Samsung NX10 vs. Samsung TL500: An Expert Comparison for Photographers and Content Creators

In 2010, Samsung introduced two distinct cameras targeting different segments of the photography market: the Samsung NX10, a mirrorless interchangeable-lens system camera aimed at entry-level enthusiasts, and the Samsung TL500 (also known as the EX1), a high-end compact with a fast fixed lens optimized for portability and prime-quality images. Over a decade later, these models remain interesting case studies that highlight design philosophies, sensor technology, and real-world usability tradeoffs from their generation.

In this detailed, expert-led comparison, we’ll help you understand how each camera performs across multiple photography disciplines, dissect key technical specifications, and provide practical guidance on choosing one based on your photographic goals and budget. Whether your passion is portraiture, landscapes, or travel, this side-by-side analysis taps into over 15 years of hands-on testing experience and measurement to offer trustworthy, actionable conclusions.

A Tale of Two Samsung Cameras: Body and Handling

Right off the bat, the Samsung NX10 and TL500 cater to different workflows and shooting styles. The NX10 is an SLR-style mirrorless designed for those comfortable handling a small system camera, with the flexibility of interchangeable lenses. The TL500 is a compact with a fixed zoom lens, designed for ease and portability without lens changes.

Ergonomics and Build

• Samsung NX10: Measuring 123 x 87 x 40 mm and weighing approximately 499 g, the NX10 features a robust, textured grip and a thoughtfully laid out control scheme reminiscent of DSLR cameras. A 3-inch fixed OLED screen with 614k-dot resolution serves as your main interface, complemented by an electronic viewfinder (EVF, 920k dots) that covers 100% of the frame.

• Samsung TL500: Smaller and lighter at 114 x 63 x 29 mm and 386 g, the TL500 emphasizes portability, featuring a fully articulated 3-inch screen with the same resolution but no viewfinder. The compact form factor makes it ideal for street, travel, and casual photography.

Control Layout and Usability

The NX10, equipped with numerous physical buttons and a command dial, allows quick access to manual controls and custom functions. Its SLR-like design supports more comfortable handling during longer sessions or in active shooting conditions. The TL500, by contrast, trades tactile controls for simplicity, appealing to shooters who want point-and-shoot convenience paired with manual focus when desired.

Conclusion: For photographers prioritizing ergonomics and manual control, the NX10 shines. The TL500 is more pocket-friendly and user-friendly for casual to enthusiast travel shooters.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Edge

A primary differentiator lies under the hood. The NX10 boasts a large APS-C sized CMOS sensor (23.4 x 15.6 mm) delivering 15MP resolution, while the TL500 features a smaller 1/1.7” CCD sensor with 10MP resolution.

Sensor Size and Impact

• APS-C Sensor (NX10): With an area of about 365 mm², the NX10's sensor captures more light, translating to better dynamic range, higher color fidelity, and superior low-light performance.

• 1/1.7” Sensor (TL500): At about 41.5 mm², this sensor is over 8 times smaller, naturally limiting noise control, depth of field flexibility, and overall image quality compared to APS-C.

Image Quality Metrics (DXOMark Scores)

Note: While the TL500’s dynamic range score is slightly higher, this metric can be influenced by the sensor type and measuring conditions.

Real-World Differences

• Portrait and Skin Tones: The NX10’s APS-C sensor better captures subtle color gradations essential for flattering skin tones and natural bokeh. The TL500, while capable, struggles with background separation due to the smaller sensor and slower pixel pitch.

• Noise and ISO Performance: At ISO 3200, the NX10 maintains usable image quality with controlled noise, empowering shooting in dim environments or indoors. The TL500’s image noise spikes above ISO 400, limiting its low-light versatility.

• Resolution and Detail: The NX10’s higher megapixel count and larger sensor yield more detailed, crisp images when paired with quality lenses.

Conclusion: For uncompromising image quality, especially in portraits, landscapes, and low-light, the NX10’s sensor is a far superior choice.

Display and User Interface

Both cameras sport 3-inch screens with identical resolution (614k dots), but their implementation differs.

• NX10: Features an OLED screen with vibrant contrast, fixed position, and a sharp EVF providing 100% coverage and 0.57x magnification for precise composing, especially in bright daylight.

• TL500: Incorporates a fully articulated LCD, easing shooting at challenging angles and greatly benefiting video or street photography where discretion and framing flexibility matter. However, it lacks any electronic viewfinder.

Mastering Manual Controls: The presence of manual focus rings and exposure adjustments on both cameras allows creative control. The NX10, paired with interchangeable lenses, benefits from focus peaking enhancements (in later firmware) and tactile feedback. The TL500 offers manual focus option but lacks focus peaking and relies on a smaller zoom range.

Conclusion: Choose the NX10 if you prioritize a viewfinder and a DSLR-like interface. Opt for the TL500 if a vari-angle display and compact form factor are mission-critical.

Lens Ecosystem and Versatility

Lens compatibility is a crucial factor distinguishing these two cameras.

Samsung NX10 Lens Mount System

• Lens Mount: Samsung NX mount supports a growing line of 32 lenses spanning primes, zooms, and specialty optics.
• Focal Length Multiplier: 1.5x crop factor, giving you a versatile equivalent range with Nikkor and other compatible lenses.
• Macro Capability: No native macro focus range specified, but third-party and Samsung’s own macro options exist, suitable for close-up photography with dedicated glass.

Samsung TL500 Fixed Lens

• Lens: Fixed 24-72 mm (equivalent) with a bright variable aperture of f/1.8–2.4.
• Macro Focus Distance: As close as 5 cm, making it adept at casual macro work.
• Zoom Range: Limited to the 3x optical zoom, trading versatility for compactness and image quality.

Your Practical Takeaway: The NX10's interchangeable lens system unlocks potential for nearly every genre - from long-range wildlife telephotos to ultra-wide landscapes - while the TL500 offers a powerful all-in-one lens with exceptional brightness but less focal length flexibility.

Autofocus Performance Compared

Autofocus (AF) systems are vital for capturing decisive moments, especially in dynamic photography genres like wildlife and sports.

NX10 Autofocus System

• Points: 15 contrast-detection AF points.
• AF Types: Single, continuous AF; face detection capable.
• Tracking: No subject tracking or animal eye AF.
• Speed: Reasonable for 2010, but slower than modern standards (~0.5s lock time).
• Low-Light AF Capability: Up to ISO 3200 aids focus accuracy.

TL500 Autofocus System

• Points: Contrast-detection, limited multifunction area with center-weighted focus.
• AF Modes: Single AF only, no continuous or tracking.
• Speed and Accuracy: Works well in well-lit scenes but slower and prone to hunting in dim light.
• Face Detection: Not supported.

Burst Rate and Shutter Speed

The NX10 delivers better continuous shooting suitable for sports and action, albeit modest by today’s standards. The TL500’s slower shutter range further restricts fast-action capture.

Photography Use Case Breakdown

Let’s explore practical applications of these cameras by genre and needs for a clearer purchase guide.

Portrait Photography

• NX10: Superior with large sensor, face detection AF, and bokeh control through fast lenses. Perfect for producing flattering skin tones with background separation.
• TL500: Performs well under bright light but limited by sensor and lens zoom. Fixed zoom and no optical viewfinder complicate framing portraits artistically.

Landscape Photography

• NX10: High resolution and dynamic range enable expansive, detailed landscape shots. The rugged SLR-style body and hot shoe accommodate filters and external flash.
• TL500: Compact and easy to carry on hikes. Despite lower resolution, delivers respectable image quality with bright lens but limited weather sealing and sensor size constrain performance.

Wildlife and Sports

• NX10: Limited burst speed and no advanced AF tracking restrict its suitability for fast wildlife and sports; however, interchangeable telephoto lenses help telephoto capture.
• TL500: Unsuitable for action due to slower AF and frame rate.

Street Photography

• TL500: Compactness, quiet operation with no mirror slap, and articulating screen help candid, low-profile street shooting.
• NX10: Bulkier but better control and viewfinder assist composition under variable light.

Macro Photography

• TL500: 5cm macro close focusing and bright optics offer easy near-subject shooting.
• NX10: Use of specialized macro lenses yields superior detail but requires investment.

Night and Astro

• NX10: Larger sensor excels in high-ISO noise management and manual exposure control; better suited for astro.
• TL500: Noise rapidly increases over ISO 400, limited exposure range reduces astro viability.

Video Capabilities

While neither excels in modern video standards, the NX10's HD resolution is a step ahead. The TL500’s optical image stabilization benefits video but is limited by resolution.

Connectivity, Battery Life, and Storage

• NX10: 400 shots per charge (CIPA rating), uses removable BP1130 battery, USB 2.0, HDMI output, optional GPS module, and records to SD/SDHC cards.
• TL500: Battery life unspecified but uses SLB-07A; supports SD/SDHC and internal memory. Lacks wireless connectivity.

Value and Price Analysis

Real-World Photo Comparisons

Observe the sample photo gallery including portraits, landscapes, and macros shot with these cameras to gauge their color rendition, bokeh quality, and noise performance.

Samsung TL500 screen back

Comprehensive Performance Scoring

Based on multiple technical and practical factors, here is our comparative rating based on standardized benchmarks and testing.

Genre-Specific Scores and Recommendations

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Samsung NX10: The Entry-Level Mirrorless Powerhouse

If you are an aspiring enthusiast or professional looking to experiment with creative control, lens choices, and superior image quality, the NX10 remains a compelling choice despite its age. Its:

• APS-C sensor delivers refined image quality, especially in portraits, landscapes, and low-light scenarios.
• Interchangeable lens system future-proofs your kit.
• Ergonomics and EVF offer familiar DSLR-like handling.

Ideal for: Portrait photographers, landscape shooters, hobbyists wanting growth potential, and those who cherish hands-on manual control.

Samsung TL500: The Compact with a Bright Lens for On-the-Go Shooters

For photographers who want strong daytime image quality in a pocketable form with an ultra-bright lens, the TL500 is a solid compact option. Its:

• Lightweight, slim body fits easily in bags or pockets.
• Fast f/1.8–2.4 lens excels in available light.
• Fully articulated screen enhances compositional creativity.

Ideal for: Street photographers, casual travelers, vloggers seeking good optics with portability, and macro enthusiasts wanting a simple close-focusing compact.

Getting Started With Either Camera

To unlock the best from these cameras:

• NX10 Owners: Explore Samsung's NX lens lineup or compatible manual focus glass. Practice manual exposure modes and face detection for portraits. Use raw capture to maximize post-processing flexibility.
• TL500 Owners: Leverage optical image stabilization and articulating screen for video and off-angle shots. Experiment with the bright aperture for shallow depth of field in a compact.

Both cameras benefit from investing in quality SD cards and external flashes for creative lighting.

Parting Thoughts

While both Samsung cameras offer unique strengths, your choice hinges on your shooting priorities. The NX10’s advanced sensor and flexibility cater to those firmly committed to photographic art and quality. The TL500 answers the call of convenience and speed without heavy gear. Either way, these cameras reflect Samsung’s early stride in camera innovation and stand as excellent foundations for your photography journey.

Feel inspired? Check out hands-on workshops or rental services to try these models in your preferred shooting style before you buy. Photography is about exploration, and choosing the right tool is the first step toward creating images you love.

Thank you for reading our thorough comparison - your expert guide to confident camera buying.