Hands-on review
Samsung NX30 at a glance:
- 20.3-million-pixel, APS-C-sized CMOS sensor
- DRIMe IV processor
- ISO 100-25,600
- NFC and Wi-Fi connectivity
- Price £899.99 with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS kit lens
Samsung NX30 – Introduction
A Replacement for the NX20, the Samsung NX30 compact system camera features a 20.3-million-pixel, APS-C-sized CMOS sensor that is virtually identical to that found in the NX300, but with enhanced algorithms, so we should expect to see a slightly improved performance. Combined with the sophisticated DRIMe IV image processor, the NX30 has a broad ISO range from 100-25,600.
The sensor also incorporates both contrast-detection and phase-detection AF to deliver a hybrid AF system. While I didn’t get a chance to shoot any moving subjects while handling the NX30, the speed in single AF mode was very good, delivering fast and precise focusing.
Other elements of note are the NX30’s ability to shoot at 9fps, a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000sec, an Over Exposure Guide that warns of clipped highlights and 1080p HD video at 60p. There is also a 3.5mm microphone socket and, as you would expect, the NX30 also features NFC and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Image: The NX30 has virtually the same 20.3MP APS-C-sized CMOS sensor as the NX300
Samsung NX30 – Display and EVF
Samsung has taken the design of the electronic viewfinder one stage further than the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7’s tiltable EVF, with the NX30 offering a double-tilt mechanism to aid low-angle shooting. The mechanism is well made and pulls outwards easily, but not to the extent that it will work itself loose. The EVF has an impressive 2.359-million-dot resolution, but I was unable to see exactly how this performs as the EVF in the sample camera I examined wasn’t the final version.
The NX30’s rear 3in articulated screen has a much-improved resolution compared to the NX20, with a jump from 614,000 to 1.073 million dots, as well as being 30% brighter. Colours were punchy, contrast was good and the touch-sensitive interface was very responsive, as was expected from a company with so much success in the smartphone sector.
Samsung NX30 – Build and handling
The design of the Samsung NX30 has been substantially revised compared to the NX20, most notably in the handgrip. More pronounced than on its predecessor, the NX30 feels incredibly comfortable, and the soft, finely textured grip adds to the premium feel that is enhanced by the quality texture of the controls.
The NX30 features a host of quick-access controls for the photographer, including drive, ISO, white balance and AF, making it very quick to operate. The i-Function feature on compatible lenses also provides quick adjustment of various controls via the manual-focus ring of the lens.
From my short time with the NX30, I believe it has a lot of potential. It is nicely made with a logical control layout and strong specification. Watch out for our full test when we will assess the NX30’s image quality and new features in more detail.
The Samsung NX30 will be available from around the end of February, price £899.99 with the 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS kit lens.
Image: Metering performed well during our brief hands-on test
