Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 GC200 Specs Prices Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview of Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 GC200

The Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 GC200 is a hybrid device that combines the functionality of a digital camera with the versatility of a smartphone operating system. Released in March 2014, this device caters to photography enthusiasts who are looking for advanced camera features coupled with smart processing capabilities provided by the Android platform. Here, we delve into the detailed specifications and features of the Samsung Galaxy Camera 2, shedding light on what makes this device a unique offering in the market.

Design and Build

The Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 is designed in dimensions of 132.5 x 71.2 x 19.3 mm and weighs 283 grams. This makes it noticeably more substantial than a typical smartphone, reflecting its dual functionality as a dedicated camera. The absence of cellular connectivity and SIM card slot emphasizes its primary use as a camera rather than a full-fledged smartphone. The device is available in classic black and white color options, providing sleek and professional aesthetics.

Display Technology

Featuring a 4.8-inch Super Clear LCD display, the Galaxy Camera 2 offers vibrant visuals with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels (~306 ppi pixel density). The inclusion of Corning Gorilla Glass 2 adds durability to the screen, protecting against scratches and minor impacts. The screen size and resolution ensure that users have a good view of their photos and videos, as well as easy access to Android applications and camera settings.

Camera Features and Capabilities

The standout feature of the Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 is, without a doubt, its camera capabilities. It boasts a 16.3 MP sensor equipped with a 1/2.3" autofocus feature and 21x optical zoom. This allows photographers to capture minute details even from a distance without compromising image quality. The camera supports Full HD video recording at 1080p@30fps and offers a high-speed option at 512p@120fps, catering to various creative needs. The combination of a powerful lens and smart functionalities allows users to experiment with professional photography on a relatively compact device.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the device is powered by a Quad-core 1.6 GHz processor running on Android 4.3 Jelly Bean with Samsung's TouchWiz UI. While not the newest operating system, it provides a smooth user experience, particularly for camera operations and basic app usage. The device is equipped with 2GB of RAM, sufficient for multitasking needs and running photography applications. With 8GB of internal storage where 2.8GB is user-available, users may need to rely on the microSDXC card slot for additional storage, supporting extensive galleries of high-resolution photos and video files.

Connectivity & Communication

For connectivity, the Galaxy Camera 2 utilizes Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n with dual-band capabilities and a hotspot function that allows easy sharing of photos online. The inclusion of Bluetooth 4.0 and NFC support enhances its connectivity repertoire, facilitating quick file exchanges and device pairing. The GPS and GLONASS positioning features enhance location-based services, particularly useful for geo-tagging photographs. However, it is important to note the absence of traditional phone features such as cellular network connectivity and radio.

Battery and Usage

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 2000 mAh battery, the device supports moderate use throughout the day, though usage time may be substantially decreased during extensive video recording or Wi-Fi use. Users have the convenience of replacing the battery easily if needed, a feature that is becoming less common in modern smart devices. This adds a layer of practicality for outdoor photography sessions, where power banks or additional batteries might be employed to extend shooting time.

Sound and Additional Features

Sound output is managed through a built-in loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users the option to listen privately to audio content from their recorded videos. Additional sensors such as the accelerometer, gyro, and compass enhance the device's smart capabilities, supporting its stability in various operational modes.

Economic Considerations

When launched, the Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 was priced at approximately 330 EUR. Considering the camera's specialized features and integration of Android OS, the device offered value for photography enthusiasts seeking to combine digital camera functions with the benefits of smart technology. Despite being discontinued, second-hand markets or specialized camera stores might continue to offer the device.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 GC200 stands as a testament to innovative efforts in hybridizing mobile technology with advanced photography. While it may not compete with the latest smartphone cameras in terms of versatility or connectivity, it offers unique advantages for specific user needs. The capacity to control, edit, and share high-quality images on an Android platform makes it a suitable choice for both hobbyists and semi-professional users who appreciate dedicated photography hardware with smart features.