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Samsung NX300 vs Sony A57

Portability
86
Imaging
62
Features
73
Overall
66
Samsung NX300 front
 
Sony SLT-A57 front
Portability
64
Imaging
57
Features
85
Overall
68

Samsung NX300 vs Sony A57 Key Specs

Samsung NX300
(Full Review)
  • 20MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 3.3" Tilting Display
  • ISO 100 - 25600
  • 1/6000s Max Shutter
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • Samsung NX Mount
  • 331g - 122 x 64 x 41mm
  • Revealed November 2013
  • Succeeded the Samsung NX210
  • Refreshed by Samsung NX500
Sony A57
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 3" Fully Articulated Screen
  • ISO 100 - 16000 (Expand to 25600)
  • Sensor based Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • Sony/Minolta Alpha Mount
  • 618g - 132 x 98 x 81mm
  • Revealed September 2012
  • Earlier Model is Sony A55
  • Later Model is Sony A58
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Samsung NX300 vs Sony A57: A Hands-On Mirrorless vs DSLR Battle for the Budding Enthusiast

In the crowded landscape of early 2010s interchangeable lens cameras, the Samsung NX300 and Sony SLT-A57 (hereafter A57) stood out as compelling options for those stepping up their photography game beyond simple point-and-shoots. Both targeted entry-level to enthusiast users, but approached the task quite differently - Samsung betting on a sleek mirrorless design with an AMOLED touchscreen, Sony doubling down on its translucent mirror tech for speedy autofocus in a compact DSLR form.

Having extensively tested both models across diverse photography disciplines, I'm here to unpack how their technological makeup, shooting performance, ergonomics, and ecosystem support compare. Whether you’re hunting for a compact travel rig or a high-frame-rate sports shooter on a budget, this head-to-head aims to sharpen your buying decision.

First Impressions and Ergonomics: Size, Weight, and Handling

One of the first differences leaps out physically: the NX300 is a mirrorless rangefinder-style camera, designed for sleekness and portability, while the A57 is a traditional compact SLR with a translucent mirror system. To put it in perspective:

Samsung NX300 vs Sony A57 size comparison

The NX300 tips the scales at a featherweight 331 grams and sports dimensions of 122 x 64 x 41 mm, allowing it to slip comfortably into a jacket pocket or small bag. Its minimal grip and streamlined silhouette suit photographers desiring discretion and mobility - street shooters, casual travelers, and vloggers can appreciate this.

Conversely, Sony’s A57 weighs nearly double at 618 grams and is larger (132 x 98 x 81 mm). The pronounced DSLR-style grip and heftier chassis give it a more traditional feel and arguably better one-handed stability, especially when paired with telephoto lenses. It might be less convenient for pocket carry but offers a confidence-inspiring hold during longer sessions.

The NX300 favors lightweight portability, perfect for on-the-move enthusiasts prioritizing compactness, while the A57 delivers a classic substantial feel, which can improve handling for demanding shoots like wildlife or sports.

Control Layout and Interface: Navigating the Camera with Your Fingers and Eyes

Samsung invested heavily in the NX300’s tactile experience, equipping it with a 3.3-inch active matrix OLED tilting touchscreen displaying 768k dots. The responsive touchscreen allows intuitive control over focus, menus, and playback - a feature still premium for 2013 models.

Samsung NX300 vs Sony A57 top view buttons comparison

Sony’s A57 opts instead for a fully articulated 3-inch TFT screen with 921k dot resolution, no touchscreen, but complemented by a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) boasting 1440k dots, 100% coverage, and 0.7x magnification. This bright, detailed EVF provides a DSLR-like viewfinder experience that’s rare among mirrorless peers of the era.

While Samsung forgoes an EVF entirely, compelling users to rely on the tilting screen only, which could be a dealbreaker under bright sunlight or for precise eye-level framing.

The A57’s button and dial layout feels more traditional, instantly familiar to DSLR converts, whereas the NX300 leans on fewer buttons compensated by the touchscreen’s ease - which is faster for some but less tactile for others.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart Behind the Lens

Both cameras feature APS-C sized CMOS sensors, popular for balancing image quality and size. However, their specifications differ enough to merit closer inspection.

Samsung NX300 vs Sony A57 sensor size comparison

  • Samsung NX300 features a 20.3-megapixel sensor processed by its DRIMe IV engine. It sports an anti-aliasing filter, 1.5x crop factor, and max native ISO up to 25,600. DXOmark rates its overall image quality at 76 with excellent color depth (23.6 bits) and dynamic range (12.7 EV).

  • Sony A57 comes with a 16.1MP sensor and sensor-based image stabilization (IBIS). It supports native ISO up to 16,000 and boosted up to 25,600. DXOmark scores it slightly lower at 75 overall but notes better dynamic range at 13.0 EV.

In practical terms, Samsung’s higher resolution yields more detailed images, particularly valuable for cropping and large prints. Sony’s strength shows in low light tolerance and dynamic range, where its sensor excels, capturing richer shadows and highlights.

Color rendition slightly favors Samsung’s sensor with deeper hues and realistic skin tones but depends heavily on processing. The IBIS in Sony notably improves sharpness in handheld low-light shots and macro work when slower shutter speeds become necessary.

For landscape photographers requiring wide dynamic range and versatile ISO performance, Sony’s sensor edge pays dividends, while Samsung’s higher resolution benefits fine detail capture such as portraits and product photography.

Autofocus Mechanisms: Speed and Accuracy in Action

AF performance often defines the real-world usability of a camera, especially when shooting fast-moving subjects or working in unpredictable lighting.

The NX300 uses a hybrid AF system, combining phase-detection (247 focus points) and contrast detection, featuring face detection and touch-to-focus via its OLED screen. Samsung’s system is quite advanced for its class, delivering accurate AF in good light and smooth continuous AF tracking up to 9fps shooting speed.

Sony’s A57 hinges on its patented SLT (Single-Lens Translucent) mirror technology, allowing phase-detection autofocus directly on the sensor with 15 AF points (3 cross-type). The translucent mirror enables continuous phase detection during live view and video, giving it rapid, precise AF performance, particularly notable during fast action and sports photography. The A57 boasts a higher burst rate of 12fps.

While Samsung’s contrast detection struggles in very low light or low contrast scenes, Sony’s phase-detection keeps AF flickering or hunting minimal. However, the fewer AF points on the A57 reduce compositional flexibility compared to the NX300’s dense AF coverage.

For bird-in-flight, sports, or wildlife shooting, Sony’s AF system superiority becomes evident. If your work is more portrait and street-oriented with touch AF control, Samsung’s system feels nimble and accurate.

Video Capabilities: Moving Pictures Without Moving Mountains

In an era when Full HD video had become mainstream, both cameras offer respectable specs, but with nuanced differences.

  • The NX300 shoots up to 1920 × 1080 at 30p using MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs. Its touchscreen enables easy focus shifts during filming but lacks external mic input or headphone monitoring.

  • Sony’s A57 also records Full HD 1920 × 1080 at 60p and 24p, employing AVCHD and MPEG-4 formats. Its articulated screen favors low and high-angle shooting, and it provides an external microphone port - critically important for serious videographers.

Neither camera supports 4K, 4K photos, or high-rate video modes typical in more modern bodies. Stabilization is sensor-based on the A57 but absent on the NX300; thus, video shot handheld on Samsung may appear shakier.

Overall, for casual video or occasional YouTube shoots, the NX300’s touchscreen AF ease compensates for lacking audio ports. For dedicated hybrid shooters wanting professional audio control and smooth 60p 1080p capture, Sony’s A57 has the upper hand.

Lenses and System Ecosystem: Choices That Shape Creativity

Lens availability is a crucial consideration. Samsung’s NX mount had 32 native lenses, covering wide zooms, primes, and some specialty optics, mostly designed for APS-C. Meanwhile, Sony’s Alpha mount (compatible with Minolta A-mount lenses) had a far richer pool of approximately 143 native lenses, benefiting from longer heritage and third-party support.

This disparity boils down to flexibility - the Sony system accommodates everything from budget primes to pro-grade telephotos and lenses optimized for specialty uses like macro or tilt-shift.

Samsung’s more closed ecosystem limits long-term growth for photographers eyeing optical variety or professional lenses, though its native NX Pancake and 30mm f/2 primes are sharp and compact.

If you anticipate evolving your gear beyond entry-level, Sony's A57 ecosystem wins hands down. The depth of lenses means creative depth and future upgrades won’t be second-guessing your mount choice.

Battery Life and Storage: Staying Powered in the Field

Battery life is where DSLRs traditionally hold an advantage over mirrorless cameras, and the A57 follows suit.

  • Sony A57 offers approximately 550 shots per charge, powered by the NP-FM500H battery pack.
  • Samsung NX300 is rated for around 330 shots per battery, utilizing a smaller BP1130 pack.

In long shoots or travel contexts, Sony’s longer endurance significantly reduces interruptions. The NX300’s lighter body and smaller battery come at a cost of more frequent charging.

Both cameras use SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, but Sony also adds support for Memory Stick Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo, increasing flexibility for users invested in Sony’s format legacy.

Shooting Across Genres: How They Handle Your Photography Passions

Portraits: Skin Tone Fidelity and Background Blur

Samsung’s 20MP sensor offers fine detail with pleasing skin tone reproduction, enhanced by its touch AF face detection, assisting pin-sharp eyes. However, lack of IBIS means careful technique or stabilized lenses are essential for slower shutter speeds.

Sony’s lower resolution delivers slightly softer detail but compensates with stabilization and a warm color palette. The DSLR-style grip and EVF facilitate precise manual focus control for selective bokeh effects.

Verdict: For beginners prioritizing ease of focus and sharp portraits, NX300 shines, while Sony suits those wanting DSLR handling and stabilization.

Landscapes: Dynamic Range and Resolution Kingmakers

Sony’s marginally better dynamic range and low ISO performance capture highlights and shadows with finesse - critical for landscapes. The articulated screen eases composition from ground or high vantage points.

Samsung’s higher megapixel sensor is strong for fine details, but mirrorless lack of weather sealing limits rugged outdoor use. Neither camera is weather sealed, so extreme conditions require caution.

Verdict: Sony edges out for harsh lighting control; Samsung’s higher resolution gives more cropping freedom.

Wildlife and Sports: AF Speed, Frame Rates, and Reach

Sony’s translucent mirror with real-time phase detection and 12fps burst frame rates proves superior for fast subjects. Its robust grip supports heavy telephoto lenses critical for wildlife photography.

Samsung’s hybrid AF, while quick for mirrorless in 2013, is less reliable at tracking erratic motion. The lighter body benefits portability but may hinder extended telephoto use.

Verdict: Sony A57 is undoubtedly more adept for wildlife and sports shooters.

Street and Travel Photography: Discretion and Portability

Here, Samsung’s compact form and quiet operation without an optical mirror give it a stealth advantage. Touchscreen focusing facilitates quick candids, though absence of an EVF means composing at arms-length or waist level, which some might dislike.

Sony’s DSLR style offers better grip but at a weight penalty. The EVF provides an eye-level viewfinder essential in bright outdoor urban environments.

Verdict: For light travel and street, NX300 wins portability; Sony wins usability in sunlight and battery efficiency.

Macro and Night Photography: Precision and Low-Light Handling

Sony’s IBIS gives it a crucial advantage for handheld macro shots, where camera shake can ruin fine focus. The dynamic range improvement also benefits night/astro photography, letting you pull detail from shadows and skies.

Samsung relies on steady hands or tripods but boasts larger sensor resolution helpful for cropping macro subjects tightly.

Verdict: Sony is more forgiving and versatile for night and macro work.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Durability Does Matter

Neither camera features weather sealing, dustproofing, or shockproofing - typical for their price bracket and vintage. Its lighter plastic body feels less robust than Sony’s semi-magnesium alloy mix channels and reinforced build.

If you often shoot outdoors under unpredictable conditions, consider protective gear regardless.

Connectivity, Wireless, and Workflow Integration

The NX300 includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, facilitating quick image transfers and remote control via smartphones - far ahead of its time in 2013. Unfortunately, it lacks Bluetooth.

Sony A57’s wireless relies on Eye-Fi SD card capability, more limited and cumbersome to set up but functional.

Both cameras have HDMI and USB 2.0 ports but lack modern USB 3.0 or direct computer tethering support common in newer models.

If mobile-ready workflow and social sharing matter, Samsung nudges ahead here.

Price-to-Performance: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck

At launch, the Samsung NX300 carried a retail price around $750, positioning it as a well-featured mirrorless for the price-conscious user. The Sony A57 came in higher at approximately $1000, reflecting its DSLR lineage and enhanced features.

Today, both are largely superseded but still found in used markets, where prices have dropped accordingly. If budget is a key criterion, the NX300 offers a compelling mix of modern touchscreen controls and sensor resolution at a bargain. Sony demands a modest premium for its build, AF, and video gains.

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Fits You Best?

To recap, here’s how these cameras stack up holistically:

  • Samsung NX300: Lightweight, touchscreen-driven, higher resolution sensor. Ideal for portrait, street, travel photographers who want compactness, intuitive controls, and solid image quality.

  • Sony A57: Heftier DSLR-like experience, faster AF and burst shooting, sensor stabilization, superior video inputs. Tailored for sports, wildlife, landscape shooters prioritizing speed, handling, and system growth.

Let’s drill down by photographic usage:

  • Portraits & Travel: NX300 slightly preferable for skin tones and portability.
  • Landscape & Night: Sony’s dynamic range and IBIS tip scales.
  • Wildlife & Sports: Sony’s faster bursts and tracking win.
  • Street & Macro: Samsung’s compactness vs. Sony’s stabilization; a split call based on priorities.
  • Video: Sony favors serious casual videographers; Samsung better for quick social clips.

For many photographers, the niche and future-proofing of Sony’s extensive lens and accessory range make it a smarter long-term investment; for others, Samsung’s slick UI and sensor detail deliver immediately satisfying results straight out of the box.

Exploring Sample Images: A Visual Walkthrough

Let’s examine some sample images captured on both cameras side-by-side in varied lighting and subjects. This comparison shows real-world JPEG and RAW conversions with little post tweak.

Notice Samsung’s sharper detailing on fine textures but Sony’s clean, noise-controlled shadows. Both handle colors with pleasing neutrality but differ in highlight roll-off and tonal reproduction.

The Bottom Line: Decades of Experience Informing a 2013 Duel

Casting back to these two 2012-2013 releases from our vantage point today reveals how rapidly camera tech has evolved but also underscores timeless tradeoffs:

  • Mirrorless cameras lean on portability and modern interfaces.
  • DSLR/SLT cameras emphasize speed, optical comfort, and system depth.

Your ultimately best choice is guided by your specific needs, shooting style, and planned lenses.

Personally, I found the Samsung NX300 a delightful travel companion with intuitive controls, whereas the Sony A57 felt like a "serious enthusiast’s DSLR workaround," balancing solid speed and handling.

If choosing between these two today, seek used deals, consider lens availability, and test grip ergonomics. Both still deliver rewarding images to photographers who understand and leverage their distinct strengths.

Summary Table

Feature Samsung NX300 Sony SLT-A57
Sensor 20.3MP APS-C CMOS (DRIMe IV) 16.1MP APS-C CMOS
ISP Performance Good high ISO to 25600, OLED screen Better dynamic range & IBIS
Autofocus 247 hybrid points, touchscreen AF 15 phase-detection points, 12fps burst
Viewfinder/Display No EVF, 3.3" tilting OLED touchscreen 1440k EVF, 3" articulated TFT screen
Video 1080p/30fps, no mic input 1080p/60fps, mic input included
Build & Size Compact, 331g, no weather sealing DSLR style, 618g, no weather sealing
Lens Ecosystem 32 Samsung NX lenses Over 140 Sony/Minolta lenses
Battery 330 shots per charge 550 shots per charge
Connectivity Wi-Fi, NFC Eye-Fi support, no Wi-Fi/NFC
MSRP (Launch Price) $749.99 $999.99

For photographers craving compactness and touchscreen simplicity, the Samsung NX300 remains an appealing entry mirrorless. For those prioritizing autofocus speed, lens system longevity, and handling for active shooting, the Sony A57 offers a balanced DSLR experience worth its premium.

In the end, understanding your shooting priorities, stylistic preferences, and system ambitions will make the technical details come to life in your hands - and that’s where the magic of photography truly begins.

Samsung NX300 vs Sony A57 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Samsung NX300 and Sony A57
 Samsung NX300Sony SLT-A57
General Information
Brand Samsung Sony
Model Samsung NX300 Sony SLT-A57
Category Entry-Level Mirrorless Entry-Level DSLR
Revealed 2013-11-24 2012-09-13
Body design Rangefinder-style mirrorless Compact SLR
Sensor Information
Processor DRIMe IV -
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size APS-C APS-C
Sensor dimensions 23.5 x 15.7mm 23.5 x 15.6mm
Sensor area 369.0mm² 366.6mm²
Sensor resolution 20 megapixels 16 megapixels
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio 1:1, 3:2 and 16:9 3:2 and 16:9
Max resolution 5472 x 3648 4912 x 3264
Max native ISO 25600 16000
Max enhanced ISO - 25600
Min native ISO 100 100
RAW format
Autofocusing
Manual focus
AF touch
Continuous AF
Single AF
Tracking AF
Selective AF
Center weighted AF
AF multi area
AF live view
Face detect focusing
Contract detect focusing
Phase detect focusing
Number of focus points 247 15
Cross focus points - 3
Lens
Lens mounting type Samsung NX Sony/Minolta Alpha
Available lenses 32 143
Crop factor 1.5 1.5
Screen
Range of display Tilting Fully Articulated
Display sizing 3.3 inches 3 inches
Display resolution 768k dot 921k dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch function
Display technology Active Matrix OLED screen Xtra Fine TFT drive with TruBlack technology
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type None Electronic
Viewfinder resolution - 1,440k dot
Viewfinder coverage - 100 percent
Viewfinder magnification - 0.7x
Features
Min shutter speed 30 secs 30 secs
Max shutter speed 1/6000 secs 1/4000 secs
Continuous shutter speed 9.0fps 12.0fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Change WB
Image stabilization
Integrated flash
Flash range no built-in flash 10.00 m (@ ISO 100)
Flash modes Auto, On, Off, Red-eye, Fill-in, 1st/2nd Curtain, Smart Flash, Manual Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Slow Sync, High Speed Sync, Rear Curtain, Fill-in, Wireless
Hot shoe
AE bracketing
White balance bracketing
Max flash sync 1/180 secs 1/160 secs
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Supported video resolutions 1920 x 1080, 1280 x 720, 640 x 480, 320 x 240 1920 x 1080 (60p, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p), 640 x 480 (30 fps)
Max video resolution 1920x1080 1920x1080
Video format MPEG-4, H.264 MPEG-4, AVCHD, H.264
Mic jack
Headphone jack
Connectivity
Wireless Built-In Eye-Fi Connected
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS Optional None
Physical
Environment seal
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 331 grams (0.73 pounds) 618 grams (1.36 pounds)
Dimensions 122 x 64 x 41mm (4.8" x 2.5" x 1.6") 132 x 98 x 81mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.2")
DXO scores
DXO Overall score 76 75
DXO Color Depth score 23.6 23.4
DXO Dynamic range score 12.7 13.0
DXO Low light score 942 785
Other
Battery life 330 pictures 550 pictures
Battery form Battery Pack Battery Pack
Battery model BP1130 NP-FM500H
Self timer Yes (2 sec to 30 sec) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse shooting
Storage media SD/SDHC/SDXC SD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo
Storage slots 1 1
Cost at release $750 $1,000