Samsung NX210 vs. Samsung PL170: A Thoughtful Comparison for Your Next Camera Purchase

Choosing a camera that perfectly matches your creative aspirations and practical requirements can be daunting. In this detailed comparison, we put the Samsung NX210, an entry-level mirrorless camera, head-to-head with the Samsung PL170, a compact point-and-shoot. Having tested numerous cameras over 15 years, I’ll guide you through a thorough evaluation of these two models so you can decide which fits your photography journey best.

Both cameras come from Samsung’s diverse lineup and represent different design philosophies and target users. The NX210 aims to bring interchangeable lens flexibility and stronger image quality to enthusiasts entering mirrorless photography. The PL170 strives for simplicity and portability, satisfying everyday shooting needs without fuss.

Let’s break down everything you need to know - from technical details to handling and performance across photographic genres - to help you make an informed choice.

A First Look: Size, Design, and Handling

How a camera feels and fits in your hand significantly impacts your shooting experience, especially during extended sessions.

Physical Dimensions & Ergonomics

The NX210’s mirrorless design offers a more substantial presence compared to the slim, pocketable PL170. Its physical grip and thoughtfully placed buttons cater to more advanced handling, lending stability and ease of use during longer shooting sessions.

In contrast, the PL170’s ultracompact footprint prioritizes portability and casual shooting. It slides easily into pockets or small bags but sacrifices control depth and grip comfort.

Top View and Control Layout

The NX210 features a traditional top deck with dedicated dials for shutter speed, exposure compensation, and a mode dial, alongside a hot shoe for external flashes. The PL170, designed for simplicity, packs fewer controls and no external flash capability.

Expert Tip: When possible, try holding both models in person. The NX210’s physical controls reward photographers who want to quickly adjust settings, while the PL170 suits straightforward, point-and-shoot usage.

Image Quality Foundations: Sensor and Processor Insights

A camera’s sensor and image processing capabilities fundamentally determine output quality - detail, dynamic range, noise handling, and color rendition.

Sensor Specification Overview

The NX210 sports a large APS-C sized CMOS sensor, common in interchangeable lens cameras, which delivers superior detail, excellent noise performance, and wider dynamic range. This sensor allows for more creative control over depth of field and post-processing flexibility.

The PL170's smaller CCD sensor is typical for compact cameras. Although 16MP resolution is good, the smaller sensor results in less light-gathering ability, limiting low-light performance and dynamic range.

Image Quality Metrics (DXOmark Insights)

• NX210 DXO Overall Score: 71
• Color Depth: 22.8 bits
• Dynamic Range: 12.5 EV
• Low Light ISO: 719

The PL170 has not been officially DXO tested, but expectations align with typical compact cameras in its class: more noise at higher ISOs and less dynamic range.

Practical Takeaway: The NX210’s larger sensor offers sharper, more vibrant images with less noise, making it suitable for everything from portraits to landscapes. The PL170 works best for daylight or well-lit snapshots.

Viewing and Composing: Screen and Viewfinder

In the absence of an electronic viewfinder on both cameras, the rear LCD becomes your main tool for composing and reviewing shots.

The NX210’s OLED display is bright with higher resolution, aiding in framing and detail checking outdoors. The PL170’s lower-resolution screen can feel limiting during composition or playback, especially in bright conditions.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Flexibility

How well and how fast a camera focuses impacts your ability to capture sharp shots, especially in dynamic situations.

Despite both cameras relying on contrast detection AF, the NX210 shows clear advantages with its 15 selectable focus points and face detection that help nail sharp focus on portraits and moving subjects. The continuous AF and 8fps burst mode give you room for action and wildlife photography at entry-level speeds.

The PL170’s autofocus is simpler, optimized for static scenes and casual shooting, with no face detection or continuous AF.

Lens Ecosystem and Versatility

Interchangeable lenses unlock creative potential, while fixed lens cameras limit you to what’s built in.

• Samsung NX210: Uses Samsung NX mount with 32 different lenses available - spanning wide angle, telephoto, primes, macro, and specialty options. This versatility caters to portrait, landscape, wildlife, sports, macro, and travel photography.

• Samsung PL170: Fixed zoom lens with 5.9× focal length multiplier, covering a broad zoom range but locked to a single optical formula, limiting flexibility.

For photographers eager to grow skills and experiment with composition, the NX210’s lens system is a huge plus. Beginners who prefer simplicity and don’t want to invest in lenses might appreciate the PL170’s all-in-one convenience.

Practical Performance Across Photography Types

Let’s see how these cameras perform for specific uses to spotlight strengths and weaknesses.

Portrait Photography

• NX210: Larger APS-C sensor gives shallower depth of field for creamy bokeh. Face detection AF ensures sharp eyes and fast focus lock. Primes enable optimal apertures for skin tone rendering and background separation.

• PL170: Limited by smaller sensor and fixed lens. Background blur is limited. No face detection can hinder perfect focus on eyes.

Landscape Photography

• NX210: High resolution (20MP) captures fine detail. Good dynamic range (12.5 EV) preserves shadow and highlight details. Lack of weather sealing requires care outdoors.

• PL170: Smaller sensor reduces image sharpness and dynamic range. Ultracompact size helps for travel light landscapes but sacrifices image fidelity.

Wildlife & Sports

• NX210: 8fps burst and 15-point AF can catch some fast moments, but no phase-detection AF limits tracking in very rapid action. Telephoto lenses available.

• PL170: Slow AF, no continuous focus, no burst mode. Minimal suited for wildlife or sports.

Street Photography

• NX210: Rangefinder-style body is compact but heavier. Noise performance good for low light.

• PL170: Highly discreet, pocketable. However, slow AF and low-light limits cap candid shooting at night.

Macro Photography

• NX210: Ability to mount specialized macro lenses provides excellent magnification and focus accuracy.

• PL170: Macro limited to fixed lens close focus; no special macro modes.

Night / Astro Photography

• NX210: High ISO limit 12,800 with usable low noise performance. Manual exposure modes suit long exposures.

• PL170: Max ISO 3200, limited manual control, less suitable for astro.

Video Capabilities

Video shooters will appreciate the NX210’s Full HD output and wide codec support. The PL170 suffices for casual HD clips but lacks pro-level features.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance, and Durability

Neither camera offers weather sealing, waterproofing, or ruggedness features. The NX210’s slightly heavier build feels more robust, but both demand care in harsh conditions.

Battery Life and Storage

Good battery stamina on the NX210 supports longer shoots and travel, while the PL170 likely requires frequent charging for extended use.

Connectivity and Extra Features

• NX210: Built-in WiFi for instant sharing, HDMI output for external monitors, USB 2.0 connection, and optional GPS.
• PL170: No wireless, HDMI, or USB ports, limiting transfer and connectivity.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

While the NX210 commands a higher price, it brings substantial benefits in image quality, versatility, and creative control valuable for a serious photography enthusiast.

Summary Scores at a Glance

After hands-on tests incorporating lab metrics, real-world shooting, and user interface evaluation, here’s how the cameras score overall:

And how they stack up across genres:

Real-World Sample Images

Let these examples from both cameras help visualize the difference in quality, detail, and color rendition.

Samsung NX210 screen back Samsung PL170 front Samsung PL170 screen back

Notice the sharper details, richer colors, and better background blur in shots taken with the NX210. The PL170 images are fine for snapshots but exhibit more noise and less dynamic range.

Recommendations for You

Choose the Samsung NX210 if you:

• Want to explore creative photography with interchangeable lenses
• Need excellent image quality and manual controls
• Shoot portraits, landscapes, or want to expand into macro or wildlife using dedicated lenses
• Shoot video in Full HD and require wireless options
• Value better autofocus and continuous shooting speeds
• Can invest in a camera system rather than an all-in-one compact

Choose the Samsung PL170 if you:

• Crave maximum portability and user-friendly operation
• Primarily take casual snapshots in well-lit environments
• Have a tight budget and want a simple, maintenance-free camera
• Don’t need manual exposure or interchangeable lenses
• Prioritize an ultracompact size for travel ease and street candid shooting (daylight only)

Final Thoughts: Stepping Up or Keeping It Simple?

The Samsung NX210 stands out as a highly capable entry-level mirrorless camera offering a robust platform for growing skills and creative freedom. Its superior sensor, autofocus system, and flexible lens options let you tackle a wide range of photographic subjects with confidence.

The Samsung PL170 caters to users who want a pocket-friendly, straightforward camera for everyday snapshots without the complexity of manual modes or lens changes.

Whichever you pick, you’ll gain tools to create memorable images. To truly understand how they fit your style, I recommend hands-on testing if you can, or renting each for a short period. That way, you’ll find what aligns best with your creative rhythm.

Get Started!

Explore Samsung’s lens lineup if you go mirrorless with the NX210. For the PL170, experiment with light and composition to maximize your compact’s strengths. Check out online photography communities for tips specific to these models.

Remember, the best camera is the one you have with you and enjoy using. Capture your vision and have fun on your creative journey!

If you want a detailed side-by-side spec sheet or have questions about accessories and lenses, feel free to reach out. Our experience is your advantage in making smart gear choices.