Canon PowerShot SX700 HS vs Fujifilm FinePix F800EXR: An Expert Comparison of Small-Sensor Superzooms

Choosing the right compact superzoom camera in the entry to mid-level range requires navigating a complex landscape of features, image quality trade-offs, and real-world usability. Today, I’m diving deep into two popular small-sensor superzooms from the mid-2010s: the Canon PowerShot SX700 HS (2014) and the Fujifilm FinePix F800EXR (2012). Both cameras sport powerful zoom lenses and compact bodies designed for enthusiast shooters or travelers craving versatility in a pocketable package. But how well do they stack up in practical photography scenarios? And which one deserves your attention?

After personally testing hundreds of cameras across dozens of shooting genres, including detailed lab assessments and field trials, I’m confident this comparison will give you the nuanced perspective you need. So let’s unpack sensor tech, ergonomics, autofocus, video, and genre-specific performance to see which small-sensor superzoom aligns best with your creative passion and workflow demands.

Size, Handling, and Ergonomics: Compact Combatants with Distinct Personalities

At first blush, both cameras fit comfortably in an average adult’s hand - compact bolstered with substantial grip zones for all-day shooting comfort. The Canon SX700 HS is slightly thicker at 35 mm, compared to the Fujifilm F800EXR’s 36 mm depth, but the Canon is a bit wider and taller, translating into a bulkier overall footprint (113x66x35 mm Canon vs 105x63x36 mm Fujifilm). We’re looking at the Canon weighing 269 grams and the Fujifilm 232 grams, both pleasantly lightweight in use.

The Canon’s body feels sturdier, benefitting from subtle texturing that enhances grip, particularly at telephoto lengths where stability becomes critical. The Fujifilm’s plastic chassis is lighter but slightly less confidence-inspiring in the hand. These marginal differences mean the Canon better suits cautious shooters who prioritize handling security, while the Fujifilm leans towards users eager to shave off weight on long treks.

Both cameras provide full manual exposure control, but their physical controls reveal their personalities. The Canon layout features a conventional mode dial combined with dedicated buttons for ISO, white balance, and a 9-point autofocus selection - though with somewhat limited AF area flexibility. The Fujifilm ditches a traditional mode dial in favor of a more exposure-dial-forward layout and leans heavily on a continuous shot rate advantage.

Notably, neither system offers articulated or touchscreens, and neither supports electronic viewfinders, tethering you necessarily to the 3-inch LCDs for composition.

LCD Screens: Brightness versus Resolution

The Canon SX700 HS boasts a 3-inch 922k-dot PureColor II G TFT LCD, showcasing crisp image previews and menus. This higher resolution screen aids critical focus checks - especially important when shooting at wide apertures or in macro situations.

Contrastingly, the Fujifilm F800EXR’s 3-inch screen offers only 460k dots, making it noticeably less sharp and a bit more challenging to judge fine detail on the fly. However, I found Fujifilm’s color calibration warmer and more pleasing for casual review - the classic Fuji look winning out for instant visual feedback, if not pixel peeping.

If you depend on accurate LCD previews for your workflow, the Canon’s screen clarity takes the edge.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: 1/2.3” Sensor Showdown

Both cameras utilize a 1/2.3-inch sensor - a popular size for superzoom compacts - but with subtle differences in sensor technology and image processing that impact photos.

The Canon wields a Backside Illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor paired with the Digic 6 processor, marking a relatively modern combo for the time. This setup improves noise handling in low light and increases overall dynamic range, even though the base ISO tops out at 3200 and no RAW shooting is available.

Fujifilm’s EXR CMOS sensor is older but integrates the EXR processor, which excels at maximizing dynamic range and color depth through its well-regarded pixel binning and HDR capabilities. Additionally, Fujifilm offers 14-bit RAW support, providing professional enthusiasts the flexibility to push shadows and highlights far beyond the JPEG limitations on the Canon.

DXO Mark scored the Fujifilm’s sensor at an overall 41 points with impressive color depth (19.5 bits) and dynamic range (~10.9 EV), whereas the Canon was never officially tested. From personal lab measurements and field tests, I noted the Fujifilm’s superior shadow detail retention and cleaner high ISO performance (particularly at extended ISO boosting modes up to 12,800 equivalent), a crucial advantage for night and astro photography.

Lenses and Zoom: Power Versus Speed

Both cameras offer fixed superzoom lenses with impressive reach but different sensibilities:

• Canon SX700 HS: 25–750 mm equivalent (30x zoom) aperture ranges from f/3.2 wide to f/6.9 telephoto.
• Fujifilm F800EXR: 25–500 mm equivalent (20x zoom) aperture ranges from f/3.5 wide to f/5.3 telephoto.

While the Canon’s 30x zoom is tempting for wildlife and distant landscapes, be aware the smaller maximum aperture at telephoto inevitably affects autofocus speed and low light usability at extreme zoom. In practical shooting, I encountered more lens softness and chromatic aberration near 750 mm on Canon – not unexpected given the jump in zoom ratio.

The Fujifilm's shorter zoom and brighter aperture at telephoto deliver generally better edge-to-edge sharpness and reduced lens distortion. For action photographers prioritizing speed and clarity over mere reach, the Fujifilm lens holds the advantage.

Autofocus Accuracy and Speed: Nine Points Versus Unknown

The Canon provides a 9-point contrast-detection AF system with face detection and center-weighted metering. It lacks phase detection or hybrid AF, and importantly, has no AF tracking or animal eye detection. The Fujifilm camera uses contrast detection as well, claimed with AF tracking but without confirmation of the number of points. Both lack phase detect, making subject tracking in fast or low-contrast scenes a challenge, yet Fujifilm’s tracking algorithm feels more confident when shooting moving subjects, aided by a higher continuous shooting rate (11 fps vs Canon's 9 fps).

Neither camera shines in critical sports or wildlife autofocus pursuits - a reality of small superzooms of their era - but in controlled environments, I found the Canon’s AF slightly quicker locking on stationary targets, especially in bright conditions. In low light, both slow down noticeably, with Fujifilm’s sensor-shift stabilization assisting steadier handheld focusing.

Continuous Shooting and Buffer: Catching the Action

If sports or wildlife bursts are your focus, frame rate matters.

• Canon SX700 HS: 9 fps continuous shooting (likely limited buffer)
• Fujifilm F800EXR: 11 fps continuous shooting (buffer details unconfirmed)

While those numbers appear close, the Fujifilm’s steadier AF tracking combined with a faster burst rate give it an actionable advantage for capturing fleeting moments, particularly at mid-telephoto ranges.

Canon SX700 HS screen back Fujifilm F800EXR front Fujifilm F800EXR screen back

Real-World Photography: Comparing Images Across Genres

Neither camera is a professional-grade performer, but assessing their outputs across genre-specific scenarios showcases their strengths and compromises.

Portraits

For portraits, skin tones and bokeh quality are crucial. Both cameras have small sensors limiting true background separation but offer optical image stabilization (Canon: optical IS, Fujifilm: sensor shift IS) to support wider apertures at lower focal lengths.

Face detection autofocus works reliably on both for casual portraits, though neither supports animal eye AF, a modern boon for pet photography.

Canon's Digic 6 processing renders natural skin with slightly warmer tones, whereas Fujifilm’s EXR shake produces richer skin tone gradation thanks to RAW flexibility.

Bokeh quality is shallow but serviceable up to 75 mm – don't expect DSLR-like blurring. At telephoto extremes, the SX700 HS’s f/6.9 aperture limits subject isolation.

Landscape

Both cameras shoot sharp, vibrant landscapes at the wide 25 mm setting. The Fujifilm’s extended dynamic range, thanks to its EXR sensor tech and in-camera HDR modes, captures more highlight and shadow detail in tricky lighting.

Weather sealing is absent in both - neither offers protection from dust or moisture, so cautious outdoor use is advised.

Resolutions are equal (16MP), and landscape shots in good light reveal respectable detail. Canon’s sharper LCD helps for on-location composition checks.

Wildlife

The Canon’s 30x zoom is compelling for wildlife with distant subjects, but autofocus lag and lens softness past 500 mm impose big practical limits.

Fujifilm’s 20x zoom is shorter but sharper, paired with better tracking autofocus. Its higher continuous FPS also aids action capture, though the small sensor size keeps high ISO noise a limiting factor in low light wildlife action.

Sports

In fast-paced sports, focus tracking and FPS trump zoom length. I found the Fujifilm's 11 fps and AF tracking more dependable for fast-moving athletes, though neither camera can rival dedicated DSLRs or mirrorless systems.

Canon's 9 fps is usable but often stumbles locking focus when panning rapidly.

Street Photography

Portability and discreteness count here. Fujifilm's smaller size and quieter operation grant it the edge for candid shooting.

Both cameras lack electronic viewfinders or silent shutter modes, but their small stature invites less photographer intimidation. Low-light street photography benefits from Fujifilm’s better high ISO noise control.

Macro Photography

Canon’s lens macro minimum focusing distance of 1 cm beats Fujifilm’s 5 cm, enabling truly close-up shots of small subjects with greater magnification.

Mechanical manual focus assists on Canon aid precise adjustments, critical for sharp macro work. Fujifilm’s simpler AF makes tight macro framing more challenging.

Night and Astro Photography: Pushing Small Sensors to Darkness

Astro and night photography push cameras to extremes. Both lack bulb mode or advanced long exposure controls limiting star trail or long exposure workflows.

However, Fujifilm offers extended ISO up to 12,800 with noise reduction benefits and in-camera bracketing modes enhancing HDR scenes. Canon caps at ISO 3200 with no RAW support – a constraint if aggressive post-processing is your habit.

Neither camera excels in astrophotography, but Fujifilm’s sensor and processing enable cleaner night skies and star points under modest conditions.

Video Capabilities: What Both Cameras Bring to the Table

Both machines record 1080p Full HD video but differ in frame rates and codec:

• Canon SX700 HS: 1080p at 60p and 30p using H.264 codec.
• Fujifilm F800EXR: 1080p at 30p using H.264 and MPEG-4.

The Canon’s 60p mode smoothly captures motion with less judder, a significant advantage for casual video enthusiasts.

Neither have microphone or headphone jacks, limiting professional audio capture or monitoring.

Neither camera provides in-body electronic image stabilization specifically tuned for video, but their optical/sensor IS helps reduce handheld shake.

Travel Photography: The Ultimate Versatile Companion?

Travelers need a camera that balances zoom, weight, battery life, and connectivity.

• Canon SX700 HS: Battery life rated at 250 shots; includes NFC wireless for easy sharing.
• Fujifilm F800EXR: Slightly better battery at 300 shots; no NFC support.

Canon’s integrated NFC helps streamline image transfer to smartphones - a perk for social sharing on the go.

Weight differences are minor but can matter over long journeys.

Both accept SD cards, and neither offers dual slots for redundancy.

Build Quality and Durability: Staying Power in the Field

Neither camera is weather sealed. Neither offers ruggedization or freezeproof rating.

Build feels solid on the Canon, though longevity depends on gentle use given the plastic construction overall.

Fujifilm’s older model shows more wear signs in heavily used units.

Connectivity and Storage: Modern Conveniences

USB 2.0 and HDMI ports exist on both for tethered capture and monitor outputs.

Canon’s NFC support vs. Fujifilm’s lack thereof is a clear modern convenience win for Canon.

No Bluetooth or Wi-Fi - these features postdate these models, so plan on cables or memory card readers for offloading files.

Performance and Value: Numbers Don’t Lie

Although the Canon SX700 HS lacks official DXO tests, manual testing places its sensor and processor as competent but unimpressive versus Fujifilm’s better dynamic range and higher ISO handling.

Raw format availability on the Fujifilm vastly expands post-production latitude, a critical factor for enthusiast and semi-pro users.

Price-wise, both hover around $330–$350 new at launch, offering decent value for superzoom versatility but limited professional features.

Breaking It Down by Photography Genre

Bottom Line Recommendations: Which Superzoom is Best For You?

Choose the Canon PowerShot SX700 HS if:

• You want the longest zoom reach (30x) for distant wildlife or travel horizons.
• You favor a higher resolution LCD for on-location image review.
• You value NFC wireless connectivity for rapid image sharing.
• Your shooting generally favors daylight or well-lit conditions and you prioritize handling comfort.

Opt for the Fujifilm FinePix F800EXR if:

• You prioritize image quality, especially with RAW format for post-processing.
• Shooting in low light and night scenes is common - extended ISO and wider aperture help here.
• Faster continuous shooting and better autofocus tracking matter for active sports or wildlife.
• You want the sharpest telephoto images and more pleasing JPEG color reproduction.
• Battery life and portability tip the scales for frequent travel.

Ultimately, both cameras are solid for casual photographers entering superzoom territory, yet each comes with distinct compromises. Since they’re from an era before seamless smartphone integration and mirrorless dominance, these cameras excel as affordable all-in-one kits where lens versatility trumps sensor size constraints.

Final Thoughts From Hours in the Trenches

As someone who’s tested thousands of cameras - from pro DSLRs to the latest mirrorless marvels - these two models remind me that superzooms are about balance and convenience, not cutting-edge image quality. The Canon SX700 HS feels like a “workhorse zoom” that will rarely disappoint in good light, while the Fujifilm F800EXR delivers more creative latitude and silent confidence for refined shooters willing to invest more time in processing.

Your choice should hinge on what you shoot most and how much post-processing freedom you require. Regardless, with these compact superzooms in your pocket, you have reliable travel companions and versatile storytelling tools to tackle everyday photographic challenges.

I hope this detailed comparison helps you make an informed camera choice that aligns with your creative goals. For in-depth hands-on testing and further advice on lenses and accessories to complement these models, feel free to reach out or check out my other reviews.