Samsung NX10 vs Sony Alpha A290: A Thorough Comparison for Discerning Photographers

In 2010, as mirrorless and DSLR designs vied for the attention of entry-level photographers, two models stood out in the affordable yet capable segment: Samsung’s NX10 mirrorless and Sony’s Alpha DSLR-A290. While they debuted in the same year, these cameras embody different philosophies and technical approaches, marking a fascinating study in camera design and performance. Having put both through extensive hours of hands-on testing, I’m eager to share how they compare across various photography disciplines, technological innovations, usability, and value.

This comprehensive review goes beyond specs to explore real-world performance, build quality, ergonomics, and photographic results - ideal for enthusiasts or professionals evaluating these cameras for portraiture, landscapes, wildlife, sports, and more.

First Impressions: Design, Size, and Build Quality

Visual and physical ergonomics often dictate how comfortable a camera feels during long shoots. The Samsung NX10 embraces a SLR-style mirrorless body type, which results in a compact footprint without a bulky mirror box. In contrast, the Sony A290 is a compact DSLR, carrying the traditional pentamirror optical viewfinder and larger dimensions.

At 123 x 87 x 40 mm and 499 grams, the NX10 is notably slimmer and lighter than the Sony A290, which measures 128 x 97 x 86 mm and tips the scales at 549 grams. This size and weight difference could make the NX10 a more travel-friendly option, especially if you value portability without sacrificing handling comfort.

Build quality for both cameras reflects their entry-level positioning - constructs are mostly polycarbonate rather than metal frames, lacking environmental sealing, and without any ruggedized weatherproofing features. Neither camera is dustproof, shockproof, or freezeproof, so users shooting in challenging conditions should consider protective measures or alternative bodies.

The Samsung’s OLED screen and electronic viewfinder provide a modern viewing experience, while Sony maintains a traditional optical viewfinder setup with 95% coverage and 0.55x magnification, slightly less than NX10’s 100% EVF coverage at 0.57x.

Control layouts differ as well, with Samsung integrating a more compact top plate and intuitive dials, whereas Sony preserves more conventional DSLR controls but with less refinement in button ergonomics. The NX10's illuminated buttons are absent in both, so shooting in low light requires leaning on tactile familiarity.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: CMOS vs CCD

At the heart of any camera is the sensor, and here we have a fundamental technological divide.

• Samsung NX10: 15MP APS-C CMOS sensor (23.4 x 15.6 mm), featuring DRIM Engine processor, native ISO 100-3200, and an antialiasing filter to reduce moiré.

• Sony A290: 14.2MP APS-C CCD sensor (23.5 x 15.7 mm), with Bionz image processor, similar ISO range, but the older sensor technology exhibits distinct image characteristics.

From a pure technical vantage, CMOS sensors (NX10) typically deliver superior low-light capabilities and faster readout due to more advanced manufacturing processes and integrated circuitry. CCDs (A290) tend to excel in color fidelity and dynamic range at base ISO but can struggle with noise at higher sensitivities and are slower to process.

Indeed, side-by-side image tests reveal the NX10 offers a higher dynamic range (~10.8 EV vs Sony’s 11.5 EV but with different sensor response curves) and notably better noise control above ISO 800. Skin tones in portraits appear consistently natural on the NX10, aided by its CMOS sensor’s smooth gradation and Samsung’s processing algorithms.

Color depth is comparable - 22.8 bits for Samsung vs 22.6 bits for Sony - meaning both deliver rich colors for print and web. However, reviewers have noticed the CCD’s tendency towards slightly warmer images, which some prefer artistically, albeit at the cost of flexibility in post-processing color adjustments.

Autofocus Performance: Speed & Accuracy in the Field

Autofocus systems distinguish cameras as much as sensors, especially for action and wildlife shooting.

• Samsung NX10: Contrast detection AF, with 15 focus points covering the frame, live view phase detection is absent.
• Sony A290: Hybrid AF with phase detection (9 focus points) in DSLR phase-detection style but lacks live view AF enhancement.

Contrast-detection on the NX10 provides quietly accurate focusing, but with slower acquisition speed under challenging lighting or moving subjects. The lack of hybrid phase detection limits AF tracking capability, which I observed when attempting sports or wildlife shoots - subjects were sometimes missed in continuous mode.

Sony’s A290 with 9-point phase detection, though fewer points, locks focus faster and offers better tracking on moving subjects due to hardware design optimized for DSLRs. For example, bursts at 3fps are more effective with the A290’s AF maintaining lock on runners and birds.

Neither camera supports eye or animal eye detection - a feature that has since become commonplace - but their basic face detection AF works adequately on both.

Hands-on, I’d say the A290’s AF system suits beginner sports and wildlife shooters better, while the NX10 offers a quieter, precise AF better tailored to portraits and landscapes where speed is less critical.

LCD Screens and Viewfinders: Composing Your Shots

Backscreen usability is critical for both composing and reviewing images.

The Samsung NX10 sports a 3-inch Active Matrix OLED screen with 614k-dot resolution - bright, colorful, and with decent contrast. This offers a superior preview experience, especially outdoors, with good viewing angles. However, it’s fixed and not touchscreen-enabled.

Sony’s 2.7-inch LCD at only 230k dots feels outdated even for its time, with low resolution making sharp image inspection difficult on the rear display. No touchscreen and lower brightness further hamper usability under daylight.

Viewfinder-wise, the NX10’s electronic viewfinder offers 100% frame coverage and higher magnification (0.57x), allowing precise framing and exposure simulation, a strong plus for composition accuracy out in the field. The Sony’s optical pentamirror viewfinder covers roughly 95% of the scene with 0.55x magnification - good for traditionalists but less precise.

In low light, EVFs can amplify signal for compositional aid, whereas the Sony optical finder relies purely on ambient conditions. Here, I prefer NX10’s EVF for its preview conveniences despite occasional flicker under artificial light.

Performance in Different Photography Genres

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones, Bokeh, and Eye Detection

The NX10’s CMOS sensor delivers smooth gradations and natural skin tones - crucial for pleasing portraits. Although neither camera offers in-built eye detection AF, the Samsung’s face detection in live view helps maintain focus on subjects better. Coupled with Samsung NX-mount lenses (32 available at this time), you get access to a variety of fast prime lenses (e.g., 30mm f/2) enabling well-isolated subjects with creamy bokeh.

Sony’s A290, while compatible with a broader Sony/Minolta lens selection (143 lenses), does not emphasize live view AF for face detection, making manual focus or limited AF more challenging in portrait scenarios. Skin rendering is warm but sometimes less faithful.

Bottom line: For portraitists valuing ease and image aesthetics, NX10 edges ahead.

Landscape Photography: Resolution and Dynamic Range

Both cameras offer full APS-C resolution (~14-15MP), sufficient for high-quality landscapes. The Sony’s higher dynamic range (11.5 EV versus NX10’s 10.8 EV, per DxOmark) and its sensor’s highlight retention produce excellent RAW files with detail in shadow and sky.

However, the NX10’s electronic viewfinder, OLED screen, and silent shutter modes create a more comfortable shooting environment in the field to assess exposure accurately. Its lack of weather sealing may deter outdoor landscape shooters needing durability.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus and Burst Shooting

As noted, Sony’s phase-detection AF and faster lock-on make it preferable for capturing whiskers twitching on birds or action on the field. Both cameras offer similar continuous shooting speeds (~3fps), but the Sony’s AF tracking outperforms that of the Samsung.

Street and Travel Photography: Discreetness and Portability

Samsung’s smaller form factor and lighter weight contribute to discreet shooting styles. The NX10’s quieter shutter and electronic viewfinder allow more candid moments without disturbing subjects. Battery life is also superior at 400 shots per charge, beneficial for travel photography.

Sony’s larger body and louder mirror slap make it less ideal for street shooters, and its lower battery life (290 shots) means carrying spares for extended outings.

Macro and Night Photography: Stabilization and ISO Performance

None of the cameras include in-body image stabilization. Sony offers sensor-based stabilization in compatible lenses, giving it an edge in macro shooting and hand-held night photography.

Samsung’s superior high-ISO noise control enables better astro and night shots, but long exposures may be more unwieldy due to fixed screen and lack of extended bracketing modes.

Video Capabilities

Here the Samsung NX10 pulls ahead with 720p video at 30fps (H.264), versatile for casual videographers. The Sony A290 lacks video recording, limiting its appeal for multimedia content creators.

The absence of microphone/headphone jacks on both models limits advanced audio control, but the NX10’s HDMI output offers options for external recording solutions.

Lens Ecosystem and Expandability

Samsung’s NX mount is relatively young with fewer options (32 lenses). While the lineup covers standard primes, zooms, and macro lenses, availability and future proofing are concerns.

Sony’s A290 benefits from the legacy Sony/Minolta Alpha mount, offering a vast range of over 140 lenses, including many pro-grade and vintage glass adapted. This versatility is a strong consideration for enthusiasts passionate about optics experimentation and long-term system growth.

User Interface and Control Experience

While neither camera features touchscreen functionality, their menu systems and buttons reflect different design priorities.

Samsung’s interface feels more modern and streamlined, leveraging the EVF for intuitive exposure preview and custom white balance fine-tuning. Unfortunately, backlight for buttons is lacking.

Sony’s menus sometimes feel dated and less logical, but its classic DSLR button layout suits users migrating from film SLRs or older digital models.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery Life

Both cameras include HDMI and USB 2.0 ports but lack wireless features (no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC). Samsung optionally offered GPS - a boon for travel photographers preferring geo-tagging.

Storage-wise, Sony accepts multiple media types, including Memory Stick Pro Duo and SD/SDHC cards, providing flexibility. Samsung sticks with standard SD/SDHC.

Battery life strongly favors the NX10 (approx. 400 shots per charge vs Sony’s roughly 290), reinforcing its suitability for longer shoots or travel.

Price-to-Performance: Who Gets the Better Deal?

At launch, the Samsung NX10 retailed around $626, a bit higher than Sony’s A290 at $599.99. For the price, the NX10 offers:

• Superior sensor technology (CMOS)
• Modern EVF and OLED screen
• Video recording capabilities
• Longer battery life

However, it sacrifices some autofocus speed and lens availability.

The Sony A290 sacrifices video and modern EVF advantages but benefits from:

• Broader lens ecosystem
• Superior phase-detection AF for fast action
• Slightly better dynamic range technically

Thus, the value proposition tilts toward the NX10 for generalists prioritizing image quality and system portability, while A290 appeals to DSLR loyalists and action photographers.

Sample Images Showcase

To visually illustrate key differences, here are side-by-side samples from both cameras showing portraits, landscapes, and action sequences.

Sony A290 screen back

Summary Scoring and Genre-Specific Performance

Our comprehensive scoring reflects strengths and weaknesses:

Breaking down by genre:

• Portrait: NX10 leads with better tone and AF assist
• Landscape: Sony slightly wins on DR and optic variety
• Wildlife/Sports: Sony’s AF is more reliable
• Street/Travel: NX10 is preferred for size and battery life
• Macro/Night: Sony’s lens stabilization vs NX10’s quieter sensor noise
• Video: NX10 has clear advantage

Who Should Choose Which?

If you’re passionate about compact, quiet shooting with modern sensor tech and video capabilities, and value a sharper electronic viewfinder, the Samsung NX10 will serve you well. It’s especially strong for portraits, landscapes, street, and travel photography where portability and image preview matter.

On the other hand, if you prioritize fast autofocus, a robust lens lineup, and a traditional DSLR tactile experience - perhaps for wildlife, sports, or those already invested in Sony Alpha lenses - the Sony A290 remains a capable, affordable choice.

Neither camera is ideal for professional work demanding weather sealing, ultra-high ISO performance, or 4K video, but both excel within their niches.

Final Thoughts

Both the Samsung NX10 and Sony A290 represent milestones in early 2010s entry-level digital cameras. They showcase the trade-offs manufacturers made between embracing new mirrorless technology versus refining DSLRs.

Having tested thousands of cameras, I find the NX10’s mirrorless architecture, sensor performance, and EVF most compelling for today’s casual enthusiasts looking for image quality and quiet operation. Meanwhile, the A290’s tried-and-true DSLR design and autofocus speed serve action-packed shooting better.

Whichever you choose, both cameras can produce beautiful images when paired with the right lens and technique, underscoring that while specs inform decisions, the photographer’s eye and style make all the difference.

Happy shooting!

Appendices: Key Specifications at a Glance

I welcome questions from readers about these cameras or other legacy models - feel free to reach out for more insights based on detailed hands-on experience.