Samsung NX200 vs Sony HX400V: A Detailed Camera Face-Off from an Experienced Photographer’s Perspective

Choosing a camera means balancing myriad factors: sensor size, lens selection, autofocus speed, build quality, and so on. And with so many options in different form factors and price points, picking the right one for your style and budget can feel like solving a Rubik's Cube blindfolded. Having spent over 15 years testing a slew of cameras - from DSLR beasts to mirrorless marvels and bridge cams - I decided to pit two popular models from the early 2010s against each other for the sake of clarity: the Samsung NX200 and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V (henceforth, Samsung NX200 and Sony HX400V). Both hail from quite different categories but offer overlapping appeal to enthusiasts looking for quality imaging with some versatility. Let’s unpack their differences and find out which one deserves a place in your gear bag.

Getting a Sense of Their Physical Presence: Size, Feel, and Handling

At first glance - and feel - the Samsung NX200 and Sony HX400V couldn’t be more different. The NX200 is a rangefinder-style mirrorless camera, pocket-friendly and impressively lightweight at just 223g. Its clean, compact body measures 117x63x36mm, embracing the minimalist trend of mirrorless systems.

In contrast, the Sony HX400V is a bridge camera with an SLR-like design, weighing a hefty 660g with dimensions of roughly 130x93x103mm. This bulk owes itself largely to its extraordinary fixed superzoom lens - a staggering 24-1200mm (50x zoom) with a variable aperture from F2.8 to F6.3.

The ergonomics reflect these design choices:

• The NX200 feels nimble and unobtrusive - ideal for street shooting or travel.
• The HX400V offers a substantial grip, which helps handle that super-telephoto reach but might tire out your wrist during extended handheld shoots.

If portability is a priority, the NX200 wins hands-down. But if you crave reach and don’t mind lugging extra weight, the HX400V beckons.

Controls and User Interface: Navigating Your Creative Toolkit

I’m always wary of cameras that bury critical settings in menus. From years of practice, responsive dials and customizable buttons have a direct impact on workflow speed - especially under pressure.

The Samsung NX200 relies on a fairly straightforward design, leaning on its front and rear dials with dedicated exposure controls like shutter priority, aperture priority, and manual exposure modes. It lacks a built-in viewfinder but supports an optional electronic viewfinder attachment - a potential drawback for outdoor shooting under blazing sun.

Meanwhile, the Sony HX400V integrates a built-in electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage - a major advantage when framing shots at extreme telephoto zooms or in bright conditions. Controls are typical bridge-camera fare, with zoom and focus rings, a mode dial, and intuitive shutter speed/aperture adjustments accessible through physical buttons.

The tilting LCD screens, each 3 inches in size but differing in resolution and flexibility, influence usability. The NX200 sports a fixed 614k resolution Active Matrix OLED screen, providing rich colors but limited angle flexibility. The HX400V adds some flare with a higher-res 921k tilting screen for those awkward low or high-angle shots.

Sensor Showdown: Size, Resolution, and Image Quality Realities

Here’s where the cameras part ways significantly:

• The Samsung NX200 boasts an APS-C CMOS sensor measuring 23.5x15.7mm (approx. 369 mm²), packing a 20MP punch with an antialias filter. APS-C sensors remain the workhorse for enthusiasts, offering superior image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance compared to smaller sensors.
• The Sony HX400V utilizes a much smaller 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor (~28 mm² area) also at 20MP. Smaller sensors inherently struggle with noise and dynamic range, especially in dim conditions.

I’ve performed myriad side-by-side pixel-peeping tests using standardized resolution charts and real scenes. The NX200 yields cleaner images, smoother tonal gradations (thanks to a measured color depth at 22.6 bits by DxO), and a substantially wider dynamic range (~12.6 EV). In comparison, the HX400V’s images bear the typical small-sensor caveats: more visible noise from ISO 400 and up, reduced highlight and shadow recoverability, and in some cases, a tendency toward canned contrast.

However, for casual shooters or travel photographers needing reach more than pristine image quality, the HX400V’s sensor is “good enough,” especially when processed with sensible noise reduction and at moderate print sizes.

Lens Ecosystem: Flexibility Versus Convenience

One major selling point of the NX200 is its Samsung NX mount, supporting 32 native lenses (manual, autofocus, primes, zooms, specialty). This broad selection lets photographers tailor focal lengths and apertures for portraits, landscapes, or macros - a boon for users prioritizing optical quality and creative control.

On the other hand, the HX400V comes with a built-in fixed superzoom lens, covering an eye-watering 24-1200mm equivalent focal range (a massive 50x zoom). This makes it a beast for wildlife and travel shooters who want to carry one camera with one lens and be ready for everything. Its optical image stabilization helps keep shots steady, offsetting the difficulty of shooting at extreme telephoto lengths handheld.

But fixed zooms - especially superzooms - don’t match the optical sharpness or speed of interchangeable prime or zoom lenses on mirrorless systems like the NX200. Aperture limitations (F2.8-6.3) also restrict creative depth-of-field control and low-light capability.

Autofocus Performance: Precision, Speed, and Tracking Capabilities

The NX200 relies on contrast-detection autofocus with 15 focus points and face detection. It unfortunately lacks phase detection AF or animal eye AF, which are luxuries in more recent cameras. While the AF is reasonably accurate in good light, I found it a bit slow and prone to “hunting” in lower light or for moving subjects.

Conversely, the HX400V’s AF system also uses contrast detection but includes continuous AF tracking on up to 9 points, which aids in shooting moving subjects albeit at limited responsiveness compared to advanced mirrorless or DSLR systems. In real-world use, the superzoom’s reach and decent burst rate of 10 fps is quite handy for casual wildlife or sports snapshots, though the AF may struggle locking onto erratically moving targets.

In summary:

• NX200 autofocus: more a precision stills tool favored in controlled settings - think portraits and landscapes.
• HX400V autofocus: optimized for grab-and-go versatility, but with some concessions in speed and tracking fidelity.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Mechanics: Speed in Action

Continuous shooting performance can make or break the experience for active photographers.

The NX200 offers a respectable 7 fps continuous shooting speed - a solid figure for an entry-level mirrorless of its era. It supports mechanical shutter speeds ranging from 30 seconds to 1/4000th of a second, permitting creative motion capture. Electronic shutter modes are absent, which means no ultra silent shots or super-fast shutter speeds beyond that limit.

The HX400V steps up with an impressive 10 fps burst rate, aided by its Bionz X processor. Shutter speed tops out at 1/4000 sec as well. This quick reflex makes the HX400V enticing for casual sports and wildlife photography, particularly with its extended telephoto lens.

Image Stabilization: Handheld Sharpness in Varying Conditions

One of the HX400V’s biggest benefits is optical image stabilization (OIS) - much needed, given its vast zoom reach, and effectively implemented based on my trials. OIS dramatically reduces image blur, especially in handheld shots at slow shutter speeds or full zoom.

The NX200 disappointingly lacks built-in stabilization. While some NX lenses offer stabilization, the lack across the system requires photographers to compensate with faster shutter speeds or tripods. This is a consideration for those shooting in low light or needing macro focus precision.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones, Bokeh, and Eye Detection

Portraiture demands natural skin tones, shallow depth of field, and often sturdy autofocus on eyes.

The NX200, with its APS-C sensor and interchangeable lens system, shines here. Using fast primes or zooms with wide apertures yields lush, creamy bokeh that beautifully isolates subjects. Its accurate face detection aids composition, though the lack of eye AF is a drawback for pinpoint focusing on irises.

The HX400V’s fixed lens and smaller sensor restrict bokeh quality - the background blur is generally less smooth, given the narrow maximum apertures, especially at longer focal lengths. However, face detection is present and functional. For casual family portraits or travel candids, the HX400V suffices, but professionals or portrait enthusiasts will chafe at its optical constraints.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range, Resolution, and Durability

When capturing expansive vistas, sensors’ dynamic range and resolution are king; physical weather sealing is a bonus.

Here, the NX200’s APS-C CMOS sensor with a 20MP count and measured dynamic range of ~12.6 EV deliver stellar results. Images feature rich detail and tonal graduation, particularly when shooting in RAW format - the support of RAW is crucial here. The NX200’s lack of weather sealing means cautious handling in adverse conditions, but its compact body makes it portable for hikes.

The HX400V’s small sensor and lack of RAW support limit its dynamic range and post-processing latitude. Though it also has 20MP, the smaller sensor size means less fine detail and more noise in shadows. Its fixed lens offers convenience but at fewer compositional options. The camera’s bridge design is sturdy but not weather sealed, so it demands similar care outdoors.

Wildlife Photography: Reach, Autofocus Tracking, and Frame Rates

Wildlife photography asks for long reach, fast and reliable AF, and a decent burst mode.

The HX400V - with its 50x zoom and 10 fps burst - steps forth with convincing arguments. It lets you approach distant subjects stealthily and capture fleeting moments. While its contrast-detection AF isn’t cutting-edge, the tracking helps keep animals reasonably sharp in typical scenarios.

The NX200’s shorter lens reach (dependent on your lens choice) and slower AF speed mean it’s less suited for spontaneous wildlife shoots unless paired with specialized telephoto lenses. Its manual focus option sometimes helps in difficult lighting.

Sports Photography: Tracking Accuracy and Low Light Performance

Sports shooters rely on fast continuous AF, reliable tracking, and high frame rates.

The HX400V’s autofocus tracking and 10 fps make it the better out-of-the-box sports option, particularly for amateur or casual shooters. However, the small sensor limits high-ISO performance in indoor or low-light sports arenas.

The NX200's APS-C sensor shines in low light with cleaner images up to ISO 3200-6400, but its 7 fps and focus systems can feel sluggish when chasing fast action. If paired with a fast lens and experienced hands, it can deliver stunning results, but with more setup.

Street Photography: Discreetness and Portability

The NX200’s slim profile and minimal shutter noise (with an electronic shutter workaround) favor street photography - even though it lacks a built-in EVF. Lightweight and discreet, it blends in well and allows for candid moments with minimal intrusion.

The bulkier HX400V, with its protruding lens and SLR styling, stands out more; though the excellent zoom could be handy for distant candid shots where you can’t get close.

Macro Photography: Magnification and Focus Precision

Neither camera is specialized for macro work.

The HX400V can focus as close as 1 cm, courtesy of the zoom lens’ macro mode, combined with stabilized optics to capture fine details at close range.

The NX200’s capability is dependent entirely on the lens chosen. There are specialized Samsung NX macro lenses which, when paired with its sensor and manual focus abilities, offer higher magnification and superior image quality, though handheld macro requires care due to stabilization limitations.

Night and Astrophotography: High ISO and Exposure Modes

Astrophotography and night scenes require high native ISO and long exposure capabilities.

The NX200 supports shutter speeds up to 30 seconds and high ISO up to 12800 (native). Its larger sensor excels under these conditions, rendering more usable shots with less noise, especially when processed efficiently.

The HX400V shares similar shutter range but its smaller sensor introduces noise much earlier. Additionally, it lacks RAW support, limiting post-processing for astrophotography.

Video Capabilities: Recording Specs and Stabilization

Video enthusiasts will find interesting contrasts.

The NX200 shoots 1080p at 30 fps with MPEG-4/H.264 but lacks microphone or headphone jacks or built-in stabilization - making manual tracking or gimbals essential for smoother video.

Sony’s HX400V offers 1080p at 60p/60i/24p with AVCHD and MPEG-4, plus built-in optical stabilization and a microphone input. These features make it a more capable hybrid photo-video device, suitable for casual videography.

Travel and Professional Work: Versatility, Battery, and Workflow

Travel shooters: The NX200’s compact frame, APS-C image quality, and interchangeable lenses provide flexibility and excellent image output. However, no built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity means photo transfer isn’t seamless, and the optional EVF adds bulk and cost.

The HX400V’s fixed lens and built-in GPS, Wi-Fi (with NFC), plus longer zoom range cater exquisitely to travelers who want an all-in-one solution with straightforward sharing capabilities, sacrificing some image quality in return.

Professionals: The NX200 supports RAW capture, manual controls, and has respectable battery life (~330 shots per charge). It fits into advanced workflows better than the HX400V, which lacks RAW support and offers fewer post-processing liberties.

Samsung NX200 screen back Sony HX400V front Sony HX400V screen back

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery Life

Both cameras use standard SD cards, with the HX400V adding compatibility with Sony’s proprietary Memory Stick formats.

Battery life is similar - NX200 manages about 330 shots per charge; the HX400V around 300. USB 2.0 is standard for both, a bit dated by today's fast-charging standards, but reliable for basic transfers.

The HX400V includes built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, enabling remote shooting and geo-tagging - features that the NX200 lacks unless supplemented by optional accessories.

Price and Value: What Does Your Budget Get You?

At their respective launch prices and considering current used market values:

• The Samsung NX200 sits around $818 (original MSRP).
• The Sony HX400V listed near $448.

The NX200 demands a higher investment but rewards with superior sensor quality, interchangeable lenses, and a professional-grade photographic experience.

The HX400V offers tremendous zoom versatility and connectivity rights at a lower price but compromises sensor quality and advanced controls.

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Fits Your Photography Style?

If your priority is image quality, creative lens options, and you’re comfortable investing and carrying a compact mirrorless setup, the Samsung NX200 stands out. It’s a capable performer in portraits, landscapes, macros, and even low-light situations - an excellent choice for enthusiasts and pros craving flexibility over reach.

If you’re a casual shooter, traveler, wildlife hobbyist, or someone wanting an all-in-one “point and zoom” beast with excellent reach and decent responsiveness, the Sony HX400V is compelling. Its fixed 50x zoom, image stabilization, video features, and integrated connectivity make it a versatile companion for snapshots and adventures.

Neither camera is perfect for every niche - both reflect the technological compromises typical of their time and category - so your choice hinges on your shooting priorities:

• Portraits and landscapes with exquisite image quality → Samsung NX200
• Travel, wildlife, and casual video with max zoom and features → Sony HX400V
• Professional workflows and RAW editing → Samsung NX200
• Ease of use with built-in GPS/Wi-Fi → Sony HX400V

Ultimately, as with all photographic gear, no specs sheet replaces hands-on experience. If you can, try them out in store or rent both. But even from my extensive time behind the viewfinder, these guidelines represent realistic pictures of what to expect.

Happy shooting!

Disclaimer: All assessments stem from lab tests, field trials, and years of practical insights comparing analogous cameras. Technology advances quickly - newer models often outperform these classics in many facets.