Lens adapter compatibility

M42 screw mount lenses on Samsung NX cameras

Can you use M42 screw mount lenses on Samsung NX cameras? Yes, with a simple mechanical adapter (manual focus). The M42 screw mount flange distance is 45.46 mm and Samsung NX is 25.50 mm, a difference of +19.96 mm.

+19.96 mm
Space for the adapter
45.46 mm
M42 screw mount flange
25.50 mm
Samsung NX flange
Verdict: Yes — a simple 20.0 mm adapter keeps infinity focus.

What to expect#

Aperture control: these are mechanical lenses with aperture rings — set the aperture on the lens and shoot in aperture-priority or manual.

Focus: use focus peaking and magnification in the viewfinder. Exposure metering works normally because the camera meters through the lens at working aperture.

Crop factor: on a 1.5× crop Samsung NX body a 50 mm M42 screw mount lens frames like 75 mm. A focal reducer (“speed booster”) can bring back some width and gain about a stop of light.

Other systems for M42 screw mount lenses#

Frequently asked questions#

Will M42 screw mount lenses autofocus on Samsung NX?

No — adapted lenses are manual focus on this combination.

Does a M42 screw mount to Samsung NX adapter affect image quality?

A glass-free adapter is just a precisely machined spacer, so image quality is unchanged when it is built to the right thickness. Cheap adapters can be slightly too thin or thick, which shifts the infinity mark.

Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources