What is the Samsung Galaxy NX?
The Samsung Galaxy NX is the world’s first interchangeable lens camera with an integrated LTE cellular SIM slot for an always on connection.
A spinoff of sorts to the Samsung Galaxy Camera, it is the latest flagship model to Samsung’s NX range of cameras and boasts a 20.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor alongside Android 4.2.2 innards finished off with the manufacturer’s smartphone familiar TouchWiz UI.
Is the addition of Android and a 4G connection to a CSC a gimmick or performance enhancing sign of the future? We have gone hands-on with the Samsung Galaxy NX to find out.
Samsung Galaxy NX Design
The Samsung Galaxy NX’s design is a combination of the old and new. It looks like a large compact system camera viewed from the front. Flip it over and the 4.8-inch display gives an air of influence from the modern, smartphone generation.
Thanks to this display the Galaxy NX design is very understated. Doing away with the usual mass of buttons and controls, the camera is much more streamlined than some rivals, with just the power, flash, mode dial and shutter buttons sitting on the unit’s exterior.
The Samsung Galaxy NX’s design is enhanced by the introduction of the company’s new multipurpose mode dial. Although not emblazoned with the usual array of confusing camera mode icons, it lets to quickly cycle through the on-screen options, clicking in to select. This combination of touchscreen and dial controls generates an intuitive user experience that is pleasing and seamless to use.
Samsung Galaxy NX Image Quality
From first impressions the Samsung Galaxy NX Image Quality is highly impressive. The Samsung Galaxy NX features a 20.3 APS-C CMOS image sensor alongside 105 auto-focus points and phase detection. This strong combination produces detailed, images that on first use appear to handle challenging lighting conditions satisfactorily.
Viewing images on the integrated display, the Galaxy NX image quality appears sharp with impressive focal qualities, even at close (bordering on macro) range.
The Samsung Galaxy NX is a multipurpose snapper and image quality can be improved using the integrated Camera Studio selection of editing software and apps. On top of this, lenses were easy to remove, add and interchange.
Impressing on first use, the Samsung Galaxy NX’s image quality will require much more detailed testing when we get our hands on a full review sample.
Samsung Galaxy NX Performance
The performance of the Samsung Galaxy NX is kept running along smoothly by a 1.6GHz quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM and the familiar sight of Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean. This partnership results in a smooth flowing user experience with menus easily tackled and smooth to navigate through.
The Samsung Galaxy NX’s shutter speed was satisfyingly abrupt and image playback was prompt and efficient. The Galaxy NX’s flash was a little overpowering in our limited test conditions and will require further attention during our full Samsung Galaxy NX review. Elsewhere further testing will be required on the 3G/4G connection capabilities.
16GB of internal storage is present on the Samsung Galaxy NX. Although this is a reasonable amount, those with heavy usage needs can bump it up to 64GB via microSD expansion.
Samsung Galaxy NX Screen
The Samsung Galaxy NX’s screen is a stunning 4.8-inch TFT offering. It has clearly taken pointers from the company’s flagship smartphone lines, including the Samsung Galaxy S4, and offers stunningly sharp, vibrant image playback.
With a pleasing colour pallet that sees gradients in hues features smooth transitions, the NX’s screen worked well in ugly artificial and bright, direct natural light, all without excessive reflections or the dilution of on-screen content.
Worryingly, the Samsung Galaxy NX’s screen became uncomfortable hot during our shot time with the device. While we can’t look too much into this on a pre-production model, the added temperature, particularly on the right side of the display next to the hand grip, made the camera slightly uncomfortable to use.
Samsung Galaxy NX First Impressions
The Samsung Galaxy NX is a sign of future camera capabilities and seamless weaves in the added smart and connectivity options around impressive imaging abilities. Its screen is a star addition and the possibilities to edit and share shots direct from the camera are sure to appeal to many. We can’t wait to get a full review sample in our hands.
