Samsung NX30, lenses: Bigger and bolder (pictures)
Samsung makes some interesting design choices for the NX30.
Lori Grunin
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
Although it looks almost small in Josh's big hands, the NX30 is actually bigger than its predecessor and one of the larger models on the market. Shown here with the new 16-50mm power zoom lens (which will come in black).
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Tilting EVF
The most notable addition to the NX30's feature set is the pull-out-and-tilt-up EVF similar to those on camcorders and Olympus' optional model. It's a feature I really like.
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Slight layout change
The back controls have been tweaked slightly. For instance, the autoexposure lock and exposure compensation buttons have been moved to make room for a more pronounced thumb rest, and the drive modes have been moved to the top of the camera and replaced with a white balance button.
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Top controls
The drive mode controls which used to be on the back are now on a standalone dial on the top. There are also two (up from one) custom setting slots on the mode dial.
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Much bigger grip
The NX30's grip is much larger than that of the NX30, and Samsung moved the metering button onto the extra territory, and added a Wi-Fi connect button.
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NFC and mic
The NX30 gains NFC for quick Wi-Fi connection setup and a mic jack. You can also see the i-Function button and the left-hand zoom controls on the new power zoom lens.
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Articulated display
You've seen these before. The NX30's is supposedly brighter than the one on the NX20.
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Battery and card
With a grip this big, I'm disappointed that the card slot is in the battery compartment rather than on the side. At least it's a full-size SD card rather than the microSD Samsung favors with many of its other cameras.
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New premium lens line
Samsung launches its new line of better-quality lenses with a 16-50mm f2-2.8.
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Big lens
With a 72mm filter size, you can tell this is no compact lens. It feels very nice and well made.
