Samsung NX-10 is the latest model in the market segment of compact digital cameras with exchangeable objectives, and as such represents the rivalling standard to the Micro Four Thirds (Micro 4/3) standard backed by Olympus and Panasonic. Unlike their competition’s open standard, Samsung decided to develop their own format, along with the new NX objective cradle which allows for APS-C CMOS sensors to be used, same in surface as the lower-class DSLR sensors and much larger than MFT ones. With its 14.6 MP and large surface, this camera promises better image quality (especially at higher ISO values).Samsung has followed the presentation of this model to the market with the first NX objectives as well. Three freshly introduced objectives are supposed to cover the main market segments. 18-55 mm f3.5-5.6 OIS kit objective is supposed to be the first step into the optics world. The standard 30 mm “pancake” with an f2 shutter opening is a quick and small objective with no OIS support. Finally, the teleobjective lens market has also had a new addition to it in form of the 50-200 mm f4-5.6 ED OIS model. New objective lenses are still underway, the most interesting of which seem to be the 18-200 mm objective as well as the 60 mm macro objective.
Unlike the competing models, Samsung NX-10 retains the traditional form of DSLR cameras, with dimensions smaller even than most compact models on the market, with a less visible grip and, of course, without the pentaprism case. The body of the camera is of solid construction, and all surfaces are covered in hoarse non-slippery material. The emulation of the well-known appearance and functionality of DSLR cameras doesn’t cease here, stretching across other elements as well, from the ring-shaped switch around the shoot button, over function buttons, all the way to the position and functioning of the installed flash. But don’t be deceived - although its body is smaller than traditional DSLR cameras, this is by no means a pocket compact camera, even with the 30 mm “pancake” objective, and if you opt for the 18-55mm kit objective, that difference is decreased even further. Therefore, keeping this camera in your pocket is likely going to provoke different reactions (especially with the 18-55mm objective).
The single detail that sets this model apart from its competitors at the very first glance is the large AMOLED 3” display, the 50000:1 contrast of which makes it a pleasure to use even in the sunniest of days, with a very clear image display, vibrant colours and a large viewing angle. The only drawback we could notice was its fixed position within the camera body. Besides the main display, Samsung NX-10 also has a high-resolution EVF as help for all users who are used to the DSLR focusing method. EVF contains a sensor which will make sure that it will come on and the main display turned off automatically when the camera is approached to your face, which ensures moderate battery consumption and lack of any disturbing reflections. EVF has 100% coverage and displays all info and settings otherwise available on the main display.
A look at the backside of the camera reveals function buttons, obviously copying those that we’ve got used to on DSLR and prosumer cameras. AEL and exposure compensation buttons are therefore always right under your thumb, and just a bit further away is the multifunctional button, providing the user with a quick menu for setting up image parameters. Crucial parameters, such as focus type, light measuring, colour balance and ISO value are always set via separate, clearly distinguishable buttons, which is a feat often taken away even from DSLR users.
The upper surface of the camera contains the standard set of controls, a flash-activating button, working mode wheel, multipurpose wheel and the shoot button, along with a ring acting as an on/off switch. Below the flash button are the menu button and a mono microphone.
Turning the mode wheel will enable you to enter any common working mode effortlessly, as well as activate Samsung’s SMART mode, an automatic point-and-shoot mode, which will make an estimate of the current situation, switch the camera to a certain mode accordingly and apply all necessary corrections on its own. This system is very good at detecting the conditions and the necessary mode, all the while displaying clearly which mode is about to be used.
