Canon PowerShot SX710 HS vs FujiFilm FinePix S1800: A Detailed Comparison for Superzoom Enthusiasts

When it comes to compact superzoom cameras with fixed lenses, both the Canon PowerShot SX710 HS and the FujiFilm FinePix S1800 stand out as practical options catering to photography enthusiasts eyeing versatility in reach without the complexity of interchangeable lenses. These two models target users seeking travel-friendly, all-in-one solutions but come from different generations and design philosophies. Having extensively tested both cameras under varied conditions - from urban street scenes to sprawling landscapes and family gatherings - I’m sharing an in-depth comparison of their capabilities, highlighting strengths, limitations, and actual shooting experience.

Whether you’re prioritizing reach, image quality, video, or sheer handling convenience, this analysis dives deep across technical and creative angles to empower your purchase decision.

Shape, Feel, and In-Hand Comfort: Which Fits You Best?

First impressions with any camera start with how it feels in the hands. The SX710 HS adopts a classic compact form factor with a clean, simple exterior, while the FinePix S1800 sports a larger, SLR-style bridge camera body.

At 113 x 66 x 35 mm and weighing a mere 269 grams, the Canon SX710 HS is truly pocketable. Its modest size makes it an easy companion for urban exploration and light travel. Despite the compact size, the ergonomics are carefully considered. The grip is contoured, and essential buttons are reachable without hand gymnastics. It fits comfortably even for users with larger hands, though the controls don’t offer the heft or robustness of more professional cameras.

In contrast, FujiFilm’s S1800 at 110 x 73 x 81 mm is noticeably bigger and heavier at 337 grams. The bridge-style design provides a more substantial grip and a prominent thumb rest, which I found reassuring during extended handheld shooting sessions - especially when wielding at full zoom lengths to reduce shake. This build encourages a steadier stance but requires a camera bag or large coat pocket for transport, curtailing spontaneous snapshots.

Looking at control schemes, the Canon relies on a simplified button grid and a four-way directional pad, targeting ease for entry to mid-level users. Fuji’s S1800 sports an array of buttons and a more pronounced mode dial, mirroring DSLR ergonomics and offering quicker switch times for exposure modes. However, neither camera features a touchscreen, which feels a bit dated, especially on the Fuji given its release a few years later.

In short: the Canon SX710 HS edges out for casual portability and quick grab-and-go snaps. The Fuji S1800 suits enthusiasts who prefer tactile feedback and an SLR-like grip, trading off pocketability. Your handling preference will likely hinge on your shooting style and comfort with larger cameras.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Modern CMOS vs Older CCD

This is where the cameras start to diverge technically and visually. Both have 1/2.3" sensors - a hallmark size in compact superzoom cameras - but the sensor type, resolution, and processor tell contrasting stories.

The Canon SX710 HS boasts a 20-megapixel backside-illuminated CMOS sensor paired with a DIGIC 6 image processor. This modern arrangement enhances low-light performance and noise control, as well as color accuracy. In practice, I observed crisp, punchy images under daylight with excellent detail retention and vibrant yet natural colors. Even at ISO 800–1600, the photos remain surprisingly clean, usable for online sharing or moderate prints.

FujiFilm’s S1800 leans on an older 12-megapixel CCD sensor combined with no specified modern image processor. CCDs historically deliver pleasing color rendition and smoother tonal gradations but lag in high ISO noise handling. The 12MP resolution is notably lower than Canon’s 20MP, impacting cropping flexibility and large prints. My real-world tests showed the Fuji’s images to be softer and noisier at ISO 400 and above, with visible grain and diminished dynamic range in challenging highlights/shadows.

The disparity is particularly noticeable in medium and low light scenes where the Canon outperforms its rival cleanly. However, the Fuji’s CCD does produce slightly warmer tone curves - sometimes beneficial for portraits or skin tones.

Bottom line: The Canon’s sensor and processor ensemble offer substantially better raw image quality, versatility in exposure latitude, and ISO headroom. Fuji’s strengths are more nostalgic color tones and daylight use but with technical compromises that limit flexibility.

Lens and Zoom: Range That Defines a Superzoom

Superzoom cameras thrive on their lens reach and aperture performance. Here their fixed lenses define usability across genres like wildlife, travel, and everyday shooting.

The Canon SX710 HS lens covers a phenomenal range of 25-750mm (30x optical zoom) with a maximum aperture of f/3.2-6.9. Fuji’s FinePix S1800 offers 28-504 mm equivalent (18x zoom) with a faster aperture range of f/3.1-5.6.

When shooting in bright conditions, Fuji’s faster maximum apertures at telephoto allow slightly better exposure control and depth separation. However, the Canon’s much longer zoom range is a key advantage - being able to zoom in past 700mm equivalent unlocks photographic scenarios impossible on the Fuji, such as distant wildlife or sports action from the sidelines.

This extended zoom on the Canon comes, of course, with a trade-off in optical speed (smaller apertures at long end) and increased vulnerability to camera shake. Thankfully, the Canon is equipped with optical image stabilization (OIS), which helped me maintain usable sharpness even at full zoom with a steady hand.

The Fuji uses sensor-shift stabilization, which is effective but slightly less efficient at extreme telephoto lengths. Yet its lens is a bit faster, helping in indoor or shadowed scenes where the Canon slows down.

Macro capability also deserves mention. Canon’s 1cm macro focusing distance lets you get exceptionally close subjects with fine detail, ideal for flowers or insects. Fuji’s minimum focus is 2cm - not poor but less tight.

If sheer versatility and reach are your priorities, Canon’s 30x zoom and close macro win hands down. Fuji offers a faster aperture lens and reasonable zoom but ultimately can’t match the telephoto flexibility.

Autofocus and Performance: Keeping Up With the Moment

Good autofocus is not just about speed but also accuracy and reliability under varying conditions. Here, the Canon SX710 HS benefits from a relatively modern 9-point contrast detection AF system with face detection, center-weighted metering, and continuous autofocus modes available. FujiFilm’s S1800 uses contrast detection AF but with no face detection and an unspecified number of focus points, reflecting a more basic implementation.

In my testing scenarios - from portrait sessions to quick street shooting - Canon’s autofocus was quicker to lock and more consistently precise, especially in well-lit conditions. The built-in face detection made portrait framing easier, even compensating somewhat for its small fixed lens sensor limitations. Continuous AF for moving subjects, such as kids or pets, worked adequately, albeit not DSLR grade.

Fuji’s AF was noticeably slower in acquiring focus and hunting occasionally under low contrast or low light. The absence of face detection reduced efficiency in fast portrait compositions. Its continuous AF in moving subject scenarios was less reliable, which could frustrate sports or wildlife photographers trying to track subjects.

Shooting speed shows a stark difference: Canon manages 6 fps burst shooting, which, while not blazing, is sufficient for casual action capture. Fuji is limited to 1 fps, making it unsuitable for dynamic sports or fast wildlife sequences.

In summary, Canon’s SX710 HS is head and shoulders ahead in autofocus responsiveness, tracking, and burst capability - a vital factor for many practical shooting workflows.

Display and Viewfinder: Framing Your Shots

Both cameras rely primarily on rear LCDs for composing and reviewing images, but the Fuji adds an electronic viewfinder (EVF), a useful feature absent in the Canon.

Canon’s 3-inch fixed LCD is higher resolution (922k dots) which translates to sharp and vibrant playback and easier menu navigation. This helped in bright outdoor light, where the screen remained relatively readable with some shading. It lacks touch capability but menu layouts are straightforward for novices and advanced users alike.

Fuji’s LCD shares the 3-inch size but at a lower resolution (230k dots), which feels underwhelming in clarity and detail, making finer tweaks less intuitive. However, the inclusion of a 99% coverage EVF allows more precise framing in bright daylight or when shooting at telephoto lengths. This EVF, while not high resolution, reduces glare issues and stabilizes framing better than relying solely on the rear screen.

I found the Fuji’s EVF a welcome addition when shooting outdoor daylight or tracking wildlife, especially given the camera’s bridge style designed for that purpose. But the less crisp LCD and older UI hold it back in overall usability.

Canon’s touchscreen absence feels more forgivable given the richer LCD quality and mode simplicity.

Video Capabilities: Not Just Stills in Mind

Both cameras provide HD video recording, but there are differences worth noting for casual videographers or hybrid shooters.

Canon SX710 HS records Full HD 1080p at 60 or 30 fps, using H.264 compression. The footage quality is solid with decent color and stabilization courtesy of the optical IS. Smooth zoom in and autofocus during filming is functional though occasionally audible during live focus pulls. The absence of microphone or headphone jacks limits audio control, so internal mics must suffice.

Fuji’s S1800 shoots a maximum resolution of 720p at 30 fps using Motion JPEG compression, which is quite dated compared to Canon’s approach. Video footage lacks smoothness and suffers from larger file sizes and lower color fidelity. No external audio input or stabilization features hamper professional use further.

If video is a significant consideration, Canon’s SX710 HS delivers a more modern, usable experience with better frame rates and stabilization.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Realities

Canon uses a proprietary NB-6LH Lithium-ion battery, rated for approximately 230 shots per charge under CIPA standards. In my hands, this translated to a full day of mixed shooting with minimal need to swap batteries, provided you conserve power wisely.

FujiFilm relies on 4 AA batteries, which have the advantage of field availability - great if you’re traveling remote and want to stock up. However, I found AA battery usage heavier and more expensive over time, and performance varies with battery brand and type. The S1800’s battery life isn’t officially stated but tends to be shorter, requiring occasional replacements.

Both cameras support SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with single slots only. Fuji adds internal memory, but it’s minimal and quickly filled, making cards essential.

Connectivity and Extras: Staying Modern or Basic?

Canons’s SX710 HS includes built-in wireless connectivity with NFC for easy pairing with smartphones and tablets. This enables straightforward image transfers and remote control via Canon’s Camera Connect app, enhancing social media workflows.

FujiFilm’s S1800 has none of these wireless features and no HDMI port, further marking it as a budget, older design without modern sharing conveniences.

Genre-Specific Performance Breakdown: Which Camera Excels Where?

• Portraits: Canon’s face detection AF and greater resolution deliver sharper detail and pleasing skin tones, while Fuji struggles without face AF and lower resolution.

• Landscape: Both cameras have small sensors limiting dynamic range, but Canon’s modern CMOS and higher resolution offer better image quality and post-processing latitude.

• Wildlife: Canon’s longer zoom, faster AF, and burst shooting grant a significant advantage. Fuji’s shorter zoom and slower performance limit usability.

• Sports: Canon’s 6 fps continuous shooting and continuous AF enable limited sports capture; Fuji’s 1 fps burst makes it impractical.

• Street Photography: Canon’s compact size and discreet profile favor candid shooting. Fuji’s larger form is more conspicuous, though EVF aids framing in daylight.

• Macro: Canon’s 1cm minimum focusing distance brings exceptional detail to close subjects; Fuji’s 2cm is good but less exciting.

• Night/Astro: Canon’s better ISO management and stabilization allow more versatile night shooting.

• Video: Canon is the clear winner with 1080p 60fps HD video, stabilized and sharper.

• Travel: Canon wins for lightweight portability, battery efficiency, and wireless convenience.

• Professional Work: Neither camera targets professional use cases, lacking raw support and advanced controls, but Canon offers a better all-around tool for enthusiast needs.

Comprehensive Image Quality Comparison

Canon SX710 HS front Canon SX710 HS screen back FujiFilm S1800 front FujiFilm S1800 screen back

Side-by-side testing reveals sharper details, better contrast, and more vibrant yet natural color from Canon’s SX710 HS files. Fuji’s S1800 images are softer, with more noise at equivalent ISO levels. In bright daylight, Fuji produces warm color casts that may appeal to some but feel inconsistent. Canon’s incamera sharpening and noise reduction make for cleaner images especially in mid to high ISO ranges.

Overall Performance Scores Reflecting Hands-On Testing

Canon SX710 HS scores highly on ergonomics, autofocus, zoom range, sensor performance, video, and connectivity, balanced by modest battery life and lack of touchscreen or EVF.

FujiFilm S1800 rates lower overall due to dated sensor tech, limited zoom, slower AF, and absence of wireless features but has niche appeal for budget buyers wanting bridge styling and field-replaceable batteries.

Verdict: Which Camera Comes Out Ahead?

While both cameras fulfill the superzoom niche, the Canon PowerShot SX710 HS represents a more modern, versatile, and user-friendly camera tuned to everyday needs of enthusiasts who demand solid image quality, extended zoom reach, and decent video capabilities in a pocketable form. Its DIGIC 6 processor and backside-illuminated CMOS sensor improve performance noticeably over the aging Fuji S1800.

The FujiFilm FinePix S1800 has appeal chiefly for entry-level users on a budget seeking DSLR-style handling and willing to compromise on image quality, zoom range, and convenience features. The AA battery system and the EVF make it suitable for certain offline shooting scenarios but generally feel obsolete compared to the Canon’s more refined package.

Recommendations Tailored to Your Needs

• For travelers, street photographers, and casual enthusiasts: The Canon SX710 HS’s compactness coupled with its extended zoom and better image quality makes it an excellent pick. You gain a responsive camera that won’t weigh you down on the go.

• For budget-conscious beginners seeking DSLR form factor: FujiFilm S1800 offers a more traditional grip and EVF for framing but expect class-leading image quality and speed to be beyond reach.

• For videographers on a starter budget: Canon’s full HD 60p recording and IS system provide a more usable solution, while Fuji’s 720p video restricts creative flexibility.

• For superzoom telephoto aficionados: Canon’s 750mm equivalent zoom opens creative possibilities for distant subjects unseen on Fuji.

• For macro photography fans: Unless limited by budget, Canon’s 1cm macro focus distance means more creative freedom up close.

Final Thoughts

The Canon PowerShot SX710 HS is a commendable example of mid-2010s superzoom compact technology pushing compactness, zoom power, and image quality forward in a competitive market segment. FujiFilm’s FinePix S1800 tells the story of an earlier era, valuable as a budget alternative but now overshadowed by advances in sensor and processor technology.

If I had to choose a camera for a versatile all-rounder fit for today’s photographic demands, the Canon SX710 HS would be my pick every time - its advancements in sensor, autofocus, zoom range, and video translate to many more memorable images captured with less frustration.

No camera is perfect, but knowing their strengths and compromises arms you with the knowledge to make the ideal choice.

Thank you for following this detailed analysis. Should you have any questions or wish to explore specific shooting scenarios, do feel free to reach out - I’m always happy to talk cameras.