Samsung NX5 vs. Sony RX10 IV: A Hands-On Comparison for the Discerning Photographer

Choosing a camera often boils down to matching your photographic ambitions with the right tool. Today, I’m putting two very different beasts head-to-head: the entry-level Samsung NX5 mirrorless from 2010 against the 2017 flagship Sony RX10 IV large sensor superzoom bridge camera. One’s a compact APS-C mirrorless designed to usher beginners into DSLR-style shooting, the other a hefty all-in-one powerhouse aimed at enthusiasts craving versatility and pro-grade features in a single body.

Having spent hundreds of hours with both cameras, testing them in real-world scenarios ranging from wildlife safaris to low-light street hunts, I’ll break down how each performs across typical photography genres and technical criteria. This isn’t just specs on paper - I’ll share practical insights and personal impressions that only experience can yield.

Let’s start with the physical footprint and handling, important factors for any photographer spending extended periods behind the camera.

Size, Build, and Ergonomics: The Feel of the Cameras in Your Hands

Side by side, the Samsung NX5 is compact and light, tipping the scales at 499g with dimensions 123x87x40mm. It feels like a true entry-level mirrorless designed to be approachable and portable. The SLR-style body offers decent grip for smaller hands but lacks deep thumb rests or pronounced contours for extended use. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to slip into a small bag or even a large coat pocket.

In contrast, the Sony RX10 IV is nearly double the weight at 1095g and bulkier with its bridge camera profile (133x94x145mm). It’s built with enthusiast-level handling in mind - comfortably ergonomic with a significant handgrip, well-placed buttons, and a commanding presence. This heft helps with stability during long telephoto shots, especially important given its 24-600mm lens.

Looking at the control layouts, the Samsung NX5’s interface is rather minimalistic, with basic button clusters and no illuminated controls. The Sony RX10 IV impresses with a top-status screen and more customizable buttons, allowing quick access to frequently used settings - something that speeds up workflows when shooting fast-paced subjects.

While the NX5 offers a simple user interface suitable for learning photographers, the RX10 IV provides an enthusiast-friendly setup that won’t slow you down once you’re familiar with its rich feature set.

Sensor and Image Quality: Getting to the Heart of the Image

The heart of any camera lies in its sensor and processing engine - defining image fidelity, dynamic range, and noise control.

Samsung’s NX5 uses a 15MP APS-C CMOS sensor measuring 23.4x15.6mm, a decent-sized sensor for its time, with an effective surface area of 365.04 mm². The sensor’s 1.5x crop factor allows for versatile lens choices via Samsung NX mount. However, being one of the early mirrorless cameras, its output - while respectable - lags behind modern counterparts regarding noise handling and dynamic range.

The NX5’s DRIM engine processes images at a moderate pace, but low light shooting is capped by an ISO ceiling of 3200 with noticeable noise starting around ISO 800. RAW support gives flexibility in post-processing, though dynamic range is limited compared to higher-end models.

On the other hand, Sony’s RX10 IV sports a smaller 1-inch (13.2x8.8mm) backside-illuminated CMOS sensor with 20MP resolution (depth of 5472x3648). Although physically smaller than the NX5’s sensor (116.16 mm² surface area), the RX10 IV’s BSI technology compensates remarkably for sensor size through improved light-gathering efficiency and noise performance.

This sensor allows the RX10 IV to push native ISO up to 12800 - with usable results beyond - and offers wide aspect ratio options (1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9). Its Bionz X processor maintains image quality with smooth gradations and rich color rendering.

For pure image quality, the NX5’s APS-C sensor holds an advantage in resolution and native dynamic range, but in real-world shooting, the RX10 IV’s optimized sensor and processing pipeline often outperform it in challenging lighting conditions due to superior noise control and sharpening algorithms.

The Visual Experience: Viewfinder and LCD Screen Performance

Looking through the lens and reviewing images is a critical user experience. The NX5 offers a modest electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage but no resolution information listed; it has a magnification of 0.57x. Its fixed 3-inch OLED screen, though only 230k pixels, produces vibrant colors with decent contrast but lacks touch input, hindering quick menu navigation.

Alternatively, the RX10 IV boasts a high-resolution (2359k pixels) electronic viewfinder with excellent 100% coverage and 0.7x magnification, providing a crisp and immersive shooting experience - the kind pro shooters expect. Its 3-inch tilting screen sports a sharp 1440k resolution and a touchscreen interface, making composition and touch-focus intuitive.

The RX10 IV’s interface also benefits from more customization and faster responsiveness. NX5 users might find themselves missing touchscreen capabilities and the higher pixel density when examining fine photo details or shooting in bright daylight.

Autofocus Systems: Accuracy, Speed, and Subject Tracking

Autofocus performance can make or break your shooting experience, especially in fast-moving subjects like wildlife or sports.

The Samsung NX5 employs a contrast-detection only autofocus system with 15 selection points but lacks phase-detection sensors. It supports face detection but no eye or animal eye AF, and there is no continuous AF tracking capability beyond basic live view autofocus. This system performs adequately in controlled environments like studio portraits or static subjects but struggles once motion increases.

Conversely, the Sony RX10 IV utilizes a sophisticated hybrid autofocus system incorporating 315 phase-detection points paired with contrast detection. It features impressive subject tracking, including eye detection for humans and animals, delivering consistent AF acquisition and maintenance in challenging scenarios. Continuous AF tracking at up to 24fps burst speed makes it ideal for wildlife and sports photography.

In my tests shooting birds in flight and indoor basketball games, the RX10 IV’s AF rarely faltered, locking and maintaining focus with impressive precision - even in lower light. The NX5, by comparison, missed focus on many quick shots and required manual intervention more often.

Lens Ecosystem and Optical Flexibility

Lens choice fundamentally shapes a photographer’s creative possibilities.

Samsung NX5 uses the Samsung NX mount, which offers a modest selection of 32 lenses ranging from wide-angle primes to telephoto zooms. While the selection covers basics well, including macro options, this mount ecosystem is limited compared to the industry leaders - and Samsung’s camera division is no longer active, meaning no future lens releases.

The RX10 IV breaks from interchangeable lenses altogether, featuring an integrated 24-600mm equivalent zoom (25x optical magnification) with a fast aperture variable from f/2.4 to f/4.0. This type of bridge camera lens design offers extraordinary versatility - wide wide-angle to super-telephoto - without needing to carry lenses or change them mid-shoot. Its macro focusing capabilities extend to as close as 3cm, allowing detailed close-ups.

The RX10 IV lens is optically superb for a superzoom, with very good sharpness and controlled distortion throughout the range thanks to Sony’s advanced optics. Image stabilization is built-in - an enormous advantage when shooting at long focal lengths or in low light.

Where the NX5 requires additional purchases to cover focal lengths, the RX10 IV is a ready-to-go all-in-one solution.

Shooting Performance: Burst Speed, Stability, and Video

Samsung NX5 maxes out at 3 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting, suitable for casual bursts but insufficient for fast action capture. Its shutter speeds range from 30 sec to 1/4000 sec, and it has no silent or electronic shutter modes.

Sony RX10 IV dramatically ups the ante at 24 fps burst shooting with continuous autofocus and exposure adjustments - ideal for tight action and decisive moments. Its shutter runs from 30 sec down to an impressively fast 1/32000 sec electronic shutter, enabling high-speed photography and creative shutter effects without motion blur.

Image stabilization is absent on the NX5, meaning handheld shots at slower shutter speeds risk blur. The RX10 IV features optical stabilization that works brilliantly, compensating for camera shake even at the maximum zoom. This alone makes a huge difference in handheld usability.

On the video front, the NX5 caps out at 1280x720 (HD) at 30 fps with no microphone jack or headphone output - fine for casual clips but limited for serious video work.

The RX10 IV supports 4K UHD recording at up to 30p, Full HD up to 60p, and includes microphone and headphone jacks for audio monitoring - appealing to videographers and hybrid shooters. The presence of built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC connectivity facilitates on-the-go transfers and remote control.

Weather Sealing, Durability, and Battery Life

Weather sealing might not matter for some, but for landscape and outdoor photographers, it can be decisive.

Samsung NX5 lacks any form of weather sealing; it’s best kept dry and dust-free. Its plastic build feels adequate for casual use but less robust for tough environments.

Sony RX10 IV impresses with partial weather sealing - resistant to moisture and dust - that supports rigorous outdoor use, whether on a mountain trail or a rainy safari.

Battery life matches reasonably between the two at approximately 400 shots per charge, which is respectable but could be limiting for travel unless you carry spares.

Handling Varied Photography Genres: Strengths and Limitations in Practice

Let me walk you through how these cameras fare across different photographic disciplines, highlighting their core strengths and weaknesses.

Portrait Photography

Samsung NX5 benefits from a larger APS-C sensor ideal for creamy background blur, especially paired with fast lenses (though lens options are limited). Its face detection autofocus aids in achieving sharp portraits, but absence of eye AF and limited AF tracking reduce reliability with dynamic subjects.

Sony RX10 IV’s smaller sensor makes shallow depth of field harder, but its sharp lens and advanced AF - including eye and face detection - enable very sharp portraits. Background blur isn’t as smooth or strong as traditional primes, but sufficient for casual portraits.

If skin tone rendition and shallow bokeh are paramount, NX5 might hold subtle edge. If autofocus reliability and speed matter more, RX10 IV leads.

Landscape Photography

NX5’s APS-C sensor and higher resolution put it on good footing for landscape shooters prioritizing image quality. However, no weather sealing means vulnerability outdoors.

RX10 IV’s weather sealing and versatile lens zoom caters well to landscapes and traveling shooters reluctant to swap lenses. While the sensor is physically smaller, excellent image stabilization and dynamic range optimization deliver impressive results.

If you prioritize high resolution RAW files and larger sensor size, go NX5; if you prefer all-weather reliability and zoom flexibility, RX10 IV is better.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

NX5’s contrast-only AF and 3 fps burst limit usability for action photography. It can work with manual focus or risk slower AF acquisition.

RX10 IV’s blazing 24 fps burst, eye/animal AF, and extensive zoom lens make it exceptional for wildlife and sports. Its tracked focus rarely fails even in dense foliage or malevolent lighting.

No contest here - RX10 IV dominates this category hands down.

Street Photography

For unobtrusiveness, smaller size matters. NX5 is less intrusive and lighter, but its dials and buttons aren’t optimized for quick adjustments.

RX10 IV’s bulk is a challenge for street discretion, but its silent electronic shutter (up to 1/32000 sec) helps for candid shooting. Its touchscreen allows quick focus adjustments without fumbling.

Preference depends on your style - lightweight and simple (NX5) versus feature-rich and quick (RX10 IV).

Macro Photography

NX5 relies on compatible macro lenses, which are scarce but adequate.

RX10 IV’s lens comes with true macro focusing from 3cm, stabilized, and versatile for close-ups without extra gear - highly convenient.

Unless you prefer interchangeable glass, RX10 IV’s built-in macro flexibility impresses.

Night and Astrophotography

APS-C sensors generally fare better in long exposure and low noise.

NX5 maxes ISO 3200 but noise grows noticeably.

RX10 IV pushes ISO 12800 with manageable noise attributed to BSI sensor optimization and in-lens stabilization, enabling sharper hand-held night shots.

For deep-sky astrophotography, neither is ideal - both lack long exposure support and high ISO performance expected in specialized cameras. But for casual night scenes, RX10 IV’s higher ISO and burst electronic shutter give it a slight edge.

Video Capability

NX5’s HD video at 720p is outdated, no mic input means audio is locked in camera.

RX10 IV supports 4K recording, professional-level codecs, and microphone/headphone jacks - ideal for creators.

If video is secondary, NX5 suffices; for hybrid shooters, RX10 IV is much better.

Travel Photography

Here is where RX10 IV shines with its single all-purpose lens, robust build, and versatile features. Despite its weight, it reduces the need to carry multiple lenses.

NX5 wins on lighter weight and smaller size but loses points on versatility and durability.

Professional Use

Neither is a professional workhorse by today’s standards, but the RX10 IV edges closer with advanced AF systems, 4K video, and solid build.

NX5, being almost a decade older and entry-level, fits mostly casual workflows or learning stages.

Connectivity and Modern Conveniences

Connectivity is the unsung hero of today’s workflow.

NX5 offers only USB 2.0 and optional GPS - no built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

RX10 IV comes equipped with built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC, supporting remote smartphone control and instant image transfer, streamlining social media workflows or on-location client proofing.

Price vs Performance: What Do You Get for Your Money?

At launch, NX5 was about $499, making it an affordable gateway to mirrorless photography.

RX10 IV launched at a considerable premium near $1700, reflecting its professional feature set.

Today, if you’re on a tight budget seeking a basic APS-C mirrorless, a used NX5 might suffice. But if you want serious all-in-one performance that tackles multiple genres with aplomb, the RX10 IV justifies its price with a rich feature package and top-tier versatility.

Summary Ratings and Genre-Specific Scores

To give a quick snapshot, I’ve summarized their performance across disciplines with my hands-on scoring.

The RX10 IV substantially outperforms the NX5 in autofocus, burst rates, video, and all-around lens versatility. The NX5 remains competitive in pure image quality per pixel and handling for casual users.

Gallery: Real-world Image Comparisons

To close, here are sample shots from both cameras showing skin tone rendition, landscape detail, wildlife action, and low-light capabilities.

Samsung NX5 screen back Sony RX10 IV front Sony RX10 IV screen back

Notice the NX5’s sharper detail in broad daylight landscapes, contrasted with the RX10 IV’s cleaner high ISO performance. Animals in flight captured crisply on RX10 IV - something the NX5 struggled with.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Choose Which

If you want a lightweight, relatively affordable APS-C camera with interchangeable lenses for focused photography, the Samsung NX5 might still appeal - especially if you find it secondhand or on a tight budget. It’s a no-frills learning tool with decent image quality but limited by dated autofocus and video capabilities.

If you’re an enthusiast or hybrid shooter desiring absolute versatility, top autofocus, 4K video, built-in stabilization, and an all-in-one lens that spans wide-angle to extreme telephoto, the Sony RX10 IV is one of the most capable pocket superzoom options you’ll find despite its heft and price.

In my experience: For fast-moving action, wildlife, travel convenience, and video pursuits, the RX10 IV wins hands down. For entry-level portrait or landscape exploration without breaking the bank, the NX5 remains a respectable, charming choice - not without compromises.

As always, consider what matters most to your workflow and photographic ambitions. The right camera is the one you’ll enjoy using, day after day.

Thanks for reading - and happy shooting!