Compact Crusaders: Canon PowerShot A800 vs Casio Exilim EX-H30 - Which Small Sensor Compact Suits You Best?

In the ever-evolving world of digital photography, compact cameras have long been the trusty sidekick to more elaborate setups or the primary tool for casual shooters needing quick and simple image capture. Today, we're diving deep into a comparison that might strike you as a bit of a throwback - the Canon PowerShot A800 and the Casio Exilim EX-H30 - two 2011-born small sensor cameras that, despite their vintage status, have carved niche reputations. Why compare these two now? Because understanding their strengths and limitations can illuminate how far compacts have come and maybe reveal some gems if you're scouting affordable used gear or nostalgic for simpler devices.

I’ve spent more than fifteen years wrangling cameras across all genres, and these two represent an interesting cross-section of compact design philosophies at the dawn of the 2010s - Canon’s straightforward “point-and-shoot” simplicity versus Casio’s aim for versatility packed in a small body. Let’s pull these contenders through the wringer, lens cap off, and see how they shape up across genres and real-world applications.

Design and Ergonomics: Small Bodies, Different Approaches

At first glance, both the A800 and EX-H30 are pocket-friendly around what we’d call "compact" territory - not ultra-mini point-and-shoots, but small enough to slip into most jacket pockets. The Canon A800 measures a neat 94x61x31 mm and weighs a featherlight 186 grams running on a pair of AA batteries - for better or worse. The Casio EX-H30 is slightly longer but thinner at 105x59x29 mm and tipping the scale at 201 grams, relying on a proprietary rechargeable Li-ion battery (NP-130).

Canon sticks with tried-and-true ergonomics: modest grip, tactile buttons, but no touchscreen (not unusual for 2011). The Casio, on the other hand, offers a slightly larger 3-inch LCD - not just bigger, but with higher resolution (461k dots versus Canon’s 115k), making framing and reviewing more pleasurable. While neither camera sports a viewfinder, the EX-H30’s screen clarity somewhat compensates for that.

On handling, the Canon’s AA battery convenience can be a boon for travel or emergency power swaps (you can find AA batteries almost anywhere). However, in daily use, the replenishment interval and battery weight disadvantages creep in. The Casio’s rechargeable battery commands better power efficiency but demands forethought - bring your charger or extra batteries to avoid dead stops.

Looking from the top, you notice Canon’s minimalistic control cluster - not a lot of bells and whistles or dedicated dials. Casio delivers more in terms of manual control options (shutter priority, aperture priority, and full manual modes) with dedicated exposure compensation. These are hallmarks of photographers who want to experiment with creative parameters beyond the auto scene modes.

Ultimately, for pure ease of use, Canon favors simplicity; for photographers who want to tinker or step beyond pure automation, the Casio provides a more expansive palette of control.

Sensor and Image Quality: Size Matters, and So Does Resolution

Both cameras pack a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm (about 28.07 mm²), a common standard for compact cameras, imposing considerable limitations compared to larger APS-C or full-frame sensors. Still, sensor tech and resolution influence practical image quality outcomes.

Canon’s A800 sports a 10-megapixel resolution (3648 x 2736 max), while Casio’s EX-H30 boasts a higher 16-megapixel count (4608 x 3456 max). The increased pixel density on the Casio means it theoretically captures finer detail but also risks higher noise levels due to smaller pixel sizes - a classic compact camera balancing act.

Neither camera supports RAW file capture, constraining post-processing flexibility - a definite downside for professionals or serious hobbyists seeking maximum image processing latitude.

Without going blind on numbers, in practical testing scenarios, the Casio produces sharper, more detailed images than the Canon, particularly visible when you crop in or print at sizes beyond 8x10 inches. Canon’s sensor produces relatively softer images, but it can still suffice for social media sharing or casual printing.

Low light reveals a more marked difference: Casio’s higher maximum ISO of 3200 versus Canon’s 1600 gives it a theoretical edge, although both cameras suffer from significant noise at elevated ISOs given the small sensor and dated CCD tech.

For photographers craving punchy colors and accurate skin tones in portraiture, Canon edges ahead with its DIGIC 3 processor delivering respectable color science. Casio’s Exilim Engine 5.0 offers a modernized approach, but images can sometimes skew cooler, requiring white balance tweaks.

Overall, image quality leans in Casio’s favor thanks to higher resolution and better processing, but Canon still holds merit for shooters valuing simplicity and battery convenience.

Autofocus and Focusing Features: Speed and Precision in a Compact Cage

Autofocus capabilities are arguably crucial across the board, determining how effectively a camera locks focus on intended subjects - from fast-moving sports moments to delicately detailed macro shots.

Canon A800 offers nine autofocus points with contrast detection autofocus, plus face detection and continuous AF during liveview. Interestingly, it includes some basic face detection capabilities, which is commendable given the tech era.

Casio EX-H30 lacks specified AF points but provides contrast-detection AF with face detection absent. Manual focus is supported, providing more creative control but also adding complexity for certain users.

In hands-on testing, Canon’s autofocus is adequate for stationary subjects and casual shooting but struggles noticeably in low-contrast or dimly lit environments. Casio's focusing is a touch slower but compensates with manual focus capability, appealing for macro or close-up work where precision is paramount.

Continuous autofocus is a mixed bag - Canon supports it, but the frame rate is limited to 1 fps on continuous shooting. Casio does not support continuous AF during burst shots. For action or wildlife photography, neither system is especially robust compared to modern standards or even entry-level DSLRs of their era.

Lens and Zoom Capabilities: Focal Range versus Maximum Reach

Now, let’s talk glass - more specifically, fixed lenses integrated into these compacts, fundamental since you can't swap lenses on either.

The Canon A800 sports a 37-122 mm equivalent focal range, a modest 3.3x zoom. The aperture ranges from f/3.0 wide open down to f/5.8 telephoto, standard fare for a budget compact.

Conversely, the Casio EX-H30 wields a serious 24-300 mm equivalent lens (12.5x zoom), with nearly the same aperture range (f/3.0-5.9). This versatile superzoom ambitiously covers wide-angle landscapes all the way through to moderate telephoto wildlife or sports.

Pragmatically, the Casio’s lens dramatically extends creative flexibility. Whether framing expansive vistas or distant subjects, it lets you shoot without lugging extra glass - a stark advantage for travel or wildlife applications in compact form factors.

Of course, such zoom breadth comes with optical trade-offs - image sharpness can dip near extremes, and distortion might crop up, particularly at the widest or longest ends. Canon’s shorter zoom is optically simpler and usually crisper.

In macro shooting, both can focus down to approximately 1 cm, though Casio’s manual focus aids working at these close distances. Without image stabilization on Canon, macro framing can suffer from blur; Casio’s sensor-shift stabilization cleans up handheld close-ups.

Real World Photography Genres: How Do They Perform?

Let’s get into the gritty details where your camera truly earns its keep - versatility across photography disciplines.

Portrait Photography

Portraits require accurate skin color, pleasing bokeh, and preferably eye detection to ensure tack-sharp focus on the subject’s eyes.

Neither model offers optical bokeh mastery given small sensors and limited aperture range. Canon’s modest lens and DIGIC 3 processing render skin tones warmly, but with softer focus and a somewhat plasticky background blur.

Casio’s higher resolution does yield crisper details in facial features, but colors skew cooler and less natural without tweaking. Eye detection is absent on both, so achieving perfect focus depends on user technique rather than camera assistance.

Bottom line: Neither excels but Canon edges slightly for natural skin tones; Casio offers more detail but less forgiving colors.

Landscape Photography

Landscapes prize dynamic range and resolution. Both cameras’ CCD sensors show typical small sensor challenges - limited dynamic range and susceptibility to blown highlights.

Casio’s 16MP advantage delivers richer resolution for large prints or cropping, and the 24mm wide-angle is a landscape staple. Canon’s 37mm minimum focal length zoom restricts wide vistas, somewhat limiting framing options.

Neither is weather sealed or ruggedized - carry rain covers or avoid adverse conditions.

Wildlife Photography

Here, zoom reach and autofocus speed dictate success.

Canon’s 3.3x zoom stops short for most wildlife uses. Casio’s 12.5x zoom is very attractive, letting you get close to timid animals without disturbing them.

Still, autofocus lag and slow burst rates (1fps or less) impair capturing fleeting wildlife actions. Neither camera has animal eye autofocus or high-speed tracking - features standard in even entry DSLR models.

Sports Photography

Sports demand rapid autofocus, fast continuous shooting, and robust tracking.

Both cameras severely lack here; Canon offers a single fps in burst mode, Casio’s burst specs aren’t specified but generally slow.

Low shutter ceiling (1/2000s max) caps action freezing potential. Canon also lacks shutter/aperture priority modes, handicapping creative exposure control under variable lighting.

Street Photography

Street shooters appreciate discreteness, fast startup, and portability.

Canon’s smaller size, simpler design, and lighter weight give it an edge in unobtrusiveness.

Casio’s larger footprint and more complex menus might interrupt quick snaps.

Low-light performance is comparable and limited; practical ISO tops are too noisy for dim urban scenes.

Macro Photography

Both focus down to ~1 cm, but Casio’s manual focus and image stabilization aid in tight compositions.

Canon’s lack of stabilization makes close handheld shots less forgiving.

Night/Astro Photography

Long exposures are limited (Canon 15 secs min, Casio 8 secs), and low noise at high ISOs is poor on both.

Neither supports bulb mode or offers specialized astro functions.

Video Capabilities: Basic but Present

When it comes to moving images, both are slow learners.

Canon A800 records VGA video at 640x480 @30fps in Motion JPEG format - very basic by any measure. Casio climbs a bit higher offering HD video at 1280x720 @30fps, closer to what casual users expect.

Neither offers external mic input, headphone jack, or advanced stabilization for video. Silent shooting modes are absent.

If video is a priority, neither camera offers compelling features, but Casio’s HD video is at least watchable on small screens.

Battery, Storage, and Connectivity

Canon’s AA batteries bring the charm of universal availability but at the cost of bulk and inconsistent longevity. The A800 claims a decent 300-shot battery life, realistic if you factor in screen use.

Casio’s proprietary NP-130 battery life figures are unspecified, but my experience with similar models suggests 250-300 shots per charge.

Storage capabilities overlap - both support SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with one slot apiece.

Wireless features? None. No WiFi, NFC, or Bluetooth, as expected in 2011.

User Interface and LCD Screens: The Window to the Image

Canon’s 2.5-inch LCD with 115k dots is serviceable but dim and grainy.

Casio’s larger, 3-inch "Super Clear TFT" display at 461k dots makes framing and reviewing images more enjoyable.

Neither offers touch functionality or articulating screens - no selfie mode.

Menu systems bear the hallmarks of their respective brands: Canon keeps it simple and approachable; Casio offers more mode options that slow down quick shooting.

Durability and Build Quality

Neither camera is weather-sealed, shockproof, or freezeproof. They bear basic plastic compact camera durability - more everyday life and pocket carry than rugged outdoor use.

Price and Value: What Will You Pay for Nostalgia or Necessity?

At launch, Canon A800 retailed around $90 - budget territory. Casio EX-H30 priced closer to $700, reflecting its feature set and zoom capability.

Today’s used market values: Canon surprisingly still hovers around $50-$70 used, while Casio can occasionally command $150-$250 depending on condition.

If you seek the best value budget pocket cam, Canon wins by a mile. Casio’s feature set feels expensive relative to its age and performance.

Sample Image Comparison: Seeing Is Believing

To truly decide, let’s look at sample images captured under controlled lighting conditions showcasing a spectrum of scenes - portraits, landscapes, and telephoto snaps.

Canon A800 front Canon A800 screen back Casio EX H30 screen back

Observations:

• Casio images are sharper with more defined edges and better detail retention.

• Canon images have smoother tonality but softer details.

• Noise at ISO 800 is visible on both; ISO 1600 degrades images substantially.

• Color rendition on skin favors Canon’s warmth; Casio’s cooler tones require adjustment.

Performance Scores: The Numbers Don’t Lie (But They Don’t Tell All)

While neither camera has DxO Mark scores - unsurprising given their age - we can compare based on expert community consensus and hands-on testing:

• Image Quality: Casio EX-H30 > Canon A800

• Autofocus: Even

• Handling: Canon A800 > Casio EX-H30 (for simplicity)

• Video: Casio EX-H30 > Canon A800

• Battery Life: Canon A800 > Casio EX-H30 (ease of battery swaps)

Specialized Genre Ratings: Who Shines Where?

Here’s a quick snapshot by photography type:

So, What’s the Verdict? Recommendations by User Type

For Beginners or Budget-Conscious Buyers:
Canon PowerShot A800 is an affordable, straightforward camera for casual snapshots, travel, and social sharing. Its simplicity keeps things painless. Don’t expect creative controls or super image quality but enjoy AA battery convenience.

For Enthusiasts Seeking Versatility in a Compact:
Casio EX-H30’s generous 24-300mm zoom, manual modes, and higher resolution make it a worthy choice. It’s better suited for experimental shooting - travel, landscapes, some wildlife - but bulkier and pricier.

For Video-Focused Users:
Neither model truly delivers but Casio’s 720p HD video and image stabilization give it a slight edge for casual videos.

For Professionals or Semi-Pro Shooters:
Neither camera truly meets professional needs - lack of RAW, limited controls, and small sensor. Consider modern mirrorless or DSLR options instead.

Final Thoughts: Personal Reflection

Testing these cameras side by side was like revisiting an old friends’ debate - a quirky contest of simplicity vs versatility. The Canon A800, with its barebones charm, reminds me of times when “snap and forget” was more common and less fraught by megapixel mania. Meanwhile, Casio’s EX-H30 gestures toward ambitious compact design, pushing the limits of zoom and control in a small package, though wrapped in dated tech.

If you stumble upon either for a song on the used market, they can serve as fun retro shooters or secondary “backup” cams in a pinch. But keep expectations realistic - technology has marched on, and even modest modern smartphones outperform both in many ways.

Whatever your choice, these cameras provide a charming window into an era when compact digital photography was defining itself - balancing convenience, early tech experimentation, and accessibility.

Happy shooting, and may your next snap be your best yet!