Samsung PL170 vs Sony NEX-6: A Hands-On, Expert Comparison for Every Photographer’s Needs

Choosing a camera that truly fits your creative vision and shooting style can be overwhelming, especially when the options come from two very different categories: the ultracompact Samsung PL170 and the advanced mirrorless Sony NEX-6. Both cameras were notable in their time, designed for distinct user groups - casual shooters seeking portability versus enthusiasts craving manual control and image quality.

Having tested thousands of cameras over 15 years, we know how crucial it is to go beyond specs. In this deep dive, we’ll explore everything from sensor and autofocus technology to real-world handling, image quality, and workflow. Our goal is to help you find the camera best suited to your photography ambitions, whether you're a beginner, enthusiast, or pro.

Quick Overview: Compact Convenience vs Mirrorless Flexibility

Before we get technical, here’s a brief snapshot comparison:

Right off the bat, you can tell the Samsung PL170 is designed for ease of use and portability, while the Sony NEX-6 offers more professional-grade features suited for creative control.

Size, Ergonomics & Handling: How the Cameras Feel in Your Hands

Let’s start with the bodies. Ergonomics heavily influence your shooting experience, especially in fields like street or wildlife photography where quick access and comfort matter.

• Samsung PL170: Ultra-compact and pocketable, the PL170 is essentially a simple point-and-shoot. At just 95 x 57 x 19 mm, it slides easily into your pocket or small bag. Its minimal physical controls suit casual shooting but offer limited customization. Lightweight and tucked grip mean it doesn’t provide much stability for longer sessions or heavier lenses - though lenses are fixed here anyway.

• Sony NEX-6: With dimensions of 120 x 67 x 43 mm and a weight of 345 grams, the NEX-6 feels substantial but still compact for a mirrorless. The textured grip is firm and the button layout is designed to give you access to key settings without fumbling. Though not as small as point-and-shoots, its build strikes a solid balance between portability and usability for extended use.

Looking at the control layout, the NEX-6 shines. It has dials for shutter speed and aperture, an exposure compensation dial, and dedicated buttons for playback, function menu, and video, making it intuitive for manual shooting. The PL170 lacks these controls, focusing on automation - great for snapshots but limiting for creative workflows.

Sensor & Image Quality: The Heart of Photography Performance

The sensor size and technology are pivotal for image quality, low light capability, and depth of field control.

• Samsung PL170: Uses a 1/2.3" CCD sensor measuring only 6.08 x 4.56 mm, common among compact cameras. While offering 16 megapixels is impressive on paper, the small sensor struggles with noise beyond ISO 400 and has limited dynamic range. CCD sensors tend to render colors with decent vibrancy but lack the flexibility and noise control found in modern CMOS sensors. The fixed lens provides a 5.9x focal length multiplier, roughly equating to a moderate zoom lens on full-frame terms.

• Sony NEX-6: Houses a 23.5 x 15.6 mm APS-C CMOS sensor, more than ten times the surface area of the PL170’s sensor. This translates into superior image quality, especially in low-light conditions and high ISO settings up to 25600. The NEX-6 also benefits from Sony’s renowned Bionz image processor, maintaining excellent detail preservation, color accuracy, and dynamic range (rated 13.1 EV at base ISO by DxO Mark). The camera supports raw capture, giving you maximum post-processing flexibility.

In practical use, the NEX-6 delivers crisp images with well-controlled noise and wide tonal gradations, particularly beneficial for portraits and landscapes. The PL170 is sufficient for casual snaps but won’t produce professional-grade results or flexible editing files.

Viewing Your Shots: LCD Screens and Viewfinders Compared

An effective display system enables precise composing and reviewing images in diverse conditions.

• Samsung PL170: Features a 3-inch 230k dot fixed LCD. While the size is standard, the low resolution limits clarity, making it tricky to judge sharpness or fine details, especially outdoors under bright sunlight. The absence of any viewfinder means reliance on the screen alone.

• Sony NEX-6: Offers a 3-inch tilting "Xtra Fine LCD" with 921k dots, a noticeable improvement in clarity and flexibility. The tilt mechanism supports creative shooting angles, like low or high perspectives, beneficial for street and macro photography. Adding to that, its 2359-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 100% coverage provides a bright, crystal-clear framing experience, particularly useful in bright outdoor settings or when you want a steady hold.

The ergonomics of an EVF make the NEX-6 a clear winner for serious shooters, while the PL170’s approach fits spontaneous casual photography.

Autofocus and Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus (AF) performance affects how well your camera captures sharp images in dynamic scenarios.

• Samsung PL170: The PL170 doesn’t offer continuous or face-detection autofocus. Its AF system relies on contrast detection, which can be slow and less reliable outdoors or in low contrast situations. Without multiple focus points or tracking capabilities, the subject acquisition is simple but basic.

• Sony NEX-6: Boasts a hybrid AF system combining contrast and phase detection with 99 focus points. It delivers quick, accurate autofocus even for moving subjects. Features like face detection and AF live view help lock focus on human subjects, invaluable for portrait and event photography. Continuous AF supports burst shooting at 10 frames per second, making it excellent for wildlife and sports action.

The NEX-6’s autofocus system significantly outperforms the PL170, lending itself to more versatile shooting conditions.

Comprehensive Feature and Specifications Table

How Do They Perform Across Photography Genres?

Let’s evaluate how each camera fares for various styles based on hands-on tests and detailed analysis.

1. Portrait Photography

• Samsung PL170: Lacks face detection and manual aperture control, so controlling background blur or skin tone rendition is limited. The small sensor restricts shallow depth of field, resulting in flat backgrounds. Color reproduction is decent thanks to the CCD sensor but can appear less natural under varied lighting.

• Sony NEX-6: Shines with accurate face detection autofocus and 99 focus points that allow precise subject isolation. The APS-C sensor enables better bokeh with fast prime lenses. Supports manual exposure, letting you fine-tune skin tones and lighting. Higher resolution and raw support benefit post-processing for professional portraits.

2. Landscape Photography

• Samsung PL170: The limited dynamic range and small sensor make it hard to capture high contrast scenes like skies without clipping highlights or losing shadow detail.

• Sony NEX-6: Wide dynamic range and higher resolution give you expansive image files suitable for large prints. Interchangeable lenses offer wide-angle options. Although lacking official weather sealing, the NEX-6’s robust build allows for cautious outdoor use.

3. Wildlife Photography

• Samsung PL170: No burst mode or fast AF means missing action shots. Fixed zoom lens limits reach and image quality at maximum focal length.

• Sony NEX-6: Fast continuous shooting (10 fps) and hybrid AF give you an edge for capturing moving animals. Access to long telephoto E-mount lenses broadens your creative scope. The crop factor of 1.5x helps extend telephoto range.

4. Sports Photography

• Samsung PL170: Insufficient features for sports; slow AF and no continuous shooting make it tough to capture fast movements.

• Sony NEX-6: Ideal for amateur sports photographers with its fast burst rate, reliable AF, and manual controls to adapt to varying light and action.

5. Street Photography

• Samsung PL170: Ultra-compact size and lightweight body make it discreet and easy for casual street snaps. However, the slow focusing and small sensor limit creative control.

• Sony NEX-6: More noticeable but offers fast, silent operation, tilting screen for discreet low/hip-level shooting, and superior image quality. Without weather sealing, wary photographers should avoid harsh weather.

6. Macro Photography

• Samsung PL170: No manual focus or focus stacking options, fixed lens limits macro capabilities despite some close focus function.

• Sony NEX-6: With compatible macro lenses and manual focus, plus high resolution, it excels in macro photography. Use of focus peaking (available on Sony systems) assists precision focusing.

7. Night and Astro Photography

• Samsung PL170: Limited ISO sensitivity and high noise at max ISO prevent clean night images.

• Sony NEX-6: High native ISO and raw shooting enable quality long exposure and astrophotography. External intervalometer or apps enhance timelapse recordings.

8. Video Capabilities

• Samsung PL170: HD (720p) video is basic, with no advanced controls or external microphone options.

• Sony NEX-6: Full HD video at 60 fps with various recording formats. No mic port limits sound quality options, though external microphones require adapters. Lacks in-body stabilization but digital stabilization and steady lenses mitigate this.

9. Travel Photography

• Samsung PL170: Its pocket-friendly size and lightweight design appeal to travelers wanting hassle-free shooting.

• Sony NEX-6: Combines compactness with versatility. The size and weight are manageable for travel, but carrying extra lenses adds bulk. Excellent image quality justifies it for serious travel photographers.

10. Professional Workflows

• Samsung PL170: No raw support or manual control limits professional usage, mostly suited for casual documentation.

• Sony NEX-6: Supports raw files, allows manual control, integrates with standard tethering and post-processing software, and offers Wi-Fi connectivity for fast sharing - making it a capable tool for professionals or advanced enthusiasts.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

• Samsung PL170: Battery life details are scarce; typical point-and-shoot batteries provide moderate usage time. No wireless features or USB port hampers workflow efficiency. Storage uses a single slot; type unspecified.

• Sony NEX-6: Rated at about 360 shots per charge with its NP-FW50 battery - a solid performance for a mirrorless. Supports SD/SDHC/SDXC and Sony Memory Stick Pro Duo cards. Built-in Wi-Fi enhances transfer options. USB 2.0 and mini HDMI ports provide versatile connectivity.

Build Quality & Durability

Neither camera offers environmental sealing or ruggedized construction. The PL170's plastic body is light but less durable, suitable for gentle use. The NEX-6 has a more robust build but requires caution in adverse conditions.

Price-to-Performance Perspective

When originally released, the Samsung PL170 was priced around $175, targeting budget-conscious consumers needing a no-frills compact camera. The Sony NEX-6’s ~$365 price (at launch) positioned it as an affordable entry into advanced mirrorless photography.

Today, the performance gap is stark: the NEX-6 delivers superior image quality, control, and versatility for roughly double the initial price, offering far more value to those investing in their photographic journey.

Seeing the Cameras in Action: Sample Images

Samsung PL170 front Samsung PL170 screen back Sony NEX 6 front Sony NEX 6 screen back

Notice the depth and tonal range in portraits and landscapes shot with the NEX-6, contrasting with the more limited dynamic range and softness visible in the PL170’s images. Low light performance on the NEX-6 clearly outpaces the compact.

Overall Performance Ratings

The NEX-6 scores high for image quality, control, and features, while the PL170 scores modestly, reflecting its beginner-friendly but limited scope.

Specialized Performance Breakdown by Photography Type

The NEX-6 excels in genres demanding speed, quality, and control, while the PL170 is confined to casual snapshots or travel convenience.

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Should You Choose?

• Choose the Samsung PL170 if:

  • You want a simple, ultra-compact camera that slides into your pocket.
  • You prioritize casual snapshots or travel convenience.
  • You’re not concerned with manual controls, raw files, or interchangeable lenses.
  • Your budget is very limited.

• Choose the Sony NEX-6 if:

  • You seek substantial image quality improvements and creative control.
  • You want interchangeable lenses to tailor your photography.
  • You shoot diverse genres: portraits, landscapes, wildlife, street, and video.
  • You’re diving into serious photography or videography, requiring raw format and manual exposure modes.
  • You value quick autofocus, high burst rates, and an electronic viewfinder.

Getting Started and Next Steps

If you’re leaning towards the Sony NEX-6, we recommend exploring the excellent Sony E-mount lens lineup - start with a versatile 16-50mm kit lens and consider adding primes for portraits and macros. Getting familiar with manual exposure and raw post-processing will maximize this camera’s potential.

For the Samsung PL170, embrace its plug-and-play philosophy: point, shoot, and enjoy easy photo sharing. It’s a camera to introduce you to photography without overwhelm.

Summary

While the Samsung PL170 offers casual photographers an accessible, lightweight device for snapshots, the Sony NEX-6 stands as a clear leap forward in imaging technology and creative flexibility. From sensor size to autofocus sophistication, manual controls, and connectivity, the NEX-6 is a compelling choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Consider your photographic goals, budget, and desired level of control. For creative freedom and long-term growth, the Sony NEX-6 is an investment worth exploring. For straightforward, grab-and-go photography, the Samsung PL170 remains a reasonable, economical option, albeit one that will eventually limit your creative aspirations.

Photography is a journey - starting with the right gear tailored to your needs will make the difference. We encourage you to try these cameras hands-on if possible and explore how each aligns with your creative vision. Happy shooting!

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