Samsung Smart Camera NX30 review: 20.3-megapixel compact system camera

If you're looking for a camera and want something that looks and handles like a DSLR, but you're not too fond of the weight of a DSLR, consider looking into Samsung's relatively light weight.

NX30 Smart Camera

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Technically, the NX30 is a compact mirrorless (CSC) system camera. This 20.3-megapixel camera with its APS-C sensor offers point-and-shoot convenience via its simple backplate buttons and screen. Smartphone-like touchscreen. But at the same time, there's enough complexity offered by its manual top-plate dials and customizable settings not to deter anyone from "downsizing" an actual DSLR.

The NX30's grip is wide and comfortable, a feature often sacrificed on smaller CSCs. The camera is also easy to handle when framing and reviewing stills and Full HD video.

To frame the shots, you have the choice of a large 3-inch AMOLED screen on the back plate or a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) if you prefer to shoot with the camera at eye level. The AMOLED screen offers deeper blacks and better contrast than traditional LCDs, and can be tilted and tilted if needed. Shots were simply stunning on the rear screen, so much so that they fade slightly in comparison when viewed on a regular monitor. The EVF has a built-in eye sensor that turns it on while turning off the larger screen below. In a first for this model, the EVF can be pulled up exterior of the camera body and tilted up so photographers can look down at it, which is helpful when shooting with the camera held close to the ground. We found ourselves mostly in favor ur largest 3 inch screen - bigger is often better when it comes to viewing screens.

As well as being able to control the NX30 via a touchscreen and physical buttons, the bundled 18-55mm iFunction lens allows key camera functions to be operated by twisting its barrel. It looks like a handy extra but non-essential, as there are already enough physical and virtual controls at your fingertips for easy and intuitive manipulation. Commonly used settings like ISO have their own dedicated access points. The NX30 also features Wi-Fi connectivity. Fi and NFC compatibility.

Exposures were perfect when left on automatic settings, and colors were well saturated, with detail retained in the corners of the frame.

At the end of the line

With its mix of snapshot and DSLR-style controls, the Smart Camera NX30 is an easy-to-handle device that will deliver great shots with plenty of color and contrast straight from the camera. There's nothing here really that competitors don't already offer in one form or another, the NX30 includes welcome features such as an eye-level viewfinder, tilting touchscreen, Wi-Fi and NFC. is a compelling package.

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