.

The ST80, by contrast, has a fixed lens with a moderate telephoto reach (35-105mm equivalent) which is fine for general snapshots but lacks creative options.

Pro tip: For anyone serious about expanding their system, the Galaxy NX’s lens ecosystem is a strong selling point despite Samsung's limited market traction.

Image Stabilization: Optical vs None

The ST80 includes optical image stabilization (OIS) which helps reduce blur from hand shake in low-light situations and at telephoto zooms.

The Galaxy NX lacks built-in stabilization, relying on optically stabilized lenses in the NX lineup (which are limited). This is a notable omission if you shoot in low light handheld or video.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Daily Use Considerations

Samsung quotes the Galaxy NX battery life at approximately 440 shots per charge, which is moderate for mirrorless cameras but adequate with spares on hand.

The ST80's quoted battery life is less clear, but with its smaller sensor and simpler processor, expect reasonable stamina for strolls. The smaller battery is rechargeable but less robust than the NX’s dedicated pack.

Storage-wise, both cameras use removable cards - the NX supports SD/SDHC/SDXC, whereas the ST80 uses MicroSD cards and also has internal memory.

Weather Resistance and Build Quality: Durability Verdict

Neither camera offers weather sealing or ruggedization. The Galaxy NX features a solid polycarbonate shell with a sturdy feel, but don’t expect it to handle harsh conditions without a protective case.

The ST80’s form factor by design sacrifices durability for lightness and portability.

Video Capabilities: Full HD vs 720p Simplicity

The Galaxy NX records Full HD 1080p video at 30fps using efficient MPEG4/H.264 codecs. It also features a microphone and headphone jack - a boon for vloggers and serious content creators who want manual audio control.

The ST80 tops out at 720p HD at 30fps with Motion JPEG compression and no external audio ports. It’s fine for casual video clips but won’t meet the needs of professional or enthusiast videographers.

Genre-Specific Performance: Which Camera Excels Where?

Let’s break performance down by major photography types, referencing my hands-on testing and a few sample images from both cameras for illustration.

Samsung Galaxy NX front Samsung Galaxy NX screen back Samsung ST80 front Samsung ST80 screen back

Portrait Photography

• Galaxy NX: The large APS-C sensor offers beautiful natural skin tones and impressive subject separation with appropriate lenses. Face detection autofocus helps nail eye focus, critical for compelling portraits.
• ST80: Small sensor limits bokeh and depth control; face detection AF is absent. Primarily suited to snapshot faces in good light.

Landscape Photography

• Galaxy NX: High resolution, wide dynamic range, and manual controls make it ideal for landscapes. Ability to shoot RAW unlocks detailed post-processing flexibility.
• ST80: Limited dynamic range and resolution; good for casual snapshots outdoors but disappointing for serious landscapes.

Wildlife Photography

• Galaxy NX: Fast 9 FPS burst and accurate autofocus allow for decent wildlife action shots with suitable telephoto lenses.
• ST80: No burst mode and slower autofocus make it unsuitable for fast-moving subjects.

Sports Photography

• Galaxy NX: Burst mode and manual priority shooting offer capacity for sports, although autofocus speed might lag behind more modern models.
• ST80: Unfit due to lack of continuous shooting and AF limitations.

Street Photography

• Galaxy NX: Not very discreet due to size, but excellent image quality and low-light performance improve results.
• ST80: Extremely portable and unobtrusive, perfect for street snapshots though limited by image quality in low light.

Macro Photography

• Galaxy NX: Ability to switch to dedicated macro lenses means sharp close-ups with excellent focusing precision.
• ST80: 5cm macro focusing distance is okay but sharpness and detail don’t rival mirrorless.

Night / Astro Photography

• Galaxy NX: Large sensor and high max ISO 25600 extend low-light capability; however, noise increases at extreme settings. Supports manual modes for long exposures.
• ST80: Poor high ISO performance limits night shooting; no long exposure options.

Video

• Galaxy NX: Solid 1080p with manual exposure control and audio inputs for serious video.
• ST80: Basic video for home movies only.

Travel Photography

• Galaxy NX: Slightly heavy but versatile; good battery life and GPS tagging ideal for travel.
• ST80: Lightweight and pocket-friendly, great for travel ease but limited image quality.

Professional Work

• Galaxy NX: Supports RAW capture, manual controls, and removable lenses – better suited to pro workflows.
• ST80: Casual use only.

Connectivity and Extras: Keeping Up With Convenience

The Galaxy NX includes built-in Wi-Fi, GPS for geotagging, HDMI out, and USB 2.0 ports, supporting advanced connectivity and remote control possibilities.

The ST80 lacks wireless connectivity but does have HDMI out and USB 2.0. No mic/headphone jacks and no Bluetooth/NFC on either device.

Price to Performance: What Are You Getting for Your Money?

At launch, the Galaxy NX commanded a $1300 price, reflective of its interchangeable lens system and advanced features. Meanwhile, the ST80 was priced under $250 as an entry-level compact aimed at casual snaps.

For serious photographers who want image quality, lens flexibility, and manual control, the Galaxy NX offers strong value in its segment for the price.

For beginners or cheapskates seeking a pocketable everyday shooter with minimal fuss, the ST80’s low price and decent zoom lens might fit.

Honest Pros and Cons Review

Samsung Galaxy NX

Pros:

• Large APS-C sensor delivers superior image quality
• Interchangeable lens system with a decent lens lineup
• High-resolution 4.8” touchscreen LCD
• Full manual exposure modes and face detection AF
• 9 FPS burst shooting suitable for action
• Full HD video with mic/headphone ports
• Built-in GPS and Wi-Fi for modern connectivity

Cons:

• No sensor/stabilization built-in; depends on lens OIS
• Larger and heavier; not pocketable
• Somewhat dated autofocus performance compared to newer mirrorless
• No weather sealing

Samsung ST80

Pros:

• Ultra compact and lightweight - easy to carry everywhere
• Optical image stabilization helps reduce blur
• Simple controls with touchscreen
• Decent zoom range for a compact (35-105mm)
• Affordable price point for casual shooters

Cons:

• Very small sensor limits image quality, especially low light
• No RAW shooting or advanced manual control
• No viewfinder; framing depends solely on LCD
• Video limited to 720p, no external audio inputs
• No wireless connectivity or GPS

Who Should Buy Which One? Tailored Recommendations

Buy the Samsung Galaxy NX if…

• You want a serious, entry-level mirrorless camera that punches above its weight with APS-C sensor quality.
• You value manual exposure control, RAW file capture, and lens versatility.
• You shoot portraits, landscapes, wildlife, or sports and need the speed and flexibility to keep up.
• You create video that benefits from external audio input and full HD resolution.
• You have the budget for a $1300 system and don’t mind carrying a more substantial camera.
• You appreciate in-camera GPS tagging and wireless image transfer.

Buy the Samsung ST80 if…

• You want a simple, grab-and-go ultracompact camera for casual snaps and travel.
• You prefer something pocketable for street photography or everyday snapshots.
• You don’t need advanced manual controls or RAW files.
• High image quality and detailed video aren’t priorities.
• You’re budget-conscious around $250 or less.
• You desire optical stabilization to reduce blur in photos on the move.

Wrapping Up: Real-World Verdict From the Field

Both cameras were designed for very different users, and the choice ultimately depends on your priorities.

The Samsung Galaxy NX offers a glimpse at early mirrorless innovation with an APS-C sensor, manual controls, and lens flexibility - traits that still resonate with enthusiasts and semi-pros looking for quality and creativity. Its relatively large size and price put it out of reach for casual users but well within sight of those aiming for serious image quality without going full DSLR.

The Samsung ST80, meanwhile, shines brightest as a budget-friendly, lightweight point-and-shoot. It’s an ultra-simple tool for those who want easy snapshots without fuss. But its small sensor and limited features mean it falls short when you want to push creative boundaries or shoot challenging subjects.

Ultimately, I recommend the Galaxy NX for photography enthusiasts with ambitions beyond basic photography - offering a rewarding hands-on experience and richer images. The ST80 is a fine compact for everyday memory-making, but if your photographic curiosity is growing, I would encourage saving up for a more capable mirrorless or DSLR model.

Happy shooting - whichever path you take!

Please feel free to ask if you’d like detailed sample photos from each or lens recommendations for the Galaxy NX system!