Samsung NX500 may share the same guts as the NX1, but it’s obvious they aren’t entirely the same camera, nor are they designed for the same buyer. The NX1 looks and feels like an enthusiast DSLR, because that’s the market it’s targeted toward, particularly videographers. The NX500, however, is the epitome of a compact system camera (CSC): It is much lighter and smaller, with far fewer buttons and dials (construction is solid, but it doesn’t come close to the NX1’s). It looks like many other mirrorless competitors, such as the 24MP Sony A6000 (also $800). The buyer here is the step-up user who wants an easy-to-use camera, but with the power of an interchangeable lens model.
The design is fairly standard; in fact, it hasn’t dramatically changed from the NX300. It comes in black, brown, and white. It measures 4.7 x 2.5 x 1.7 inches, and weighs 10.1 ounces with the battery (body only). The camera uses Samsung’s NX-mount, and the kit lens is the solid 16-50mm Power Zoom with i-Function capability. The lens is fine for everyday use, but there are other Samsung and third-party glass options to choose from, including primes and zooms.
Samsung NX500 |
Besides the lens mount, the front has an AF Assist lamp to help focus in dim light and an enhanced grip. Because the camera isn’t very tall, this writer didn’t find the grip comfortable to use, but another DT writer thought it was fine. This demonstrates why you should do a hands-on test before you buy. Otherwise, the camera’s design is plain, which goes for nearly all NX cameras.
The top-deck has stereo mics, a pinhole speaker, and hot shoe. Two big differences between the NX1 and the NX500 are the lack of a built-in flash and electronic viewfinder (EVF). Given the $700 difference and target audience, this is to be expected. Samsung does supply an accessory flash that attaches via the hot shoe, so that base is covered; the EVF is not and it’s a key difference with the Sony A6000, which offers both amenities. However, we didn’t miss the EVF since the rear display is outstanding, but there were a few instances where it would have come handy (more on this later).
Price Range : $ 797.99
Price Range : $ 797.99