New intelligent optical Samsung NX100

Samsung introduces the new intelligent optical NX100, If the format is more attractive than the NX10, NX100 this is however a bit lighter side equipment.

Samsung had told us: the launch of compact cameras with interchangeable optics is not a fad but a real strategy. Witness the newest addition to the series, the NX100, which complements the very good NX10 released earlier this year. On the technical side we find the same sensor, 14.6 megapixel, the same image processor (processing algorithms have been improved, dixit Samsung) and of course compatibility with the optical range.

Intelligent Optical novices

The real innovation of the NX100 is the emergence of a new kind of optics. It will indeed be delivered not with a traditional 18-55 mm (27-82 mm equivalent), but a new 20-50 mm (Eq. 30-75 mm) equipped with a touch ifn. It shows the different manual settings on the screen and allows the novice user to become familiar with the opening time of exposure, white balance, seeing in real time the effect of changes on its shooting. This function is useful for beginners pay: the zoom is less versatile (reduced zoom range) and non-stabilized.

Besides the new 20-50 mm, note the appearance of a fixed focal end format (pancake) 20 mm (30mm equivalent) that opens to a small F2.8.

A more compact look

If the NX10 was based on the SLR design, the NX100 is actually a compact optical interchangeable, the same size as the Panasonic GF1. Samsung has relied on the design - corrugated shell - and the colors since the device is available in black, white and chocolate.We'll see if the grip is nice.

Compactness that pays 


Compared to its predecessor, the NX10 loses the electronic viewfinder (now an option to 199 euros ...) and especially flash. A lack incomprehensible as Panasonic has managed to put one in his GF1, or Olympus E-Pen in PL1, which are the same size. A flash appears in the grid, however accessories, but it is a pity that it is absent from the body.

Already available with the 20-30 mm F3.5-5.6 at a price of 780 USD, NX100 will be strong to cope with a Sony NEX5 little more expensive but incredibly powerful or a Pen E-PL1 complete and now below 650 USD.