Samsung EX2F Digital Camera Review

Lens & Sensor

The EX2F's lens is a sturdy, Schneider Kreuznach model that extends to only 3.3x optical zoom. Action of the motor is slow and a bit loud. Also note the knurled ring around the base of the barrel is ergonomic only, this is not a manual control ring like the ones found on the S100 or the RX100.

The lens does not have an automatic lens cap, which is pretty inconvenient for a compact, and powering up the camera before removing the cap will cause a jam, necessitating another power cycle.

Samsung went with a 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor for this camera, and like the Canon S100, this is going to be the chief downfall of the EX2F relative to the Sony RX100. Despite a slightly slower lens, the RX100's one-inch sensor creates far more appealing images than a smaller sensor can. For the next generation of compacts to compete, they'll need to start squeezing in bigger chips.

Display(s)

The absence of a viewfinder is another disappointment, but instead we get a beautiful 3.0-inch AMOLED monitor to work with. The panel has full swiveling capabilities, so it's possible to shoot straight-on from just about any angle. The screen is very bright, with an excellent viewing angle, but--like Samsung's TV's--reflectivity is a problem.

Flash

The flash bulb pops up via a mechanical release on the left side of the top panel. This is sort of an inconvenient spot, since your left pointer finger wants to come to rest on top of it, but we got used to it quickly. The flash is effective out to over 25 feet, making it fairly powerful for a compact camera. Recycle time is average.

Connectivity

On the right panel, behind a plastic door, you'll find the main connectivity terminals. There's a microUSB port here, as well as a microHDMI output.

The EX2F is also equipped with a hot shoe mount, found on the top panel, which is useful for powering accessories like microphones or supplemental flash.

Battery

The included SLB-10A battery is rated to only 240 shots with this camera, making it a relatively weak performer in this price range. Charging is always accomplished in-camera via USB, either from a computer or using the included wall socket adapter.

Memory

The EX2F is compatible with SD, SDHC, and fast SDXC memory cards. A tiny amount on internal memory is also available, but only enough for one RAW or maximum quality JPEG image.