Canon PowerShot SX600 HS vs Fujifilm FinePix Z37: A Detailed Comparison for the Discerning Photographer

In this comparison, we dive deep into two compact, small-sensor cameras from the previous decade aimed at casual photographers and enthusiasts looking for affordable, pocketable imaging solutions. The Canon PowerShot SX600 HS (announced 2014) and the Fujifilm FinePix Z37 (announced 2009) represent distinct design philosophies and technological approaches from their respective manufacturers. Having tested both extensively, I will share comprehensive, hands-on insights into their capabilities, strengths, and limitations - helping you make a well-informed decision depending on your photographic needs.

Let’s explore how these compact contenders stack up in key categories vital to photography enthusiasts, from build and ergonomics to image quality and specialized uses.

The Feel and Form Factor: Handling and Ergonomics in Real Life

When comparing compact cameras, size and grip comfort dictate much of the user experience. The SX600 HS is slightly larger than the Z37 but still very pocketable.

Canon SX600 HS:
At 104x61x26 mm and 188 grams, Canon’s SX600 has a modest heft that gives confidence in your hand. The thicker body allows for a more pronounced grip zone, fitting hands of average size with reasonable comfort during prolonged shooting. The SX600’s weight is still light enough for travel and street photography without fatigue over a day.

Fujifilm Z37:
The Z37 is more compact overall at 90x58x24 mm and remarkably lighter at 125 grams. Its sleek, pocket-friendly chassis looks neat but sacrifices ergonomics somewhat; because of its slim body and minimalistic design, holding it steady takes a little more attention, especially for longer lens extensions.

In practical use, the SX600 HS’s size advantage translates to steadier shots, especially when zooming in past 200mm equivalent. The Z37 is ideal for users prioritizing portability above all else, such as a casual carry-around camera or secondary backup.

Top Controls and User Interface: Intuitive or Clunky?

The external button layout and top-down command access play into efficient, distraction-free shooting. This is especially important for casual superzoom compacts where quick adjustments elevate the photo-taking experience.

At first glance, Canon’s SX600 HS impresses with more conventional control placement - a shutter button with zoom toggle sits comfortably within thumb reach, accompanied by a mode dial for shooting presets. Although lacking advanced manual controls (no aperture or shutter priority), Canon integrates a dedicated flash button, playback control, and a four-way directional pad that doubles as menu navigation.

The Fujifilm Z37, meanwhile, opts for a minimalistic button array. Zoom control sits on the back, and exposure adjustment or shooting modes are hidden within menu depth, slowing down quick capture scenarios. There’s no dedicated flash toggle, and the lack of physical dials means users must often rely on screen menus, which can become tedious.

From an interface standpoint, Canon SX600 HS offers superior ergonomics for spontaneous shooting sessions. The Z37 favors simplicity but at a modest cost to operational efficiency.

Sensor and Image Quality: What Does the 1/2.3” Sensor Deliver?

Both cameras use the ubiquitous 1/2.3" sensor format but differ significantly in sensor type and resolution. This underpins much of their image quality potential.

Sensor Technology Differences

• Canon SX600 HS: Employs a 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor, a more modern design that improves light-gathering efficiency and noise characteristics.
• Fujifilm Z37: Features a 10MP CCD sensor, older generation technology known for slightly better natural color reproduction but limited low-light performance and dynamic range.

Resolution and Detail

Canon’s higher resolution 16-megapixel count (4608 x 3456) offers finer detail rendering when printed or cropped. The Fujifilm’s 10MP rating (3648 x 2736) suffices for casual prints and social sharing but loses out if pixel-peeping or enlargements are required.

Low-Light and ISO Performance

Canon’s BSI-CMOS sensor comes with a max native ISO of 3200 and features optical image stabilization (OIS), crucial for handheld shooting in dimmer conditions. The Fuji peaks at ISO 1600, lacks stabilization, and its CCD sensor exhibits increased noise at higher ISOs.

Dynamic Range and Color

Neither camera is a dynamic range heavyweight given sensor size and cost class, but the Canon’s newer tech yields modestly better shadow detail retention. Fujifilm’s CCD imparts a pleasing color palette, especially in daylight, though often at the expense of clarity in shadows.

For users interested in landscapes or travel shots demanding sharper images and decent low-light handling, the Canon SX600 HS has a clear edge here.

Viewing and Composing: Screen and Viewfinder Quality

Neither camera boasts built-in viewfinders, relying solely on rear LCDs for composition, a compromise in bright light and action shooting.

Canon SX600 HS Display

The 3-inch 461k-dot PureColor II G TFT screen on the Canon is well-regarded for crispness and color accuracy among compacts of its era. While fixed and non-touch, its brightness levels are sufficient outdoors with minimal glare issues, aided by the anti-reflective coating.

Fujifilm Z37 Display

The Fuji’s 2.7-inch screen pushes only 230k dots, noticeably softer and less responsive. It lacks modern viewing conveniences and struggles under direct sunlight, making framing shots challenging.

For immersive and reliable framing, especially in travel or urban environments with strong light, Canon’s SX600 HS offers a superior user experience.

Autofocus and Speed: Can They Keep Up When Action Happens?

When shooting wildlife, sports, or spontaneous moments, autofocus (AF) speed and accuracy are decisive factors for selecting a camera.

Canon PowerShot SX600 HS Autofocus

• Contrast-detection AF with 9 focus points, including center-weighted and face detection.
• Focus acquisition is relatively quick and reliable for a compact.
• Continuous AF tracking is absent, so moving subjects require some patience.
• Burst rate maxes at 4fps, adequate for casual sports but limited for fast sequences.

Fujifilm FinePix Z37 Autofocus

• Single AF point, contrast-detection only.
• No face detection or tracking capabilities.
• Autofocus is noticeably slower, sometimes hunting under low light.
• No burst shooting mode, limiting utility with moving subjects.

Overall, the Canon clearly outperforms the Fuji in speed and subject acquisition, a key advantage for wildlife or sports enthusiasts on a budget.

Lens and Zoom: Flexibility vs. Pocket Compact

The lens’ focal range, aperture, and image stabilization are catalysts of creative freedom in compact cameras.

• Canon SX600 HS: 25-450mm equivalent (18x optical zoom), f/3.8–6.9 aperture, optical image stabilization.
• Fujifilm Z37: 35-105mm equivalent (3x optical zoom), f/3.7–4.2 aperture, no stabilization.

Canon’s extensive zoom range drastically broadens framing options, from wide environmental shots to distant subjects - something an 18x zoom alone justifies owning the camera. Its OIS is a boon for reducing blur at telephoto ends.

The Fuji Z37’s modest zoom keeps things simple and sharp within its sweet range but restricts reach for sports or wildlife. Lack of stabilization means shutter speeds must remain higher to avoid camera shake.

For travel, street, and casual all-around photography, the Canon’s zoom versatility delivers extra creative latitude.

Battery Life and Storage: Staying Power During Long Shoots

No one wants to run out of juice or memory mid-outing. Battery endurance and storage flexibility count.

• Canon SX600 HS: Uses NB-6LH batteries, rated for ~290 shots per charge, plus accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC cards.
• Fujifilm Z37: Equipped with NP-45A batteries, no official battery life rating; includes SD/SDHC card slot plus small internal memory.

The Canon’s better battery life plus modern card format support suit travel and day trips where charging breaks are impractical. The Fuji’s unknown battery stamina and smaller physical capacity make it less reliable for a full day.

Video Capabilities: Modest Offerings for Casual Movie-Making

Neither camera targets video pros but basic HD recording is functional.

• Canon SX600 HS: 1920x1280 (30fps) H.264 format, optical image stabilization, no external mic or headphone ports.
• Fujifilm Z37: 640x480 (30fps) Motion JPEG, no stabilization.

Canon’s HD video capability is useful for travel or family memories, though absence of advanced video features limits creative options. Fuji’s standard definition video now feels dated.

Weather and Build Durability: Can They Brave the Elements?

Both cameras are plastic-bodied compacts without weather sealing, dustproofing, or rugged features. Neither is suitable for harsh environments or serious outdoor abuse.

Image Quality in Action: Sample Gallery Comparison

One of the best ways to compare is side-by-side image quality under different conditions.

Canon SX600 HS front Canon SX600 HS screen back Fujifilm Z37 front Fujifilm Z37 screen back

• The Canon SX600 HS captures cleaner details with better dynamic range.
• Fujifilm Z37 images appear softer with muted contrast and higher noise, especially in low light.
• Colors on both are pleasant but Canon’s rendering has a slight edge in vividness.
• Macro shots benefit from Canon’s closer 5cm focusing distance, producing more detailed close-ups.

A Scores Recap: Performance Ratings Overview

Let’s put the comparisons into perspective with overall performance ratings based on tests covering image quality, speed, handling, and value.

Canon SX600 HS scores notably higher than the Fujifilm Z37 overall, reflecting improvements in sensor tech, AF, zoom, and user interface.

How Do They Perform by Photography Genre?

A genre-specific breakdown highlights practical strengths and weaknesses.

• Portraits: Canon wins for skin tone accuracy and face detection autofocus.
• Landscape: Canon’s higher resolution and better dynamic range prevail.
• Wildlife: Superior zoom and AF speed make Canon far more capable.
• Sports: Canon’s better burst rate and AF system help, Fuji lags.
• Street: Fuji’s small size aids discretion but Canon’s faster AF helps capture moments.
• Macro: Canon’s closer focus and stabilization improve results.
• Night/Astro: Canon’s higher ISO and stabilization aid low-light shooters.
• Video: Canon is preferable due to HD capabilities.
• Travel: Canon’s versatility and battery life give it an edge.
• Professional: Neither excels but Canon’s file quality is better integrated.

Busting Myths and Setting Realistic Expectations

While neither camera can compete with modern mirrorless or DSLR systems, the Canon SX600 HS is a surprisingly robust all-rounder for an older compact, thanks to its superzoom and sensor tech leap. The Fujifilm Z37 excels purely as a lightweight carry camera for snapshots, with simplicity as its charm.

Keep in mind these models are among budget-conscious options released years ago. Today’s cameras in similar price brackets have advanced sensor tech, faster operation, and better ergonomics, so consider your purchase accordingly.

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Buy the Canon PowerShot SX600 HS if you:

• Desire an affordable compact with serious zoom reach.
• Value image quality improvements and stabilized shooting.
• Shoot diverse subjects including travel, wildlife, landscapes, and portraits.
• Need longer battery life and more control options.
• Want HD video capabilities.

Buy the Fujifilm FinePix Z37 if you:

• Want the smallest, lightest point-and-shoot for casual snaps.
• Prioritize pocketable convenience over zoom or speed.
• Shoot mainly in good light where noise and AF speed aren’t critical.
• Have a tight budget under $130 and want a simple operation.

Final Thoughts: A Tale of Two Generations

As someone who’s spent countless hours testing cameras, the Canon PowerShot SX600 HS represents a meaningful evolution over cameras like the Fuji FinePix Z37 from earlier years. Canon’s advances in sensor, zoom, image stabilization, and user ergonomics collectively produce a camera far more satisfying to shoot with - especially when used beyond snapshots.

Still, the Z37’s charm lies in its no-frills simplicity and miniaturized form factor, appealing to those who want the bare essentials in their pocket. For any enthusiast who appreciates versatility and usable image quality from a compact, the SX600 HS remains a better investment.

Ultimately, choosing between the two depends on your balance of portability, zoom needs, budget, and expected use - that’s the true art of camera selection.

I hope this detailed side-by-side has helped clarify which old-school compact might be right for you, whether as a lightweight travel companion or a nostalgic snap-happy buddy on the go. Shoot sharp, shoot often!

If you have any questions or want to see samples from specific scenarios, feel free to reach out or comment below.

Happy shooting!

End of Comparison Review