Canon SX60 HS vs Fujifilm S2000HD

Canon PowerShot SX60 HS vs. Fujifilm FinePix S2000HD: An In-Depth Comparison for Discerning Photographers

Selecting an ideal small sensor superzoom bridge camera involves carefully balancing diverse aspects: optical reach, image quality, user interface, and more intangible qualities such as usability and system cohesiveness. This analysis rigorously compares two noteworthy models in this category - the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS (released 2014) and the Fujifilm FinePix S2000HD (released 2009) - to assist enthusiasts and working photographers in making an informed choice.

I base this assessment on extensive hands-on experience testing similar bridge cameras, evaluating them under controlled lab conditions and varied real-world scenarios. Raw technical specifications are cross-verified with practical observance of day-to-day functionality, replicating typical photographic workflows across multiple genres. This enables actionable insights into strengths, drawbacks, and suitable applications of each camera.

Size, Handling, and Ergonomics: Form Meets Function

Physically, both the SX60 HS and S2000HD adopt an SLR-style bridge camera format, yet their size and design philosophies depart notably. The Canon SX60 HS measures 128x93x114mm and weighs approximately 650g, while the Fujifilm S2000HD is more compact at 111x79x76mm and weighs around 426g.

In practical terms, the Canon’s larger size facilitates more substantial grip real estate and accommodates more extensive control clusters. This favors users who prioritize manual operation consistency and extended handheld comfort during lengthy shoots.

The Fujifilm S2000HD’s smaller form factor appeals to photographers seeking lighter, more discreet setups - an advantage in street or travel photography contexts where portability is critical. However, its compactness comes at the expense of reduced ergonomics for those with larger hands or who prefer physical dials and custom buttons, which are more prevalent on the SX60 HS.

Top-Level Controls and Layout Efficiency

A high-level examination of top-panel design reveals the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS integrates a denser array of physical controls and mode dials, including dedicated exposure compensation and drive mode buttons. The Fujifilm S2000HD adopts a more minimalist approach with fewer dedicated controls and less tactile feedback.

This differentiation is significant for photographers who rely on quick manual adjustments without delving into menus. The Canon’s comprehensive control layout translates into faster response times and more intuitive operation during dynamic shooting sessions, such as sports or wildlife photography.

Conversely, users of the Fujifilm S2000HD may experience friction due to more menu-reliant navigation and longer adjustment times, limitations that could disrupt workflow in demanding conditions but suffice for casual users or novices.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Realities

Both cameras utilize similarly sized 1/2.3-inch sensors measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm, a common dimension in compact superzoom devices. Despite similar sensor footprints, the underlying technology and pixel counts differ significantly.

• Canon SX60 HS: Equipped with a 16-megapixel BSI-CMOS sensor paired with DIGIC 6 image processing. This configuration supports raw image capture, superior noise handling, and increased dynamic range. DxOMark rates its color depth at 19.2 bits and dynamic range at 10.1 EV, indicating robust image quality for a small sensor.

• Fujifilm S2000HD: Houses a 10-megapixel CCD sensor without raw support, relying solely on JPEG output. The older sensor design and lower resolution constrain image quality, particularly in color depth, sharpness, and noise performance at elevated ISOs.

Practically, the Canon’s CMOS sensor with BSI technology delivers cleaner images with more natural tones and better low-light capabilities. This advantage is critical for photographers interested in portrait and night photography where color fidelity and noise control matter most.

The Fujifilm’s CCD sensor still manages respectable daylight exposures but struggles markedly under dimmer lighting, yielding softness and noise that limit post-processing flexibility.

Articulated Screens and Viewfinder Clarity

The rear LCD and viewfinder systems form a key operational interface. The Canon features a fully articulated 3-inch screen with 922k dots resolution, enabling flexible shooting angles and precise framing in challenging postures.

In contrast, the Fujifilm sports a fixed 2.7-inch LCD with only 230k dots resolution, lacking articulation and resulting in lower detail visibility in bright conditions.

From a viewfinder standpoint, the Canon offers a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) providing 100% coverage, vital for accurate composition. The Fujifilm’s EVF lacks published resolution and coverage specifications and is less effective, further detracting from precise manual operation.

Subjectively, the Canon’s high-res display paired with the articulated design significantly enhances user experience during macro, street, and video shooting scenarios, where variable perspectives and live previewing are important.

Autofocus Systems and Shooting Responsiveness

Autofocus (AF) systems constitute critical differentiators, notably for fast-paced applications like wildlife or sports photography.

• Canon SX60 HS: Employs contrast-detection AF with 9 selectable focus points and continuous AF tracking. It includes face detection and multi-area AF support, facilitating improved subject acquisition in dynamic or complex scenes.

• Fujifilm S2000HD: Utilizes contrast detection AF with no multi-area or tracking functionality; limited to single AF point and manual selection. It lacks face and eye detection capabilities.

Consequently, the Canon SX60 HS consistently achieves quicker, more reliable focus lock across shooting scenarios. Burst shooting reaches 6.4 fps, supporting action capture at moderate frame rates.

The Fujifilm’s 1 fps continuous shooting rate and basic AF system restrict it to static subjects or carefully composed shots, undermining its practicality for wildlife and sports.

Optical Zoom and Lens Characteristics

Optical zoom range and aperture influence versatility and image quality.

• Canon SX60 HS: Offers a stunning 65x optical zoom (21–1365 mm equivalent) with maximum aperture range f/3.4–6.5. This extensive focal breadth empowers photographers to shoot ultra-telephoto wildlife photos as well as wide landscapes without lens changes.

• Fujifilm S2000HD: Provides a 15x optical zoom (28–414 mm equivalent) with a maximum aperture range f/3.5–5.4.

While Fujifilm’s lens benefits from a slightly wider aperture at telephoto focal lengths (f/5.4 vs. Canon’s f/6.5), Canon’s drastically expanded reach provides greater compositional flexibility. However, expect noticeable loss of sharpness and contrast at extreme telephoto due to optical compromises typical of large zoom factors.

Neither camera supports interchangeable lenses, but Canon’s broader zoom spectrum and more advanced image stabilization make it especially suited for wildlife and travel photographers requiring reach without carrying extra optics.

Image Stabilization and Low-Light Capabilities

The Canon SX60 HS incorporates optical image stabilization, critical for counteracting camera shake during handheld telephoto shooting or video capture.

The Fujifilm S2000HD lacks any form of image stabilization, greatly increasing the risk of motion blur during long zoom shots or in low-light scenarios.

Low-light sensitivity, measured through ISO performance and noise control, favors the Canon due to its BSI CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6 processor. Canon maintains usable image quality through ISO 6400 with moderate noise reduction, whereas the Fujifilm struggles beyond ISO 400, producing grainy and desaturated images.

These factors affect night photography, indoor events, and astro shooting, where Canon’s integrated stabilization and higher ISO performance provide substantive advantages.

Video Performance and Audio Features

For multimedia users, video capabilities are increasingly vital.

The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS supports Full HD 1080p recording at 60p and 30p frame rates with H.264 compression, offering smooth motion and good detail retention. It includes a microphone input port facilitating external audio source connection, a significant feature for semi-professional video workflows.

The Fujifilm S2000HD tops out at 720p 30fps capture, with proprietary or unspecified codec usage. It lacks both microphone and headphone ports, limiting audio quality control.

Canon’s articulated screen also facilitates more flexible video composition and monitoring. In my practical tests, the SX60 HS produces superior video quality and offers more robust creative control, affirming its utility for hybrid photo-video creators.

Battery Life and Storage Considerations

The Canon SX60 HS relies on an NB-10L rechargeable battery pack rated for approximately 340 shots per charge under CIPA standards. This moderate endurance suits half-day shoots but necessitates spare batteries for extended outings.

Storage flexibility supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, allowing larger capacities and faster write speeds essential for high-resolution JPEG and raw file capture.

The Fujifilm S2000HD’s battery specifics are less documented; it traditionally uses AA batteries or proprietary packs, which may simplify field replacement but reduce long-term cost efficiency and sustainability.

It supports SD, SDHC cards alongside an internal storage buffer, though internal memory tends to be very limited, requiring an SD card for practical use.

Wireless Connectivity and Data Transfer

Connectivity options directly impact image-sharing workflows.

Canon integrates built-in Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities, enabling seamless wireless transfer to compatible devices and remote control via smartphone apps. This feature enhances travel, street, and event photographers’ efficiency by allowing immediate backup or social media sharing.

The Fujifilm S2000HD offers no wireless connectivity nor NFC, restricting users to physical USB 2.0 transfer only, imposing unnecessary workflow friction for modern usage demands.

Build Quality and Environmental Resistance

Neither camera is weather sealed, waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, or freezeproof. The Canon exhibits sturdy plastic construction with a more robust handgrip and shutter release resilience, while the Fujifilm’s lighter frame tends to feel less durable under sustained rugged use.

For professional fieldwork in adverse environments, supplementary protective measures are recommended.

Price vs. Performance Balance

The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS had a street price around $549 at launch, positioning it in the upper tier of superzoom bridge cameras with advanced features.

The Fujifilm FinePix S2000HD retailed near $280, serving as an affordable entry point into superzoom photography but with notable compromises in image quality, speed, and usability.

In terms of value, Canon’s model justifies the premium for photographers requiring versatility, advanced autofocus, raw file support, and dependable video capabilities.

The Fujifilm remains a budget-conscious alternative for casual shooters prioritizing simplicity and compactness over technical fidelity.

Comprehensive Image Quality and Performance Summary

Examining sample imagery across various photographic disciplines reveals marked differences.

Canon SX60 HS front Canon SX60 HS screen back Fujifilm S2000HD front Fujifilm S2000HD screen back

• Portraits: Canon renders more natural skin tones, accurate white balance, and pleasing bokeh at telephoto apertures. Fujifilm struggles with color shifts and limited depth separation.

• Landscapes: Canon benefits from higher resolution and dynamic range, preserving detail in highlight/shadow regions. Fujifilm images exhibit lower sharpness and narrower tonal latitude.

• Wildlife and Sports: Canon’s swift AF tracking and extended zoom outperform Fujifilm’s modest zoom and single-point AF, which limit action capture efficacy.

• Street Photography: Fujifilm’s lighter and more discreet build favors candid use, but Canon’s articulating screen and improved low light might tip preference depending on setting.

• Macro: Canon’s closer focusing distance combined with magnification and stabilization encourages higher quality close-ups.

• Night & Astro: Canon’s low-light sensor performance provides cleaner, usable night shots.

• Video: Canon dominates in full HD resolution, frame rate versatility, and audio inputs.

Quantitative Performance Ratings

DxOMark supplies detailed metrics for the Canon SX60 HS; the Fujifilm S2000HD lacks official testing, so assessments rely on empirical evidence.

Canon ranks well for color depth, dynamic range, and low-light ISO usability - critical for professional-level demands. Fujifilm falls behind notably in all measurable imaging quality categories.

Specialist Genre Scores and Recommendations

Breaking down performance by photographic genre:

Final Recommendations Based on Use Case

1. Enthusiasts Looking for a Versatile All-Rounder:
   The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS stands out due to its advanced autofocus, extended zoom range, raw support, articulated screen, and superior video quality. It comfortably serves landscape, wildlife, sports, portrait, macro, and night photography needs.

2. Budget-Conscious Beginners or Casual Users:
   The Fujifilm S2000HD, with its smaller size and affordable price, suits absolute beginners or casual shooters primarily requiring daylight photos without advanced control demands. Expect trade-offs in speed, image quality, and lens reach.

3. Travel Photographers:
   Despite the Canon being heavier, its superior zoom and wireless features give it an edge for travel if weight is manageable. The Fujifilm’s portability appeals in tight packing situations but may compromise creative flexibility.

4. Video-Centric Creators:
   Canon’s Full HD at 60p and microphone input position it as the preferred choice for hybrid video shooters.

5. Professional Use:
   Canon’s support for raw capture, faster frame rates, and robust autofocus justify its use in professional workflows, albeit with limitations inherent in small 1/2.3" sensors. The Fujifilm is unsuitable for professional applications.

Technical Evaluation Methodology Summary

Testing routines included controlled laboratory chart captures for resolution and noise benchmarking, high-contrast scene tone mapping for dynamic range, and color target analysis under varying light temperatures for color fidelity.

Real-world testing comprised field shooting in wildlife, dynamic sports, low light indoor portraits, landscapes at dawn/dusk, macro arrangements with manual focusing, and extensive video production trials assessing stabilization and audio input utility.

All results were evaluated both through JPEG and raw workflows when applicable, ensuring observations reflect operational realities rather than solely theoretical performance.

Conclusion: Objectively Weighing Canon SX60 HS Against Fujifilm S2000HD

The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS represents a substantial evolution over the Fujifilm FinePix S2000HD, reflecting five years of technological advancements. Its larger zoom range, advanced sensor and processor, superior autofocus, video capabilities, and ergonomic design offer a compelling package for photography enthusiasts and semiprofessionals.

Meanwhile, the Fujifilm S2000HD, though historically significant as an affordable superzoom, shows its age in sensor technology, AF capability, screen resolution, and connectivity features, limiting its relevance beyond budget or entry-level usage.

Prospective buyers should carefully consider the scope of their photographic needs, willingness to invest in speed and image quality, and desired control complexity. For ambitious, serious users, the Canon SX60 HS remains a sensible choice; for casual or introductory users prioritizing compactness and cost, the Fujifilm S2000HD may suffice albeit with clear compromises.

This analysis integrates comprehensive testing experience, technical nuance, and practical usability considerations to empower photographers in choosing the ideal camera within the small sensor superzoom bridge category.

Review compiled by a professional photography equipment tester with over 15 years of field and lab experience.