Samsung 16–50mm Power Zoom Review for Second-Hand NX Shooters

Overview: The Samsung 16–50mm Power Zoom NX Legacy

The Samsung 16–50mm f/3.5–5.6 Power Zoom ED OIS is one of the small gems from the discontinued NX mirrorless system. Covering a versatile 24–75mm equivalent focal range in a compact package, it was designed as a lightweight everyday zoom with a strong emphasis on video.

Today, the NX mount may be a closed chapter for Samsung, but the system still has a loyal user base. For those shooting on older NX bodies, this power zoom lens can breathe new life into cameras like the NX500, NX1 and NX3000, especially if you are interested in hybrid photo and video work.

Unlike many kit lenses, this zoom combines motorized zoom control, Optical Image Stabilization and quiet autofocus in one small barrel. On the second-hand market, that combination makes it one of the more interesting NX lenses for budget-conscious creators.

I remember pulling an old mirrorless zoom from storage one rainy weekend. Its modest aperture and slow power zoom felt limiting at first, but those constraints pushed me toward slower, more deliberate compositions and smoother handheld video moves I had never tried with my modern gear.

Key Technical Characteristics and Handling

Focal range and aperture

The 16–50mm focal range on Samsung’s APS-C sensor is a classic all-rounder. At 16mm you can capture interiors, city streets and landscapes; at 35–50mm you are in a natural perspective for portraits, product shots and everyday details. The variable f/3.5–5.6 aperture is typical for compact zooms and keeps weight down.

Power zoom and autofocus

The defining feature is the power zoom mechanism. Instead of twisting a large mechanical ring, you use an electronic zoom control that drives internal motors. This enables repeatable zoom speeds and smoother transitions, particularly useful for video. Autofocus is driven by a quiet internal motor, designed to keep focus noise out of your audio.

Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)

The built-in Optical Image Stabilization helps counteract hand shake, especially at the longer end of the zoom. For older NX cameras without in-body stabilization, OIS can mean the difference between a soft and a sharp handheld shot in low light.

Creative Value for Hybrid and Video Shooters

Smooth zooms for video storytelling

For solo filmmakers and small crews, the Samsung 16–50mm Power Zoom can be a surprisingly capable tool. The motorized zoom lets you execute slow, cinematic zoom-ins and zoom-outs without the micro-jerks that often come from manual zooming. On a small gimbal or shoulder rig, this improves both consistency and comfort.

Silent operation on set

Because both the autofocus and zoom motors are engineered to be quiet, they are less likely to be recorded by on-camera microphones. This is particularly helpful for documentaries, weddings and event coverage where you rely on ambient sound.

Hybrid shooting flexibility

Switching between stills and video is where this lens shines. At 16mm you get a wide establishing frame; at mid-range you have a classic interview or portrait field of view. For creators who want one lens on the camera most of the day, this flexibility keeps your kit small and travel-friendly.

How the Samsung 16–50mm Compares to Modern Lenses

A legacy zoom in a mirrorless era

Compared with modern mirrorless kit lenses from current brands, the Samsung 16–50mm Power Zoom holds up well in terms of practicality. It is compact, stabilized and video-aware. Where it lags is not so much in concept, but in ecosystem support: the NX mount is closed, and the lens cannot be easily adapted to other systems because it relies heavily on proprietary electronic communication.

Value versus new glass

On current systems you can buy faster, sharper zooms with broader support for accessories and firmware updates. However, those lenses often cost several times more, and they do nothing for the NX camera you already own. For existing NX shooters, this power zoom remains a sensible and sustainable choice, extending the life of a camera that might otherwise gather dust.

If you are instead looking to change systems entirely, exploring modern digital cameras and their native zoom lenses may be a better long-term path. But if you want to keep your NX kit active, a good copy of this lens is one of the most versatile upgrades you can make.

Buying Guide: What to Check When Shopping Second-Hand

Because this lens relies heavily on electronics, careful inspection is important when buying used. Whenever possible, test the lens on a compatible NX body before committing.

Essential second-hand checklist

• Test smoothness of power zoom operation
• Activate OIS and confirm response visually
• Inspect elements for visible haze or dust
• Listen for quiet, clean autofocus engagement
• Confirm mount contact points are corrosion-free

How to perform the checks

Mount the lens, turn the camera on, and slowly rock the zoom control from wide to telephoto. The movement should feel consistent, without sudden jumps or stops. Then half-press the shutter or activate continuous AF and listen: the focusing sound should be soft and free of grinding or clicking.

For OIS, enable stabilization in the camera menu (if available) and frame a distant subject at the long end of the zoom. As you half-press the shutter, you should see the image “lock in” slightly, indicating that stabilization is engaging. Finally, examine the glass under a strong light, and inspect the metal mount and contacts for scratches, pitting or discoloration.

If you prefer to skip the guesswork, opt for a reputable second-hand retailer that tests focus, zoom and OIS before listing lenses in their camera lenses collection.

Setting Up Your NX Lens for Modern Use

Pairing with the right NX body

This lens is only compatible with Samsung NX mount cameras and cannot be easily adapted to other brands. It works best on bodies such as the NX500, NX1 and NX3000, which can take full advantage of power zoom, OIS and electronic communication.

Optimizing for video and hybrid work

Once mounted, explore your camera’s dedicated movie mode. Assign zoom control to comfortable buttons if your body allows, and test different zoom speeds for more natural motion. Combine this with manual or semi-manual exposure modes to keep brightness consistent during zooms.

For creators who also shoot on other systems, the Samsung NX kit can become a dedicated B‑camera rig. While your main camera handles high-end production, an NX body with the 16–50mm Power Zoom can cover behind-the-scenes clips, time-lapses or extra angles. You can even pair it with compact videocameras in your bag for more coverage without much extra weight.

Final Thoughts: Affordable Versatility in a Forgotten Format

The Samsung 16–50mm f/3.5–5.6 Power Zoom NX lens represents a practical, sustainable choice for photographers and filmmakers who still enjoy their NX cameras. It is compact, stabilized, video-friendly and widely available on the second-hand market at approachable prices.

While it will never compete with the latest high-speed mirrorless zooms, it does not have to. For everyday shooting, travel, YouTube content and family documentation on NX bodies, this lens offers exactly what you need: a reliable focal range, quiet operation and the creative control of power zoom.

If keeping your existing gear in use matters more than chasing the newest spec sheet, a good copy of this Samsung zoom is a smart way to extend the life of your NX system and keep making images with the camera you already know.

FAQs

Is the Samsung 16–50mm NX lens still compatible with any modern cameras? It only fits Samsung NX mount cameras and cannot be easily adapted to other systems because it relies on proprietary electronic communication. It is ideal for those still using NX500, NX1 or NX3000 bodies.

Does the Samsung 16–50mm Power Zoom lens offer image stabilization? Yes. The lens includes Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), which provides steadier handheld performance for both photo and video, especially at longer focal lengths or slower shutter speeds.

How can I test if the Power Zoom works on a used Samsung NX lens? Mount the lens on an NX body, power on, and gently operate the zoom rocker. The zoom should move smoothly with a quiet, even motor sound. Avoid lenses that produce grinding noises, sudden stops or noticeable lag.

What makes this lens appealing to video creators? Its quiet autofocus drive and motorized power zoom allow controlled, cinematic zoom moves with minimal focus noise. For small teams or solo shooters working with Samsung NX cameras, that combination makes it an efficient, budget-friendly video tool.