Casio EX-10 vs Sony H300: A Thorough Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

After testing thousands of digital cameras throughout my 15+ years in photography, I’ve found that even budget-friendly compact and bridge cameras have a surprising range of strengths and quirks that can make or break your shooting experience. Today I’m diving into two interesting models that cater to enthusiasts looking for zoom versatility and decent image quality without breaking the bank - the Casio EX-10 and the Sony Cyber-shot H300.

These cameras debuted around 2013-2014, each carving out a unique niche: the EX-10 is a small sensor compact with a bright, fast lens ideal for low-light and closeup work, while the Sony H300 is a superzoom bridge camera boasting an enormous 35x zoom range targeting reach-hungry users.

I’ll take you through their core designs, sensor and image quality performance, user experience nuances, and suitability for different photography genres. The goal? Helping you make an informed choice grounded in practical, real-world insights - no fluff.

Let’s get started.

First Impressions: Compact Elegance Meets Bridge-Style Boldness

When I first held these two cameras side-by-side, the difference in form factor was striking.

The Casio EX-10 is noticeably more compact and lighter at 384 grams, with a sleek, curved design that slips easily into a jacket pocket or small bag. Dimension-wise, it measures 120x68x49 mm, making it one of the more travel-friendly small sensor compacts you’ll find.

Contrast that with the Sony H300 - a hefty 590 grams bridge camera that mimics the style of a DSLR. Its considerable bulk (130x95x122 mm) is justified by the gigantic 35x zoom lens, but portability takes a hit. This camera feels more like an enthusiast’s tool where reach trumps pocketability.

Ergonomically, I noticed the EX-10’s grip to be more minimal yet adequate for casual snaps, appreciating the intuitive, tilting touchscreen interface. The H300 features a more traditional grip mimicking SLRs, but its relatively plasticky build reminded me this is an entry-level superzoom.

Speaking of controls…

The EX-10 keeps button clutter to a minimum with well-spaced, unambiguous controls and a touchscreen that eases manual adjustments. The Sony H300, while bigger, surprisingly lacks touchscreen support and relies on fixed-button navigation; this sometimes slows down tweaking settings on the fly.

For travelers and street shooters who prize discreetness and simplicity, the EX-10’s compact handling is a definite plus. Meanwhile, the H300’s design serves reach-focused zoom enthusiasts better but less so for candid street photography.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Bigger Isn’t Always Better

Digging into the technical heart, sensor choice heavily dictates image quality - and here plenty emerges to consider.

The Casio EX-10 sports a 1/1.7" CMOS sensor measuring approximately 7.44 x 5.58 mm, roughly 41.5 mm² surface area, with a modest 12-megapixel resolution. This sensor is physically larger than the Sony’s, which at 1/2.3" (6.17 x 4.55 mm, 28 mm²) packs in 20 megapixels via a CCD sensor.

Now, many might assume higher megapixels always mean sharper images, but in this sensor size, cramming 20 MP often results in smaller photosites, impacting sensitivity and noise performance - especially in low light. The EX-10, with fewer megapixels but a more advanced CMOS sensor, excels in dynamic range and low-light noise levels.

My side-by-side testing revealed the EX-10 produces cleaner images at ISO 400 and above, retaining smoother gradations and better color fidelity - crucial for portrait and landscape work where skin tones and subtle hues matter.

Sony’s CCD sensor provides decent resolution and fine detail under bright light but struggles earlier with noise, evident in shadows and nighttime shots. Additionally, CCD sensors tend to consume more power and lack live view autofocus finesse, impacting usability.

For photographers prioritizing print size and cropping flexibility, the H300’s 20 MP offers an edge - but at the cost of noisier results under challenging light. Conversely, the EX-10 offers a more balanced, robust image quality package for varied lighting.

Cracking the Autofocus and Shooting Controls

It’s one thing to have a capable sensor; capturing sharp shots consistently depends heavily on autofocus (AF).

Both cameras feature contrast-detection AF systems without phase detection. However, the EX-10 scores by offering versatile AF modes: single, continuous, tracking, selective, center-weighted, plus face detection and touch focus on the screen.

The Sony H300 supports face detection and tracking but limits continuous AF and offers no touch AF. Plus, its single-shot shooting at 1 fps contrasts with the EX-10’s 10 fps continuous burst - a huge advantage if you want to capture fast action or wildlife moments.

In practice, the EX-10’s AF felt noticeably snappier and more reliable indoors and dim light. The touchscreen AF point selection adds speed and precision, which the H300’s fixed buttons can’t match. For wildlife or sports shooters on a budget, the EX-10’s AF versatility and burst speed can be a game-changer despite its shorter zoom.

Let’s Talk Video: Capabilities vs Limitations

Video shooting is often sidelined in this category, but the differences here are worthy of note.

The Casio EX-10 offers full HD 1080p at 30 fps utilizing modern H.264 codecs, delivering respectable quality for casual filming. It lacks microphone and headphone ports, limiting external audio control, and has no 4K video or slow-motion modes.

Sony’s H300 maxes out at 720p HD video at 30 fps, a step back in sharpness and detail. Given its released year, this isn’t surprising but may disappoint those wanting sharper video results.

Neither camera includes in-body or advanced video stabilization beyond sensor-shift (Casio) or optical image stabilization (Sony), but the EX-10’s image stabilization helps maintain steadier handheld video footage.

For vloggers or video-centric users, neither is ideal - but the EX-10’s better video resolution and stabilization give it an edge.

Handling the Outdoors: Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera boasts weather sealing, dustproofing, or rugged protection. Yet, their differing form factors influence outdoor usability.

The compact EX-10, weighing under 400g, feels comfortable for casual hikes and street photography but requires careful handling due to its plastic exterior and exposed lens.

The Sony H300, heavier and bulkier, possesses a more solid grip and a traditional zoom ring on its huge lens, granting better manual control for telephoto framing outdoors.

Still, as neither is weather-sealed, extreme conditions aren’t advisable for either - users should pack waterproof protection or opt for sturdier systems if shooting in demanding environments.

Exploring the Lens and Zoom Range Divide

This aspect defines the cameras’ core philosophies: bright, moderate zoom versus extensive reach at moderate apertures.

The Casio EX-10 sports a sharp, fast fixed lens covering 28-112mm equivalent (4x zoom) with a bright aperture from f/1.8 to f/2.5. This bright lens fosters excellent low-light shooting and creamy bokeh for portraits.

On the other hand, the Sony H300 offers a monstrous 25-875 mm equivalent (35x zoom) coupling versatility for subjects far and wide. However, its much slower variable aperture of f/3 to f/5.9 means reduced light intake, diminished background blur, and challenges for stable shots without tripod or steady hands at max zoom.

If you crave shallow depth-of-field effects (think portraits with smooth backgrounds) and better handheld performance indoors or night scenes, the EX-10’s lens is your friend. For wildlife or travel photographers requiring enormous zoom reach at budget prices, the Sony H300’s lens makes a compelling offering, albeit with compromises in image quality and aperture speed.

Let’s Inspect the Screen and Viewfinding Experience

I’m a firm believer that a camera’s user interface and viewing system significantly influences shooting joy and efficiency.

The Casio EX-10’s 3.5-inch swivel touchscreen panel impressed me immediately with its sharp 922k-dot resolution and the 180-degree upward tilt, perfect for selfies or vlogging-style shots (if you ignore the lack of dedicated selfie features). The touchscreen aids AF point picking, menu navigation, and quick settings adjustments.

Sony’s H300 offers a smaller fixed 3-inch screen at 460k dots with no touch support - manageable but outdated. It does feature a modest electronic viewfinder with 201k dots, absent on the EX-10. However, this EVF is quite basic with limited magnification and refresh lag, so not comparable to mirrorless or DSLR standards.

I personally prefer a good, tilting high-res LCD over a basic EVF in this camera class - making the Casio more enjoyable for compositions and review.

Battery Life and Storage Options: Keeping You Shooting Longer

Both cameras accept SD cards, but the Sony goes further, also supporting Sony’s Memory Stick formats.

The Casio’s battery life rated at approximately 455 shots per charge edges slightly ahead of the Sony’s 350 shots. Real-world usage shows the EX-10’s lithium-ion battery is efficient especially with modern CMOS sensor and power management.

The H300, with its superzoom lens and CCD sensor, sips power faster and heavier weight can tire you out sooner. For extended trips without charging, the EX-10 might be preferable.

Connectivity and Extras: What’s Missing and What’s Useful

The Casio EX-10 includes built-in Wi-Fi for wireless image transfer and remote control via smartphone apps. This connectivity is particularly useful in today’s photo sharing-centric workflows.

Sony’s H300 skips built-in wireless, something I found retrograde given competitors in this segment offer better connectivity.

Both cameras feature USB 2.0 and mini-HDMI outputs for basic file transfer and video output.

Neither offers GPS, Bluetooth, or NFC, and both lack external microphone/hp jacks for serious video work.

Price-to-Performance: Value in Today’s Market

When these two hit the market, the Sony H300 was priced around $250, while the Casio EX-10 carried a premium near $455. Even adjusting for inflation and availability, this price spread reflects their intended audiences.

Is the 2x cost difference justified?

The EX-10 packs a brighter lens, better sensor tech, faster shooting rates, live view touchscreen AF, and full HD video - advantages for photographers prioritizing image quality and user experience.

The Sony H300’s standout feature is unmatched zoom for the price, ideal for casual users not demanding ultra-clean images or fast shooting.

Real-World Use Cases: Which Camera Suits Your Genre?

Let’s break down how these two perform across common photography disciplines:

Casio EX 10 front Casio EX 10 screen back Sony H300 front Sony H300 screen back

My sample images reveal the EX-10’s superior detail retention, looser noise, and richer tonal gradations in both portraits and landscapes. The Sony’s zoom does deliver compelling reach but with notable softness and visible noise grain creeping in at extended focal lengths.

Performance Ratings Summed Up: Numbers Don’t Lie

Based on my extensive shoot-tests, lab measurements, and ergonomic evaluations, I’ve rated both cameras across vital parameters.

You’ll see the Casio EX-10 leads in Image Quality, Autofocus, User Interface, and Video, while the Sony H300 scores better in Zoom Range and Value for entry-level zoom seekers.

Below is a genre-specific breakdown too, clarifying strengths and weaknesses per use case.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy Which?

After hands-on trials and technical assessment, my recommendations are clear:

• Choose the Casio EX-10 if:
  You want better overall image quality, fast and flexible autofocus, brighter lens for low-light and portraits, and a compact, travel-friendly camera with smartphone connectivity. It’s an all-rounder well suited to enthusiasts who value quality and responsiveness.

• Choose the Sony H300 if:
  Your budget is tight and you crave the longest zoom range possible in a single, affordable package. If you mainly shoot landscapes, wildlife at a distance, or casual snaps where image perfection is secondary to reach and convenience, the H300 delivers that with reasonable effort.

Between the two, I find the EX-10 more enjoyable, versatile, and future-proof for serious enthusiasts wanting a small sensor camera with manual controls and modern usability. The Sony H300 is better positioned as an affordable mega-zoom with compromises on sensor tech and handling.

Closing Advice: Testing Before Investing

Given these cameras are older models, if you’re hunting for used options, ensure you test autofocus, lens condition, and battery health. Firmware updates won’t help much here, so mechanical and sensor integrity matters.

Also, reflect on your photography style: if you mostly shoot portraits, night, or video, the EX-10 is markedly better. For zoom-dependent outdoor shooting where portability is not a priority, the H300 remains a solid budget pick.

If you want my detailed walk-through videos and full resolution galleries comparing these two, check my video review linked above (in usual deep-dive style).

Happy shooting - and remember, no camera is perfect, but the right one for you makes all the difference!

Feel free to reach out if you want tailored advice for your specific photography niche - I’m here to share experience and passion, not just specs!