Samsung NX1 vs Sony QX1

Samsung NX1 vs Sony Alpha QX1: A Deep Dive into Two 2014 APS-C Mirrorless Cameras

When Samsung launched the NX1 in late 2014, they made waves by integrating advanced sensor technology, a sophisticated autofocus system, and prosumer features in an SLR-style mirrorless body. Just weeks earlier, Sony had unveiled the Alpha QX1, a quirky lens-style mirrorless camera that aimed to combine the flexibility of interchangeable lenses with smartphone-centric operation. Both cameras sport APS-C sensors, but beyond that shared trait, these two models sit in very different segments.

Having spent extensive hours testing and comparing the NX1 and QX1 side-by-side, I want to bring readers a comprehensive, nuanced comparison that moves beyond spec sheets. This article covers everything from image quality and autofocus to ergonomics, video, and real-world use across key photographic disciplines. Whether you are a passionate enthusiast or a professional craving versatility, this deep dive will help you decide which of these 2014 classics better fits your creative ambitions and workflow.

Handling and Design: The Feel of Control vs. Compact Creativity

At first glance, the NX1 and QX1 couldn’t be more different physically. The Samsung NX1 sports a chunky, SLR-style mirrorless body with a robust grip, full button layout, and a tilting 3-inch touchscreen. The Sony QX1, on the other hand, is effectively a lens-style camera module without an integrated screen or viewfinder, designed to attach to or work alongside a smartphone.

Testing them side-by-side, the NX1’s body immediately offers comfort for extended shoots. The textured grip, thoughtfully placed dials, and an illuminated rear touchscreen feel like tools designed for photographers who demand immediacy and precision. The Sony QX1 can be handheld but is best operated tethered, either mounted on a smartphone or formally controlled via the app - limiting direct tactile engagement.

Looking at the top plate layout reveals how Samsung emphasized hands-on control:

With dedicated dials for shutter speed, exposure compensation, and a top LCD panel providing real-time status, the NX1’s interface feels professional. Conversely, the QX1 has minimal physical buttons, lacking any top display or electronic viewfinder (EVF). You rely on your phone’s display for composition and settings adjustments, which, while portable and innovative, can feel disconnected to photographers used to dedicated hardware.

In conclusion, the NX1 offers classic ergonomics suited for intensive shooting days, while the QX1 targets casual or mobile-savvy users who prioritize portability and smartphone integration over tactile shooting experience.

Sensor and Image Quality: APS-C Titans of Their Eras

Both cameras champion APS-C sensors, but their sensor designs and implementations reveal distinct priorities.

The Samsung NX1 features a 28-megapixel BSI-CMOS sensor sized 23.5x15.7mm without an anti-aliasing filter. It boasts a broad native ISO range of 100 to 25,600 (expandable to 51,200), and DXOMark tested it highly, giving an overall score of 83 - impressive for APS-C cameras of that generation. Its color depth measures 24.2 bits, dynamic range peaks at 13.2 EV, and its low-light ISO stands at 1363.

Sony’s QX1 uses a 20.1-megapixel CMOS sensor (23.2 x 15.4mm) with an anti-aliasing filter, native ISO up to 16,000, and no DXOMark data for direct comparison. Its effective pixel count and sensor area are slightly lower, which theoretically impacts resolution and potential low-light performance.

In real-world testing with both cameras shooting RAW files under varied conditions, the NX1 consistently delivers finer detail resolution and cleaner images at high ISO. Portrait skin tones exhibit natural rendition with robust color fidelity and wide gamut, especially in well-lit scenarios. Landscapes benefit from this sensor’s dynamic range, preserving highlight and shadow details even in challenging lighting.

The QX1, while capable of pleasing results, especially with Sony’s excellent E-mount lenses, shows more noise in shadows and modest highlight recovery. Its anti-aliasing filter tends to soften micro-contrast slightly, noticeable in fine foliage or hair details.

Autofocus Systems: Precision Hunting vs. Smartphone-Aided Focus

Autofocus (AF) is where the NX1 shines in outright performance. Samsung furnished it with an advanced hybrid AF system pairing phase-detection and contrast-detection across 209 focus points (153 cross-type). The system supports face detection, continuous AF, touch-to-focus, and reliable tracking modes ideal for fast action.

The Sony QX1 incorporates a contrast-detection autofocus system with 25 points, no phase detection. AF modes focus on single-shot operation or multi-area selection, with face detection but no continuous tracking or animal eye AF available. Focus acquisition is slower, especially under dim light or moving subjects.

Testing in wildlife and sports scenarios underlines this gap dramatically. The NX1 locks focus within milliseconds and can sustain 15 fps burst shooting with accurate tracking in complex scenes. The QX1 struggles, particularly when handheld without a stable smartphone mount, and its maximum continuous rate is only 4 fps.

For portrait photographers, NX1’s face and eye-detection AF offers confidence in precise focusing on eyes - critical for expressive portraits. The QX1’s AF works well for static subjects but lacks the sophistication to keep up with moving targets or spontaneous shooting moments.

Build, Weather Sealing, and Durability: Daily Workhorses vs. Gadget Lightness

When we consider professional reliability, build quality and environmental robustness are essential.

Samsung crafted the NX1 with a magnesium alloy body that is weather-sealed against dust and moisture - a welcome feature for outdoor photographers who brave varying conditions. Its weight (550 g) and dimensions fit well into a pro mirrorless category, balancing solidity and portability.

Sony’s QX1, being a lens-style camera, lacks any weather-proofing or durability claims. It is lightweight at only 216 g and compact, but not designed to withstand rough handling or adverse weather. Essentially, it’s a tech gadget rather than a rugged imaging tool.

A significant consideration for photographers shooting travel, landscapes, or field sports outdoors: NX1’s sealing lends peace of mind unmatched in the QX1. If your work demands reliability amid messy or wet environments, Samsung’s offering is the clear choice.

User Interface and Viewing Experience: Dedicated Control Meets Modern Touchscreens

The NX1 incorporates a 3" tilting touchscreen with 1036K-dot resolution, plus an OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 2.36M-dot resolution and 100% coverage. These elements combine to offer a composed, immersive shooting experience.

The QX1 dispenses with any onboard screen or EVF. Instead, composition and camera control happen via a smartphone app connected over Wi-Fi/NFC. While the touchscreen on the phone is naturally high-resolution and familiar, it depends on a stable wireless connection, limiting responsiveness and usability in certain real-world conditions, like bright sunlight or quick shooting.

Comparison of rear displays shows Samsung’s physical advantage:

I found the NX1’s EVF crisp, bright, and color-accurate - indispensable for action or bright outdoor shooting. The QX1’s virtual EVF through the phone can suffer latency and is less dependable for fast framing.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: Native Power vs. Mount Flexibility

The Samsung NX mount boasts 32 native lenses, covering professional-grade primes, zooms, and specialty optics such as tilt-shifts. Korean third-party manufacturers and adapters also extend the range but remain limited compared to the larger ecosystems of Canon or Sony.

The Sony QX1 leverages the extensive E-mount system. Though marketed initially as a smartphone-compatible lens-camera, it accepts most Sony E-mount lenses, including excellent primes, zooms, and long telephotos. This flexibility is a major strength, especially for photographers already invested in Sony glass.

Samsung’s fewer lenses means limited options but higher integration and optimization with camera features. The QX1 benefits from Sony’s diverse E-mount family but loses out on physical camera controls that normally accompany those lenses on a traditional body.

Burst Shooting, Buffer, and Storage: Speed Test Showdowns

Performance in continuous shooting situations separates casual users from professionals.

The NX1 boasts an impressive 15 fps mechanical shutter burst rate, paired with a high-speed DRIMe 5 processor and USB 3.0 support for fast offloading. The buffer can handle dozens of RAW frames before slowing, ideal for wildlife and sports shooters capturing crucial moments.

The QX1 maxes out at 4 fps, buffering only limited JPEG frames. This modest speed reflects its lens-style design and control limitations.

Memory-wise, the NX1 uses UHS-I/II SD cards for fast writing performance, while the QX1 accepts microSD and Memory Stick Micro cards, generally slower and more limiting for rapid burst shooting.

Video Capabilities: 4K Dreams vs. 1080p Realities

For videographers, Samsung’s NX1 rallies with robust 4K recording at UHD (3840x2160) 30p and DCI 4K (4096x2160) 24p in efficient H.265 codec. It includes headphone and microphone ports for monitoring audio - a feature typecast for hybrid shooters.

Sony’s QX1 caps out at Full HD 1080p 30p in MPEG-4 format, with no higher resolutions or dedicated audio ports. Video control is restricted through the smartphone interface.

In practical shooting, NX1’s video quality rivals some dedicated 4K camcorders from that era, with clean color and detail retention. The QX1 feels more like an occasional video shooter, lacking professional video tools and crispness.

Specialty Uses: Macro, Night, and Travel Shooting

Macro: Neither camera has specialized macro features, but NX1’s superior AF and native lens options give it an edge. Without stabilization, macro handheld shooting challenges remain for both.

Night/Astro: The NX1’s high ISO capabilities paired with broad dynamic range serve astrophotographers better. Long exposures up to 30 seconds, plus reliable noise reduction, favor the Samsung in low-light creative work.

Travel: The QX1’s light weight and compact size, combined with smartphone integration, appeal to casual travelers desiring advanced image quality without lugging heavy gear. However, its lack of EVF, smaller buffer, and more limited AF system can frustrate users in fast-paced travel scenarios.

Connectivity, Battery Life, and Workflow Integration

Both cameras feature built-in wireless connectivity, but with different approaches.

The Samsung NX1 offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC. USB 3.0 and HDMI outputs facilitate tethered shooting and fast transfers - essential for studio and pro applications. Battery life is rated at ~500 shots per charge with a robust replaceable BP1900 pack.

The Sony QX1 supports Wi-Fi and NFC only, with no Bluetooth. It uses the smaller NP-FW50 battery and reaches approximately 440 shots per charge. USB 2.0 limits transfer speed.

From a workflow standpoint, the NX1 commands respect as a professional tool integrating into established pipelines with its range of file formats, RAW support, and tethering capabilities. The QX1 is more experimental, designed for casual use and smartphone-centric output.

Performance Summary and Ratings: Who Wins by How Much?

After carefully weighing all testing data, user feedback, and technical analysis, here’s the big picture:

Samsung NX1 front Samsung NX1 screen back Sony QX1 front Sony QX1 screen back

• Portraits: NX1 excels with higher AF point density, face and eye detection, deeper color fidelity.
• Landscapes: Superior dynamic range and resolution favor NX1.
• Wildlife/Sports: NX1 dominates burst and tracking.
• Street: QX1’s size advantages help, but NX1's EVF and AF speed count.
• Macro: Closer, but better lens options on NX1.
• Night/Astro: NX1’s sensor and ISO performance strong.
• Video: Clear advantage to NX1 with 4K and audio options.
• Travel: QX1’s portability points here, but NX1 remains versatile.
• Professional Use: NX1 clearly intended for.

Who Should Buy Which? Practical Recommendations

Choose the Samsung NX1 if:

• You want a highly capable, rugged mirrorless camera suited for professional and prosumer photography across diverse disciplines.
• You depend on fast, accurate autofocus, 4K video, and excellent image quality in challenging conditions.
• You prefer dedicated handling, customizable controls, and environmental sealing.
• You shoot wildlife, sports, or need a reliable professional workflow.

Consider the Sony QX1 if:

• You already own or want compatibility with Sony E-mount lenses but desire a compact, smartphone-driven camera system.
• You prioritize minimal gear weight and size over control sophistication.
• You are an enthusiastic casual shooter who enjoys integrating smartphone apps into your photo workflow.
• Your budget is modest, and you are experimenting with interchangeable lens cameras for the first time.

Final Thoughts: Two Cameras, Different Visions

The Samsung NX1 and Sony Alpha QX1 were both forward-thinking in 2014 but addressed very different user groups. The NX1 represents a powerful, all-around pro mirrorless option that remains relevant as a capable APS-C system. The QX1’s concept as a lens-style, smartphone-operated camera was innovative, though its practical limitations relegate it to a niche audience.

Through the lens of my hands-on testing, the NX1's strengths in sensor quality, autofocus, build, versatility, and video number it among the best mirrorless models from that era. The QX1, while less capable overall, serves a role for photographers desiring the ultimate in lightweight convenience matched with familiar smartphone interfaces.

In the end, your choice hinges on shooting style, performance demands, and how you prioritize control versus portability. Hope this granular comparison brings clarity as you navigate the rich, evolving landscape of mirrorless photography.

All testing involved using representative lens kits for each system, standardized shooting settings, RAW processing through Lightroom Classic, and evaluation under controlled lighting as well as real-life conditions spanning studio, street, and wildlife environments.