Samsung NX500 vs Sony HX100V: A Comprehensive Hands-On Comparison for Photographers

When you set out to buy a camera these days, the options span from all-in-one superzooms to compact mirrorless models with large sensors. The Samsung NX500 and Sony HX100V come from very different sides of this spectrum - one a sleek, high-resolution APS-C mirrorless system, the other a venerable bridge camera with a monstrous 30x superzoom. Both appeal to enthusiasts but suit very different photographic aspirations and styles. After extensive hands-on evaluation and testing, here’s my detailed, experience-driven comparison.

Understanding the Camera Families: Mirrorless APS-C vs. Bridge Superzoom

Before diving deep, it’s critical to appreciate what these two cameras represent in 2024’s camera landscape.

The Samsung NX500 is a rangefinder-style mirrorless system camera featuring a large APS-C sensor (23.5x15.7mm). Launched in early 2015, it targets photographers who want image quality and control close to DSLRs but in a compact form factor.

The Sony HX100V, introduced back in 2011, is a classic bridge camera - essentially a superzoom with a fixed 30x zoom lens covering an equivalent of 27-810mm. It has a tiny 1/2.3” sensor (6.17x4.55mm), trading sensor size for zoom versatility and all-in-one convenience.

So, the NX500 leans toward serious imaging with mirrorless lens flexibility, while the HX100V aims at casual to enthusiast shooters prioritizing reach and convenience.

Handling, Ergonomics, and Design

How the camera feels in your hand affects every photo session - from travel logs to intense wildlife chases.

The NX500’s rangefinder-inspired body is impressively compact and light at just 287g. Its minimalist design includes a 3.0-inch tilting touchscreen LCD with 1,036k-dot resolution, making framing and reviewing tactile and intuitive. Though it lacks an electronic viewfinder (EVF), and dedicated joystick for focusing, the touch AF and face detection help compensate.

In contrast, the Sony HX100V tips the scales at a chunkier 577g with a traditional DSLR-style build and a substantial grip. It sports a 3-inch tilting XtraFine LCD (921k dots) and a built-in electronic viewfinder, useful in bright light but with modest resolution by modern standards. Controls are plentiful but less refined compared to mirrorless.

I find the NX500 more pocketable and nimble - great if you prioritize light travel and quick setup. The HX100V feels more robust and familiar to DSLR users but bulky after extended use.

Sensor Performance: Big APS-C vs. Small 1/2.3” Sensor

The heart of any camera is its sensor, dictating image quality, dynamic range, low-light ability, and flexibility in post-processing.

Samsung NX500 Sensor Insights

• Size: APS-C (23.5x15.7mm), about 369 mm² sensor area
• Resolution: 28MP without anti-aliasing filter, max image size 6480x4320 pixels
• Sensor tech: Back-illuminated CMOS for improved light gathering
• ISO range: Native 100–25600, boost up to 51200
• DxOMark Overall: 87 (excellent image quality)
• Color Depth: 24.8 bits (great color fidelity)
• Dynamic Range: 13.9 EV (excellent for landscapes and high contrast scenes)
• Low light score: ISO 1379 equivalent (very good noise control)

The large, high-res sensor of the NX500 enables exquisite detail, superb tonality, and excellent performance in challenging lighting conditions. The absence of an AA filter serves to maximize sharpness at the risk of occasional moiré, which careful shooting mitigates.

Sony HX100V Sensor Notes

• Size: 1/2.3” (6.17x4.55mm), 28 mm² sensor area
• Resolution: 16MP, max image size 4608x3456 pixels
• Sensor tech: BSI-CMOS with anti-aliasing filter
• ISO: 100–3200 native
• DxOMark: Not tested (but expected modest due to small sensor)

The tiny sensor in the HX100V limits high ISO use and dynamic range, making it more suitable for brightly lit or well-controlled environments. It benefits from the fixed zoom lens’ optical stabilization but struggles in low light or high-contrast settings relative to the NX500.

Autofocus System: Precision vs. Reach

Autofocus (AF) performance determines your success at freezing moments and capturing sharp images, particularly in fast-paced scenarios.

The Samsung NX500 has a hybrid AF system combining phase-detection and contrast-detection AF with 209 focus points covering a large portion of the frame. It offers:

• Face detection and tracking (useful for portraits and travel)
• Touchscreen AF point selection for swift focusing
• Continuous AF for moving subjects
• Eye AF not available but solid continuous AF overall
• Contrast-detect highlighting in live view for accurate manual focus

On the Sony HX100V, the AF system is contrast-detection only, with just 9 focus points and no face or eye detection:

• Single AF only; no continuous tracking
• Slower, less accurate AF, especially in dim light or at telephoto zoom end
• Manual focus possible but unwieldy on slow lens response

For wildlife and sports, you’ll appreciate the NX500’s superior AF responsiveness and accuracy. The HX100V, though faster to frame thanks to the built-in zoom, struggles with speed and focus acquisition on fast subjects.

Image Stabilization: Optical Advantage in HX100V

Neither camera has in-body image stabilization (IBIS). The Samsung NX500 does not support built-in stabilization - you rely on stabilized lenses where available.

The Sony HX100V features optical image stabilization built into its lens assembly, critical for handheld shots at its extreme 30x zoom reach (equivalent 810mm). This stabilization considerably reduces blur from handshake during telephoto shots.

So, for handheld long-zoom photography, the HX100V has a notable advantage, though image quality at those focal lengths is limited by the small sensor.

Lens Ecosystem and Flexibility

Lens availability is a massive consideration, of course.

The Samsung NX500 uses the Samsung NX lens mount, supporting 32 native lenses from wide-angle primes to telephoto zooms with apertures as wide as f/1.4. The glass quality is generally very good to excellent, and you can access manual focus rings. Adapter options are limited but exist.

In contrast, the Sony HX100V has a non-interchangeable fixed lens covering 27-810mm (30x zoom range) at f/2.8-5.6 aperture.

The NX500’s system openness provides photographers room to grow creatively - landscapes, portraits, macro - whereas the HX100V’s fixed system is more a “one lens fits most.”

For versatility and image quality priorities, I prefer the NX500’s lens system. For travel photography where you want an all-in-one solution with no lens swaps, the HX100V suffices.

Video Capabilities: 4K vs. Full HD

Video is a growing priority amongst photographers.

The Samsung NX500 impresses with 4K video recording, offering both UHD (3840x2160) at 30p and DCI 4K (4096x2160) at 24p, using highly efficient H.265 codec. It supports various frame rates in HD and Full HD modes including 60p/50p.

Unfortunately, the NX500 lacks external microphone and headphone ports, limiting sound recording quality and monitoring for videographers.

The Sony HX100V records only up to Full HD at 60fps, using AVCHD or MPEG-4 formats. No 4K, no external audio support.

While neither camera is ideal for serious video projects, NX500 offers more modern specs and better video quality for casual videographers or vloggers who can rely on its advanced codec and high resolution. The HX100V is more of an afterthought in video terms.

Display and User Interface

Both cameras have tilting LCDs ideal for low or high shooting angles.

The NX500’s 3.0-inch 1,036k dot touchscreen feels more responsive and bright, with simple menus optimized for touch navigation. I found touch AF and menu controls very handy, especially for quick setting changes in the field.

Sony’s 3-inch 921k dot screen on the HX100V is excellent for its era with TruBlack technology improving contrast. However, no touch input is available, requiring more button and dial navigation. Its electronic viewfinder compensates for bright outdoor usage but feels cramped for framing action.

My preference for everyday ease goes to the NX500’s touch-driven interface combined with a clean layout.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery life can be a travel or event-breaker.

• Samsung NX500: Rated for approximately 370 shots per charge with the BP1130 battery.
• Sony HX100V: Manufacturer states no official battery life figure, but NP-FH50 batteries generally run about 400 shots under mixed use.

Storage-wise:

• NX500 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards.
• HX100V supports SD cards plus Sony Memory Stick formats.

Both cameras have single card slots, standard for their classes.

Given real-world usage, the NX500’s battery might feel a bit limited especially when shooting 4K video or using Wi-Fi frequently. Carrying spares is essential. The HX100V’s non-touch interface and smaller sensor requirements seem to extend battery stamina slightly.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

In an increasingly connected world, wireless options matter.

• NX500 features built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC - allowing easy image transfer, remote control, and quick sharing. This is impressive for a camera of its vintage.
• HX100V includes Eye-Fi card support (wireless SD cards) and built-in GPS, useful for geotagging photos. However, it lacks Bluetooth, NFC, or modern Wi-Fi.

The NX500’s wireless stack feels more future-proof and user-friendly in a mobile workflow context.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Disciplines

Time now to assess how each camera performs in popular genres - with recommendations based on my experience and testing data.

Portrait Photography

The Samsung NX500’s large APS-C sensor delivers beautifully smooth skin tones, shallow depth-of-field bokeh with fast lenses, and solid face detection autofocus. Manual focus precision aids creative control too.

The HX100V’s small sensor and slower lens fall short in subject separation, producing flatter backgrounds. Autofocus is slower with no face or eye AF support. Best for casual snapshots rather than dedicated portraiture.

Winner: NX500 for professional and artistic portraits.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range and resolution are critical here.

The NX500 shines with its 28MP sensor, excellent color depth, and 13.9 EV DR, capturing wide tonal ranges and enormous detail.

HX100V’s sensor struggles with noise at base ISO and small sensor limits subtle grads. Its lens versatility is less important here.

Environmental sealing: Neither camera is weather resistant, so you’ll need care in the field.

Winner: NX500 reliably captures stunning landscapes with depth and detail.

Wildlife Photography

Fast autofocus, zoom reach, and burst rates are essential.

• NX500: Fast continuous shooting (9fps), hybrid autofocus tracking, and access to long telephoto lenses.
• HX100V: Longer built-in zoom reach (810mm equiv) with optical stabilization, 10fps burst rate but slower AF.

The HX100V’s fixed telephoto reach gives it a surprise edge for casual wildlife where portability and zoom matter more than ultimate image quality. However, the NX500’s better AF tracking suits active subjects and scenes needing cropping for detail.

Winner: NX500 for quality and AF, HX100V for extended casual zoom reach.

Sports Photography

Tracking accuracy and low light handling govern success.

With the NX500’s hybrid phase-detection AF and high frame rates, it performs well under moderate indoor lighting. Lack of EVF may hamstring some action shooters.

The HX100V is hampered by contrast-detect AF and lower max shutter speed (1/4000s vs. 1/6000s on NX500), resulting in miss-focused shots and motion blur in dynamic scenes.

Winner: NX500 for most active sports shooting.

Street Photography

Portability, discretion, and quick focusing win here.

The NX500’s compact design and silent electronic shutter make it excellent in candid scenarios. Touchscreen AF speeds framing.

The HX100V’s size and bulk, along with louder zoom lens operation, may hinder discretion. Its longer zoom can be a blessing in some street situations, though.

Winner: NX500 for inconspicuous shooting and quick, sharp captures.

Macro Photography

Requires focusing precision and sometimes specialized lenses.

NX500 benefits from compatible macro glass and precise AF/manual focus options.

HX100V offers macro mode but limited by sensor and optical quality.

Winner: NX500 for controlled macro with suitable glass.

Night and Astro Photography

NX500’s high ISO performance and long exposures (up to 30s) enable star and night shots.

HX100V struggles beyond ISO 400 and lacks bulb exposures, limiting astrophotography.

Winner: NX500 by a large margin.

Video Shooting

See earlier section; NX500’s 4K and advanced codec versus HX100V’s 1080p only.

Travel Photography

The HX100V’s all-in-one zoom appeal competes against the NX500’s compactness plus lens flexibility.

If you desire light weight and image quality prioritization with occasional telephoto, pick NX500.

If you want fewer lens swaps and longer reach on the go, HX100V will appeal more, especially at lower price.

Professional Use

The NX500’s RAW support, wide lens base, modern codec and wireless support better suit professional workflows.

HX100V’s limitations restrict professional viability to casual usage or backup camera.

Final Overall Performance and Scores

The NX500 scores high marks across image quality, autofocus, and video capability categories. The HX100V shows respectable optical zoom convenience but trails off in core technically demanding areas.

Genre-Specific Scores: Where Each Camera Excels

Clear takeaways emerge:

• NX500 best for portrait, landscape, sports, night, and pro use.
• HX100V best in casual superzoom travel and wildlife (low demand).
• Users desiring 4K video should prefer NX500.

Price and Value Assessment

At launch, NX500 retailed around $800 with body only and lens kits higher. It remains an excellent value on the used market given its capabilities.

HX100V, as a bridge camera launched nearly a decade earlier, costs half at $429 new (when available) or less used. For buyers on tighter budgets, it provides more zoom versatility in a single package, making it an attractive choice.

Summary: Which Camera Should You Choose?

• Choose the Samsung NX500 if:

  • You prioritize high image quality, APS-C sensor benefits, and modern video.
  • You want flexibility from interchangeable lenses.
  • You need hybrid, fast autofocus for wildlife or sports.
  • You desire a compact, travel-friendly mirrorless experience.
  • You want wireless connectivity with Bluetooth and NFC.

• Choose the Sony HX100V if:

  • You desire one camera with a massive 30x zoom lens for casual travel or wildlife.
  • You’re on a more limited budget and want convenience over image quality below.
  • You prefer an electronic viewfinder and DSLR-style handling.
  • You don’t mind sacrificing sensor quality and modern video.

Closing Thoughts

Neither camera is perfect, but both bring unique strengths uniquely suited to different photographic ambitions. As someone who’s tested thousands of cameras, I appreciate just how much the Samsung NX500 punches above its entry-level mirrorless class - it delivers an image quality and feature set competitive with cameras far newer in release date.

On the other hand, the Sony HX100V stands the test of time as a compact superzoom tool, especially appealing if you want vast focal range in one body.

Ultimately, your decision will turn on your priorities: image quality and lens flexibility, or zoom range and all-in-one convenience.

I hope my combined technical expertise and practical testing experience here help you confidently make that choice. Happy shooting!

If you want to see sample captures and more image comparisons from both cameras in the field, check out the gallery below.