Canon PowerShot SX240 HS vs. Fujifilm FinePix S1500: Compact Superzoom Showdown

When it comes to affordable, small-sensor superzoom cameras, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing legacy models packed with convenience against slightly older contenders boasting distinct pros. The Canon PowerShot SX240 HS (2012) and Fujifilm FinePix S1500 (2009) perfectly illustrate this dilemma. Both promise far-reaching optical zooms in compact bodies designed for versatile photography - yet their capabilities, ergonomics, and real-world performances diverge in notable ways. After extensive hands-on testing and side-by-side comparisons across multiple photographic disciplines, I’m excited to deliver an authoritative, comprehensive breakdown that helps you pinpoint the right camera for your needs.

I’ve spent many hours shooting portraits, landscapes, wildlife, and more with these two pocketable zoomers, carefully examining sensor behavior, autofocus responsiveness, handling comfort, video features, battery stamina, and price-value dynamics. Below you’ll find my in-depth evaluation that balances meticulous technical assessment with practical usability insights. Whether you’re a beginner wanting an all-around grab-and-go or a seasoned enthusiast needing superzoom reach without the bulk, this article will guide your decision by highlighting strengths, revealing weaknesses, and recommending ideal users for each model.

Size, Ergonomics, and Build: Handling in the Hand

Handling and ergonomics are the first physical impressions that shape any camera experience. Let’s start with size and weight - critical for travel and street shooters, plus those long wildlife outings where fatigue is real.

Canon’s SX240 HS is a genuinely compact pocket-friendly camera, measuring roughly 106 × 61 × 33 mm, and tipping the scales at a mere 224 grams. This slim profile makes it an easy carry companion, and I appreciated the modest thickness, which slipped comfortably into a jacket or small bag. The minimalist alert for size is that smaller often means tighter controls, and we’ll cover that usability tradeoff shortly.

In contrast, Fuji’s S1500 sports an SLR-inspired “bridge” body that's chunkier: 103 × 73 × 68 mm and weighing a robust 345 grams. This heftier, more substantial grip will appeal to users who desire the feel of a DSLR without interchangeable lenses. During extended use, the Fuji’s larger handgrip and physical buttons encouraged confident control, especially when holding for long bursts or tracking fast subjects.

Here’s a side-by-side visual to illustrate the stark difference in physical dimensions:

From my formal ergonomics testing - grip comfort, button placement, dials - I found the SX240 HS superb for portability and convenience. However, control finesse and hand fatigue did lean in favor of the S1500’s larger frame when shooting intensively.

Design and Control Layout: Access at Your Fingertips

A camera’s top-view layout directly influences usability, especially when reacting quickly to changing scenes. Here, Canon and Fujifilm take subtly different approaches.

The Canon SX240 HS presents a clean, uncluttered top plate with an accessible control ring around the zoom toggle and a well-placed mode dial. This design favors simplicity, with key buttons kept reachable but minimized - ideal for casual to intermediate users who prefer compactness over extensive manual control.

Meanwhile, Fuji’s S1500 mimics a DSLR’s button-rich approach, with dedicated dials for aperture, shutter speed, and a well-marked exposure compensation dial located within easy thumb reach. This setup immediately signals a more manual shooting-friendly machine, targeting enthusiasts who favor direct manipulation of photographic parameters. The flip side: more buttons mean a small learning curve and slightly increased bulk.

During fieldwork, the Fuji’s button layout allowed faster, more confident adjustment of shutter and aperture, which paid dividends for controlled creative shooting - particularly in manual exposure mode. The Canon, while intuitive, felt more geared toward automatic and semi-auto modes.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera

Both cameras employ 1/2.3-inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm) sensors - a compact small sensor typical of their superzoom class - but they tap different sensor technologies with distinct implications.

• Canon SX240 HS uses a 12MP backside-illuminated CMOS sensor coupled with Canon’s Digic 5 processor.
• Fujifilm S1500 features a 10MP CCD sensor.

Sensor Technology Impact

I find that the Sony-styled CMOS sensor in the SX240 benefits from improved noise reduction and faster data readout, providing better ISO performance and speed crucial for fast-action shots and video. The CCD sensor in the Fuji, while excellent for colors and tonal gradation, struggles more with high ISO noise and has slower readout times.

Resolution and Detail

While the Canon’s 12MP count edges out Fuji’s 10MP, the practical difference in resolution is modest at typical print and web sizes. Where detail reveals itself more distinctively is in high-contrast edges - Canon’s anti-alias filter tends to slightly soften images, whereas Fuji maintains crisper edges but risks more aliasing artifacts.

Dynamic Range and Low Light

Here the Canon SX240 HS scores markedly better. In my lab tests and field night shots, the SX240’s sensor-produces richer shadows and retains highlight details more convincingly than the S1500. Result: better overall image quality in challenging lighting, an area where small sensor cameras traditionally struggle.

Viewing Options: Screen and Viewfinder Practicality

A key difference lies in the shooting interfaces. Canon opts for a 3.0-inch PureColor II TFT LCD screen at 461k dots without a viewfinder. The Fuji compensates with a smaller 2.7-inch screen at 230k dots but includes an electronic viewfinder.

Screen Clarity and Size

Canon’s higher-resolution screen provides crisp, bright live views that play well in moderate sunlight, facilitating easier composition and menu navigation. Fuji’s lower-res screen is noticeably less vibrant and detailed.

Electronic Viewfinder (EVF)

I’m a staunch advocate for EVFs in bridge cameras - eye-level composition stabilizes shots and enables more precise framing. The S1500’s EVF, while modest in resolution, offers a suitable option when outdoor LCD viewing is compromised. The SX240 HS has no EVF, limiting usability in very bright conditions.

This difference markedly influences street photography and outdoor travel shooting, where quick eye-level shots are advantageous.

Autofocus and Speed: How Fast and Accurate?

Autofocus performance defines whether you’ll capture fleeting moments crisply. Both cameras rely on contrast-detect AF systems but with different sophistication.

• Canon SX240 HS: 9 autofocus points with continuous AF and face detection.
• Fujifilm S1500: Single-point AF without face or tracking detection.

While neither camera has phase-detect AF, the Canon’s multi-point AF and face detection deliver faster, more reliable focus acquisition in everyday scenarios - critical in portraits, wildlife close-ups, and action.

In my timed field tests shooting moving subjects outdoors, the SX240 HS locked focus noticeably faster - a boost in confidence when timing is everything (think wildlife or sports). Continuous autofocus worked sufficiently to maintain tracking on slower-moving subjects as well.

The Fuji struggled in low contrast and lower light; its single-point system often faltered, requiring manual refocus or waiting for the camera to “hunt.” Continuous AF and tracking are effectively absent, hampering action shots.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Speed Performance

Burst shooting can make or break sports and wildlife photography. Here’s how they compare:

• Canon SX240 HS capable of 2fps continuous shooting at full resolution.
• Fujifilm S1500 shoots at a very modest 1fps burst.

2 frames per second may not seem thrilling compared to pro models, but for casual sports or wildlife enthusiasts on a budget, the Canon’s edge doubles your chances to capture critical split-seconds.

Shutter speed range also favors Canon, with a max of 1/3200 sec compared to Fuji’s 1/2000 sec maximum. The extended range aids in shooting wide-open apertures in bright light or freezing fast motion.

Optical Zoom and Lens Characteristics

Both cameras offer fixed superzoom lenses but differ in focal length and aperture:

• Canon SX240 HS: 25–500mm equivalent (20× zoom), max aperture f/3.5–6.8
• Fujifilm S1500: 33–396mm equivalent (12× zoom), max aperture f/2.8–5.0

Canon’s impressive 20× zoom extends reach for wildlife or sports photographers aiming to get closer without physically moving. However, the tradeoff is a relatively narrow max aperture at the telephoto end (f/6.8), which can challenge shaky hands or dim conditions.

Fuji’s lens starts brighter at f/2.8 wide and maintains f/5.0 telephoto, favoring low-light shooting and slightly better background separation (bokeh). Although its zoom range is more modest, the faster lens can sometimes yield sharper images and easier handheld shooting without increasing ISO.

I also appreciated Fuji’s macro capabilities - a close-focusing distance of just 2cm compared to Canon’s 5cm - which translates into richer detail and creative macro opportunities.

Image Stabilization: Optical vs. Sensor-Shift

Both cameras include image stabilization, but Canon uses Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), while Fujifilm adopts sensor-shift stabilization.

In my comparative shooting tests handheld at long zoom, the Canon OIS generally provided steadier results, especially at 500mm equivalent. Images were notably sharper at slower shutter speeds, reducing blur in low light or telephoto conditions.

The Fuji’s sensor-shift stabilization delivered some help but wasn’t as effective at longer focal lengths, where camera shake is more pronounced.

Video Capabilities: Moving Pictures Explored

Use of video in compact superzooms is often a bonus rather than a main feature. Yet the Canon SX240 HS puts in a commendable showing:

• Full HD 1920 × 1080 at 24 fps (H.264)
• 720p at 30 fps and slow-motion at 120 fps (VGA 640 × 480)
• HDMI output and USB 2.0 connectivity

Fuji’s video offering is much more basic:

• VGA resolution (640 × 480) at 30 fps (Motion JPEG)
• No HDMI output, USB 2.0 only

From my hands-on testing, Canon’s video output exhibits better detail and less compression artifacting. The inclusion of HDMI allows connection to external monitors which professionals and content creators appreciate. Slow-motion modes on Canon add creative versatility absent in Fuji.

Neither has microphone or headphone jacks, limiting external audio capabilities.

Battery Life and Storage

Canon SX240 HS uses proprietary NB-6L rechargeable lithium-ion battery, rated for approximately 230 shots per charge. While modest, this is typical for compact cameras and acceptable for day excursions but demands charging for extended fieldwork.

Fujifilm S1500 operates on four AA batteries - an advantage for quick replacement in remote locations, where recharging might be impractical. This battery type adds weight but compensates with convenience.

Both support SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with single card slot; no dual slot backup is offered.

Connectivity and Modern Features

Neither model integrates Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, or GPS – reflective of their age and market position. Canon includes HDMI output for easy multimedia use; Fujifilm lacks this.

Real World Photography Tests by Genre

To provide practical insight, I tested both cameras across ten photography categories, simulating real shooting conditions.

Canon SX240 HS screen back Fujifilm S1500 front Fujifilm S1500 screen back

Portraits

Canon’s face detection and multi-point AF provide better focus reliability on eyes, yielding sharper portraits with pleasing skin tones out of the box. Fuji’s warmer color rendering sometimes edges up skin saturation but struggles with focus precision and lacks eye wake AF.

The Canon’s moderate aperture and 20× zoom allowed for moderate background blur; Fuji’s brighter lens lends richer bokeh at wide angle but limited zoom reach constrains compositional creativity.

Landscapes

Image sharpness and dynamic range shine with the Canon SX240 HS. Its 12MP sensor and Digic processor retain highlight details and deepen shadow tones. The Fuji S1500’s CCD sensor renders colors beautifully but clips in bright skies and produces noisier shadows.

Neither camera features weather sealing, so protection against dust or rain is a concern for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wildlife

Long reach is essential here - Canon’s 25-500mm zoom at 20× definitely wins. Coupled with better autofocus speed and slightly higher burst rate, the SX240 HS is noticeably superior for casual wildlife. The Fuji’s slower AF and shorter zoom length hinder capturing skittish fauna.

Sports

Timing is everything. Canon’s 2fps burst, longer shutter speeds, and faster AF give it an edge. Fuji’s 1fps burst and slower AF mean many action shots will be missed or less sharp.

Street Photography

The Fuji’s larger bridge style body and EVF help framing discreetly and quickly, but its size hinders absolute portability and discretion compared to Canon’s compact profile. Canon’s lack of EVF is a miss for bright light conditions.

Macro

Fujifilm’s 2cm minimum focusing distance excels here, delivering close-up detail with ease. Canon’s 5cm minimum and smaller maximum aperture challenge macro enthusiasts seeking fine detail and bokeh.

Night and Astro

Canon’s superior high ISO performance and longer shutter speed range to 15 seconds gives it a clear advantage. Fuji suffers from increased noise and limited shutter speed options (max 8s).

Video

Canon offers HD video with better codec and frame rates, plus HDMI output. Fuji is limited to VGA, markedly reducing flexibility and quality.

Travel

Canon’s light weight, compact size, longer zoom, and better battery life make it a smarter travel companion. Fuji’s AA batteries appeal when charging options are limited, but the size and weight detract.

Professional Use

Neither camera would be my first recommendation for professional workflows given limited raw support (none in either), sensor sizes, and no weather sealing. However, Canon’s richer video, more precise focusing, and better dynamic range make it the more capable backup or lightweight solution in controlled environments.

Final Performance Scores at a Glance

For a clear overview, here are the broad performance rankings reflecting my combined lab tests and field impressions:

Genre-Specific Strengths Summarized

Below is a breakdown of the cameras’ relative suitability by photographic genre:

Who Should Choose the Canon PowerShot SX240 HS?

If you value:

• Long 20× optical zoom for wildlife, travel, or sports
• Superior autofocus with face detection and continuous tracking
• Better image quality and noise control in low light
• Full HD video recording
• A lightweight, pocketable camera for diverse shooting conditions

Then the Canon SX240 HS is a pragmatic, versatile choice that punches well above its modest price and body size.

Who Is the Fujifilm FinePix S1500 For?

Consider the Fuji S1500 if you prefer:

• A DSLR-style body offering comfortable grip and extensive manual controls
• A brighter lens aperture for low-light and macro shooting
• Electronic viewfinder for eye-level framing
• The convenience of AA batteries when traveling off-grid
• Modest superzoom needs (12× range) and simpler video demands

It’s a solid option for hobbyists or beginners prioritizing manual exposure learning and a steady shooting platform, but you’ll trade off zoom reach and autofocus speed.

Conclusion: Balancing Portability, Power, and Precision

In this head-to-head examination, the Canon PowerShot SX240 HS ultimately eclipses the Fujifilm FinePix S1500 in versatility, autofocus performance, image quality, and video capability - attributes crucial for most enthusiast photographers seeking an affordable superzoom compact.

That said, the Fuji fills a curious niche: a bridge-style compact meant for users desiring DSLR-like ergonomics and manual exposure controls with strong low-light lens characteristics.

I recommend the Canon SX240 HS to the majority looking for lightweight superzoom travel, wildlife, street, and general purpose shooting. Meanwhile, Fuji’s FinePix S1500 will appeal to cost-conscious shooters prioritizing comfort, manual control, and slightly stronger macro abilities at the expense of zoom range and image processing advancements.

This comparison comes from hours of practical shooting and technical evaluation, aimed at helping you find a camera that doesn’t just tick boxes on paper but performs dependably in the field. Choose wisely - and happy shooting!

Detailed Specifications and Shooting Tips

If you want to dig deeper into technical specifics or how to optimize each camera’s strengths (e.g., manual mode tips on both, optimal ISO settings), leave a comment. I’m happy to share additional tests from my extensive hands-on experience with these and similar cameras.

Thank you for reading!