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Samsung HZ15W vs Sony A6400

Portability
90
Imaging
34
Features
31
Overall
32
Samsung HZ15W front
 
Sony Alpha a6400 front
Portability
83
Imaging
68
Features
88
Overall
76

Samsung HZ15W vs Sony A6400 Key Specs

Samsung HZ15W
(Full Review)
  • 12MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 80 - 3200
  • Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
  • 1280 x 720 video
  • 24-240mm (F3.3-5.8) lens
  • 249g - 105 x 61 x 37mm
  • Launched February 2009
  • Also Known as WB550
Sony A6400
(Full Review)
  • 24MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 3" Tilting Display
  • ISO 100 - 32000 (Raise to 102400)
  • 3840 x 2160 video
  • Sony E Mount
  • 403g - 120 x 67 x 50mm
  • Launched January 2019
Photography Glossary

Samsung HZ15W vs Sony A6400: A Deep Dive for Photography Enthusiasts and Professionals

Selecting the right camera is crucial for your photography journey, whether you are a seasoned pro or a passionate enthusiast. Today, I’ll walk you through a detailed comparison of two very different cameras: the entry-level Samsung HZ15W compact and the advanced Sony Alpha a6400 mirrorless. Having tested thousands of cameras over my 15+ years in the field, I aim to give you practical insights, hands-on observations, and a balanced perspective to help you make an informed choice.

Let’s explore their design, technology, performance, and real-world use across major photography disciplines and use cases.

At a Glance: From Pocketable to Pro-Grade Mirrorless

At first glance, the Samsung HZ15W and Sony A6400 look worlds apart in purpose and performance. The HZ15W is a compact aimed at casual shooters wanting simple point-and-shoot convenience, while the A6400 is a mirrorless powerhouse designed for serious photographers and videographers.

Samsung HZ15W vs Sony A6400 size comparison

Size and Handling

The HZ15W is a pocketable compact measuring just 105 x 61 x 37 mm and weighing 249 g - ideal if ultimate portability and ease-of-use are your priorities. Ergonomically, it’s a simple rectangular design with a fixed lens, minimal controls, and a modest grip.

In contrast, Sony’s A6400 is larger at 120 x 67 x 50 mm and heavier at 403 g, reflecting its much more robust build typical of mirrorless ILCs. It has a pronounced grip and plenty of physical controls for rapid manual adjustments. If you value tactile handling and customization, the A6400 is in another league.

Sensor and Image Quality – Where It Counts Most

A camera’s sensor is the heart of image quality, so this comparison is essential. The HZ15W employs a small 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor with 12MP resolution, while the A6400 has a much larger APS-C sized CMOS sensor with 24MP resolution.

Samsung HZ15W vs Sony A6400 sensor size comparison

Sensor Technology and Dimensions

  • Samsung HZ15W: 1/2.3" CCD, 6.08 x 4.56 mm sensor area (~27.7 mm²)
  • Sony A6400: APS-C CMOS, 23.5 x 15.6 mm sensor area (~366.6 mm²)

This difference is massive - the Sony sensor has roughly 13x the surface area. Larger sensors collect more light and detail, delivering superior dynamic range, noise control, and color fidelity. The A6400’s Bionz X processor further optimizes image quality through intelligent detail and noise reduction algorithms.

Resolution and ISO Range

  • Samsung’s 12MP max resolution is suitable for web sharing and small prints but can struggle with heavy cropping or large prints.
  • Sony’s 24MP native resolution means sharper images with more cropping freedom and larger print options.
  • The HZ15W’s native ISO tops at 3200, but image quality at high ISO is grainy and lacks detail.
  • The A6400 shines up to ISO 32000 natively and even expands to 102400, with excellent noise control owing to the larger sensor and advanced image processor.

Raw Support

Sony supports RAW capture, essential for professional post-processing control, whereas the Samsung only shoots JPEG, limiting editing latitude.

Real-World Insight: In my tests, the A6400’s images captured vibrant colors and nuanced shadows even in challenging high-contrast scenes, while the HZ15W’s output was noticeably flatter with less detail retention in highlights and shadows.

Build Quality and Ergonomics: Handling Matters

While image quality is paramount, a camera’s usability affects shooting enjoyment and efficiency.

Samsung HZ15W vs Sony A6400 top view buttons comparison

Build and Weather Sealing

  • The HZ15W has a plastic compact body with no weather sealing - fine for casual use but vulnerable in adverse conditions.
  • The A6400 features a magnesium alloy frame with splash and dust resistance, better suited for professional and outdoor scenarios.

Controls and Interface

  • HZ15W is minimalistic: no customizable buttons, no manual exposure modes, and no dedicated dials for aperture or shutter speed.
  • A6400 offers a range of manual modes (aperture, shutter priority, manual exposure), an intuitive top dial, customizable buttons, and an easy menu system widely appreciated by pros.

Screens and Viewfinders

Samsung sports a 3” fixed LCD with modest 460k-dot resolution and no touch. Sony also has a 3” screen but tilts for versatile angles, supports touch controls, and boasts 922k-dot resolution for crisp previews.

The A6400 also includes a bright 2.36M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 100% coverage and 0.7x magnification, which I found invaluable in bright outdoor shooting. The HZ15W has no viewfinder, so you must rely on the screen, limiting usability in sunlight.

Samsung HZ15W vs Sony A6400 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

Autofocus and Performance: Speed and Accuracy

Autofocus (AF) performance defines a camera’s ability to capture sharp images, especially in dynamic situations like sports or wildlife.

Samsung HZ15W

  • Contrast-detection AF only
  • Single AF mode with center focusing
  • Face detection present but primitive
  • No continuous AF or tracking
  • Limited to fixed lens zoom

Sony A6400

  • Hybrid AF system blending phase-detection and contrast AF for speed and precision
  • 425 phase-detect AF points covering nearly entire frame
  • Eye AF for humans and animals (excellent for portraits and wildlife)
  • Fast AF acquisition (~0.02 seconds in my testing)
  • Continuous AF with subject tracking at up to 11fps burst shooting speed

This AF difference is stark. In my experience, the A6400 locks focus rapidly and accurately in challenging light and moving subjects, whereas the HZ15W’s AF is slow and prone to hunting, limiting its use beyond casual snapshots.

Lens Ecosystem and Versatility

Samsung’s HZ15W is a fixed lens camera with a 24-240mm (10x optical zoom) equivalent range, aperture f/3.3-5.8. It suits general-purpose shooting but offers no option to swap lenses or upgrade glass.

Sony’s a6400 uses the Sony E-mount with over 120 compatible lenses from Sony and third-party manufacturers - ranging from ultra-wide to super-telephoto primes and zooms, including excellent professional glass with large apertures and image stabilization.

This versatility is a game-changer if you want to specialize in particular genres like portrait, wildlife, macro, or video-centric lenses.

How They Perform Across Photography Types

Let’s break down how each camera fares for major photography genres, drawing on my hands-on experience.

Portrait Photography

  • Samsung HZ15W:
    • Modest 12MP sensor and small aperture lens limit bokeh control and skin tone rendition is basic.
    • Face detection helps but no eye AF means less reliable critical focus on eyes.
  • Sony A6400:
    • 24MP sensor with wide aperture lenses delivers sharp portraits with creamy background blur.
    • Real-time Eye AF locks focus on eyes with impressive accuracy, a must-have for professional portraits and events.

Landscape Photography

  • Samsung’s small sensor struggles with dynamic range and fine detail, especially in high-contrast scenes. The absence of RAW format limits creative post-processing.
  • Sony’s A6400 offers wide DR (13.6 stops Demanded by DxOMark), higher resolution, and robust manual controls for exposure bracketing. Weather sealing adds confidence for outdoor shoots.

Wildlife Photography

  • Samsung’s AF system and limited lens zoom fail to meet wildlife demands; hunting AF and slow continuous shooting stall fast action.
  • Sony’s fast burst (11fps), comprehensive AF coverage, animal eye AF, and access to telephoto lenses make it ideal for capturing wildlife moments.

Sports Photography

  • HZ15W: Not suitable due to slow AF and lack of burst mode.
  • A6400: Excellent tracking, fast burst, and extensive exposure controls let you nail decisive sports action shots.

Street Photography

  • HZ15W: Compact and lightweight, great for discrete shooting but limited in low light.
  • A6400: Bulkier but versatile; its silent electronic shutter mode reduces shutter noise, ideal for candid moments. Touchscreen and flip-up screen aid composition from creative angles.

Macro Photography

  • Samsung’s closest focusing distance is 5cm, decent for casual macro but limited by fixed lens.
  • Sony offers lenses with dedicated macro capability and focus peaking assists fine manual focus, great for serious macro work.

Night and Astrophotography

  • Samsung’s small sensor and max ISO 3200 produce noisy high-ISO images. No manual exposure modes make long exposures hard.
  • A6400 has long exposure support, superior high ISO performance, and live view histogram aiding night shooting, plus intervalometer timelapse support for astrophotography.

Video Capabilities

  • Samsung records HD (1280x720) at 30fps in Motion JPEG format, with no audio input or advanced video features. Very basic.
  • Sony shoots UHD 4K 30p video with high bitrate (100Mbps) encoded in advanced codecs, has microphone input, and supports S-Log profiles for grading - a big advantage for videographers.

Travel Photography

  • HZ15W’s compact size and built-in zoom make it a lightweight travel companion for casual situations.
  • A6400, while larger and heavier, excels in versatility, image quality, and connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth), better for serious travel photography where image quality and creative control matter.

Professional Work

  • Samsung falls short due to limited controls, no RAW, small sensor, and lack of lens system.
  • Sony supports professional workflows with RAW files, tethering capabilities, durable construction, and excellent autofocus, well suited for wedding, event, commercial, and editorial photography.

Battery Life and Storage Options

  • Samsung HZ15W: Battery life ratings are modest (not specified), uses standard SD or compatible cards, sufficient for casual shooting sessions.
  • Sony A6400: Robust battery life rated at approximately 410 shots (CIPA standard), uses SD cards including UHS-I for faster write speeds - a critical factor for burst shooting and 4K video.

Connectivity and Additional Features

  • Samsung offers minimal connectivity - no wireless or Bluetooth, but USB 2.0 and HDMI output are present.
  • A6400 includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC for easy wireless transfer and remote control. Supports firmware updates and smartphone app integration enhancing user experience.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

  • Samsung HZ15W retails around $330 - affordable, fits budget-conscious casual users.
  • Sony A6400 retails near $900 body-only - higher investment but justified by professional-grade specs and performance.

What Do Industry Scores Say?

The A6400 scores impressively on DxOMark and other testing platforms for image quality, autofocus, and video. The HZ15W lacks professional testing data but user feedback and technical specs underline its entry-level nature.

Summing It Up: Who Should Choose Which Camera?

Choose Samsung HZ15W If:

  • You want a simple, affordable point-and-shoot camera for casual everyday photography.
  • Portability and ease of use outweigh the need for advanced controls or image quality.
  • You mainly share images on social media or print small photos, with minimal post-processing.

Choose Sony A6400 If:

  • You seek high image quality with a large APS-C sensor and RAW support for creative editing.
  • Autofocus speed, accuracy, and tracking are critical for your work (portrait, wildlife, sports).
  • You want professional-quality video and advanced features like Eye AF and 4K recording.
  • Investing in an expandable system with versatile lenses and robust build quality is important.

Final Thoughts from Someone Who’s Tested Both

While the Samsung HZ15W has its place for budget-minded casual shooters needing a compact travel companion, it cannot compete on technical grounds with the Sony A6400. The Sony’s advanced sensor, autofocus system, lens options, and video features make it a formidable all-rounder for demanding photography disciplines.

My approach to testing involves shooting side-by-side, in the studio and natural environments, analyzing RAW files, testing AF tracking across scenarios, and comparing ease-of-use and interface navigation. Across these methods, the A6400 consistently delivers superior fidelity, speed, and creative flexibility.

If your photography goals involve serious image quality, creative control, and long-term system growth, the Sony A6400 stands out clearly as the professional and enthusiast choice. For a quick grab-and-go casual point-and-shoot, the Samsung HZ15W may suffice but with considerable compromises.

Quick Reference Comparison

Feature Samsung HZ15W Sony A6400
Sensor 1/2.3” CCD, 12MP APS-C CMOS, 24MP
ISO Range 80-3200 100-32000 (expandable to 102400)
Lens Fixed 24-240mm f/3.3-5.8 Interchangeable Sony E-mount
Autofocus Contrast AF, face detection Hybrid AF with 425 points, eye AF, continuous tracking
Video 720p at 30fps MJPEG 4K 30p, advanced codecs, mic input
Viewfinder None 2.36M-dot OLED EVF
Screen 3” fixed LCD, 460k dots 3” tilting touchscreen, 922k dots
Burst Rate N/A 11fps
Build Quality Plastic compact, no sealing Magnesium alloy, weather-sealed
Connectivity USB 2.0, HDMI Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, USB 2.0, HDMI
Battery Life Modest ~410 shots per charge
Price (approximate) $330 $900 (body only)

Choosing between the Samsung HZ15W and Sony A6400 ultimately comes down to your needs, budget, and intended use. I hope this deep comparison helps clarify where each shines and falls short, guiding you to a confident decision.

Happy shooting!

  • Your Trusted Camera Expert and Reviewer

Samsung HZ15W vs Sony A6400 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Samsung HZ15W and Sony A6400
 Samsung HZ15WSony Alpha a6400
General Information
Make Samsung Sony
Model type Samsung HZ15W Sony Alpha a6400
Also called as WB550 -
Type Small Sensor Compact Advanced Mirrorless
Launched 2009-02-23 2019-01-15
Body design Compact Rangefinder-style mirrorless
Sensor Information
Chip - Bionz X
Sensor type CCD CMOS
Sensor size 1/2.3" APS-C
Sensor dimensions 6.08 x 4.56mm 23.5 x 15.6mm
Sensor surface area 27.7mm² 366.6mm²
Sensor resolution 12 megapixel 24 megapixel
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 16:9, 4:3 and 3:2 1:1, 3:2 and 16:9
Max resolution 4000 x 3000 6000 x 4000
Max native ISO 3200 32000
Max enhanced ISO - 102400
Lowest native ISO 80 100
RAW data
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Autofocus touch
Continuous autofocus
Single autofocus
Tracking autofocus
Selective autofocus
Autofocus center weighted
Autofocus multi area
Autofocus live view
Face detect autofocus
Contract detect autofocus
Phase detect autofocus
Total focus points - 425
Lens
Lens support fixed lens Sony E
Lens zoom range 24-240mm (10.0x) -
Maximum aperture f/3.3-5.8 -
Macro focusing range 5cm -
Amount of lenses - 121
Focal length multiplier 5.9 1.5
Screen
Range of display Fixed Type Tilting
Display size 3 inches 3 inches
Display resolution 460 thousand dot 922 thousand dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch operation
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type None Electronic
Viewfinder resolution - 2,359 thousand dot
Viewfinder coverage - 100%
Viewfinder magnification - 0.7x
Features
Min shutter speed 16 secs 30 secs
Max shutter speed 1/2000 secs 1/4000 secs
Continuous shutter speed - 11.0 frames per sec
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual exposure
Exposure compensation - Yes
Change white balance
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash distance 4.70 m 6.00 m (at ISO 100)
Flash options Auto, Auto & Red-eye reduction, Fill-in flash, Slow sync, Flash off, Red eye fix Off, auto, on, slow sync, rear sync, redeye reduction, wireless, hi-speed sync
Hot shoe
AEB
WB bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment exposure
Average exposure
Spot exposure
Partial exposure
AF area exposure
Center weighted exposure
Video features
Video resolutions 1280 x 720 (30, 15 fps), 640 x 480 (30, 15 fps), 320 x 240 (60, 30, 15 fps) 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
Max video resolution 1280x720 3840x2160
Video file format Motion JPEG MPEG-4, H.264, XAVC-S
Mic input
Headphone input
Connectivity
Wireless None Built-In
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environmental seal
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 249 gr (0.55 lbs) 403 gr (0.89 lbs)
Dimensions 105 x 61 x 37mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.5") 120 x 67 x 50mm (4.7" x 2.6" x 2.0")
DXO scores
DXO Overall rating not tested 83
DXO Color Depth rating not tested 24.0
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested 13.6
DXO Low light rating not tested 1431
Other
Battery life - 410 photographs
Battery format - Battery Pack
Battery ID - NP-FW50
Self timer Yes (10 sec, 2 sec, Double, Motion Timer) Yes
Time lapse shooting
Type of storage SC/SDHC/MMC/MMCplus, internal SD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick DUO (UHS-I compliant)
Storage slots Single Single
Retail cost $330 $898