Samsung reveals APS-C sensor NX10 digital SLR

Samsung has beat other camera makers to the punch this week, announcing the first edition to their new NX series before CES 2010 has even gotten started.

The NX10 is the first of its line, blending the power of a DSLR into a more compact frame. Many reviewers are jumping to compare it to Micro Four-Thirds systems since its mirrorless, but there's more to it than that.

The .78-lb camera packs a 14.6-megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor and a 3-inch AMOLED screen into its lightweight body. However, there is only an electronic viewfinder, and you can't use it at the same time as the screen.  As for recording, the NX10 shoots 720p HD video at 30 fps with a H.264 codec, saved as MPEG-4 files.

Along with the usual presets, Samsung has included the Smart Auto function, which auto detects and determines the best shooting mode based on the surrounding. The NX10 also features the Supersonic Dust Reduction system, which clears dust particles off of the image sensor.

There's also three interchangeable lenses for the NX mount: an 18mm-55mm optically stabilized kit lens, a 50mm-200mm stabilized lens, and a 30mm prime lens. Apparently Samsung will also start selling a K-Mount adapter for compatibility with Pentax K-Mount lenses. It's nice to see some flexibility in lenses when it comes to DSLRs.

It will be available in silver and black, and hopefully we'll see a price announcement and more exact release date (we only know its spring 2010 right now) by the end of the week.

CNET also has a hands-on video with closer looks at the sensor and LCD screen. DPRreview also has detailed photos and notes on some of its preset functions and video mode.