Samsung NX11 Review | 108 Data compared

As a minor upgrade to the NX10, the camera displays limitations such as aggressive noise reduction at high ISO settings that can blur fine details, and limited 720p HD video functionality. Despite these drawbacks, the NX11 remains a competitive choice, offering a user-friendly experience for enthusiasts in a compact form factor.

The camera delivers standout pros, including very good image quality with punchy, detailed JPEG files and a highly vivid, power-efficient AMOLED screen that simplifies image composition. However, it is hindered by distinct cons, such as poor 720p HD video quality that lacks an instant record button or full manual control, and noticeable distortion when shooting at the wide end of the 18-55mm kit lens. Additionally, the camera suffers from aggressive noise reduction at high ISO levels and caps out at ISO 3200. Ultimately, the review concludes that the NX11 is a somewhat pointless upgrade that fails to stand out against competitors, and suggests buyers flash the firmware of an older NX10 to get the same functionality for less money.

The Amateur Photographer review of the Samsung NX11 highlights it as an improved, compact mirrorless alternative to DSLRs, praising its excellent fine detail resolution at low ISOs and a faster contrast-detect autofocus system. It is lauded for its intuitive, comfortable handling and versatile shooting options, offering a reliable experience for everyday photography. Conversely, the review notes significant limitations with high ISO performance, specifically citing aggressive in-camera JPEG noise reduction that compromises detail at ISO 800 and above. To achieve optimal results in low light, the review recommends shooting in RAW, as the 3200 ISO cap limits flexibility compared to competitors. Amateur Photographer

However, the review notes the camera lacks significant improvements over its predecessor, with high-ISO image quality suffering from excessive noise reduction. Additionally, video is limited to 720p resolution, and the minor upgrades make it a limited recommendation for existing NX10 owners, though it remains a solid, ergonomic option for newcomers.

However, the camera struggles to match its competitors in overall performance, photo quality, and video capture. Its image sharpness drops near the edges, close-up shots lack precise focus, and visible noise degrades picture quality at ISO 800 and above. Video recording is limited to a disappointing 720p resolution and suffers from a two-second start lag, visible moiré interference, and audible lens focusing noises on the audio track. Furthermore, the autofocus is slower than rival models, and turning on distortion correction slows the continuous shooting speed down to a sluggish 1.4fps.

However, the camera has several distinct limitations, particularly regarding its proprietary features and video capabilities. Its video recording is outdated, restricted to a maximum resolution of 1280×720 pixels, and it saves RAW files in Samsung's unique SRW format, which requires a separate software converter for Photoshop compatibility. Because the system uses a unique lens mount, users cannot easily swap lenses from alternative manufacturers without an adapter. From a physical standpoint, the NX11 lacks a highly requested vari-angle screen. Finally, while the physical buttons are clearly labeled, the camera's system menus and digital PDF instruction manual are notably littered with sloppy spelling errors.

However, the review points out several shortcomings, noting that the NX11 is essentially a carbon copy of the previous NX10 model internally, offering very few new features to justify an upgrade for existing users. The newly introduced Lens Priority mode feels redundant, and the autofocus can still struggle or fail when capturing close-ups or tracking subjects in low-light environments. Video shooters may also feel short-changed by the lack of Full HD 1080p capture, a microphone input, or full manual movie controls. Finally, the camera faces market limitations due to poor retail distribution, making it difficult for mass consumers to purchase at major stockists.

However, the review notes that the camera lacks revolutionary features compared to its predecessor, with significant image noise and detail reduction at higher ISO settings (ISO 3200). Furthermore, while the i-Fn system is a benefit, the button placement on the kit lens is less than ideal, and the camera lacks physical image stabilization switches on the lens.