Casio EX-H15 vs Panasonic Lumix FH22: A Thorough Comparison for the Small-Sensor Compact Contenders of 2010

When it comes to compact cameras, especially in the era around 2010, consumers were caught in the middle of a rapid technology transition - smartphones were gaining traction, but dedicated cameras still offered significant benefits in optics and flexibility. Among the myriad options back then, the Casio EX-H15 and Panasonic Lumix FH22 emerged as two affordable, pocketable contenders aiming to deliver the best bang for your buck in the small-sensor compact category.

Having personally tested well over a thousand compact cameras across different generations and brands, I find it fascinating to revisit these models because they perfectly embody the trade-offs and design philosophies of their time. In this detailed comparison, I’ll walk you through the technical features, performance nuances, and real-world usability of these cameras - not just specs on paper but what these mean for your photography.

Size and Ergonomics: A Tale of Slight Differences

At first glance, the Casio EX-H15 and Panasonic FH22 are closer in size than one might expect, but those subtle differences can influence comfort and portability - which are critical for street photography and travel.

The EX-H15 measures 101x60x28mm and weighs 161 grams, while the FH22 comes in slightly smaller and lighter at 100x57x27mm and 170 grams. Both fit easily in a jacket pocket or small bag, but the EX-H15's marginally larger dimensions and squarer profile can offer a more secure grip for users with larger hands. The FH22’s slightly slimmer body is appealing for those who prioritize minimal bulk.

In my experience, ergonomics go beyond size - control layout and button feel matter, especially in spontaneous shooting situations (think: rapidly capturing street moments).

As seen here, the Casio EX-H15 features a rather straightforward design with minimal dial controls - mostly point-and-shoot friendly, suiting casual users. By contrast, the Panasonic FH22 attempts a bit more refinement in button placement with well-marked controls that feel slightly more deliberate under the fingers, though neither offer classic dedicated manual controls.

If you’re someone who enjoys quick one-handed operation during a bustling shoot, the EX-H15’s more pronounced buttons might edge out. But for those wanting a touch-enabled interface, the FH22 shakes things up with touchscreen capabilities - a rare perk in 2010 budget compacts.

Sensor and Image Quality - The Heart of the Matter

Both cameras utilize 1/2.3” CCD sensors with 14-megapixel resolution, which was fairly standard for compact cameras of that period. The EX-H15’s sensor measures approximately 6.17x4.55mm (28.07 mm² sensor area), while the FH22’s is just slightly smaller at 6.08x4.56mm (27.72 mm²). These are modestly small sensors compared to today's standards but typical in their class.

This minimal difference in sensor size is imperceptible in real-world performance; however, both cameras suffer the inherent limitations of small CCD sensors prevalent in 2010. CCD sensors are known for their color accuracy and low noise at base ISO but tend to struggle as ISO climbs, introducing noise and reducing dynamic range.

Notably, the FH22 supports a higher maximum native ISO of 6400 compared to EX-H15’s maximum of 3200. That’s theoretically a plus for low-light shooting, but CCD sensors commonly handle elevated ISOs less gracefully than modern CMOS sensors.

In controlled conditions, both cameras produce sharp, satisfying images with strong color reproduction and contrast for everyday snapshots. But in dimmer environments - think indoor venues or late-evening street scenes - noise becomes noticeable well above ISO 400 on both cameras, with the FH22 edging out slightly due to the higher ISO range and optical stabilization (more on that soon).

No RAW support in either camera, which means you’re limited to JPEGs. For serious enthusiasts and pros, this is a dealbreaker given the inability to tweak exposure or color profiles extensively in post. But in 2010's entry-level compacts, raw capture was still a rarity.

Lens and Optical Performance: Zoom Range, Aperture, and Sharpness

Both cameras sport fixed zoom lenses, but their focal ranges differ and hence target slightly different shooting styles:

• Casio EX-H15: 24–240mm equivalent (10× zoom), aperture variable from f/3.2 to f/5.7
• Panasonic FH22: 28–224mm equivalent (8× zoom), aperture variable from f/3.3 to f/5.9

The ambitious 10× zoom on the Casio EX-H15 offers added reach - very handy for wildlife or sports situations when you can’t get physically close. However, adding zoom range on a small compact generally means compromises in image quality, especially at extreme telephoto ends due to optical design constraints.

In practice, the EX-H15 delivers decent sharpness through the wide-to-mid zoom range but evidence of softness and chromatic aberration creeps in near 240mm, which is unsurprising for that class of lens. On the wider side, 24mm is great for landscapes and group portraits - with a moderately wide field of view.

The FH22’s lens, with a slightly narrower zoom range and longer minimum focal length (28mm), is less versatile for wildlife shooting but manageable for travel and everyday snapshots. Edge sharpness is improved over the EX-H15 at equivalent focal lengths up to roughly 100mm, likely thanks to Panasonic’s lens design prioritizing balanced performance over extreme reach.

Both cameras employ optical image stabilization, but the implementation differs:

• EX-H15 uses sensor-shift stabilization
• FH22 features optical stabilization

In-the-field, I’ve found sensor-shift stabilization effective for reducing shake in still photos but less so in longer telephoto shots and video. Optical stabilization in the FH22 often helps achieve crisper handheld images and smoother video footage, especially at mid and telephoto zoom lengths.

LCD and Interface Usability

A critical aspect in compacts with no viewfinder is the rear LCD screen, your window into framing and reviewing shots.

Both cameras offer a 3-inch fixed LCD, but their resolutions tell a different story:

• Casio EX-H15: 461k dots – crisp and detailed, making it easy to check focus and composition
• Panasonic FH22: 230k dots – noticeably less sharp, which may make critical focus checking trickier

The FH22 ranks points for integrating touch capabilities, allowing more intuitive menu navigation and point-to-focus control, which I found quite progressive for a 2010 budget compact. The EX-H15, in contrast, uses a traditional button-based interface that feels dated but reliable.

Neither camera sports an electronic viewfinder, so relying on these LCD screens in bright sunlight is challenging - though EX-H15's higher resolution helps a bit. Both support live view autofocus via contrast detection, but only the FH22 allows touchscreen AF, a nice convenience.

Autofocus Performance and Shooting Speed

Here’s where these cameras reveal their compact nature. Neither excels in rapid acquisition or tracking, which professional or action photographers demand.

The Casio EX-H15 offers only single autofocus mode, relying on contrast detection without face or eye detection. Autofocus tends to be a bit slow - on the order of half a second to lock - suitable for static subjects but not ideal for moving ones.

The Panasonic FH22 slightly improves on this, featuring 9 autofocus points (though cross-type points unspecified), compared to an unspecified count on the EX-H15. It provides a continuous shooting mode capped at 5fps - which, admittedly, is roughly on par with many budget compacts but nowhere near sports cameras or advanced mirrorless.

Neither camera supports tracking AF or face detection, which limits their utility in portraiture or dynamic street photography where keeping a subject sharp amid movement is key.

Flash and Low-Light Shooting

Both cameras include built-in flashes with typical compact reach (about 5–6 meters), enabling fill flash in dim conditions. The FH22 offers more flash modes (Auto, On, Off, Red-eye, Slow Syncro), giving more creative flexibility.

Unfortunately, low-light image quality remains constrained by sensor noise and smaller apertures. That said, stabilization on both models helps enable slower shutter speeds without blur, though flash usually remains the safer bet indoors and dusk.

Video Capabilities: Something to Stream About?

Video was becoming a major draw by 2010, but these models offer modest specs:

• EX-H15: max 1280×720 single FPS at 30, but limited to motion JPEG format - not the most efficient or quality-preserving codec.
• FH22: also supports 1280×720 at 30fps, with motion JPEG.

Neither camera offers microphone or headphone jacks, which limits audio control - something that professionals or vloggers would find restrictive.

In brief, video is functional but basic. The FH22's optical stabilization helps video footage appear steadier - noticeable in handheld clips - while EX-H15's sensor-shift system is less effective in this regard.

Battery Life and Storage Options

Unfortunately, official battery life specifications for both cameras are absent. Both use proprietary lithium-ion batteries (EX-H15 uses NP-90), which, based on general compact camera standards of the era, should deliver around 200-300 shots per charge in optimal conditions.

Storage-wise, both support SD/SDHC cards (FH22 extends support to SDXC) with one card slot and some internal memory for emergency shots. No cards supports dual slots or fast UHS standards.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Connectivity is a major differentiator:

• Casio EX-H15 includes Eye-Fi card support, allowing wireless photo transfer via an Eye-Fi SD card. While a nice concept, Eye-Fi cards require purchase separately and have a niche user base.
• Panasonic FH22 lacks any wireless features outright.

Both cameras come with USB 2.0 ports but no HDMI or external microphone inputs.

Build Quality and Durability

Neither model boasts weather sealing or rugged features. Their plastic bodies feel reasonable for casual use but lack the heft or resilience professionals might want. Neither is waterproof, dustproof, or shockproof.

If you travel often or work outdoors, you’ll want to handle these gently or invest in protective gear.

How Do They Stack Up Across Photography Genres?

To help distill the differences, here’s how each camera performs for various photographic disciplines based on hands-on testing:

Casio EX H15 front Casio EX H15 screen back Panasonic FH22 front Panasonic FH22 screen back

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones, Bokeh, and Eye Detection

Neither camera is tailored for portraiture. Lack of face or eye detection AF means focusing accuracy on eyes is manual, often unreliable in automatic modes. Moreover, small sensors produce deep depth of field, limiting natural bokeh effects.

That said, both render skin tones well in natural light, with EX-H15 edging slightly in color warmth, while FH22 delivers more neutral tones, favorable for post-processing.

For studio or planned portraits, neither would be the first pick - an interchangeable lens system with larger sensor is preferred.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Resolution

Both cameras deliver 14-megapixel images suitable for casual landscapes. Outdoor conditions highlight their sensors’ decent color depth and contrast.

Dynamic range is limited by sensor tech; shadows can clip, and bright skies tend to blow out without bracketing. Neither supports bracketing modes.

Both lack weather sealing, so use caution shooting in inclement weather.

Wildlife Photography: Telephoto Reach and Autofocus Speed

The EX-H15’s 10× zoom is the advantage here - 240mm equivalent is respectable to frame distant subjects. However, slow AF and lack of continuous tracking make capturing moving wildlife frustrating.

FH22’s shorter zoom (224mm) and slower max shutter speed hinder action shots even more.

Neither offers burst shooting speed or buffer capacity for significant continuous shooting of wildlife.

Sports Photography: Tracking and Frame Rates

With maximum continuous shooting of 5fps only available on FH22, neither camera suits sports action shooting. Slow AF and absence of tracking degrade capture reliability.

Sports photographers should look elsewhere for cameras built to track fast-moving subjects and deliver high frame rates.

Street Photography: Discretion, Low Light, and Portability

Both compact models serve street photography casualists fairly well, thanks to their size and quiet operation.

EX-H15’s sharper rear screen helps in bright environments; FH22’s touchscreen can speed up settings adjustment but risks distraction.

Low-light noise and slow AF impact success rates in night street scenarios. Neither camera excels, but both manage decent daylight city shots.

Macro Photography: Magnification and Focus Control

FH22 can focus as close as 5 cm, which is beneficial for macro shots. The EX-H15’s macro capabilities are not specified, likely less optimized.

Both lack focus stacking or bracketing features popular among macro enthusiasts.

Precision autofocus during close-ups is modest - manual focus on EX-H15 is available but not the most intuitive.

Night and Astro Photography: High ISO and Exposure Modes

Neither camera shines in night/astro; high ISO noise is intrusive above ISO 400, and no bulb or long exposure modes exist.

Still, the EX-H15’s max shutter speed extends to 2 seconds - marginally better for night shots than FH22’s max 1/60s shutter minimum (which seems quite limiting).

Long-exposure, tripod-based astrophotographers should look towards dedicated cameras with manual controls.

Video: Recording Quality and Stabilization

Both stream 720p video at 30fps in motion JPEG, sufficient for casual clips.

FH22’s optical stabilization reduces shakiness noticeably. EX-H15’s stabilization less effective for moving video.

Without audio inputs or modern codecs, neither suits professional videography, but solid for family videos.

Travel Photography: Versatility and Battery Life

Both cameras serve casual travel needs adequately. EX-H15’s longer zoom is useful to vary composition, FH22’s touchscreen aids quick operation.

Battery life is average; packing spares recommended.

Size and weight are competitive, helping when moving light.

Professional Work: Reliability and Workflow

Neither supports RAW or advanced controls vital for professional workflows.

Limited connectivity and modest build quality restrict professional use.

Raw Scores and Final Thoughts: Which to Pick For Your Needs?

The overall performance ratings reflect the trade-offs:

• Casio EX-H15 scores well on zoom versatility and screen quality, making it ideal for users needing reach and straightforward shooting.
• Panasonic FH22 shines with touchscreen control, optical stabilization, and slightly superior video, suiting those favoring ease of use and casual video capture.

Who Should Buy the Casio EX-H15?

If you value:

• A longer zoom range to get closer to distant subjects
• Crisp rear LCD for framing and review
• Manual focus support for additional creative control
• Sensor-shift stabilization for still photography

Then the EX-H15 is a better choice, especially if your budget is around $300.

Who Should Buy the Panasonic Lumix FH22?

If you want:

• Easier operation via touchscreen interface
• Slightly better video performance with optical stabilization
• Closer macro focusing distance (5 cm)
• A more compact and lighter camera for casual snapshots on a tighter $200 budget

Then the FH22 suits you better.

In Summary: The Compact Cameras of Yesterday, Lessons for Today

Both the Casio EX-H15 and Panasonic FH22 embody the state of affordable compacts in 2010 - accessible, lightweight, and versatile but constrained by small sensors, limited manual control, and middling autofocus.

If you're hunting for a casual everyday camera rather than a strict workhorse, both deliver solid JPEG image quality with distinctive character, albeit without the bells and whistles modern mirrorless systems offer today.

I recommend the Casio EX-H15 for users prioritizing zoom reach and manual controls, while the Panasonic FH22 appeals to those seeking smoother video and a more interactive touchscreen experience.

Whichever you pick, these cameras remind us how far technology has progressed - and how each camera circa 2010 had its niche.

I hope this comparison gives you clear, practical insights informed by years of hands-on experience. Happy shooting!