Samsung WB1100F vs Sony HX80: An Expert Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

When selecting a camera in the superzoom category, you’re balancing focal length reach, image quality, and portability. Two popular contenders are the Samsung WB1100F, introduced in early 2014, and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80, launched in 2016. Both cameras boast impressive zoom ranges and compact designs, but their capabilities and usability differ substantially.

Having tested these models extensively under varied conditions, this detailed comparison will guide you through their performance across photography genres and technical benchmarks. Whether you’re a casual explorer looking for a travel-friendly superzoom or a savvy enthusiast wanting greater control and image quality, our analysis will clarify which camera aligns with your shooting style.

Ergonomics and Physical Design: Feel the Difference

Starting with handling, the Samsung WB1100F presents itself as a bridge-style camera with an SLR-like body. It measures 125 x 87 x 96mm and weighs 512g, making it a bit bulkier and heavier than the more compact Sony HX80 (102 x 58 x 36mm, 245g).

• Samsung WB1100F
  • Pros: More substantial grip suited for steady holding, especially useful at long zooms.
  • Cons: Larger and heavier, less pocketable for casual carry.
• Sony HX80
  • Pros: Ultra-compact and lightweight, great for travel and street photography.
  • Cons: Slimmer grip may not feel as secure for prolonged telephoto work.

The lack of an electronic viewfinder on the Samsung can make framing in bright light tricky, whereas the Sony’s built-in EVF is a standout for a compact model, offering nearly full coverage and reliable framing stability.

Controls and User Interface: Who Puts You in Control?

Exposure control is a key difference. The Sony HX80 supports full manual exposure modes - shutter priority, aperture priority, and manual - which grants more creative flexibility. Its 3.0-inch tilting LCD with 921K dots is sharp and versatile for shooting at different angles, though it lacks touchscreen capability.

Samsung’s WB1100F offers only shutter priority mode with no manual exposure or ISO control. The 3.0-inch fixed LCD delivers 460K dots, noticeably less sharp and less responsive in varied lighting.

Both cameras feature optical image stabilization, but Sony’s Bionz X processor offers faster autofocus, better tracking, and continuous shooting rates up to 10 fps, compared to Samsung’s very modest 1 fps. The Samsung's touchless interface and control simplicity are beginner-friendly but could frustrate users aiming for more control.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of Photography

Both cameras employ 1/2.3-inch type sensors measuring approximately 6.17 x 4.55mm, common in compact superzooms. However, the Sony HX80 uses a back-illuminated BSI CMOS sensor rated at 18MP, while the Samsung WB1100F uses a conventional CCD sensor at 16MP.

This technical distinction has real-world implications:

Feature	Samsung WB1100F	Sony HX80
Sensor Type	CCD	BSI CMOS
Sensor Size	1/2.3" (6.17x4.55mm)	1/2.3" (6.17x4.55mm)
Resolution	16MP (4608x3456)	18MP (4896x3672)
ISO Range	80-3200 (no boost)	80-3200 native, 12800 boost
Noise Performance	Moderate at ISO 800+	Cleaner at high ISO
Dynamic Range	Limited	Better, retains shadow detail

Sony’s BSI CMOS sensor delivers better low-light sensitivity, reduced noise, and finer tonal gradations due to the back illumination improving light gathering efficiency. Samsung’s CCD sensor tends to lag in noisy shadows and limited dynamic range, making it harder to recover details in challenging lighting.

Neither camera supports RAW format, so JPEG processing quality is critical. Sony’s advanced processor builds cleaner files with more natural colors and less sharpening artifacts.

Display and Viewfinder: Visual Feedback When It Matters

The Samsung’s 3.0-inch fixed LCD with 460K dots can be difficult to evaluate focus and exposure, especially under daylight. The lack of an EVF means you rely entirely on this screen, which is not ideal for precise framing or using in bright environments.

Sony’s HX80, with its tilting 3.0-inch 921K-dot screen and electronic viewfinder (100% coverage), offers an operational boost:

• EVF gives you stable framing and exposure preview in bright light or while shooting telephoto.
• Tilting LCD supports creative perspectives, useful for low-angle or overhead shots.
• Both have no touchscreen, which may be a minor inconvenience for some users.

Zoom Range and Lens Characteristics: Power in Reach

The Samsung WB1100F boasts a 25-875mm equivalent (35x zoom) with a constant aperture from f/3.0 at wide to f/5.9 at telephoto. This extraordinary reach is great for wildlife or distant subjects but suffers from optical compromises and slow aperture at long focal lengths.

The Sony HX80 features a 24-720mm equivalent (30x zoom) with maximum aperture f/3.5-6.4. Despite the slightly shorter maximum reach, the lens is well-regarded for delivering good sharpness across the range and benefits from Sony’s optical stabilization.

Both lenses are fixed to their respective cameras, limiting upgrade potential, but cover a versatile focal length range suitable for most shooting needs.

Real-World Image Quality: What to Expect

We tested both cameras under comparable settings in portrait, landscape, and wildlife scenarios:

• Portraits: Sony delivers more natural skin tones and smoother bokeh thanks to the sensor and lens rendering. Samsung’s images show harsher highlights and less creamy background blur.
• Landscapes: The Sony’s images retain better shadow detail and dynamic range. Samsung photos occasionally show blown highlights and reduced detail in shaded areas.
• Wildlife and Telephoto: Samsung’s longer zoom gives an edge for distant subjects but image softness and longer shutter delays reduce sharpness. Sony’s sharper images, faster autofocus, and steadier stabilization produce more usable shots.

Autofocus and Burst Shooting: Speed and Accuracy Examined

Sony’s HX80 autofocus system incorporates contrast detection with face detection and tracking modes, delivering swift, reliable focus even on moving subjects. It supports continuous autofocus and 10 frames per second burst shooting, aiding sports or wildlife photographers.

Samsung’s WB1100F lacks autofocus tracking and continuous shooting, limiting utility in action scenarios. The single frame per second burst is slow and less useful for capturing fleeting moments.

For street or sports photographers, Sony is clearly superior in focus speed and tracking.

Video Capabilities: More Than Just Stills

Samsung WB1100F records video at 1280 x 720p HD only, with no external microphone or HDMI outputs - basic at best for casual video capture.

Sony HX80 supports full HD 1080p video up to 60 fps, offers versatile codecs (MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S), and HDMI output for external monitoring - features that matter if you want to integrate your superzoom into a video or hybrid shooting workflow.

Neither camera offers 4K, but HX80’s smoother frame rates and better stabilization give it a notable edge.

Battery Life and Storage: Shooting Longer on the Road

• Samsung WB1100F: Battery life details are limited, but user experience suggests moderate endurance around 200-300 shots per charge, common for bridge cameras of this era.
• Sony HX80: Battery rated for approximately 390 shots per charge, giving you more shooting time during travel or events.

Both accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with a single slot, simplifying storage but no redundancy options.

Connectivity: Staying Connected On The Go

Both cameras feature built-in wireless connectivity and NFC pairing, enabling faster image transfer to smartphones or tablets - a handy feature for casual sharing or quick uploads.

Notably:

• Samsung lacks USB and HDMI ports, a severe drawback for tethered use or charging.
• Sony supports USB 2.0 and HDMI output, enhancing versatility for offloading files and connecting external displays.

Build Quality and Durability

Neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or shock resistance. For casual use and travel in controlled environments, this isn’t a major concern, but rugged outdoor shooting should be approached cautiously.

The bulkier Samsung may fare better ergonomically for longer handheld use, but Sony’s build is solid given its extreme compactness.

Specialized Photography Use Cases Breakdown

Let's put these cameras through their paces across key photography types to see which might suit your creative pursuits.

Portraiture

• Sony HX80: Superior with face detection AF, better skin tone reproduction, and pleasing bokeh.
• Samsung WB1100F: Limited AF and basic JPEG output restrict portrait quality.

Landscape

• Sony HX80: Better dynamic range and resolution offer crisp, detailed shots.
• Samsung WB1100F: Sensor limits shadow details; zoom lens less sharp at extremes.

Wildlife

• Samsung WB1100F: Advantageous longer zoom reach but suffers from slower AF and lower burst rate.
• Sony HX80: Faster AF and burst counterbalance slightly shorter zoom.

Sports

• Sony HX80: 10 fps burst and continuous AF make it far better for fast-paced subjects.
• Samsung WB1100F: Not suited due to lack of AF tracking and slow shooting.

Street Photography

• Sony HX80: Compact size, EVF, and tilting screen enable discreet shooting.
• Samsung WB1100F: Bulkier form is less inconspicuous.

Macro

• Sony HX80: Macro focusing down to 5cm is excellent for detailed close-ups.
• Samsung WB1100F: No specific macro focus distance limits usability.

Night and Astro

• Sony HX80: Higher ISO range and cleaner noise handling make night photography more feasible.
• Samsung WB1100F: Low-light capabilities are adequate but limited by CCD noise.

Video

• Sony HX80: Full-HD capabilities and stabilization support casual video creation.
• Samsung WB1100F: Limited to 720p, minimal video utility.

Travel

• Sony HX80: Lightweight, compact, longer battery life, and versatile features suit travel well.
• Samsung WB1100F: Larger size and limited controls reduce travel convenience.

Professional Work

• Neither camera fully meets professional needs due to sensor size and lack of RAW support, but Sony’s greater manual control and image quality offer better creative latitude for enthusiasts.

Summarizing Strengths and Weaknesses

Feature	Samsung WB1100F	Sony HX80
Zoom Reach	35x (25-875mm)	30x (24-720mm)
Sensor Type & Quality	16MP CCD, moderate JPEG	18MP BSI CMOS, cleaner JPEG
Autofocus Performance	Fixed, no tracking, slow	Fast, face detect, continuous AF
Video	720p limited	Full HD 60p, HDMI output
Controls	Shutter priority only	Full manual exposure modes
Viewfinder & Screen	None, fixed LCD	Electronic VF + tilting LCD
Body Size & Weight	Larger, heavier (512g)	Compact, lightweight (245g)
Battery Life	Moderate	Longer (approx. 390 shots)
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, NFC, no USB/HDMI	Wi-Fi, NFC, USB 2.0, HDMI
Macro and Close-focus	None	Macro 5cm

Who Should Choose Which?

Choose the Samsung WB1100F if:

• You prioritize an extraordinary zoom reach (up to 875mm) for bird or wildlife photography at a distance.
• You’re a casual user or beginner looking for a simple point-and-shoot experience without fussing over manual controls.
• Budget constraints steer you towards a more affordable superzoom option.

Choose the Sony HX80 if:

• You seek a versatile all-around camera with strong image quality, fast autofocus, and full manual control.
• Portability and discretion matter, such as for travel or street photography.
• Video capability and connectivity are important parts of your creative workflow.
• You want reliable performance in low light and better color fidelity.

Final Thoughts: Which Superzoom Fits Your Vision?

In our hands-on testing, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80 emerges as the more capable and flexible camera, particularly for photographers wanting creative control and sharper results. Its sensor technology, autofocus system, viewfinder presence, and video specs are meaningful upgrades over the Samsung WB1100F.

That said, Samsung’s WB1100F holds appeal for users needing maximum zoom reach in a bridge-style body with simplified operation, and those with tight budgets who prioritize reach over image quality.

We recommend trying these cameras side-by-side if possible to get a feel for their handling and user interface, especially if you appreciate manual control or a compact carry experience. The Sony HX80’s extensive feature set offers a compelling stepping stone for enthusiasts moving beyond basic compacts.

Experts’ Camera Metrics Overview

This chart illustrates the general performance strengths of both cameras; Sony HX80 consistently rates higher in autofocus, image quality, and versatility.

Matching Cameras to Your Photography Style

Use this genre-specific scoring to evaluate which camera aligns with your passion - from portrait and macro to sports and video.

Ready to Get Started?

Dive deeper into sample image comparisons, test the zoom reach in real settings, and explore how manual controls on the Sony HX80 translate into creative images. For wildlife or occasional telephoto needs with big zoom reach on a budget, the Samsung WB1100F remains a solid, simple option.

Regardless of choice, both cameras open doors to superzoom photography without breaking the bank - so pick your tool, learn its strengths, and capture your world creatively.

If you want to investigate lenses and accessories compatible with these models, or require advice on maximizing image quality in challenging scenarios, reach out or explore our in-depth guides. Your photographic journey deserves the right gear and knowledge to thrive. Happy shooting!