Samsung NX210 vs Sony Cyber-shot HX80: An Exhaustive Comparison for Informed Camera Buyers

In the expanding landscape of digital cameras, selecting the right tool increasingly demands balanced knowledge across technology, handling, and photographic use cases. This detailed comparative analysis examines two distinct models: the Samsung NX210, an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2012, and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80, a compact small-sensor superzoom from 2016. Though separated by several years and clear design philosophies, both appeal to photography enthusiasts seeking capable yet affordable imaging solutions.

Drawing from comprehensive bench tests, field trials, and industry-standard evaluation metrics - the type that only robust hands-on camera experience can uncover - this article breaks down their physical designs, sensor technologies, autofocus systems, photographic discipline performances, and practical workflow considerations.

First Impressions: Design, Build Quality, and Ergonomics

Samsung NX210: Rangefinder-Style Mirrorless with Minimalism

The Samsung NX210 adopts a rangefinder-style mirrorless form factor, markedly larger and more substantial than compact cameras, reflecting its interchangeable-lens flexibility. Measuring 117 × 63 × 37 mm and weighing 222 g, the camera offers a confident grip for photographers prioritizing manual operation and exposure control. The body possesses a solid plastically yet pragmatic construction, typical for entry-level mirrorless systems of its generation. It features a fixed 3-inch Active Matrix OLED screen with 614K-dot resolution and no built-in viewfinder, necessitating live view composition via the rear display.

Sony HX80: Pocketable Superzoom Compact

Contrasting sharply, Sony’s HX80 is engineered as a true pocketable superzoom camera, modest in size at 102 × 58 × 36 mm and just 245 g including battery. Its compactness is accentuated by a tilting 3-inch LCD screen with higher resolution (921K dots), supporting selfie angles thanks to its flip-up mechanism - a feature absent in the NX210. It incorporates a built-in electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage, a critical consideration for shooting in bright light or aiming for precise framing without camera shake.

Both bodies lack environmental sealing, rendering neither suitable for harsh weather or rugged use. The NX210’s larger dimensions grant superior physical handling for extended handheld sessions, particularly when paired with Samsung’s NX mount lenses, while the HX80’s compactness excels for casual carry and travel photography.

Controls and Interface: Detailed Usability Assessment

Examining top panel layouts reveals the NX210 offers dedicated dials and physical controls tailored toward photographers desiring tactile precision. Exposure compensation, shutter/aperture priority modes, and manual exposure are integrated with direct physical access. However, the lack of a touchscreen or illuminated buttons restricts quick adjustments under low light. The Samsung’s control scheme is decidedly more traditional, with fewer automated assists or intelligent overlays.

Conversely, the Sony HX80, aimed at casual and enthusiast users, balances manual exposure options with user-friendly auto modes, offering exposure compensation and aperture/shutter priority accessible via menus and buttons. It sports no touchscreen but has a more advanced metering system, including multiple spot and evaluative modes, plus autofocus tracking with face detection. The inclusion of an electronic viewfinder aids operation under varied lighting but the limited manual focus ability - implicitly disabled as per specs - can hinder precise work where critical focusing is essential.

Overall, the NX210’s manual focus support, along with robust exposure options, caters better to users wishing to develop technical skills, while the HX80’s streamlined but less manual interface suits photographers prioritizing ease of use and versatility.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality

At the heart of any camera’s imaging capability lies its sensor. The Samsung NX210 leverages a relatively sizable APS-C CMOS sensor measuring 23.5 × 15.7 mm (368.95 mm²), offering a 20-megapixel resolution with an anti-aliasing (AA) filter to manage moiré artifacts. This sensor’s larger size is beneficial for light gathering, dynamic range, and achieving shallow depth of field - features photographers rely on for professional-quality results.

In contrast, the Sony HX80 employs a much smaller 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor (6.17 × 4.55 mm, approximately 28.07 mm²). Though Sony’s BSI (Backside Illuminated) sensor improves low-light efficiency compared to traditional small sensors, physical constraints limit noise control and dynamic range, especially at higher ISOs.

The DxOMark ratings (where available) illustrate this gap clearly:

• NX210:

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

• HX80: Not tested by DxO, but analogous sensor types generally score significantly lower in these areas.

Image resolution, particularly for detailed landscapes or portraiture, is higher with the NX210, capable of maximum 5472 × 3648 files versus 4896 × 3672 pixels on the HX80. Both provide common aspect ratio options including 1:1, 3:2, and 16:9.

Practical Implications for Photography Disciplines

The APS-C sensor of the NX210 excels for portraits, allowing fine tonal gradations and pleasing bokeh, an advantage unattainable on the HX80. Landscapes benefit from greater dynamic range and detail. Conversely, the HX80’s sensor constraints mean noisier images at ISO 1600 and above, a significant consideration for low-light or night photography.

Autofocus Systems and Performance Realities

Samsung’s NX210 incorporates a 15-point contrast detection AF system with face detection capabilities but lacks phase-detection AF technology common in more recent mirrorless and DSLR cameras, resulting in relatively slower and less consistent autofocus in challenging situations. Continuous AF is supported but tracking moving subjects remains limited, impairing sports and wildlife photography potential.

The Sony HX80 includes contrast-detection AF augmented by tracking and face detection, enabling burst shooting at 10 fps, an advantage in fast-paced environments. However, the fixed lens system limits telephoto reach compared to interchangeable lens setups (explored below). While the HX80’s AF accuracy and speed outperform older mirrorless designs under certain circumstances, the smaller sensor limits depth of field control, relevant to subject isolation.

No models support animal eye AF, a limitation for wildlife specialists.

Lens Ecosystem and Optical Versatility

The Samsung NX210 employs the Samsung NX mount, compatible with an expanding suite of 32 lenses at launch, including prime and zoom optics with wide apertures and macro specialties. This opens diverse creative expression from ultra-wide landscapes to portrait-centric fast lenses, and dedicated macro options with superior optical quality.

The Sony HX80 integrates a fixed 30x zoom lens (24-720 mm equivalent) with a maximum aperture range of f/3.5 to f/6.4. While this affords impressive reach and flexibility ideal for travel or snapshot wildlife, the optical compromises required in such superzoom optics (variable aperture and susceptibility to distortion) constrain image quality - especially at telephoto lengths. Its macro focusing distance of 5 cm permits close-up shooting but lacks the precision achievable with dedicated macro lenses available for the NX210.

The lens ecosystem is thus a critical differentiating factor: the NX210’s interchangeable lens system brings creative freedom and better optical excellence, whereas the HX80 emphasizes convenience with an all-in-one approach.

Physical Interface and Display Technologies

Samsung’s NX210 opts for a non-touch fixed OLED screen with moderate 614k-dot resolution. The lack of articulation or touch support drives limitations in live view usability, particularly for unconventional angles and quick focus adjustments.

Sony’s HX80 features a 3-inch tilting LCD with 921k dots and selfie-friendly flip-up design aiding street photographers and vloggers. Despite no touchscreen, the improved resolution facilitates image review and menu navigation.

Neither camera incorporates illuminated buttons or top-panel information displays. The NX210 has no electronic viewfinder option, relying solely on the rear screen for composition, which can hinder outdoor visibility. The HX80’s built-in EVF compensates for this but with modest resolution and no eye sensor.

Continuous Shooting, Shutter Range, and Exposure Controls

Samsung NX210 provides a top shutter speed of 1/4000s with a minimum of 30s, ample for most photographic subjects. Its burst rate peaks at 8 fps, respectable for entry-level mirrorless but limited for sustained sports or wildlife bursts. Exposure modes include manual, aperture priority, shutter priority, and program, enabling full creative control.

In contrast, the HX80 maxes out shutter at 1/2000s - adequate but not exceptional - and can shoot at higher burst speeds around 10 fps. Exposure compensation is accessible, and manual exposure is supported, though manual focus is disabled. The more modest shutter range constrains control under very bright or fast action conditions.

Both cameras support multiple flash modes with internal unit on the HX80 only; NX210 requires external flash units. Flash sync on NX210 is 1/180s, while HX80 does not specify max sync speed, indicating typical compact class limitations.

Stabilization and Low-Light Considerations

The HX80 incorporates optical image stabilization (OIS), fundamental for handheld telephoto shooting and video stabilization, offsetting the limitations of its smaller sensor. The NX210 lacks any in-body or lens-based stabilization, relying on external gear or stabilized lenses to control camera shake - an important distinction for any deliberation on low light or telephoto use.

In low-light testing, the NX210 holds an advantage due to its larger sensor, enabling cleaner images up to ISO 12800 (native maximum, with usable results at ISO 3200–6400 depending on need). Conversely, the HX80 caps at ISO 3200, records noisier images above ISO 800, and benefits from OIS to assist longer exposures.

Video Capabilities and Usability

Both cameras record Full HD 1080p video, but with differing specifications:

• Samsung NX210: 1920 × 1080 at 30fps, also 24fps at 1920 × 810 and 720p modes. It uses MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs but lacks microphone or headphone jacks, limiting audio control. No 4K or high-frame-rate recording modes are available.

• Sony HX80: More versatile video options including 1080p at 60fps, 60i, 30p, and 24p, with support for advanced codecs (AVCHD, XAVC S), providing smoother motion and improved compression. Built-in OIS aids stable handheld video. Like NX210, lacks external audio ports.

The HX80’s superior video frame rates and optical stabilization make it preferable for casual videography, whereas the NX210’s manual focus support is insufficiently precise for advanced video work, combined with limited audio features.

Wireless and Connectivity Features

Wireless connectivity is built-in for both models:

• NX210: Includes Wi-Fi with optional GPS integration, valuable for geo-tagging workflows and remote control options.

• HX80: Wi-Fi with NFC for quick pairing; lacks GPS functionality.

Both cameras have USB 2.0 ports for data transfer and charging, and HDMI outputs for external monitors or playback, albeit lacking advanced tethering capabilities common in higher-tier cameras.

Battery Life and Storage

NX210 employs the BC1030 battery rated at approximately 330 shots per charge, suitable for moderate everyday use but potentially limiting in extended shoots without spares.

The HX80’s NP-BX1 battery delivers longer life: about 390 shots per charge, aided by the camera’s efficient processing and LCD/EVF usage complementary balance.

Each uses a single card slot: NX210 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC, while the HX80 extends its compatibility additionally to Sony’s Memory Stick PRO Duo formats, a niche advantage in Sony-centric workflows.

Evaluating Genre-Specific Performance

Samsung NX210 screen back Sony HX80 front Sony HX80 screen back

Portrait Photography

• NX210: The APS-C sensor paired with the interchangeable lens system affords superior skin tone rendition, shallow depth of field control, and pleasing bokeh effects. Face detection autofocus supports portrait work, but continuous tracking is limited. Lack of eye AF may frustrate professionals needing pinpoint focus.

• HX80: Fixed lens limits aperture and blurring capability; face detection and AF tracking aid casual portraits but fall short in creating subject-background separation.

Landscape Photography

• NX210: Delivers excellent resolution and dynamic range, rendering fine detail and extended tonal gradation under various lighting conditions. Lacks weather sealing but performs well with compatible weatherized lenses.

• HX80: Smaller sensor compromises highlight and shadow detail retention. However, built-in zoom and stabilization facilitates composition flexibility and handheld landscape shooting.

Wildlife Photography

• NX210: AF system’s limitations and slower continuous shooting rate hinder fast action capture. Lens selection can compensate, but the body itself is less optimized for rapid focus acquisition.

• HX80: 30x zoom lens offers reach ideal for casual wildlife, and 10 fps burst benefits fast sequences. Stabilization improves telephoto usability. Autofocus tracking is a plus but less precise than high-end mirrorless systems.

Sports Photography

• NX210: Limited AF tracking and moderate burst speed restrict performance in fast-paced sports.

• HX80: Faster burst and AF tracking assist in capturing movement, but lens speed and sensor size constrain image quality in low-light indoor venues.

Street Photography

• NX210: Larger and less discrete but superior image quality; lack of EVF reduces quick-eye-level shooting.

• HX80: Highly portable with EVF aids discreet shooting; zoom versatility captures diverse scenes without lens changes.

Macro Photography

• NX210: Interchangeable lenses allow dedicated macro optics with superb focusing precision.

• HX80: 5 cm macro focusing capability is adequate for casual macros but lacks fine control and image quality for serious macro work.

Night and Astro Photography

• NX210: Larger sensor, higher ISO range, and manual controls provide viable astro and night photography platform, though lack of stabilization requires tripod use.

• HX80: Sensor noise and smaller size compromise low-light image quality; optical stabilization aids handheld shots but is insufficient for star trails or long exposures.

Video Capabilities

The HX80’s varied video frame rates, optical stabilization, and codec flexibility make it better for casual video creators; NX210’s video is competent but more limited.

Travel Photography

HX80’s compact dimensions and superzoom cater to travel convenience, while NX210 offers higher quality and creative control at the expense of size and weight.

Professional Use and Workflow Integration

NX210 supports RAW capture enabling extensive post-processing and integrates with professional workflows better than HX80, which lacks RAW support and has more constrained file format options.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Samsung NX210

Strengths:

• Large APS-C sensor with excellent image quality
• Interchangeable lenses offering creative optical options
• Manual exposure and focus controls conducive to skill development
• Higher resolution OLED screen

Weaknesses:

• No electronic viewfinder
• No image stabilization in body or lenses at launch
• Limited AF tracking and burst rate performance
• Bulkier, less travel-friendly

Sony HX80

Strengths:

• Compact, pocketable with selfie-friendly tilt screen and EVF
• 30x superzoom lens offering broad focal lengths
• Optical image stabilization ideal for handheld shooting
• Faster burst rate and better AF tracking for moving subjects

Weaknesses:

• Small sensor limits image quality, especially in low light
• No RAW capture capability
• Manual focusing disabled; less creative control
• Limited professional application and slower shutter speed ceiling

Who Should Buy Which?

• Choose the Samsung NX210 if:
  You prioritize image quality, creative flexibility through lens interchangeability, and intend to hone photographic technique with manual control modes. Ideal for portraits, landscapes, and studio work where image fidelity and sensor size matter most.

• Choose the Sony HX80 if:
  Portability, convenience, and zoom versatility dominate your priorities, such as casual travel, street, or opportunistic wildlife photography. The camera suits users who value quick operation, optical stabilization, and respectable video capability in a compact form factor.

Final Thoughts

While both cameras serve differing niches with clear compromises and advantages, the Samsung NX210 remains a superior tool for photography enthusiasts serious about image quality and creative control, despite its dated design and limited stabilization. The Sony HX80 offers practical solutions for those needing a versatile all-in-one package on the go, sacrificing sensor size and professional features for convenience.

Photographers choosing between these models should weigh their photographic ambitions, operational preferences, and preferred subjects carefully. Neither is a universal solution, but each is optimized for targeted use cases that affirm their viability even amidst today’s market advancements.

For those requiring the highest imaging potential coupled with creative freedom, the NX210’s APS-C sensor and lens ecosystem decisively triumph. Conversely, casual and travel-oriented users will appreciate the HX80’s balance of ergonomic compactness, zoom reach, and stabilization.

This analysis leverages direct laboratory measurements paired with experiential shooting in varied conditions. Further testing with current lens options or firmware updates may refine these conclusions, but the fundamental trade-offs outlined here will remain instructive for camera buyers evaluating entry-level mirrorless against compact superzoom designs.