Samsung NX1 vs Sony A500: A Deep Dive into Two APS-C Cameras from Different Eras

When stepping into the realm of interchangeable lens cameras, the market presents a dazzling variety of options tailored to vastly differing needs and budgets. Among the array of contenders, the Samsung NX1 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A500 stand out, though separated by nearly five years of technological advancement and distinctive design philosophies. With the NX1 representing Samsung’s ambitious flagship mirrorless entry from 2014 and the Sony A500 catering to entry-level DSLR users since 2009, this comparison provides an authoritative analysis grounded in extensive hands-on testing, aimed at empowering photographers with clear insights on choosing the right tool for their creative pursuits.

First Impressions: Form Factor and Ergonomics Matter

Camera usability is often judged initially by how the device feels in hand - a tactile experience that fundamentally affects prolonged shooting comfort and operational speed.

Physical Size and Handling Comfort

The Samsung NX1 adopts a robust SLR-style mirrorless body, featuring weather sealing and a solid magnesium alloy frame. The camera’s dimensions measure 139 x 102 x 66 mm with a weight of 550 grams. In contrast, the Sony A500's compact SLR design is slightly bulkier at 137 x 104 x 84 mm and heavier at 630 grams, reflective of its traditional DSLR build which incorporates a pentamirror viewfinder.

Ergonomically, the NX1 feels more refined with its substantial but balanced grip and well-laid controls that support intuitive one-handed use in demanding situations - a result of Samsung’s focus on professional usability. The Sony A500, while comfortable, lacks some refinement in button placement and offers a more basic control scheme reflective of its entry-level positioning.

Control Layout and Interface

Looking from the top, the NX1 boasts a more sophisticated design featuring a top LCD for immediate exposure data readout, alongside custom-function buttons allowing photographers to tailor the interface extensively. The Sony A500 sticks to a minimalistic top panel typical for DSLRs of its class, missing a top-status display altogether.

This means the NX1 offers faster access to key controls, benefitting users who prioritize speed and customization during shoots, particularly in dynamic environments such as sports or wildlife photography.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

At the core of both cameras lies an APS-C format sensor, yet their imaging performance and sensor technologies diverge significantly due to generation gaps and design intentions.

Sensor Specifications and Raw Imaging Power

Samsung’s NX1 utilizes a 28-megapixel BSI-CMOS sensor sized at 23.5 mm x 15.7 mm, without an anti-aliasing (AA) filter. This sensor integrates backside illumination (BSI) technology, enhancing light gathering efficiency and improving signal-to-noise ratio, particularly in dim lighting. It supports a wide native ISO range from 100 to 25,600, expandable to 51,200, enabling more flexibility in various lighting conditions.

In contrast, the Sony A500 sports a 12-megapixel CMOS sensor (23.5 mm x 15.6 mm) with an AA filter intact to reduce moiré artifacts, but at the expense of potential fine detail loss. The ISO range caps at 12,800, with a minimum native ISO of 200, limiting low-light capabilities compared to the NX1. Its lower resolution reflects its entry-level nature and earlier digital imaging era.

Real-World Image Quality and Color Fidelity

In practical use, the NX1’s sensor delivers sharp, highly detailed images with faithful color reproduction and excellent dynamic range - the 13.2 EV dynamic range measured by DxO mark places it near the top of APS-C sensors, allowing recovery of shadows and highlights with minimal noise escalation.

The Sony A500, while adequate for general photography, exhibits less color depth (21.8 bits) and dynamic range (~11.6 EV), leading to reduced flexibility in demanding lighting scenarios such as high-contrast landscapes or indoor portraits.

Autofocus Systems Compared: Precision vs Simplicity

Autofocus (AF) performance is a critical metric, shaping the user’s ability to capture sharp images in rapidly changing conditions.

Number and Type of AF Points

The Samsung NX1 incorporates an advanced hybrid AF system with 209 focus points, of which 153 are cross-type sensors, merging phase-detection with contrast-detection for fast and accurate focusing across the frame. This variety supports detailed subject tracking, eye detection, and reliable performance in continuous AF modes.

The Sony A500 uses a simpler AF system with 9 phase-detection points, without cross-type points explicitly noted, and does not support advanced tracking features. While suitable for static or slowly moving subjects, it struggles to maintain focus on erratic wildlife or athletes.

Performance in Different Shooting Scenarios

Testing both bodies under continuous autofocus with moving subjects revealed the NX1 consistently maintained sharper focus locks during bursts (up to 15 fps), whereas the A500’s autofocus lag caused occasional focus misses at a lower burst rate (5 fps). For sports and wildlife photographers, this difference is significant.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability

Photographers who frequently shoot outdoors require rugged equipment that withstands moisture, dust, and temperature extremes.

The NX1 offers environmental sealing designed to resist dust and moisture intrusion - a feature that imbues professional confidence when shooting landscapes or wildlife in challenging conditions. However, it is not fully waterproof or shock-resistant.

The Sony A500 lacks weather sealing altogether and exposes photographers to potential sensor and component damage in inclement weather, necessitating more protective gear or indoor-only usage.

Ergonomics and User Interface: Display and Viewfinders

User interface design dictates how smoothly photographers can operate the camera and verify their settings.

Rear Screen and Electronic Viewfinder

Samsung NX1 features a 3-inch tilting touchscreen LCD with a high resolution (1036k dots) facilitating touchscreen AF point selection, menu navigation, and image review. Coupled with a 0.7x magnification 2.36 Mp electronic viewfinder (EVF) delivering 100% coverage, the NX1 enables precise framing and exposure checks in bright sunlight with live exposure preview.

Sony A500 offers a 3-inch tilting LCD with a notably lower resolution (230k dots), lacking touch functionality - frustrating for users accustomed to modern touchscreen interfaces. Its viewfinder is a traditional optical pentamirror with 0.53x magnification covering 95% of the scene, resulting in less accurate framing and reliance on LCD for exposure confirmation.

Lens Ecosystem: Choice and Compatibility

Lens selection can unlock the full creative potential of a camera system.

Samsung’s NX mount provides 32 native lenses, including high-quality primes and zooms optimized for its sensor and autofocus capabilities. Despite a smaller system, the overall quality and range suit professional work and enthusiast needs alike.

Sony’s Alpha mount, while legacy in this model, offers an impressive catalogue of 143 lenses, including third-party manufacturers, mostly compatible with A-mount DSLRs. This broad lens lineup allows greater flexibility, from affordable glass for beginners to specialized optics for demanding applications.

Battery Life and Storage Solutions

The NX1 uses the BP1900 battery, quoted at about 500 shots per full charge, striking a reasonable balance of endurance given its high-spec hardware. Storage utilizes a single card slot supporting SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I/II) formats for quick data transfer and ample capacity.

The Sony A500 employs the NP-FM500H battery, with slightly longer life at 520 shots, aided by comparatively less power-hungry internals. It stores images on a single slot supporting SD/SDHC or Memory Stick Pro Duo cards, reflecting the era's transitional standards.

Wireless Connectivity and Interfaces

In a connected world, camera communication capabilities affect workflow speed, especially for event and travel photographers.

Samsung’s NX1 includes comprehensive built-in wireless connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC, facilitating seamless image transfers to compatible devices and remote camera control. It also supports USB 3.0 for fast tethered transfers and includes both microphone and headphone jacks for professional video work.

The Sony A500 lacks wireless features entirely and relies on USB 2.0 for data transfer, limiting its integration into modern wireless workflows. There are HDMI outputs on both cameras, but only the NX1 supports advanced audio interfaces for video creators.

Video Capabilities: More than Just Stills

Video performance is an increasingly crucial dimension for hybrid shooters.

The NX1 can record 4K UHD (3840x2160) at 30fps and DCI 4K (4096x2160) at 24fps in advanced H.265 format, delivering stunning detail with efficient compression. Full HD support extends up to 60fps, allowing smooth slow-motion effects, and the camera benefits from external audio inputs and headphone monitoring for professional sound control. The lack of in-body stabilization is mitigated by lens stabilization and electronic options.

By contrast, the Sony A500 offers no video recording capabilities, aligning with its era when video was a less emphasized DSLR feature.

Performance Ratings Snapshot

To summarize the comprehensive testing and benchmarking:

• Image Quality: Samsung NX1 (83 DxO score) vs Sony A500 (64 DxO score)
• Color Depth: NX1 (24.2 bits) outperforms A500 (21.8 bits)
• Dynamic Range: NX1 (13.2 EV) vs A500 (11.6 EV)
• Low-Light ISO: NX1 (1363) superior to A500 (772)
• Burst Rate: NX1 (15 fps) leads Sony (5 fps)
• Autofocus Points: NX1 (209) vastly more than A500 (9)
• Build and Weather Sealing: Present on NX1; absent on A500
• Video: NX1 supports 4K recording; A500 has no video

Evaluating Across Photography Genres

Each photography discipline imposes different demands, and the right camera choice varies accordingly.

Portrait Photography

The NX1’s high resolution reveals fine details in skin textures and hair, while advanced autofocus with face detection locks critical focus on eyes, yielding professional-grade portraits with smooth bokeh (thanks to high-quality Samsung NX lenses and no AA filter). The A500’s lower resolution and basic AF make it less ideal for high-end portraiture but still suitable for casual use.

Landscape Photography

With superior dynamic range, 28MP resolution, and weather sealing, the NX1 lends itself well to capturing expansive scenes in varied conditions. The Sony A500, while serviceable, suffers from reduced shadow detail and lack of protection, limiting options for outdoor adventures.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Fast autofocus, high burst rates, and extensive AF points give the NX1 a clear advantage for tracking erratic or fast-moving subjects. The Sony is best reserved for slower subjects or static scenes.

Street Photography

Although the NX1 is larger, its silent electronic shutter mode (max 1/8000s mechanical shutter speed) minimizes shutter sound, appealing for street shooting. The Sony’s bulkier DSLR design and noisier shutter decrease its candidness but its simpler interface may appeal to newcomers.

Macro Photography

Neither camera features focus bracketing or stacking, but the NX1’s faster AF system and higher resolution produce better close-up results with compatible macro lenses.

Night and Astrophotography

With excellent high ISO performance and extensive manual control, the NX1 outshines the Sony A500, whose limited ISO range and noise control restrict long-exposure shooting.

Video Creation

The NX1 is a fully capable hybrid camera supporting 4K UHD video with pro audio inputs, ideal for filmmakers and hybrid shooters; the Sony A500 lacks video recording, excluding it from video production workflows.

Travel Photography

While the NX1 is more compact than typical DSLRs and has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for on-the-go sharing, its weight is slightly higher. The A500's heavier body and lack of wireless features make it less convenient, though more affordable.

Professional Use

The NX1’s rugged build, extensive lens options, superior image quality, and advanced controls mark it as a professional tool versus the Sony’s entry-level, beginner-friendly positioning.

Price-to-Performance Considerations

At launch, the NX1 priced around $1,500, it targets serious photographers demanding cutting-edge specs, future-proofing, and superior ergonomics. The Sony A500, at roughly $640, represents a budget-conscious choice suitable for aspiring enthusiasts or those upgrading from compact cameras.

While the price gap is considerable, the NX1 delivers commensurate value across most metrics, reinforcing the adage that investing in newer, advanced technology pays dividends in image quality and operational efficiency.

Final Recommendations: Who Should Choose Which?

• Choose the Samsung NX1 if you:

  • Require top-tier APS-C image quality and color depth.
  • Shoot extensively in challenging lighting or weather conditions.
  • Prioritize high-speed autofocus and burst shooting for sports or wildlife.
  • Need 4K video with professional audio controls.
  • Value modern wireless connectivity and intuitive touchscreen interfaces.
  • Are a professional or serious enthusiast prepared to invest in a comprehensive system.

• Choose the Sony A500 if you:

  • Are an entry-level user or beginner seeking affordable DSLR experience.
  • Primarily shoot still images in controlled environments.
  • Desire access to a vast lens ecosystem for gradual system expansion.
  • Do not require video capabilities.
  • Have a strict budget and can compromise on feature set and image performance.

Concluding Thoughts: A Tale of Two Cameras and Their Divergent Journeys

The Samsung NX1 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A500 underscore how camera technology evolves and caters to different segments, where form follows function with striking adherence to user needs and era-specific demands. The NX1, despite its slightly older release compared to today's standards, still impresses with its technical pedigree, cutting-edge sensor, and hybrid versatility encompassing both stills and video. Meanwhile, the Sony A500 remains a testament to accessible DSLR photography, appealing for those prioritizing budget and simplicity over advanced features.

Understanding these distinctions, reinforced by this in-depth comparison backed by technical rigor and practical testing, enables intelligent camera choices that align precisely with photographic goals and budgets.

Samsung NX1 front Samsung NX1 screen back Sony A500 front Sony A500 screen back