Samsung WB350F vs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H50: The Compact Superzoom Showdown

When it comes to small-sensor superzoom compacts, the landscape can get pretty crowded. You want that long reach without lugging around a DSLR - perfect for family trips, casual wildlife encounters, or simply zooming in on details in everyday scenes. Two contenders that often pop up in discussions among enthusiasts hunting bargains and versatility are the Samsung WB350F and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H50. Both arrived in the last decade but took different routes in design, tech, and user experience.

I've spent many hours shooting with each - testing their autofocus, zoom reach, ergonomics, and image quality in varied settings. Today, I’ll walk you through a deep-dive comparison to help you decide if either is worth snagging, or if better options are lurking around the corner. Let’s unravel their specs, performance, and practical uses with the kind of first-hand insights that only years of pixel-hunting can reveal.

Getting a Feel for It: Size and Handling

Before any photo is taken, the camera has to feel right in your hands. Ergonomics matter more than you might think, especially with superzooms that tend to bulk up for extra zoom range.

The Samsung WB350F comes in at a svelte 114 x 65 x 25 mm, tipping the scales at just 276 grams. It’s noticeably compact without sacrificing grip comfort, owing to a moderately contoured body that fits nicely against the palm. The thickness is kept in check, making it pocketable in roomy jacket pockets or day bags.

Contrast this with the Sony H50, which is a bulkier fellow - 116 x 81 x 86 mm and 547 grams. That extra heft isn’t without reason; it houses a larger lens assembly and a more substantial battery, which theoretically means more shooting time and zoom power, but at the cost of portability. Handling-wise, the Sony demands two hands more often than not, especially when fully zoomed, while the Samsung encourages one-handed operation in many situations.

For street photographers or travelers prioritizing a grab-and-go setup, the Samsung’s physical advantages shine through. The Sony H50’s size may be a dealbreaker unless you’re ready to carry a light camera bag. But, for those who don’t mind the heft, the Sony’s more robust feel conveys a certain ‘built-to-last’ confidence.

Top-Down: Control Layout and Usability

Interfaces that make intuitive sense can be the difference between capturing the fleeting moment or missing it entirely. Let’s peek at the top controls, as this is where most operation begins.

Both cameras adopt fixed lenses, so no swapping lenses here. The Samsung WB350F sports a clean top plate with a modest shutter button ringed by zoom toggle and a power button placed within thumb reach. The dedicated video recording button adds quick access to 1080p recording - a small but thoughtful touch. The lack of an electronic viewfinder means the LCD is your window to the world, so touchscreen control on the Samsung comes to the rescue for quick menu changes and focus.

Sony's H50 packs a slightly more traditional array with a mode dial featuring handy presets such as portrait, landscape, and macro, plus custom modes for manual tinkering. It includes a dedicated zoom lever around the shutter, similar to Samsung’s, but no touchscreen means menu diving is slower and less intuitive on the Sony. However, the inclusion of an electronic viewfinder (EVF) lets you conserve LCD battery power and shoot in bright outdoor conditions with confidence.

For quick reflexes and a modern feel, Samsung’s touchscreen controls are appealing - I found rapidly switching focus points and adjusting settings much less cumbersome. The Sony's viewfinder, while laggy and low-res by today's standards, is nonetheless a useful feature for bright daylight shooting or conserving power.

The Heart of the Matter: Sensor Tech and Image Quality

Let’s get to the pulse of these cameras: their image sensors and resulting image quality.

Both cameras employ a 1/2.3" sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm - a small sensor size typical for superzooms, limiting shallow depth-of-field effects and enlarging noise at high ISOs. However, their sensor types diverge. The Samsung WB350F uses a more modern BSI-CMOS sensor with 16 effective megapixels, while the Sony H50 relies on an older CCD sensor with 9 megapixels.

This difference is crucial. BSI-CMOS sensors offer improved light-gathering efficiency and lower noise profiles, translating in practice to cleaner images in dimmer conditions and better dynamic range. In field tests, the Samsung consistently pulled ahead with sharper, crisper images under moderate lighting, delivering fine detail at base ISO 80 and maintaining decent texture retention up to ISO 800.

Sony’s CCD, while capable of rich color rendition, struggled more in low light, producing grainier images and softer details above ISO 400. Its 9MP resolution translates to smaller-sized prints and less cropping latitude - something I found limiting when attempting wildlife or landscape shots where framing flexibility matters.

For landscape and travel photographers who want the best shot with minimal fiddling, the Samsung's sensor technology feels like a step forward despite the sensor size limit. It's no full-frame powerhouse, but it leverages contemporary sensor engineering.

Viewing and Composing: Screen and Viewfinder

Looking at your subject is fundamental, so let's zero in on how these cameras let you compose.

Both gear a 3-inch fixed LCD screen. The Samsung, however, packs a 460k-dot touchscreen with crisp visuals and immediate touch AF selection, which felt fluid and natural when relocating focus points - a huge plus during candid street sessions or macro work.

The Sony offers a 230k-dot non-touch LCD that is comparatively dim and prone to reflections. Its flavour is more… retro, making it tougher to frame shots accurately in bright sunlight. Fortunately, the Sony compensates by including an electronic viewfinder, which the Samsung lacks entirely. While the H50’s EVF is somewhat low resolution and can lag, it’s a godsend in harsh daylight or when steadying your shots by bracing the camera against your face.

For scenarios involving moving subjects or bright outdoor shooting, the Sony’s EVF offers compositional advantage and reduced battery drain - though the lack of touchscreen slows menu navigation and AF point changes.

Zoom and Lens Quality: Reach Versus Speed

Superzoom cameras live and die by their zoom performance.

The Samsung WB350F boasts a 23-483 mm (35mm equivalent) range - an ambitious 21x optical zoom with max aperture varying from F2.8 wide to F5.9 telephoto. The wider aperture at the short end gives it a slight edge in low-light wide-angle shooting, while the long end unfortunately falls to a modestly slow aperture that limits exposure flexibility without bumping ISO.

The Sony DSC-H50 covers 31-465 mm with a 15x optical zoom and a slightly faster aperture range of F2.7 to F4.5. While it can't reach quite as far as the Samsung, the brighter aperture at the telephoto end means the Sony can better isolate subjects in better detail or under lower light without increasing ISO as much.

During my tests, both lenses delivered competent sharpness in the center at wide angles but softened noticeably at full zoom, a typical compromise for compact superzooms. The Samsung’s extended reach was fun to experiment with in bird-watching and distant street scenes, though image stabilization became crucial at the long end to prevent blur in handheld shots.

Both feature optical image stabilization (OIS), which I can affirm works well in practice, allowing slower shutter speeds without jitters. Still, zoom-in lovers should be mindful that digital noise and diffraction reduce crispness beyond moderate zoom.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed

A camera’s AF system is crucial whether you're chasing kids on a playground or snapping wildlife.

The Samsung WB350F employs contrast-detection AF with no face or eye detection, no continuous AF, and a mysterious, undisclosed number of focus points. Practically, this translates to a functional but slow AF system that can lag when hunting in low contrast or zoomed-in shots. The lack of face or eye detection felt like a missed opportunity, as I often found myself tapping the touchscreen to force focus rather than relying on reliable AF.

The Sony H50 uses contrast-detection AF as well, but boasts 9 focus points and offers multi-area AF, which improves subject acquisition slightly. However, it lacks face detection and continuous AF, resulting in a conservative but predictable approach. AF speed is adequate for static subjects but too sluggish for fast-moving action - with a limited 2fps continuous shooting for fast bursts.

For those shooting sports or wildlife with erratic subjects, neither camera shines. But Sony's multi-area AF offers a bit more reliability in finding subjects quickly, especially in well-lit conditions.

Image Stabilization and Shutter Performance

Both cameras feature optical image stabilization - a blessing on such long zoom lenses that helps keep shots sharp when handheld.

Samsung’s OIS is effective and complemented by a maximum shutter speed of 1/2000s and a slow shutter floor at 16 seconds, offering some flexibility for low-light and creative slow exposures.

Sony’s shutter speed range is from 30 seconds to 1/4000s, favoring night and astro photographers with that longer exposure capability. However, the absence of a silent shutter mode or bulb mode limits astrophotography creativity.

For occasional night shots, Sony might edge in shutter flexibility, but Samsung’s OIS is better suited for steady moderate long-exposure handheld shooting.

Video Capabilities: Not Just Still Cameras Anymore

Video performance often gets overlooked in compact cameras, but it’s important for many buyers.

Samsung WB350F supports Full HD video at 1920x1080. The ability to start recording with a dedicated button and the presence of optical stabilization make it decent for handheld video. However, the lack of any external mic input is disappointing for serious videographers, as is the absence of 4K or high frame rate modes.

Sony H50 tops out at VGA 640x480 at 30 fps - essentially standard definition video from the late 2000s. Not surprisingly, video quality is poor by today’s standards, grainy and lacking detail, useful only for casual snapshots.

Samsung reigns in the video department, making it a better choice for those who want occasional quality full HD recording with minimal fuss.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Considerations

Samsung uses the SLB-10A battery, while Sony utilizes the NP-BG1. Both provide respectable shooting ranges for compacts, but real-world usage varies.

The lighter Samsung can comfortably produce a few hundred shots per charge, supplemented by energy-saving features like a touch-sensitive LCD timeout. Sony’s larger battery somewhat offsets the increased power demand of the EVF and brighter screen but results in a heavier camera overall.

Regarding storage, Samsung supports MicroSD cards (MicroSDHC and MicroSDXC), a widely available and affordable format today. Sony relies on Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo formats, which tend to be pricier and less commonly available. For those prioritizing ease and cost of memory cards, Samsung has the clear practical advantage.

Connectivity and Modern Features

While the Samsung WB350F doesn’t boast Wi-Fi or GPS, it does have built-in wireless connectivity and NFC - nifty for quick sharing and remote control via a smartphone app. This modern convenience is absent on the Sony H50, which has no wireless features.

Neither camera includes HDMI or microphone/headphone ports, limiting multimedia flexibility. The USB 2.0 port on both supports file transfer but no fast charging or tethered controls.

For contemporary workflows, Samsung’s NFC and wireless features add a nice edge.

Image Samples in Varied Conditions

Seeing is believing, so I captured some representative shots on a sunny park day, indoors with tungsten lighting, and at dusk to illustrate noise performance and color accuracy.

Samsung WB350F front Samsung WB350F screen back Sony H50 front Sony H50 screen back

The Samsung WB350F’s images show richer colors, better dynamic range in highlights and shadows, and cleaner ISO 800 shots with less grain. The Sony H50 produced pleasant colors but tended to wash out contrast and showed visibly more noise at base ISO 80 in low light.

For macro shots, both cameras struggled somewhat with depth of field and precision. Samsung’s touchscreen AF did speed focusing, but close-up detail edge favored the Sony slightly owing to its stronger macro focusing capabilities starting at 1 cm.

Summary Performance Ratings

When measured across fundamental usability, image quality, and practicality, the two cameras stack up like so:

Samsung WB350F scores higher overall, led by advances in sensor technology, video support, and user interface design. Sony H50 remains a budget option with respectable zoom range but noticeably dated in critical specs like image quality and modern connectivity.

How Do They Handle the Big Photography Genres?

Let’s translate their specs and features into domain-specific performance, so you can see if either fits your style.

• Portrait Photography: Samsung’s higher resolution and better color reproduction handle skin tones more naturally. The shallowest aperture at wide angle (F2.8) helps with subject isolation slightly, though neither excels at bokeh due to sensor size. Samsung’s touchscreen focus is handy for locking on faces quickly. Sony’s older sensor and smaller megapixel count make portraits less punchy.

• Landscape Photography: Both cameras have limited weather sealing, so be cautious outdoors. Samsung’s better dynamic range and resolution favor landscape detail and tonal gradation. Sony’s slower lens at telephoto and smaller sensor resolution reduce clarity.

• Wildlife Photography: Samsung’s longer 21x zoom stretch offers an advantage, but slow autofocus and no continuous AF limit capturing fast subjects. Sony’s slightly faster aperture helps in low light, but lower zoom reach and sluggish shooting speed drag down performance.

• Sports Photography: Neither is designed for high-speed tracking. Sony’s 2fps burst is marginally usable, Samsung lacks continuous AF and burst priority. Both struggle with low-light autofocus accuracy.

• Street Photography: Samsung’s compact size, touchscreen, and quieter operation feel suited to discreet street shooting. The Sony’s larger form and viewfinder help in bright light but might draw more attention.

• Macro Photography: Sony’s close focusing to 1cm edges out Samsung’s less flexible macro capability, with sharper close-ups. Samsung’s touchscreen is a plus for precise focusing.

• Night and Astro: Sony’s longer maximum shutter (30 seconds) is better suited, but small sensor size and lack of manual bulb mode constrain astrophotography. Samsung’s stabilization aids slower handheld shots but limited exposure control.

• Video: Samsung’s Full HD 30fps video quality vastly outstrips the Sony’s 640x480 output.

• Travel Photography: Samsung’s small size, weight, and NFC wireless features make it a more carry-friendly travel companion.

• Professional Use: Both offer JPEG only (no RAW), limiting post-processing latitude. Lack of weather sealing, external flash, and accessory support place them more in the enthusiast bargain zone than professional workflows.

Which One Should You Buy? Recommendations by User Type

• Photography Enthusiasts and Casual Users on a Budget: Samsung WB350F - better image quality, cleaner video, lighter body, and modern connectivity justify the slightly higher price tag.

• Collectors or Budget-Conscious Buyers Seeking Zoom: Sony H50 - a very affordable superzoom with decent optics for its age, but be prepared for limitations in image quality and video.

• Travelers and Street Shooters: Samsung’s compact ergonomics and quick touchscreen control makes it an easy day-to-day shooter.

• Macro Fans: Sony H50’s closer focusing distance offers an edge for flower and insect photography, assuming you can handle the bulk.

• Video Hobbyists: Samsung WB350F, hands down, due to Full HD output and practical stabilization.

• Wildlife and Sports Snapshooters: Neither camera can keep up with fast action. For these genres, I’d advise looking at newer cameras with faster AF and continuous shooting.

Final Thoughts: Time Travel Meets Modern Convenience

The Samsung WB350F, launched in 2014, brings a more contemporary sensor, touchscreen, video capabilities, and wireless features that align better with today’s expectations for a compact superzoom. It’s the better balanced and more capable camera for general photography, travel, and casual video - all wrapped in a pocket-friendly size.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H50, debuting back in 2009, feels like a relic from a simpler era of point-and-shoots - heavier, with a somewhat outdated CCD sensor, low-res LCD, and limited video. Still, it offers respectable zoom length and decent image quality at the right price. It might suit a collector or a very budget-limited buyer willing to trade modernity for affordability.

If you ask me, while neither camera tops today’s superzoom champions (think Sony RX10 Mark series or Panasonic FZ1000 for professionals or advanced enthusiasts), the Samsung WB350F holds up surprisingly well for many practical uses, paired with excellent ease of use. It’s the smarter choice when balancing price with day-to-day photography needs.

Whether you’re zooming in to catch a rare bird, framing a bustling street scene, or just capturing family memories, knowing your gear’s strengths and limitations will save you frustration and missed moments. And remember, sometimes the best camera is the one you have ready in your hands - so choose wisely, shoot plenty, and enjoy the journey.

If you want more insights comparing superzoom compacts or are curious about stepping up to mirrorless or DSLR, drop me a line. After testing thousands of cameras over 15+ years, I’m always keen to share what works, what feels fun, and what can be skipped.

Happy shooting!

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5. Samsung WB350F front Samsung WB350F screen back Sony H50 front Sony H50 screen back