Samsung HZ35W vs Samsung NX30

Samsung HZ35W vs Samsung NX30: A Deep Dive into Two Distinct Eras and Technologies

Choosing between the Samsung HZ35W and the Samsung NX30 reveals an instructive contrast in camera design philosophies, technological evolution, and target audiences. Despite originating from the same manufacturer, these cameras stand in stark opposition in terms of sensor technology, system flexibility, and usability for differing photographic ambitions. This comprehensive comparison will dissect their specifications and real-world performance across major photographic disciplines, providing practical guidance backed by professional experience and technical rigor.

Fundamental Differences: Compact Superzoom vs Advanced Mirrorless

The Samsung HZ35W (also known as WB650) is a compact, fixed-lens superzoom camera released in mid-2010. It targets casual photographers seeking an all-in-one travel companion without interchangeable lenses or complex controls. Its 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor and 24-360mm equivalent zoom lens deliver versatility on an entry-level budget.

In contrast, the Samsung NX30, launched in early 2014, is an advanced mirrorless camera featuring an APS-C CMOS sensor, interchangeable lens mount, and a suite of features aimed at enthusiasts and hybrid shooters. It serves photographers requiring higher resolution, faster autofocus, and video integration, amid manual controls and a professional-style SLR body.

Build Quality, Handling, and Ergonomics

Physically, the Samsung HZ35W is a pocketable camera at 107x61x28mm and 245g, prioritizing portability over ruggedness. Its plastic construction and fixed lens reduce bulk, but sacrifices weather sealing and durability. The minimal control surface - lacking illuminated buttons or advanced customizability - limits user control mostly to automatic and some manual exposure modes. The absence of an electronic viewfinder necessitates live preview through its fixed 3.0-inch LCD.

Conversely, the NX30 measures 127x96x58mm and weighs 375g, presenting a more substantial, DSLR-style grip suitable for extended handheld use. Although also lacking comprehensive weather sealing, its magnesium alloy frame offers improved robustness. The top and rear control layout includes dedicated dials, an illuminated shutter button, and a fully articulated 3.0-inch AMOLED touchscreen (with 1036k-dot resolution), fostering intuitive access to settings. The presence of a 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage and 0.66x magnification enhances compositional precision in bright conditions.

Users valuing compactness and simplicity will appreciate the HZ35W’s pocket-friendly form factor. Those prioritizing manual control, ergonomic comfort for prolonged shooting, and flexible viewing options gain significantly from the NX30’s design.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Insights

The leap in sensor technology between these cameras is profound. The HZ35W incorporates a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor (6.17x4.55mm, 28.07mm²) with a resolution of 12MP (4000x3000 pixels). While decent for the time, the small sensor size constrains dynamic range, low-light capability, and depth-of-field control. The CCD technology yields a familiar color rendition but lacks the low-noise characteristics of modern CMOS sensors.

In contrast, the NX30 employs a significantly larger 23.5x15.7mm APS-C CMOS sensor (368.95mm² area) with 20MP effective resolution (5472x3648 pixels). This sensor size advantage translates into markedly superior image quality, detail reproduction, and noise performance. Samsung’s DRIMe IV image processor coupled with back-illuminated CMOS architecture delivers improved color depth, dynamic range, and high ISO usability. The NX30’s maximum native ISO range extends up to 25600 versus the HZ35W’s capped 3200 ISO, providing markedly better performance in low-light scenarios.

Measured by DxOMark data, the NX30 scores a robust 77 overall, with color depth of 23.5 bits, dynamic range of 12.4 EV stops, and low-light ISO score of 1014 - the latter indicating considerable noise control at high sensitivities. The HZ35W was not tested by DxOMark, but industry-standard analysis and CCD characteristics suggest it performs well below these levels.

Lens and Zoom Configuration: Versatility vs Image Quality Trade-offs

The Samsung HZ35W’s 24-360mm (15x zoom) fixed lens with an aperture range from f/3.2 at wide to f/5.8 at tele end offers impressive reach in a compact format. This makes it convenient for travel, wildlife glimpses, and casual telephoto shooting without lens changes. However, optical compromises manifest in edge softness, chromatic aberration at extremes, and limited low-light capability due to slow aperture at the telephoto end. Macro capability extends to 3cm, adequate for casual close-ups though without specialized optics.

The NX30 leverages the Samsung NX mount system with sizable lens options (over 30 lenses available) spanning wide-angle primes to long telephotos, including fast aperture primes and professional-grade zooms. The 1.5x crop factor compared to full-frame sensors should be noted when selecting lenses for framing. This flexibility allows users to prioritize optical quality, focal length, and aperture to suit specialized photographic needs, an autonomy absent in the HZ35W.

For photographers who value optical excellence and creative versatility, the NX30’s system is superior. The HZ35W suits those prioritizing convenience and reach without interchangeability.

Autofocus Architectures Compared

The HZ35W employs contrast-detection autofocus using a limited set of focus points centered around the frame. It offers face detection but only single-shot AF mode, with no continuous tracking or touch AF assistance. This system works adequately in good lighting for stationary subjects but struggles with fast-moving targets or low light. The lack of phase-detection and minimal focus area selection reduces responsiveness and precision, limiting utility for action or wildlife photography.

The NX30 implements a hybrid autofocus system combining contrast-detection with phase-detection points - 247 points total - covering most of the frame with cross-type sensors. It supports single, continuous, selective area, and face detection AF, achieving rapid, accurate focus acquisition and tracking on moving subjects. Touch AF on the AMOLED screen further enhances versatility and intuitive operation. Autofocus performance is robust for wildlife, sports, and street shooting, markedly superior to the HZ35W.

Shooting Speed and Buffer Performance

The Samsung HZ35W does not offer continuous shooting speed data or burst buffering capabilities, suggesting a camera optimized for single shots and casual operation. Shutter speed ranges from 1/2000 to 16 seconds give some creative flexibility for exposure control but lack high-speed burst options essential in sports or wildlife contexts.

By comparison, the NX30 supports up to 9 frames per second continuous shooting - a competitive speed amongst mirrorless cameras of its era - facilitating effective capture of fast action sequences. Coupled with a large buffer and rapid processing, it allows photographers to seize fleeting moments with confidence.

Video Recording Capabilities

Video features further emphasize the technological gap between these models. Samsung HZ35W records HD at 1280x720p at 30 fps using Motion JPEG, a codec known for large file sizes and limited editing leverage, and offers no microphone input channel. Video is constrained in resolution and frame rates, limiting cinematic possibilities.

The NX30 records Full HD 1920x1080p at 60 fps using the efficient and widely supported MPEG-4/H.264 codec. It additionally offers 720p and smaller frame size options. Critically, it includes a microphone input, enabling superior audio capture and professional video workflows. Despite lack of in-body image stabilization, lens-based stabilization options exist, and the powerful DRIMe IV processor enhances video detail and noise performance.

Videographers or hybrid shooters will find the NX30’s video features significantly more conducive to professional results.

Display and Viewfinder Functionalities

The fixed 3-inch LCD on the HZ35W offers 614k-dot resolution without touch functionality. The absence of an electronic viewfinder forces reliance on the LCD, which challenges usability in bright daylight.

The NX30 sports a higher resolution 3-inch AMOLED touchscreen with a 1036k-dot count, fully articulating for creative angles and selfie-friendly use. A high-resolution 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder complements the LCD, delivering 100% coverage and excellent detail for critical framing in various lighting conditions.

Such enhancements facilitate more precise composition, especially for professionals and advanced users.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery Life

Regarding connectivity, the HZ35W supports USB 2.0 and HDMI-out with no wireless features. GPS integration is commendable for location tagging. Storage is handled by a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot plus internal memory.

The NX30 offers USB 2.0, HDMI, and built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for remote control, instant image sharing, and wireless file transfer - an important convenience in fast-paced workflows. Notably, it lacks GPS, and the battery life rated at 360 shots per charge is respectable for mirrorless systems.

The HZ35W’s lack of wireless data and shorter battery life by inference reflect more basic hardware, emphasizing casual use.

Real-World Use Case Evaluations Across Photography Genres

Portrait Photography:
The NX30’s large APS-C sensor produces superior skin tone rendition, shallow depth-of-field effects, and better bokeh control. Advanced face detection AF and selectable AF areas ensure reliable eye focus, which is critical for studio and candid portraits. The HZ35W’s small sensor and limited AF restrict shallow depth rendition and subject isolation, resulting in flatter, less nuanced portraits.

Landscape Photography:
A significant advantage lies with the NX30’s higher resolution and dynamic range allowing detailed landscape images with rich tonal gradations. The HZ35W’s sensor is constrained by increased noise in shadows and highlights. Neither camera offers weather sealing; thus, caution is advised in harsh environments.

Wildlife and Sports Photography:
NX30’s faster 9fps burst, hybrid autofocus, and telephoto lens options make it far better adapted to action photography. The HZ35W’s modest superzoom lens and slow contrast AF discourage capturing fast wildlife or sports.

Street Photography:
The compact size and quiet operation of the HZ35W theoretically favor street candidness, but the slower AF and lack of manual control limit expression. The NX30, though larger, compensates via touch AF and quicker startup/shutter latency, appealing to serious street shooters willing to carry extra weight.

Macro Photography:
HZ35W offers macro focusing down to 3cm but is limited by its optical design and sensor size. NX30’s availability of dedicated macro lenses with precision AF and wider apertures provides distinctly superior macro imaging capability.

Night and Astro Photography:
NX30's greater ISO range and lower noise floor allow longer exposures and cleaner high ISO images essential in astrophotography, while the HZ35W is restricted by sensor noise and limited exposure control.

Video Workflows:
The NX30’s Full HD 60p recording, microphone input, and manual exposure video modes provide a professional-grade video capture system. HZ35W is suitable only for casual video enthusiasts.

Travel Photography:
HZ35W’s compact size, built-in GPS, and integrated zoom offer a hassle-free travel companion for casual photography. NX30's bulkier form and better system flexibility reward users willing to prioritize image quality and creative control over ultimate portability.

Professional Use Cases:
NX30 supports RAW file capture and advanced color management workflows essential for professional image processing. The HZ35W’s absence of RAW output and limited manual options render it unsuitable for professional standards.

Performance Ratings Summary

In an aggregate review considering sensor performance, autofocus, ergonomics, and video capabilities, the NX30 outperforms the HZ35W across nearly all categories. The HZ35W shines in simplicity, portability, and price efficiency but underperforms in image quality and versatility.

Price-to-Performance and Value Considerations

At launch, the NX30 retailed for around $700, reflecting its advanced capabilities and modular system design. The HZ35W, priced near $300, appeals as an affordable superzoom option for novices or casual users.

While the NX30 demands a higher investment, the cost translates into image fidelity, control, and expandability. Buyers must weigh upfront costs against long-term usage goals and expected photographic results.

Final Recommendations Tailored to User Needs

• Casual Photographers and Travelers: The Samsung HZ35W suits users prioritizing ease of use, portability, and telephoto reach without the need for advanced features or RAW files. Ideal for vacation snapshots and everyday photography in good lighting.

• Enthusiasts and Advanced Amateurs: The Samsung NX30 represents the superior choice for those interested in manual controls, higher image quality, faster and more reliable autofocus, and video production capabilities.

• Portrait, Wildlife, and Sports Photographers: NX30’s sensor size, AF system, and lens flexibility offer unmatched advantages for these demanding genres where speed, subject isolation, and image quality matter.

• Video Creators: The NX30 is the only one with a professional video feature set including Full HD, 60p capture, and microphone input.

• Street and Macro Photography: Enthusiasts who desire high-speed AF, flexible focusing options, and superior macro lenses will benefit from the NX30, although the smaller form factor of the HZ35W might appeal in specific street scenarios.

• Professional Workflow Integration: Only NX30 supports RAW shooting and integrates into advanced post-production pipelines, making it suitable for professional photographers.

Samsung HZ35W screen back Samsung NX30 front Samsung NX30 screen back

Conclusion: Weighing Simplicity Against Sophistication

The Samsung HZ35W remains a viable option for consumers requiring a straightforward, compact superzoom camera servicing basic photographic needs without complexity or system expansion. Its value lies in convenience and fundamental usability.

The Samsung NX30 offers a compelling advanced mirrorless experience that, while demanding greater user investment and skill, yields superior image quality, speed, and versatility suitable for photography enthusiasts and professionals alike.

For informed buyers, the decision entails balancing budget against required functionality, image demands, and ergonomic preferences. Both cameras embody design principles and technical capabilities emblematic of their respective release periods and intended markets, serving distinctly different photographer profiles.

This detailed comparison is based on extensive hands-on experience evaluating sensor technologies, autofocus systems, optical performance, and ergonomic design across hundreds of camera models over a 15-year professional tenure. It aims to provide photographers with a thorough, balanced understanding to guide confident purchase decisions grounded in real-world usability and expert technical analysis.