Comparing the Samsung NX210 vs. Sony WX500: Which One Fits Your Photography Journey?

Choosing the right camera can be daunting, especially when comparing very different models. Today, we'll look closely at two popular yet distinct cameras from the last decade: the Samsung NX210, an entry-level mirrorless with a large APS-C sensor, and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500, a compact superzoom with a smaller sensor and massive zoom range. Having personally tested thousands of cameras over the years, I’ll share practical insights on how their key specs translate into real-world performance across multiple photography genres - from landscapes and portraits to travel and video. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, this guide will help you decide which model better suits your creative goals and shooting style.

Getting to Know the Basics: Samsung NX210 vs Sony WX500

Before diving deeper, it’s helpful to understand how fundamentally different these cameras are in design philosophy and intended uses. A side-by-side overview highlights their core distinctions.

This table and image illustrate a key trade-off in camera design - the NX210's larger body accommodating interchangeable lenses and bigger sensor, versus the WX500's pocket-friendly superzoom style. Each will serve different use cases and photographic approaches.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Sensor technology ultimately defines what you can capture in terms of resolution, detail, and low-light capability. Let's break down their differences.

Samsung NX210 – APS-C, 20 Megapixels, OLED Display

• Sensor Size Matters: The NX210’s APS-C sensor is roughly 13 times larger in surface area than the WX500’s 1/2.3" sensor. Larger sensors gather more light, resulting in better dynamic range, lower noise at higher ISOs, and a shallower depth-of-field ability.
• Image Quality Metrics: DXO Mark rates it with an overall score of 71, color depth at 22.8 bits, and dynamic range near 12.5 EV - strong for an entry-level mirrorless camera. Low-light ISO performance peaks around 719 (measured at DXO’s standards).
• Antialias Filter Present: This slightly reduces moiré but minimally affects detail rendering.
• Image Formats: Supports RAW capture, essential for serious post-processing flexibility.

Sony WX500 – Small Sensor But High Zoom Versatility

• Sensor Size: At just 28.07 mm² (1/2.3"), the WX500’s sensor is much smaller, which typically implies more noise and less dynamic range.
• Resolution: 18 MP is respectable for a compact but can struggle with noise above ISO 800-1600.
• RAW Support: Not supported, limiting advanced editing possibilities.
• Color Depth and Dynamic Range: Not formally tested by DXO, but expect typical compact camera limitations - lower dynamic range and color fidelity compared to the NX210.

Takeaway: If image quality, especially in low light or when shooting portraits and landscapes, is your priority, the NX210’s APS-C sensor is a clear winner.

Shooting Experience: Ergonomics, Controls, and User Interface

How you handle a camera directly influences enjoyment and creative control. Let’s talk about the physical feel and design.

Samsung NX210 – Classic Mirrorless Handling

• Kickstarting Creativity: The NX210 has a rangefinder-style body with well-sized grip, slightly larger than compact cameras. This makes manual focusing and handling heavier lenses more comfortable.
• Control Layout: Features 15 autofocus points, face detection autofocus (though no eye or animal detection), and manual focus rings on lenses for tactile precision.
• Screen: 3-inch OLED panel (fixed), but bright and vibrant for reviewing images.
• No Viewfinder: This may be a drawback in bright conditions but not unusual for early mirrorless cameras.
• No Built-in Flash: Requires external flash for more nuanced lighting.
• Connectivity: Integrated Wi-Fi (a standout feature in 2012), USB 2.0, and HDMI.

Sony WX500 – Pocket Portability Meets Practicality

• Compact and Lightweight: Weighing 236 g, it fits easily in jacket pockets.
• Flip-up Tilting Screen: The 3" LCD tilts up to 180 degrees, ideal for selfies or vloggers.
• Simplified Controls: No manual focus, but a fast 10 FPS burst and optical image stabilization improve ease of use.
• Built-in Flash: Handy for fill light in tricky indoor shots.
• Lens: Fixed lens, but versatile 24-720mm equivalent zoom covers wide-angle to super-telephoto.
• Wireless Features: Wi-Fi and NFC for quick sharing - a convenience for travel and social photography.

Expert Tip: If you favor physical, manual controls and lens flexibility, the NX210 aligns well. For quick shooting in a pocketable form, especially with reach and stabilization, the WX500 is more convenient.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed – Capturing the Moment

Speed and focus accuracy make huge differences depending on what you photograph. How do these two stack up?

• The NX210's contrast-detection autofocus can be slightly slower and less reliable in low light. Lacking phase detection means it is not as snappy as modern hybrids.
• The WX500 leverages Sony's improved AF algorithms with face and tracking modes which, combined with a faster burst frame rate (10 FPS), better supports fast-moving subjects like street scenes or casual sports.

Professional Insight: While neither camera is a sports autofocus monster, the WX500’s faster continuous shooting and tracking AF better suit capturing fleeting moments.

Exploring Major Photography Genres

Let’s examine how each camera performs across popular photography styles you may shoot:

Portrait Photography

• NX210 Strengths:

  • Larger sensor allows better control over depth of field - beautiful bokeh and subject-background separation.
  • RAW format ensures excellent skin tone reproduction and editing latitude.
  • Face detection autofocus helps keep focus on subjects’ faces.

• WX500 Limitations:

  • Smaller sensor restricts background blur.
  • JPEG-only capture limits post-processing.
  • Built-in lens aperture maxes at F3.5 (wide) to F6.4 (tele), restricting shallow depth of field.

Recommendation: For portraits, NX210 gives a more professional look and flexibility.

Landscape Photography

• NX210:

  • Larger sensor excels in capturing wide dynamic range scenes.
  • Interchangeable lenses allow specialized wide-angle glass.
  • No weather sealing, so caution in harsh environments.

• WX500:

  • Limited dynamic range but versatile zoom helps compose varied landscapes.
  • Built-in optical stabilization aids handheld shots.
  • Compact design convenience for travel landscapes.

Recommendation: Landscapes call for NX210 where image quality is paramount; WX500 works well when portability rules.

Wildlife & Sports

• NX210:

  • Moderate burst rate at 8 FPS.
  • Lens ecosystem supports telephoto lenses, although AF can be slow.

• WX500:

  • 10 FPS burst and solid autofocus tracking.
  • Massive 720mm zoom reaches distant subjects.
  • Optical stabilization reduces blur from handholding heavy zoom.

Recommendation: For casual wildlife or sports photography requiring reach and speed, WX500 is more handy. Serious wildlife shooters would need higher-end gear.

Street Photography

• NX210: Heavier and more conspicuous.
• WX500: Compact size and fast shooting rates better for candid street moments.

Macro Photography

• NX210: Depends on macro lens availability.
• WX500: 5cm close focus, limited magnification.

Night and Astro Photography

• NX210: Larger sensor and RAW support favor long exposures and low noise.
• WX500: Smaller sensor limits ISO performance but optical IS helps reduce blur.

Video Capabilities

• WX500 offers smoother video at 60fps for action and better handheld steadiness.
• NX210’s video is solid but limited to 30fps and no stabilization.

Travel Photography

• NX210: Bigger and bulkier, interchangeable lenses add to kit weight.
• WX500: Pocketable size, vast zoom range, Wi-Fi+NFC - ideal travel companion.

Professional Work

• NX210: RAW support, manual controls, and superior image quality support pros in low-budget setups.
• WX500: Compact for casual usage but limited in file formats and manual control.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera features weather sealing or ruggedization. Both are designed primarily for careful everyday use indoors or on good weather days.

• Samsung NX210’s larger body handles well, sturdy plastic construction.
• Sony WX500 is lightweight with a compact shell but less durable.

Lens Ecosystem and Accessories

• NX210: The Samsung NX mount has 32 lenses ranging from wide angles to telephotos including primes and zooms - a significant creative advantage.
• WX500: Fixed lens only - 24-720mm equivalent, no lens changes possible but covers broad focal lengths.

Battery Life and Storage

The WX500’s higher battery rating aids extended travel shoots, but both are average compared to newer standards.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

• Both cameras have built-in Wi-Fi for easy image transfer.
• WX500 adds NFC for one-touch pairing.
• Only NX210 supports optional GPS for geo-tagging shots.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

• The NX210 launched around $625, reflecting its larger sensor and interchangeable system.
• The WX500 costs roughly $348 but delivers a versatile superzoom package.

Verdict: If you want image quality and control, NX210’s price is justified. For casual shooting and portability, WX500 offers impressive value.

Visual Examples and Genre Ratings

To bring everything together, here are representative sample shots from both cameras and a summary of their performance by genre.

Samsung NX210 screen back Sony WX500 front Sony WX500 screen back

These graphics reflect our testing across lighting conditions, subject types, and camera settings, underscoring the NX210’s strengths in image quality and the WX500’s versatility and speed.

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Choose the Samsung NX210 if you want to:

• Prioritize image quality with large APS-C sensor detail and dynamic range.
• Shoot portraits and landscapes with creative control over depth of field.
• Use manual focus and a variety of lenses to expand your artistic options.
• Capture RAW files for thorough post-processing.
• Focus on still photography with respectable video capability.

Choose the Sony WX500 if you want to:

• Carry a highly portable camera with a massive zoom lens for travel, street, and wildlife snapshots.
• Benefit from optical image stabilization and fast continuous shooting.
• Enjoy a tilting screen ideal for vlogging or selfies.
• Share images quickly through Wi-Fi and NFC with compatible devices.
• Capture Full HD video at higher frame rates for smooth footage.

Getting Hands-On and Accessories to Consider

Both cameras remain solid choices for enthusiasts on a budget and beginners wanting specific strengths:

• For the NX210, invest in prime lenses (like a bright 30mm f/2) to maximize image quality and bokeh.
• For the WX500, carry a small tripod or monopod to stabilize longer zoom shots.
• Explore external flashes with NX210 for event or portrait lighting.
• Use smartphone apps to control and transfer images wirelessly on both models.

Conclusion

The Samsung NX210 and Sony WX500 occupy different niches in the photographic ecosystem. The NX210 appeals if you seek superior image quality and the flexibility of interchangeable lenses, making it a good stepping stone to more advanced mirrorless cameras. Meanwhile, the WX500 excels as a compact, no-fuss all-in-one travel and street camera delivering excellent zoom reach and stabilization on the go.

By measuring your priorities - image quality vs. size/zoom convenience - and considering typical shooting scenarios, you can confidently pick the model that best complements your creativity and shooting style. Remember, the best camera is the one you enjoy using regularly and inspires you to capture the world from your unique perspective.

Happy shooting, and may this comparison empower your next photographic adventure! Be sure to check out these cameras in person, try their handling, and find the right lenses or accessories to support your vision.

References to Images Used

1. Physical size and ergonomics comparison - size-comparison.jpg
2. Top view design and control layout comparison - top-view-compare.jpg
3. Sensor specifications and image quality discussion - sensor-size-compare.jpg
4. LCD screen and interface comparison - back-screen.jpg
5. Sample images from both cameras - cameras-galley.jpg
6. Overall performance ratings - camera-scores.jpg
7. Genre-specific performance analysis - photography-type-cameras-scores.jpg