A Brief History of the Samsung WB690
The Samsung WB690 arrived in the early 2010s, at the height of the “travel zoom” compact era. Smartphones were still catching up, and cameras like the WB690 promised something your phone simply could not: a long optical zoom, a real CCD sensor, and physical controls in a pocketable body.
Positioned as an advanced compact, the WB690 slotted into Samsung’s WB series as a camera for travellers and enthusiasts who wanted reach without carrying a DSLR. It bridged the gap between simple point‑and‑shoots and more serious digital compact cameras with manual exposure options.
That combination of reach, control, and CCD rendering makes the WB690 surprisingly attractive again today, especially for photographers who enjoy a slightly imperfect, characterful digital look.
The first time I used an early 2010s compact camera on a city trip, it changed how I saw photography. Suddenly I was zooming into details on distant rooftops, shooting from the hip on crowded streets, and trusting the little CCD sensor to give me punchy color and contrast with minimal editing. It felt less like chasing technical perfection and more like sketching with light.
Key Features That Make the WB690 Special
CCD Sensor Look and Best Settings
The WB690’s CCD sensor is central to its charm. Compared to many modern CMOS sensors, CCDs often produce rich color and a subtle, almost film‑like roll‑off in highlights—especially at low ISO.
- Keep ISO between 80–200 for best CCD results.
- Shoot JPEG Fine for natural CCD character.
- White balance manually for more accurate tones.
Stay at ISO 80 in good light for the cleanest files. As light drops, gently move to ISO 100 or 200 and rely on stabilization rather than pushing sensitivity further whenever possible.
Zoom Range and Stabilization
The headline feature of the WB690 is its powerful zoom in a small body. This lets you move from wide cityscapes to tight details of architecture or wildlife without changing lenses.
- Use optical stabilization for handheld video.
For stills, stabilization lets you shoot at slower shutter speeds when light gets low. For video, it keeps handheld clips steadier, especially at the telephoto end of the zoom.
Using the Samsung WB690 in 2025
Creative Uses for a “Vintage Digital” Compact
In 2025, the WB690 is not about technical dominance—it is about creative character. Many photographers use it as a dedicated “digital diary” camera for:
- Street photography with a discreet profile.
- Travel snapshots without risking an expensive modern body.
- Experimental projects that embrace CCD color and minor imperfections.
Because it is affordable on the second‑hand market, you can relax and take more risks: shoot from unusual angles, try long-zoom portraits, or play with motion blur at night.
Video: Nostalgic 720p Clips
The Samsung WB690 records 720p HD video with optical stabilization. On paper this looks basic next to 4K phones, but that is exactly the point: the video has a nostalgic mid‑2010s digital vibe that works beautifully for lo‑fi music videos, travel vlogs with a retro feel, or overlay clips for social media edits.
Buying a Samsung WB690 Second-Hand
What to Inspect Before You Commit
Because these cameras are now vintage digitals, a careful inspection is essential when buying second‑hand. When you find a WB690 at DutchThrift.com or elsewhere, use this checklist:
- ✅ Test lens zoom and focus.
- ✅ Inspect LCD for dead pixels.
- ✅ Verify battery and charger function.
- ✅ Check all buttons and dials respond.
- ✅ Prefer cameras with clear lens glass.
Zoom the lens fully in and out several times and listen for grinding noises. Check that autofocus locks reasonably quickly in good light. Look closely at the rear screen on a white image to spot any dead pixels or discoloration.
Buying used is not only budget‑friendly; it is also more sustainable. Extending the life of a WB690 keeps a capable camera in circulation and reduces e‑waste compared to constantly upgrading to new hardware.
Accessories to Enhance Your WB690 Experience
Power, Storage, and Support
To get the most from a Samsung WB690 in 2025, a few simple accessories make all the difference:
- Spare SLB-10A batteries for longer shooting days.
- Universal USB chargers if the original charger is missing.
- Standard SDHC cards (8–32 GB is usually plenty).
- A compact tabletop or travel tripod for night shots and video.
Many of these can be found in the photography accessories section at DutchThrift.com, often pre-loved and carefully tested.
Combining with Other Gear
The WB690 also works well as a companion to more serious digital cameras. Use your main body for critical work and the WB690 as an always‑ready pocket camera for personal moments or behind‑the‑scenes clips.
Why the WB690 Still Matters Today
The Samsung WB690 is proof that older digital cameras can still have a place in a modern kit. It offers:
- A distinctive CCD look at low ISO.
- A versatile zoom for travel and everyday shooting.
- Manual controls that encourage learning and experimentation.
- An affordable, second‑hand route into creative photography.
For many photographers, it represents freedom from upgrade pressure. You can explore, experiment, and enjoy photography for its own sake—without worrying about the latest sensor or autofocus algorithm.
FAQs
Is the Samsung WB690 worth buying in 2025? Yes. If you are a creative photographer seeking a compact zoom camera with manual controls and vintage CCD color rendering at a low cost, the WB690 is still a compelling choice.
What should I check before buying a used Samsung WB690? Test the zoom and focus, look for dead pixels on the LCD, confirm all buttons and dials work, and verify that the battery and charger function properly. Aim for a copy with clean, clear lens glass and no obvious dust or haze.
Can the Samsung WB690 be used for video? Yes, it records 720p HD video with optical stabilization. While basic by modern standards, it delivers a nostalgic digital aesthetic that is great for creative short films, social media edits, and travel clips.
What accessories are compatible with the Samsung WB690? The WB690 works well with SLB-10A batteries, universal USB chargers, small tripods, and standard SDHC cards. These keep the camera practical for daily use in 2025.
Ready to explore what a characterful compact can do? Browse the curated digital compact cameras at DutchThrift.com and give a second‑hand Samsung WB690—or one of its peers—a new life in your camera bag.