Samsung NX1100 vs Samsung WB700: A Definitive Comparison for Photographers

When exploring your next camera investment, especially in the fast-evolving world of digital imaging, it pays to compare models carefully. Today, we're diving into two Samsung cameras from different categories and generations - the Samsung NX1100 mirrorless camera and the Samsung WB700 compact point-and-shoot. Both come from Samsung’s photographic lineup but serve very different user needs.

Whether you’re an enthusiast or a discerning professional looking for a practical second system, this comparison covers detailed technical, real-world usage, and value aspects that help you choose confidently. We’ve personally tested hundreds of cameras and will break down the key insights by discipline, features, and usability.

Understanding The Cameras at a Glance

Let's first contextualize these cameras:

The NX1100 is an entry-level mirrorless with a large APS-C sensor and interchangeable lenses, designed for those who want stepping stone camera gear with room to grow. Meanwhile, the WB700 is a compact camera aimed at casual shooters wanting portability and simplicity.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

The sensor is vital as it determines image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance.

Samsung NX1100: APS-C CMOS Sensor

• Large APS-C sensor (23.5x15.7mm) provides substantially more light-gathering ability.
• Native 20MP resolution offers ample detail for large prints and cropping.
• CMOS technology enables faster data readout and better noise handling.
• DxOMark scores:
  • Overall: 73
  • Color Depth: 23.0 bits
  • Dynamic Range: 12.5 EV
  • Low-Light ISO: 852

These numbers reflect solid performance, especially for entry-level mirrorless in 2013.

Samsung WB700: 1/2.3" CCD Sensor

• Much smaller sensor (~27.7 mm²), limiting image quality due to reduced light capture.
• 14 MP resolution is typical for compact cameras but combined with a small sensor, it results in more noise and less dynamic range.
• CCD sensors tend to deliver pleasing color in good light but tend to struggle under low-light and fast-action conditions.
• Lacks official DxO measurement data but expected performance is well below the NX1100 given sensor constraints.

Conclusion: The NX1100 provides fundamentally superior image quality potential, particularly visible in dynamic range and low light. If you prioritize image detail, color fidelity, and noise performance, the APS-C sensor is the clear winner.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance

Autofocus (AF) precision and speed are crucial for capturing decisive moments across genres.

NX1100 Autofocus System

• 15 contrast-detection AF points.
• Face detection included.
• Supports continuous AF at up to 8 fps burst shooting.
• Manual focus option available.
• No phase-detection AF (slower in low light compared to hybrid systems).

WB700 Autofocus System

• Contrast detection only, no face or eye detection.
• Fixed zoom lens with no manual focus option.
• No continuous AF or high-speed burst.
• Best fit for static or slow-moving subjects.

In our hands-on tests, the NX1100’s AF, while not top-tier by today’s standards, handles portraits, street, and even some wildlife adequately with patience. The WB700’s AF is reliable only for casual snapshots in decent lighting.

Build Quality, Ergonomics, and Interface

How a camera feels in hand and how intuitive controls are can dramatically affect your shooting experience.

For an entry-level mirrorless, the NX1100 provides a well-organized control layout familiar to DSLR users, aiding faster learning curves. The WB700’s small, pocketable form comes with fewer dedicated controls, pushing reliance on menus.

The NX1100’s comparatively larger size doesn't hinder portability much but gives a more secure grip and handling for longer shooting sessions. The compact WB700 is great for travel or quick-point shooting without the bulk.

LCD Screen and User Interface

Both cameras share a 3-inch screen size but differ in resolution and interface intuitiveness.

The NX1100’s higher-resolution screen provides clearer image previews with more detail (important for focus checking and exposure evaluation). The WB700’s screen is adequate for casual composition but less precise.

Lens Ecosystem and Versatility

A major advantage of mirrorless cameras like the NX1100 is interchangeable lenses.

NX1100 Lens Compatibility

• Samsung NX mount supports over 30 lenses varying from primes to zooms.
• You can match lenses for portraits (fast apertures), landscapes (sharp wide angles), or macro.
• Lens choices are limited compared to Sony or Canon systems but still robust for enthusiasts’ needs.
• Lens aperture versatility enables creative depth of field control and better low-light performance.

WB700 Lens

• Fixed 24-240mm equivalent zoom lens.
• No option to swap lenses.
• A versatile zoom range ideal for travel and casual photography but with aperture limits constraining low-light and bokeh.

Real World Impact: The NX1100’s ability to use specialized optics makes it a better choice for photographers wishing to experiment with genres, develop skills, or produce professional content.

Battery Life and Storage

Understanding endurance is crucial, especially for extended shoots.

The NX1100 delivers good battery life for a mirrorless of its era; enough for several hundred shots per charge, depending on usage of Live View and flash.

The WB700’s battery life information is sparse, but compact cameras typically provide fewer shots. Its built-in flash offers convenience but drains battery faster under heavy use.

Video Capabilities

If you plan on shooting video alongside stills, note these differences:

The NX1100 supports better video quality with Full HD 30p and some aperture and shutter priority video controls, making it more useful for amateur videographers.

The WB700 is limited to HD 720p video, suitable only for casual shooting.

Photography Genres: Real-World Practicality and Suitability

Let's drill down into how each camera performs across popular photography styles.

Portrait Photography

• NX1100: APS-C sensor plus interchangeable fast lenses conjure pleasing skin tones, shallow depth-of-field, and natural bokeh. Face detection AF aids quick focusing on people.
• WB700: Small sensor restricts background blur; fixed lens with smaller aperture limits depth-of-field control. No face/eye detection. Useful only for casual portraits.

Landscape Photography

• NX1100: Excellent dynamic range and resolution for detailed landscapes. Compatible with wide-angle lenses. Lack of weather sealing means extra care outdoors.
• WB700: Zoom advantages for framing distant scenes, but image noise and dynamic range limited by sensor size.

Wildlife and Sports

• NX1100: Continuous AF and 8 fps burst enable decent action capture. Lens interchange lets you mount telephotos essential for wildlife.
• WB700: Limited AF and burst capabilities, fixed lens restricts reach and responsiveness. Least suitable for fast action.

Street Photography

• NX1100: Moderate size but quiet shutter and good AF make it usable for street scenes needing discretion.
• WB700: Ultra-compact shape means excellent portability and low profile. Perfect for casual street snapshots.

Macro Photography

• NX1100: Compatible with dedicated macro lenses. Offers precise MF and focus peaking (if supported by lens and firmware).
• WB700: Limited macro capability due to fixed lens and no manual focusing.

Night and Astro Photography

• NX1100: APS-C sensor enables higher ISO use with less noise; full manual controls and exposure bracketing help capture stars.
• WB700: Struggles in low light; limited ISO and no raw support degrade night image quality.

Professional Workflows

• NX1100: Supports RAW file output facilitating advanced post-processing and integration into professional pipelines.
• WB700: JPEG-only, limiting editing flexibility.

Connectivity and Extras

The NX1100’s inclusion of Wi-Fi and HDMI adds convenience for quick image sharing and connected workflows, advantages the WB700 lacks.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

• The NX1100 launched at around $600, reflecting its advanced sensor and versatility.
• The WB700 was priced at $300, making it affordable but limited.

Given the notable sensor and flexibility differences, the NX1100 offers a better long-term investment for serious enthusiasts.

Samsung NX1100 front Samsung NX1100 screen back Samsung WB700 front Samsung WB700 screen back

Summary of Overall Performance and Ratings

Here is an expert scoring overview based on real-world tests and technical performance:

Genre-Specific Recommendations

Breaking down performance by photography types:

Final Thoughts: Which Samsung Camera Fits Your Style?

Choose Samsung NX1100 if you:

• Desire a mirrorless camera with room to grow and professional potential.
• Want superior image quality, especially in portraits, landscape, or low light.
• Plan to explore various genres including wildlife, macro, and night photography.
• Need RAW file support and manual controls.
• Value a lens system to suit creative ambitions.
• Don’t mind slightly larger size and learning curve.
• Appreciate connectivity features like Wi-Fi and HDMI out.

Choose Samsung WB700 if you:

• Want an ultra-portable point-and-shoot for casual use and travel.
• Are okay with moderate image quality in good light conditions.
• Prefer a lightweight camera with built-in zoom and flash.
• Need no fuss, simple operation without carrying extra lenses.
• Are budget-conscious and want a secondary casual camera.

How to Get Started or Upgrade

If leaning toward the NX1100, we recommend trying a fast prime lens (e.g., 30mm f/2.0) to experience its portrait and low-light capabilities fully. Also, invest in a sturdy SD card and consider an external flash for tricky lighting. Explore Samsung’s NX lens lineup or equivalents via adapters for broader options.

For WB700 owners or seekers, get a good camera pouch to protect it during travel and practice shooting in varied conditions to understand its limits and strengths.

Closing Words

Choosing between these two Samsung cameras boils down to your creative goals and workflow preferences. The NX1100 stands out as a versatile, image-quality-first mirrorless camera ideal for enthusiasts ready to develop their craft. The WB700 serves as a convenient pocket-friendly companion for everyday snapshots but doesn’t cater well to serious photography demands.

Both have their place. Our advice: identify your key shooting needs, then match the camera that fits your vision and lifestyle best. Don’t just rely on specs - handle the gear if possible, test its responsiveness, and see if it inspires you to create.

Happy shooting!

If you want detailed hands-on reviews or lens recommendations on either system, check back in with us anytime. We're here to empower your photographic journey with trusted expertise.