Samsung NX30 vs Sony A350: A Thorough Comparison for Today’s Photography Enthusiasts

When it comes to choosing your next camera, sifting through spec sheets is only part of the story. Having handled both the Samsung NX30 and Sony A350 extensively, I’m sharing a detailed, experience-driven comparison that goes beyond specs to reveal how these two cameras perform across a variety of real-world photo and video scenarios. Whether you’re into portraits, landscapes, wildlife, or video work, by the end of this article you’ll have a clear sense of which might suit your style, budget, and workflow better.

Let’s dive in.

A First Look: Handling, Size, and Ergonomics Matter

Before even turning them on, the physical size, weight, and handling comfort shape your shooting experience dramatically. The Sony A350 is a classic entry-level DSLR, while the Samsung NX30 is a more modern mirrorless offering with an SLR-style body.

As you can see above, the Samsung NX30 is significantly more compact and lighter at 375g compared to the bulky 674g Sony A350. But it’s not just weight - NX30’s slimmer profile and slightly smaller footprint make it a joy to travel with or carry for street photography where discretion counts. The deeper grip and modern control layout also lend themselves to a more confident hold.

On the flip side, the Sony A350's traditional DSLR heft provides that reassuring stability some photographers prefer, especially with longer telephoto lenses, which its lens ecosystem supports robustly thanks to the long-established Sony/Minolta Alpha mount.

Controls and Interface: Modern Touchscreen vs Classic DSLR Dials

Control layout and ease of access to key functions directly affect your shooting flow - something a seasoned photographer quickly appreciates.

The Samsung NX30 is notably more advanced here. It has a fully articulated 3-inch AMOLED touchscreen with 1036k dots resolution - bright, sharp, and responsive - which makes menu navigation, touch autofocus, and image review more intuitive. The NX30 features dedicated buttons for quick tracking AF modes, exposure compensation, and a touchscreen AF point selector, which streamlines shooting in dynamic conditions.

In contrast, the Sony A350 sticks to a more dated control scheme with a smaller 2.7-inch tilting LCD boasting just 230k dots resolution and no touchscreen capability. Some may find its framework less agile, especially for video or live view shooting, but the DSLR’s physical dials and buttons are reliable and offer tactile feedback not present on the NX30.

Sensor and Image Quality: CMOS vs CCD - A Generational Leap

Both cameras sport APS-C sensors - the most popular size for enthusiast and semi-pro users - but their sensor technologies differ, impacting image quality and performance in various light conditions.

The NX30’s 20MP CMOS sensor with DRIMe IV processor offers improved dynamic range (12.4 EV stops) and color depth (23.5 bits) over the older A350’s 14MP CCD sensor. The latter, while respectable in its day, has a much lower dynamic range (11.5 EV) and is more prone to noise at higher ISOs, as evidenced by the low-light ISO scores (1014 for NX30 vs 595 for A350).

What does this mean practically? The NX30 gives you cleaner images in dim environments, better highlight and shadow detail, and more flexibility in post-processing raw files. Plus, the newer processing pipeline reduces artifacts and improves color fidelity across skin tones - beneficial for portraiture (more on that soon).

Viewing Experience: OLED EVF vs Optical Viewfinder

For composing images, the Samsung NX30’s electronic viewfinder (EVF) and the Sony A350’s optical pentamirror setup offer very different experiences.

The NX30 sports a 2.359-million-dot EVF with 100% coverage and 0.66x magnification - sharp, bright, and providing a real-time preview of exposure, white balance, and effects. This is a substantial advantage for beginners and pros who prefer immediate feedback, especially under varying lighting.

The A350’s optical viewfinder, while lacking an overlay for exposure simulation, is appreciated for zero lag and natural, true-to-life viewing in bright light - arguably more comfortable for fast tracking and sports.

The rear LCD on NX30 is fully articulated and touchscreen-enabled, great for high- or low-angle shooting. The A350’s screen tilts but isn’t touch-enabled, which can slow navigation.

Autofocus Systems: Speed and Accuracy in Different Scenarios

Autofocus (AF) technology is crucial, especially for wildlife, sports, and fast-moving subjects.

The NX30 features a hybrid AF system with 247 focus points combining phase detection and contrast detection, face detection autofocus (but no animal eye AF), and touch AF on the screen. The continuous shooting speed is a solid 9 fps, allowing for confident shooting in action scenarios.

The A350 lags here with just 9 AF points, purely phase detection-based AF, no face detection, and a slower 3 fps burst rate. Its AF struggles in live view mode, which is less practical for video or quick compositional changes.

For wildlife or sports, the Samsung clearly leads in autofocus tracking and burst speed, which can be decisive when seconds matter.

Image Stabilization: Built-In or Not?

Notably, the Sony A350 offers sensor-based image stabilization, a helpful feature when shooting handheld at slower shutter speeds or with non-stabilized lenses.

The Samsung NX30, conversely, lacks in-body image stabilization, relying on lens stabilization if available within its more limited Samsung NX lens lineup.

If you often shoot in low light handheld or macro with delicate detail, the A350’s stabilization is a tangible asset.

Lens Ecosystems: Diversity vs Integration

One major factor influencing your lens choices, long-term upgrade potential, and overall shooting versatility.

The Sony Alpha DSLR mount supports over 143 native lenses from Sony and third-party manufacturers. From ultrawide to massive supertelephotos and specialized primes, you have vast creative freedom and options to fit every genre.

Samsung provides only 32 native NX-mount lenses, many of which are cheaper kits or intermediate primes. While quality can be good, the options for advanced or specialized optics - such as dedicated macro or supertelephoto lenses - are much fewer.

If you value flexibility, the Sony’s ecosystem is a clear winner here.

Video Capabilities: Samsung NX30 Your Go-To Mirrorless for Motion

The NX30 shoots full HD 1080p video up to 60 fps, supports H.264/MPEG-4 encoding, and includes a microphone input (though no headphone jack). Its articulated touchscreen and hybrid AF make it comfortable for autofocus during video.

The Sony A350, however, does not offer video recording - typical for DSLRs from its era.

For hybrid shooters who want solid video without buying a separate camcorder, the Samsung is worth serious consideration.

Battery Life and Storage: Everyday Practicalities

Battery stamina can be a dealbreaker on long shooting days or remote locations.

The NX30 offers around 360 shots per charge with its BP1410 battery; this is moderate for mirrorless cameras but less than some DSLRs.

The Sony A350’s battery life figures aren’t specified here, but older DSLRs like it tend to perform well, often exceeding 400 shots due to their lower-resolution displays and absence of video modes.

In terms of storage, NX30 supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, while the A350 uses Compact Flash and Memory Stick Duo - less commonly found today, which could be an inconvenience.

Durability and Weather Sealing: Neither Designed for Harsh Conditions

Both cameras lack environmental sealing, meaning caution is needed in wet, dusty, or extreme environments. The NX30’s smaller, lighter body is somewhat more fragile but less cumbersome; the A350’s traditional DSLR build offers marginally more ruggedness but isn’t weatherproof either.

Putting It All Together: Performance Across Photographic Disciplines

What’s exciting is evaluating how these specs and features translate into different photography genres.

Samsung NX30 front Samsung NX30 screen back Sony A350 front Sony A350 screen back

Portraits

Samsung NX30’s larger sensor resolution, better color depth, refined skin tone rendering, and face detection AF produce more flattering portraits with smoother bokeh when paired with fast primes like the 30mm f/2 or 45mm f/1.8. The articulated touchscreen eases composition at awkward angles.

The Sony A350, while capable, shows less finesse in skin tone gradation, softer detail due to lower resolution, and a slower AF system.

Landscapes

Landscape shooters need wide dynamic range and detail. NX30’s 20MP CMOS sensor gives more leeway on shadows and highlights plus more cropping flexibility without sacrificing definition. However, the Sony’s more extensive lens lineup includes ultra-wide angle options often missing on Samsung's platform.

Neither camera boasts weather sealing, so invest in protective gear for fieldwork.

Wildlife and Sports

The NX30 easily outperforms A350 here: faster 9 fps burst, wider AF coverage (247 points vs 9), and better low-light AF tracking. The A350’s slower 3 fps and limited AF make capturing fast, unpredictable action challenging.

NX30’s smaller size aids handheld tracking and quick repositioning. The Sony’s larger, heavier body might stabilize long glass better but is slower overall.

Street Photography

Compactness, discreet operation, and swift AF make the NX30 a better fit for street shooters. Its near-silent shutter and touchscreen AF mean less disturbance.

Sony’s bulk and noise from mirror slap can draw attention. However, some might prefer the DSLR’s rugged feel.

Macro Photography

Neither camera offers focus stacking or bracketing, but the A350’s sensor-shift stabilization helps handheld macro shots.

Samsung’s more modern AF system and sensor resolution improve detail capture with close-focus primes, but lack of stabilization is a drawback.

Night and Astro Photography

Samsung’s superior high ISO performance (ISO25600 max native vs Sony’s 3200) and greater dynamic range cater well to low-light and astro shooting. Noise reduction is cleaner, preserving finer star detail.

A350’s CCD sensor struggles beyond ISO800, limiting night scene options.

Video Usage

No contest:Samsung NX30 provides 1080p up to 60 fps video, external mic input, and touchscreen focusing.

Sony A350 does not support video capture.

Travel Photography

The NX30’s light weight, compact size, built-in wireless (with NFC), articulated screen, and video capabilities make it a versatile travel companion.

Sony’s older form factor, heavier body, and lack of connectivity hamper travel-friendly credentials.

Professional Workflows

Both offer RAW shooting for advanced edits. NX30 supports newer file formats and has wider software compatibility.

Sony’s extensive lens collection appeals to professionals needing specialized optics.

What About Connectivity and Storage?

The NX30 supports built-in Wi-Fi with NFC, enabling instant sharing and remote control via apps - an undeniable advantage for social shooters and creatives working on the go.

The Sony A350 lacks any wireless capability, which may feel very dated in today's connected world.

Storage-wise, SD cards for NX30 are easy to find and affordable; A350’s CompactFlash and Memory Stick formats are less common and can be pricey or inconvenient for future upgrades.

How Do They Rate Overall?

Let me summarize performance with a handy graphical breakdown.

Samsung NX30 outpaces the Sony A350 in nearly every category except battery and in-body stabilization.

Genre-Specific Strengths at a Glance

Here’s a snapshot comparison that might help clarify which camera suits you depending on your favorite photography style:

In My Experience: Strengths and Weaknesses Summarized

Samsung NX30

Strengths:

• Larger, modern CMOS sensor with better image quality and high ISO performance
• Fast and accurate hybrid autofocus with many points
• Full HD video with touchscreen and microphone input
• Compact, lightweight, and ergonomic with articulated AMOLED screen
• Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for connectivity
• Faster continuous shooting at 9 fps

Weaknesses:

• Limited lens ecosystem - only 32 native lenses
• No in-body image stabilization
• Moderate battery life
• No weather sealing

Sony A350

Strengths:

• Larger lens selection supporting every genre and professional use
• Sensor-based image stabilization helps handheld shots
• Classic DSLR ergonomics with optical viewfinder preferred by some
• Generally solid build and reliability for its era
• Compatible with many legacy Minolta lenses

Weaknesses:

• Older 14MP CCD sensor with poorer high ISO performance and lower resolution
• Slower autofocus and shooting speed (3 fps)
• No video capability
• No built-in wireless connectivity
• Uses less common and more expensive storage media

Who Should Choose Which Camera?

If you prioritize modern image quality, faster AF, video capabilities, and portability, the Samsung NX30 is clearly the better choice, especially for enthusiasts focused on portrait, street, wildlife, and travel photography.

On the other hand, if you require a broad lens selection, sensor stabilization, and optical viewfinder feel, perhaps for studio, landscape, or macro work with legacy lenses, and video isn’t a priority, the Sony A350 remains a valid, budget-friendly option, though somewhat outdated by today’s standards.

Final Thoughts: Backed by Experience, Tailored to Your Style

Between the NX30 and A350, you’re essentially choosing between a more modern, versatile mirrorless system and a classic, entry-level DSLR from an earlier generation.

I’ve found the NX30 delivers a more flexible shooting experience overall, thanks to its improved sensor, fast autofocus, touchscreen, and video. That said, the Sony appeals if you want an affordable DSLR system with access to a wider native lens range and in-body stabilization - useful for handheld shooting.

Neither camera is weather-sealed or perfect for professional video production, but for enthusiasts and semi-pros venturing into various photo genres, each has its place.

Consider your priorities - if you want sharp 20MP stills, hybrid AF, and an articulated OLED screen, go NX30. If you crave DSLR ergonomics, stabilization, and lens choice, consider the Sony A350.

Whichever you pick, both cameras remain capable tools with unique charms and deliver quality images when paired with good glass and skilled use.

Happy shooting!

If you want to see sample image quality comparisons or hands-on control demos, check out my detailed video review, where I walk you through side-by-side tests of these cameras in multiple lighting and shooting conditions.

Image credits: All images in this article are sourced from manufacturer data and firsthand testing archives.

Feel free to ask if you want suggestions on lenses or accessories for either camera - I’m happy to help!