A Tale of Two Samsungs: Comparing the Compact Superzoom HZ35W and Advanced Mirrorless NX20

If you find yourself pondering between two Samsung cameras from slightly different eras and categories - the 2010 compact superzoom Samsung HZ35W and the 2012 advanced mirrorless Samsung NX20 - you’re definitely in for an interesting comparison. Although born just two years apart, these cameras take dramatically different approaches to photography, targeting distinct users and use cases.

Having spent ample time with both cameras across various shooting conditions and genres, I’ll walk you through how they stack up from sensor to ergonomics, autofocus to video, and everything in between, so you can make a purchase decision grounded in real-world experience and technical knowledge.

Let’s dive in.

First Impressions: Design, Handling, and Build Quality

Starting with size and ergonomics often sets the tone for the shooting experience. The HZ35W is a pocketable compact with a superzoom lens, whereas the NX20 is a more substantial mirrorless model aimed at serious amateurs or prosumers.

Looking at these measurements, the HZ35W measures 107 x 61 x 28 mm and weighs 245g, which is quite lightweight and pocket-friendly. The NX20, by contrast, is notably larger at 122 x 90 x 40 mm and weighs 341g, with that SLR-style mirrorless silhouette.

The ergonomics on the NX20 feel more deliberate, with a prominent grip and tactile dials - typical of Samsung’s mirrorless line in this period. The HZ35W’s compact body means fewer physical controls and a slimmer grip, which might suit travelers or casual shooters prioritizing portability.

Turning to the top controls:

Here you’ll see the NX20’s advantage shines through - dedicated dials for shutter speed, exposure compensation, and shooting modes offer quick manual adjustments. The HZ35W’s design is minimal, with basic mode selection and fewer direct hands-on controls, reflecting its beginner- or vacation-shooter target market.

Both cameras show their age with no touchscreen, but the NX20 compensates by including a fully articulated 3-inch Active Matrix OLED screen, while the HZ35W’s fixed LCD is lower resolution and less versatile.

Sensor Technology & Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Sensor size often dictates image quality boundaries, and here the two cameras couldn't be more different.

The HZ35W uses a 1/2.3" CCD sensor measuring just 6.17 x 4.55 mm with 12 megapixels. Meanwhile, the NX20 sports a considerably larger APS-C CMOS sensor (23.5 x 15.7 mm) packing 20 megapixels.

The practical impact?

• The NX20 boasts better dynamic range and deeper color depth (noted DxO Mark scores: 23.4 bits color depth and 12.9 EV dynamic range), which translate into richer, more nuanced images.
• It has a max native ISO of 12,800, making it far superior in low-light or night photography.
• The HZ35W maxes out at ISO 3200 and can offer more noise at higher sensitivities, with more limited post-processing latitude.

This difference becomes more pronounced in real-world shooting - landscapes have more detail and highlight recovery on the NX20, skin tones appear richer, and high-ISO images maintain usability.

One caveat - the HZ35W has a 15x zoom lens (24-360 mm equivalent) that adds superzoom versatility rare for a camera of its size. The NX20, designed around interchangeable lenses, doesn't include a lens by default but offers 32 options across Samsung’s NX mount to cover any focal range at higher optical quality.

LCD And Viewfinder: Eyepiece vs. Eye Candy

Most enthusiasts and pros rely on some form of viewfinder for stable framing and compositional precision.

The HZ35W lacks any kind of viewfinder, meaning you rely solely on its fixed screen.

The NX20, however, provides a 100% coverage electronic viewfinder (EVF) with approximately 0.7x magnification, which is a significant advantage under bright sunlight or fast-paced shooting.

The articulated OLED screen on the NX20 also helps for creative angles - say, low-angle landscapes or high over the crowd in street photography.

The HZ35W's fixed 3-inch LCD has modest resolution (614k dots) but does the job for casual framing. It’s less versatile for varying shooting positions or video monitoring.

Autofocus Systems: How Quickly and Precisely Can They Lock?

If autofocus performance shapes your workflow (and honestly, for most shooters, it’s critical), the contrast between these cameras is notable.

The HZ35W employs contrast-detection AF only with face detection and some multi-area options but lacks any continuous or tracking autofocus modes. There’s also no phase detection, so speed and accuracy in moving scenarios are limited.

The NX20 uses a hybrid contrast-detection AF system with 15 focus points, including selective autofocus modes and support for continuous AF. While it does not implement the more advanced on-sensor phase detection that you’d see in later mirrorless models, it remains a solid performer for portraits, street, and even some wildlife or sports photography at moderate speed.

In practice, you’ll notice the NX20’s autofocus is snappier, better at locking onto faces and other subjects, and more reliable tracking moving targets. The HZ35W occasionally hunts and struggles in low-contrast or dim environments.

Performance in Different Photography Genres

Let’s break down how each camera fares in typical photography disciplines, reflecting my testing and real-world application.

Portraits: Skin Tones and Bokeh

The NX20’s larger APS-C sensor and interchangeable lens flexibility immediately give it an edge in achieving creamy bokeh and natural skin tones.

You can pair it with fast primes or portrait lenses, while the HZ35W’s fixed zoom lens maxes out at f/3.2 (wide angle) to f/5.8 (telephoto) - hardly ideal for shallow depth-of-field work.

Both cameras feature face detection autofocus, but the NX20’s richer color depth and ability to shoot RAW allow for much more control over skin tone rendering and retouching.

Landscapes: Resolution and Dynamic Range

Thanks to its higher resolution (20MP vs. 12MP) and superior dynamic range, the NX20 captures more fine details and recovers highlights and shadows more effectively.

Weather sealing is absent on both, so neither camera is truly rugged for extreme conditions - you’ll need care or weather protection.

Still, the NX20's sensor prowess and lens quality make it the clearer choice for landscapes.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus Speed and Burst Rates

The HZ35W offers no continuous shooting specs (listed as N/A), and autofocus is slow. For anything requiring fast tracking or burst shooting, it isn’t suitable.

The NX20 can shoot at 8 fps burst rate, which I'll admit isn’t flagship level but more competitive and serviceable for casual wildlife or sports shooting.

Its continuous AF further helps track moving subjects.

Street Photography: Discreteness and Portability

This is an area where the HZ35W's compact size and discreet profile might attract street shooters who prioritize portability and inconspicuousness.

That said, the NX20 isn't bulky compared to DSLR alternatives, and its articulated EVF and faster AF afford more creative flexibility in urban environments, especially under challenging lighting.

Macro Photography: Focusing Precision and Magnification

Neither camera includes dedicated macro lenses or macro modes.

The HZ35W claims a minimum focus distance of 3 cm, which is decent for casual close-ups but limited in optical quality.

The NX20, by contrast, can accommodate dedicated macro lenses from Samsung’s NX mount, offering better magnification, sharpness, and control.

Night and Astro: Low-Light and Long-Exposure

Here, the NX20's sensor shines. The ability to push ISO to 12800 combined with longer shutter speeds (up to 30s) and customizable bracketing allows for more effective night and astro photography.

The HZ35W caps at ISO 3200 and maximum shutter speed of 1/2000 sec but lacks extended exposure controls typically needed for astrophotography.

Video Capabilities: Ready for Your Vlogs?

If videography features are part of your camera checklist, the generation gap is apparent.

The HZ35W shoots 1280x720p at 30fps using Motion JPEG format, which is quite limited and produces relatively large file sizes and lower quality.

The NX20 ups the ante with full HD 1920x1080p at 30fps, plus 720p options, and uses the more efficient MPEG-4 H.264 codec. It also has a microphone input, which is invaluable for serious video shooters wanting external audio capture. Neither camera supports 4K video, which, given their release dates, is unsurprising.

Neither camera offers image stabilization for video - the NX20, lacking in-body IS, relies on lens stabilization where available; the HZ35W’s optical stabilization mainly benefits stills.

Battery Life and Storage Considerations

The NX20 offers respectable battery life at around 360 shots per charge, more in line with enthusiast expectations. It uses the proprietary BP1130 battery pack.

The HZ35W’s battery details are sparse, but its smaller size and compact build imply shorter battery endurance, likely under 300 shots per charge, using SLB-11A rechargeable battery.

Both cameras utilize SD cards (including SDHC and SDXC standards) with single slots, so storage flexibility is similar.

Connectivity and Extras

The NX20 edges forward with built-in Wi-Fi, letting you quickly transfer photos wirelessly - a major convenience missing in the HZ35W, which has no wireless connectivity.

Neither camera supports Bluetooth or NFC.

Both have HDMI and USB 2.0 ports; however, the NX20’s USB interface benefits from faster data rates - useful for tethered shooting or large RAW transfers.

GPS functionality is built-in on the HZ35W, which is unusual for its class, but optional (via accessory) on the NX20.

Price and Value Analysis: What Are You Paying For?

When launched, the HZ35W filled a consumer niche around $300, emphasizing affordability and superzoom convenience.

The NX20, a more sophisticated mirrorless system camera, carried a price tag near $1100 - reflecting its advanced sensor, interchangeable lens mount, and feature set.

Today, either camera would be considered dated, and your price points on the used market will vary accordingly.

That said, the NX20 commands a premium for image quality and versatility; the HZ35W appeals to budget-minded buyers prioritizing compact zooming capability.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

For quicker reference, here’s how each camera stacks up in relevant categories:

Sample Images: Real-World Comparison

Here’s a gallery of images shot with both cameras under varied conditions, highlighting the difference in detail, color, and dynamic range.

Samsung HZ35W screen back Samsung NX20 front Samsung NX20 screen back

Notice the richer textures and cleaner shadow details from the NX20’s output, versus the more compressed, noisier look from the HZ35W, especially at higher zoom or ISO settings.

Overall Performance Ratings

For those of you who appreciate quantified assessments, I assembled an overall scoring based on sensor performance, autofocus, video, build, and ergonomics.

The NX20 significantly outperforms the HZ35W overall, with strong sensor and autofocus scores leading the pack.

Performance by Photography Genre: Which Camera Is Best Suited?

Finally, a more granular look at how these cameras rank across photographic genres.

The NX20 dominates in portraits, landscapes, sports, and video work; the HZ35W holds some small advantage in ultra-portable travel use and superzoom reach.

Who Should Choose Which?

Here’s where you likely want to land.

Choose the Samsung HZ35W If…

• You want a lightweight, pocketable camera with a massive 15x zoom range
• You prioritize convenience over ultimate image quality or manual controls
• Your budget is tight, and you need an all-in-one travel or casual camera
• You’re okay with modest video specs and no wireless transfers

It’s a classic “point-and-shoot” option optimized for straightforward shooting and versatility without fuss.

Choose the Samsung NX20 If…

• Image quality (sensor size and resolution) is your top priority
• You want full creative control - interchangeable lenses, manual modes, better AF
• You shoot portraits, landscapes, street, or video at a serious enthusiast or prosumer level
• You expect decent burst rates and more advanced video features (mic input)
• You value wireless connectivity and an electronic viewfinder for precise framing

The NX20 holds up surprisingly well as a mirrorless shooter, especially if you pair it with quality lenses.

Final Thoughts: Bold Advancements or Compact Convenience?

Technology marches on quickly, and comparing these two Samsungs from the early 2010s sheds light on the rapid evolution between compact superzooms and advanced mirrorless cameras.

The Samsung HZ35W is an excellent entry-level, travel-friendly camera that delivers respectable images and a powerful zoom in a pocket-sized format. It’s a practical choice if you want ease of use and minimal fuss.

The Samsung NX20, on the other hand, stands as an ambitious mirrorless system from its time - offering serious image quality, manual control, and adaptability through lenses. If you’re ready to invest more for creative freedom and better performance, the NX20 is the far stronger contender.

Whichever you choose, understanding where each camera’s strengths and compromises lie will help you align the choice with your photography needs.

Happy shooting!

If you want to see comparative tests across different lighting and genres, check out my detailed image gallery and hands-on demonstrations linked above.