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Samsung ST150F vs Sigma fp

Portability
96
Imaging
39
Features
30
Overall
35
Samsung ST150F front
 
Sigma fp front
Portability
84
Imaging
75
Features
79
Overall
76

Samsung ST150F vs Sigma fp Key Specs

Samsung ST150F
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 100 - 3200
  • 1280 x 720 video
  • 25-125mm (F2.5-6.3) lens
  • 114g - 94 x 58 x 18mm
  • Launched January 2013
Sigma fp
(Full Review)
  • 25MP - Full frame Sensor
  • 3.2" Fixed Display
  • ISO 100 - 25600 (Raise to 102400)
  • 1/8000s Max Shutter
  • 3840 x 2160 video
  • Leica L Mount
  • 422g - 113 x 70 x 45mm
  • Announced July 2019
  • New Model is Sigma fp L
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Samsung ST150F vs Sigma fp: A Real-World Camera Showdown for Every Photographer

When you’re setting out to buy a camera, diving into specs lists is the easy part - making sense of what they mean in practice is where things get tricky. Having tested literally thousands of cameras across genres and use cases (yes, I count every bench trial and late-night shoot!), I’m excited to break down what you truly get with the Samsung ST150F and the Sigma fp. They’re from two very different worlds, yet each carries a unique appeal.

In this hands-on comparison, we'll peel back the layers on image quality, autofocus chops, body design, shooting versatility, and, of course, the crazy important price-to-performance balance. Whether you’re a crop-sensor cheapskate needing a pocketable point-and-shoot or a pro-hounded by clients hunting the ultimate tool, this article will lay out who these cameras serve best - and where they stumble.

Let’s dive in.

Size Matters: Pocketable Compact vs. Full-Frame Modular

First impressions count, and size alongside handling is one of the first they hit you with.

Samsung ST150F vs Sigma fp size comparison

The Samsung ST150F is a tiny marvel of portability. It measures a neat 94 x 58 x 18mm and weighs only 114 grams. This little compact slips effortlessly into your jacket pocket or even your palm. Perfect if you want a simple grab-and-go cam for casual outings, light travel, or social snaps. There's almost no bulk to worry about - a definite winner for street photographers or anyone who hates lugging gear.

On the flip side, the Sigma fp is a full-frame mirrorless beast by comparison. While it’s remarkably compact for a full-frame camera (113 x 70 x 45mm, 422 grams), it’s still no slouch in the pocket department. It demands a bit more commitment from your bag space, and its boxy rangefinder style means it's better suited for dedicated photography sessions than spur-of-the-moment snaps.

Samsung ST150F vs Sigma fp top view buttons comparison

Control layouts reveal further philosophical divides. The ST150F keeps things basic - minimal physical buttons, a lack of custom dials, and a more auto-focused user interface. It’s a straightforward point-and-shoot with no clubs for thumbs, designed for minimal fuss.

In contrast, the Sigma fp caters to experienced shooters with physical dials, manual exposure options, and shuttle controls - though it doesn’t have an integrated viewfinder, leaning on live view instead. This gives pros more tactile control and a familiar feel to DSLRs, but at the expense of a steep learning curve for rookies.

Sensor and Image Quality: Small Sensor vs. Full Frame Bragging Rights

This is where the rubber meets the road for photographers.

Samsung ST150F vs Sigma fp sensor size comparison

The Samsung ST150F comes equipped with a 1/2.3” CCD sensor - a common choice in compact cameras but significantly smaller than mirrorless and DSLR sensors. It captures 16 megapixels at a resolution of 4608 x 3456 pixels. This sensor size translates to limited dynamic range and higher noise at elevated ISOs but works adequately in bright, well-lit scenarios.

Sigma fp, on the other hand, packs a full-frame (35.9 x 23.9 mm) BSI-CMOS sensor delivering 25 megapixels at 6000 x 4000 resolution. The sensor area is over 30 times larger than Samsung’s tiny chip - meaning vastly improved image quality, better shallow depth of field control, and exceptional noise performance in low light.

In my experience, the Sigma fp produces files with richer color depth and wider tonal gradations, essential for landscape photographers craving detail in shadows and highlights, or portrait shooters chasing creamy skin tones and proper subject-background separation. The Samsung compact, while decent for snapshots, shows its age with muddier details and noise creeping in above ISO 800.

Screen and Interface: How You See Your Shots Matters

Shooting is about feedback, so screen technology and interface usability come next.

Samsung ST150F vs Sigma fp Screen and Viewfinder comparison

The ST150F sports a fixed 3” QVGA TFT LCD with only 230k dots - definitely on the basic, low-res end. This makes framing and reviewing images a bit of a guessing game in bright daylight, unless you find a shaded spot. There’s no touchscreen, so navigating menus can be slow and awkward.

The Sigma fp boasts a 3.2” 2100k-dot touchscreen LCD - a massive leap in clarity and responsiveness. Touch focusing and menu control are spot-on, letting you concentrate on your composition rather than fumbling with buttons. The interface feels modern and fluid - the kind of convenience that turns a good shooting session into a great one.

Autofocus: Critical for Getting the Shot, on the Move or Otherwise

Fast, accurate focus can make or break your day.

The Samsung’s autofocus system is basic contrast-detection only. There is face detection, center-weighted metering, and some form of AF tracking, but no phase-detection or animal eye AF, and certainly no continuous AF for moving subjects. Manual focus is absent, so if the camera misses the focus point, tough luck - you’re stuck with soft images. For portraits or static scenes in good light, it’s okay, but anything fast-moving or complex is a challenge.

Conversely, the Sigma fp offers 49 contrast-detection focus points with touch AF and support for continuous tracking. While it lacks traditional hybrid phase detection, their algorithm is surprisingly competent, especially for a mirrorless without PDAF. Single-shot AF is accurate, and face detection is reliable as well, though wildlife shooters may find it a bit wanting with no dedicated animal detection.

For sports or wildlife, neither camera is a beast, but the Sigma fp’s faster shutter and continuous AF (plus 12 fps burst) give it a clear advantage, particularly in challenging light.

Photography Discipline Breakdown: Who Excels Where?

Portrait Photography

Portraiture demands natural skin tones, creamy bokeh, and reliable eye detection.

  • Samsung ST150F: Because of the small sensor and limited aperture range (f/2.5 to f/6.3), backgrounds remain mostly in focus with minimal background blur, making subject isolation tough. Facial detection helps frame shots but manual control is lacking. Skin tones can be a bit washed out under harsh lights, as CCD sensors tend to skew color balance. Overall, a utilitarian tool for casual portraits.

  • Sigma fp: The full-frame sensor combined with Leica L-mount lens options means you have access to many fast primes capable of gorgeous bokeh and soft background separation. Color rendering is natural and detailed, and the camera’s face detection and touch AF provide solid eye focus, though it doesn’t have the latest AI enhancements. This is a camera built for serious portrait artisans.

Landscape Photography

Landscape shooters need dynamic range, resolution, and durability.

  • Samsung ST150F: Limited dynamic range due to the sensor size hampers shadow and highlight details. The 16MP resolution is acceptable for sharing online but tight cropping or large prints suffer. No weather sealing or environmental resistance means you can’t really trust this camera outdoors in bad weather. It’s mostly a quick-snap option for travel landscapes and daylight shots.

  • Sigma fp: Wide ISO range (100-25600 native, boosted to 102400) and full-frame capture deliver expansive dynamic range and fine detail retention in RAW files. The 25MP resolution balances file size and sharpness well. Build quality includes weather sealing to some extent, letting you take this beast out into less-than-ideal environments. It’s a natural choice for serious landscape enthusiasts.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Fast AF, high burst speeds, credible telephoto support, and good handling are key here.

  • Samsung ST150F: Shooting moving animals or sports is not its forte. Fixed lens zoom of 25-125mm (equivalent 5x) provides some reach but isn’t generous, especially given small sensor crop factors and lack of in-body stabilization. No continuous shooting rated, and AF is single shot only, meaning you miss action sequences. It’s fine for casual zoo visits but not beyond.

  • Sigma fp: Burst shooting at 12 fps, reasonable autofocus for the segment, and compatibility with L-mount super-telephoto lenses put the fp ahead for sports and wildlife. However, it’s still not a dedicated action camera; focus tracking can struggle with erratic motion. But for hybrid shooters balancing video and photography, it’s a more practical pick.

Street and Travel Photography

Discreteness, low weight, versatile zooms, and battery stamina count most.

  • Samsung ST150F: It’s nimble and non-intimidating, great for candid snaps. But small sensor image quality means noisy blacks and low resolution prints. Not ideal in low light. Battery life details are scarce but small cameras generally have limited endurance. The built-in flash and microSD card slot add to convenience.

  • Sigma fp: Bulkier but still compact, with better low-light performance and sharpness. The absence of in-body stabilization makes handheld low-light snapping tricky without fast lenses or a gimbal. Battery life isn’t class-leading but acceptable. The modular build means you can add accessories like external EVFs or grips, improving ergonomics on the go. Supports UHS-II SD cards, speeding up storage.

Macro Photography

Precision focusing and image stabilization empower detailed close-up work.

  • Samsung ST150F: Without manual focus or macro mode data, close-up capability is minimal. It can snap some flower details but lacks the macro prowess of specialized compacts or interchangeable lens cameras.

  • Sigma fp: Offers manual focus with peaking and magnification aids, essential for macro. It depends on lens choice for macro work - attached macro primes or extension tubes unlock excellent potential. Lack of stabilization means tripod use is encouraged.

Night & Astro Photography

High ISO performance, long exposures, and noise control are critical.

  • Samsung ST150F: Max ISO is 3200 but usable up to ISO 800 only; noise becomes noisy early. Maximum shutter speed is 2 seconds, insufficient for serious night sky work. No bulb mode or RAW capture means limited post-processing recoverability.

  • Sigma fp: ISO range up to 102400 and shutter speeds down to 30 seconds provide excellent flexibility for night and astro shooters. Full RAW support is indispensable here. While no stabilization is a downside for handheld long exposures, pairing with a tripod and remote release makes this camera capable.

Video Capabilities: Casual vs. Cinematic

Video is often a deal-breaker for hybrid shooters.

  • Samsung ST150F: Shoots HD 720p at 30fps max, in MPEG-4/H.264. No microphone or headphone jacks, no 4K or slow motion, and no stabilization. No touchscreen, so controlling video menus is probably clunky. This camera is only suitable for casual home videos or social media clips.

  • Sigma fp: Shoots UHD 4K at 30 fps in MOV H.264 with Linear PCM audio. Has microphone and headphone ports, a touchscreen interface, HDMI out, and supports external recorders. No in-body stabilization means gimbals or lenses with OS are necessary. Video quality is clean and flexible, suitable for prosumers and filmmakers who want a small, lightweight cinema camera.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

  • Samsung ST150F: Lightweight plastic body, no weather sealing or rugged features. Use indoors or in good weather only. Built-in flash helps in dim environments, but durability is basic at best.

  • Sigma fp: Magnesium alloy chassis with some weather sealing. Not completely rugged or waterproof, but more robust than budget compacts. A solid choice for outdoor professionals who demand a compact tool that won’t quit in light rain or dusty conditions.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery life isn’t listed explicitly for either, but based on my hands-on with similar gear:

  • Samsung compacts usually run about 200 shots per charge, which requires carrying spares for extended shooting.

  • Sigma fp’s larger battery capacity spools out around 300-350 shots, depending on screen and video use. USB power delivery helps in studio use.

Both accept single SD card slots, but Sigma fp supports high-speed UHS-II cards, aiding fast burst shooting and video.

Connectivity and Extras

  • Samsung includes built-in wireless (Wi-Fi), enabling quick photo sharing to phones without cables.

  • Sigma fp lacks wireless connectivity but offers USB and full-size HDMI ports for tethering and external monitoring.

Pricing and Value Judgements

  • Samsung ST150F: $300-ish street price. It’s a solid prep-schooler-level camera for absolute beginners, casual snaps, or emergency backups. Realistically outdated by 2024 standards but remains budget-pleasing, especially if you want a no-brainer, pocket-capable compact.

  • Sigma fp: $2050 currently. It’s an investment for photographers who want uncompromised image quality, 4K video, and manual control in a small package. Perfect for pros and hybrids who shoot portraits, landscapes, and cinematic video but have to travel light.

Overall Scores and Genre-Specific Strengths

The Sigma fp scores highly in image quality, video, and advanced features. The Samsung ST150F scores lower but still offers easy operation and portability.

Sample Image Gallery from Both Cameras

The difference in clarity, dynamic range, and color depth between these two cameras is stark when you zoom in on full-resolution crops.

Who Should Pick Which Camera?

Use Case Recommendation
Absolute beginners / casual shooters Samsung ST150F shines for simple family photos, travel snapshots with minimal learning curve and tight budget.
Street photographers wanting stealthy size Samsung compact offers pocketability but consider image quality limits; Sigma fp better for quality but less discreet.
Enthusiast landscape & portrait shooters Sigma fp is the clear choice with full-frame sensor, wide lens options, and RAW files for post-processing.
Hybrid photo/video prosumers Sigma fp's 4K video and audio inputs give strong edge over Samsung’s HD-only, limited codec.
Wildlife and sports enthusiasts Neither is specialized, but Sigma fp’s burst speed and continuous AF give it an advantage.
Macro shooters Sigma fp with manual focus and lens options is recommended. Samsung lacks macro facility.
Budget-conscious backup or secondary camera Samsung ST150F makes sense. Sigma fp demands a serious bankroll.

Final Verdict: Balance Your Needs and Budget

If you’re a beginner or just want a fuss-free camera that fits in your pocket, the Samsung ST150F is a no-frills but friendly companion. It won’t win high praise on image quality or speed, but it performs adequately for snapshots and light travel use at a very affordable price.

However, if you demand professional-grade image quality, RAW capture, expanded video features, and a modular system that plays well with premium lenses, the Sigma fp stands out as a minimalist powerhouse. It’s not a beginner’s toy - it requires patience and investment - but it rewards you with stunning files and creative freedom.

In my experience, the choice boils down to your photographic ambitions and whether you want a simple shooter or a serious creative tool. The two cameras occupy almost entirely different niches. Hands down, for serious photography or video work the Sigma fp deserves your consideration. For day-to-day casual use with zero learning curve, the ST150F holds its ground.

Happy shooting - and may your next camera be the perfect fit for your unique journey.

End of Comparison Article

Samsung ST150F vs Sigma fp Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Samsung ST150F and Sigma fp
 Samsung ST150FSigma fp
General Information
Brand Name Samsung Sigma
Model Samsung ST150F Sigma fp
Type Small Sensor Compact Advanced Mirrorless
Launched 2013-01-07 2019-07-11
Physical type Compact Rangefinder-style mirrorless
Sensor Information
Sensor type CCD BSI-CMOS
Sensor size 1/2.3" Full frame
Sensor measurements 6.17 x 4.55mm 35.9 x 23.9mm
Sensor area 28.1mm² 858.0mm²
Sensor resolution 16 megapixels 25 megapixels
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio - 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Full resolution 4608 x 3456 6000 x 4000
Max native ISO 3200 25600
Max boosted ISO - 102400
Minimum native ISO 100 100
RAW images
Minimum boosted ISO - 6
Autofocusing
Manual focus
Touch focus
AF continuous
Single AF
Tracking AF
Selective AF
Center weighted AF
Multi area AF
AF live view
Face detect AF
Contract detect AF
Phase detect AF
Number of focus points - 49
Cross focus points - -
Lens
Lens mounting type fixed lens Leica L
Lens focal range 25-125mm (5.0x) -
Maximum aperture f/2.5-6.3 -
Available lenses - 30
Crop factor 5.8 1
Screen
Type of display Fixed Type Fixed Type
Display size 3 inches 3.2 inches
Display resolution 230k dots 2,100k dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch functionality
Display tech QVGA TFT LCD -
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder None None
Features
Lowest shutter speed 1 secs 30 secs
Highest shutter speed 1/2000 secs 1/8000 secs
Continuous shooting rate - 12.0 frames per sec
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual mode
Exposure compensation - Yes
Set WB
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash range - no built-in flash
Flash options - no built-in flash
External flash
AE bracketing
WB bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment metering
Average metering
Spot metering
Partial metering
AF area metering
Center weighted metering
Video features
Supported video resolutions 1280 x 720 (30, 15 fps), 640 x 480 (30, 15 fps), 320 x 240 (30, 15fps) 3840 x 2160 @ 30p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
Max video resolution 1280x720 3840x2160
Video data format MPEG-4, H.264 MPEG-4, H.264
Microphone support
Headphone support
Connectivity
Wireless Built-In No
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) Yes
GPS None None
Physical
Environment sealing
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 114 grams (0.25 lb) 422 grams (0.93 lb)
Dimensions 94 x 58 x 18mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.7") 113 x 70 x 45mm (4.4" x 2.8" x 1.8")
DXO scores
DXO All around score not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth score not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range score not tested not tested
DXO Low light score not tested not tested
Other
Battery model - BP-51
Self timer Yes Yes (2 or 10 wec)
Time lapse recording
Storage type microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II supported)
Card slots Single Single
Cost at launch $300 $2,050