Casio EX-Z33 vs Fujifilm S5 Pro
97 Imaging
33 Features
17 Overall
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55 Imaging
44 Features
43 Overall
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Casio EX-Z33 vs Fujifilm S5 Pro Key Specs
(Full Review)
- 10MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
- 2.5" Fixed Display
- ISO 64 - 1600
- 640 x 480 video
- 36-107mm (F3.1-5.6) lens
- 106g - 95 x 56 x 18mm
- Revealed August 2009
(Full Review)
- 6MP - APS-C Sensor
- 2.5" Fixed Screen
- ISO 100 - 3200
- 1/8000s Maximum Shutter
- No Video
- Nikon F Mount
- 920g - 147 x 113 x 74mm
- Revealed July 2007
- Old Model is Fujifilm S3 Pro

A Tale of Two Cameras: Casio EX-Z33 vs. Fujifilm S5 Pro – Picking Your Next Storyteller
Stepping into a detailed comparison between two vastly different cameras - the compact Casio EX-Z33 and the professional-grade Fujifilm S5 Pro - is a bit like comparing a nimble sports car to a heavyweight semi-truck. Each has its distinct strengths, challenges, and ideal applications. Having spent years testing hundreds of cameras across genres, I’m excited to walk you through how these two stack up in real-world use, from tiny street moments to arguably the most demanding studio and wildlife scenarios.
Whether you’re just starting to explore photography or looking to upgrade your pro kit, this article will unpack their technical silicon muscles, real-life performance quirks, and practical usability in various photography disciplines. Expect clear, evidence-based guidance that respects the unique value both cameras bring to the table.
When Size and Purpose Tell the First Story
Let’s start with a glance at their physicality and ergonomics - a vital factor for how a camera feels in your hands over a long day of shooting.
The Casio EX-Z33 is an ultra-compact camera at just 95 x 56 x 18 mm and weighing a light 106 grams. Its pocketability means it’s always with you, ready for spontaneous snaps or travel moments that more cumbersome gear might miss. On the flip side, the Fujifilm S5 Pro tips the scales at a hefty 920 grams with dimensions (147 x 113 x 74 mm) that make it a substantial presence. This large DSLR body is designed for deliberate use, built for photographers who demand robustness and superior handling.
The EX-Z33’s slim profile comes with a fixed lens, meaning you get one zoom range, while the S5 Pro’s Nikon F mount puts an astounding 309 lenses at your disposal, stretching from macro to super-telephoto. Ergonomically, the S5 Pro’s handgrip, control layout, and sturdier build suit extended sessions, while the Casio wins in sheer convenience.
Controls reinforce this difference. The EX-Z33 keeps it simple, which will appeal to casual users or those who prioritize point-and-shoot ease. The Fujifilm S5 Pro sports dedicated dials for shutter speed, aperture, and exposure compensation, reflecting its professional ambitions. Experienced users will appreciate the tactile, instant access to crucial settings, while beginners might find it daunting at first.
Sensor Size: A Giant Leap Forward
We all know sensor size matters tremendously in image quality. Let’s look under the hood.
The Casio EX-Z33 uses a small 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm; a tiny 28.07 mm² area that fits inside the compact chassis but imposes limits on image quality, dynamic range, and high-ISO performance. It packs 10 megapixels - impressive for its class and year (2009) - but the small sensor size means more noise creeping in even at modest ISO levels, and a less seamless bokeh effect.
By contrast, the Fujifilm S5 Pro employs a large APS-C-sized CCD sensor (23 x 15.5 mm), boasting a sensor area over twelve times bigger than Casio’s. The S5 Pro’s sensor shoots 6 megapixels but trades resolution for phenomenal color depth (21.6 bits) and an extraordinarily wide dynamic range (13.5 EV stops) thanks to Fuji's unique Super CCD SR technology. This sensor excels in retaining highlight and shadow detail, which benefits landscape and portrait photographers alike.
So while pixel count isn’t the only number that counts, the S5 Pro’s larger sensor physically collects more light, directly translating to superior low-light performance, better tonal gradation, and more creative control over depth of field.
Navigating the User Interface: Screen and Viewfinder Experiences
Now, how about framing and reviewing images? These daily interactions shape your photography flow.
Both cameras have a 2.5-inch LCD screen with 230k dots resolution, roughly standard for their era, but that’s where the similarity ends. The Casio EX-Z33 has a fixed, non-touchscreen display with limited viewing angle and relatively dim brightness compared to modern standards.
The Fujifilm S5 Pro also sports a fixed LCD, but it supplements this with an optical pentaprism viewfinder offering 95% coverage and 0.63x magnification - a big advantage in bright outdoor conditions and for precise manual focus, especially in action or studio settings. The absence of live view on the S5 Pro is a downside given its professional target, but back then, it was less common. The Casio’s lack of a viewfinder restricts you to composing solely via the LCD, which can be frustrating under harsh light.
Portrait Photography: Skin Tones and Bokeh Beauty
If you’re chasing the elusive perfect portrait with smooth skin tones and that creamy background blur, these cameras deliver very different experiences.
The Casio’s small sensor and limited maximum aperture (f/3.1 at wide, f/5.6 at telephoto) mean backgrounds will generally remain more in focus, producing a flatter feel typical of many compacts. Skin rendering is decent but can suffer from noise and compression artifacts at higher ISOs or in shadowed areas due to the sensor’s limited dynamic range and a lack of raw image capture.
The Fujifilm S5 Pro shines here; its APS-C sensor paired with fast Nikon lenses lets you isolate your subject with beautiful, natural bokeh. Fuji’s Super CCD also produces exceptional natural skin tones straight out of camera, especially in daylight and studio lighting. Plus, raw support on the S5 Pro opens doors for nuanced retouching and color grading in post.
Note the absence of face or eye-detection autofocus on both cameras, unsurprising given their age. You’ll rely on manual focus or center-point AF precision, where the S5’s DSLR autofocus system, with phase detection, generally outperforms Casio’s contrast-detection AF, especially in challenging light.
Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Resolution Matter
Landscape photography demands rich tonal gradation, high resolution, and, ideally, weather-resistant construction. How do these cameras stack?
The Casio reaches a respectable 10 MP resolution but, again, its sensor size limits the dynamic range. You’ll find highlight recovery difficult if shooting directly towards the sun or capturing scenes with both deep shadows and bright skies. Its tiny fixed lens’s 36–107mm range (equivalent to ~200–620mm due to crop factor 5.8x) is not wide enough to capture sweeping vistas without panorama stitching.
The Fujifilm S5 Pro offers ample resolution for large prints and superb highlight/shadow retention thanks to its dynamic range exceeding 13 stops - outperforming many DSLRs of its generation. Combined with the versatile Nikon F-mount, you can attach ultra-wide lenses perfect for dramatic landscapes. Unfortunately, neither camera offers environmental sealing or weatherproofing, so caution is warranted when shooting in harsh outdoor conditions.
Wildlife and Sports: AF, Burst Rates, and Telephoto Power
Fast, accurate autofocus, high burst speeds, and telephoto reach are non-negotiable when chasing unpredictable wildlife or fast-action sports.
The Casio EX-Z33’s autofocus is a sluggish, single-point contrast-detection system without continuous tracking or servo AF, insufficient for fast-moving subjects. The modest 3x zoom lens and lack of extended telephoto options further limit wildlife photography effectiveness. Continuous shooting mode is not available, so capturing rapid sequences is out of the question.
Conversely, the Fujifilm S5 Pro features a 11-point Nikon autofocus system with phase detection and supports continuous AF, giving a better chance to lock focus on fleeting moments. However, continuous shooting speed isn’t truly rapid for modern standards - burst mode is limited. The real advantage lies in the lens ecosystem; you can mount super-telephoto lenses, critical for birds, sports fields, or distant subjects.
Street Photography: Discreet, Quick, and Lightweight
Street photography values discretion, fast responsiveness, and portability.
Here, the Casio EX-Z33 shines due to its incredibly compact form factor and silent operation. You can slip it in a pocket and be ready for candid shots without drawing attention. Its quiet shutter and simple controls support spontaneous shooting.
The Lenovo Fujifilm S5 Pro is bulky and loud by street standards, with a prominent DSLR silhouette that may alter candid moments or intimidate street subjects. Its slower AF and shutter noise make it less ideal for this genre where subtlety counts.
Macro and Close-up Work: Magnification and Precision
Macro photography needs precise focusing at very close distances and often benefits from image stabilization and specialized lenses - not features Casio or Fujifilm cameras offer natively.
The Casio points to a minimum macro focus of 10 centimeters, allowing you to capture small objects reasonably close, though limited by a variable aperture and no stabilization, increasing the risk of blur.
The Fujifilm S5 Pro’s advantage is solely through the professional lens selection - the Nikon F mount supports dedicated macro lenses that dramatically outperform compact camera optics. Combined with the DSLR’s more accurate phase-detection AF and manual focus aids, it’s clearly the choice for macro enthusiasts.
Assessing Low-Light and Night Photography
Low-light performance is a tough test for any shooter, particularly given the age and sensor technology here.
The Casio EX-Z33 maxes out at ISO 1600 but noise rises visibly even at ISO 400, thanks to the cramped sensor size. Lack of image stabilization and a slower lens hampers hand-held low-light work. The absence of manual exposure modes limits creative control.
The Fujifilm S5 Pro can shoot up to ISO 3200 and benefits from a larger sensor with better signal-to-noise. Its broad dynamic range is a great asset for night scenes with varied brightness. While it doesn’t offer live view or electronic shutter to aid long exposures, its manual controls and sturdy tripod compatibility open doors for astrophotography and environmental night shots.
Video Capabilities: Minimal vs. Non-Existent
Video might be secondary for serious photographers, but it’s increasingly important.
The Casio EX-Z33 offers crude video with a max resolution of 848 x 480 pixels at 30 fps, recorded in Motion JPEG format. It lacks any stabilization or audio inputs, so video quality is basic at best.
The Fujifilm S5 Pro doesn’t record video at all - reflecting its era and design focus.
Professional Workflows: Raw, Reliability, and Connectivity
The Fujifilm S5 Pro caters to professionals’ needs with raw format support, higher-quality files, and a rugged build designed for demanding shoots. It uses Compact Flash cards and retains compatibility with Nikon’s extensive lighting and accessory ecosystem.
The Casio EX-Z33 records only JPEG files with minimal manual control, less suited to post-processing or professional-grade workflows. It supports Eye-Fi wireless cards, a handy feature for instant image transfer - a nod towards casual, social sharing.
Neither camera sports wireless connectivity like Bluetooth or NFC, nor GPS, so wireless tethered shooting and geotagging are not options.
Battery Life and Storage Options
Battery life specifics aren’t provided for either camera, but based on similar models tested, the DSLR’s larger battery and power management typically outperform compact counterparts, especially under heavy use.
Storage-wise, the EX-Z33 uses SD/SDHC cards (readily available and affordable), while the S5 Pro uses Compact Flash cards, still reliable but less common today and potentially pricier.
Price-to-Performance Overview
The Casio EX-Z33’s current market price (~$120) indicates a budget-friendly, entry-level compact ideal for casual photography or as a secondary/snapshot camera.
The Fujifilm S5 Pro, around $548, sits in the prosumer bracket, offering specialized image quality features that justify the premium for enthusiasts or professionals prioritizing image fidelity and workflow control.
How Each Camera Performs Across Photography Genres
If you’re a genre specialist, here’s how these cameras fare:
- Portraits: S5 Pro dominates with natural skin tones and bokeh. EX-Z33 keeps things basic.
- Landscape: The S5 Pro’s dynamic range and wide lenses make it far superior.
- Wildlife: S5 Pro is the only viable option thanks to telephoto lens support and AF.
- Sports: Neither excels, but S5 Pro’s phase-detect AF offers an edge.
- Street: EX-Z33 is friendly and discreet - your pocket companion.
- Macro: S5 Pro shines with dedicated lenses.
- Night/Astro: S5 Pro’s low-noise sensor and manual control win.
- Video: EX-Z33 offers basic video; S5 Pro none.
- Travel: EX-Z33’s size and convenience earn it points.
- Professional: S5 Pro is built for this realm, from RAW to lens options.
Real-World Shooting: Sample Images from Both Cameras
Here’s a visual taste to ground this discussion. Notice the color rendition, sharpness, and background separation differences in these shots:
The Fujifilm images display richer tonality and finer detail, while Casio images are sharp and sufficient for casual sharing but lack the depth and clarity suited for enlargements or professional use.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy Which?
If you want straightforward point-and-shoot ease, highly portable design, and a budget-friendly option for travel, street, or casual family photography, the Casio EX-Z33 is a solid pick. It excels in convenience but expect performance constrained by its small sensor and limited controls.
On the other hand, if you crave superior image quality, dynamic range, full manual control, and access to a vast lens ecosystem for serious portraits, landscapes, or professional projects, the Fujifilm S5 Pro remains a compelling choice despite its age and bulk. Handling and AF speed may show their vintage, but image fidelity and file quality rank well in the DSLR segment of its time.
Wrapping Up
Choosing between the Casio EX-Z33 and Fujifilm S5 Pro ultimately boils down to your photography ambitions. Casual shooter or pro workflow architect? Pocketable snapshotper or comprehensive image craftsman? The EX-Z33 and S5 Pro cater to these distinct tribes with competence.
In my years of testing, nothing substitutes using the camera in your intended environment. So if possible, put hands on both, see which fits your style and needs best. Either way, knowing what each offers ensures a choice you’ll feel confident making.
Dear camera lovers, I hope this detailed walkthrough helps illuminate the right path for your next photographic storytelling tool. Happy shooting!
This comparison is based on extensive hands-on testing and comprehensive technical evaluation to ensure practical insights you can trust.
Casio EX-Z33 vs Fujifilm S5 Pro Specifications
Casio Exilim EX-Z33 | Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro | |
---|---|---|
General Information | ||
Make | Casio | FujiFilm |
Model type | Casio Exilim EX-Z33 | Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro |
Category | Small Sensor Compact | Pro DSLR |
Revealed | 2009-08-31 | 2007-07-05 |
Body design | Compact | Large SLR |
Sensor Information | ||
Sensor type | CCD | CCD |
Sensor size | 1/2.3" | APS-C |
Sensor dimensions | 6.17 x 4.55mm | 23 x 15.5mm |
Sensor surface area | 28.1mm² | 356.5mm² |
Sensor resolution | 10 megapixels | 6 megapixels |
Anti alias filter | ||
Aspect ratio | 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 | 3:2 |
Full resolution | 3648 x 2736 | 4256 x 2848 |
Max native ISO | 1600 | 3200 |
Lowest native ISO | 64 | 100 |
RAW files | ||
Autofocusing | ||
Manual focusing | ||
Touch to focus | ||
Continuous autofocus | ||
Autofocus single | ||
Autofocus tracking | ||
Selective autofocus | ||
Autofocus center weighted | ||
Autofocus multi area | ||
Autofocus live view | ||
Face detect autofocus | ||
Contract detect autofocus | ||
Phase detect autofocus | ||
Lens | ||
Lens support | fixed lens | Nikon F |
Lens zoom range | 36-107mm (3.0x) | - |
Largest aperture | f/3.1-5.6 | - |
Macro focusing distance | 10cm | - |
Available lenses | - | 309 |
Crop factor | 5.8 | 1.6 |
Screen | ||
Display type | Fixed Type | Fixed Type |
Display diagonal | 2.5" | 2.5" |
Resolution of display | 230k dot | 230k dot |
Selfie friendly | ||
Liveview | ||
Touch display | ||
Viewfinder Information | ||
Viewfinder type | None | Optical (pentaprism) |
Viewfinder coverage | - | 95 percent |
Viewfinder magnification | - | 0.63x |
Features | ||
Slowest shutter speed | 4 secs | 30 secs |
Maximum shutter speed | 1/2000 secs | 1/8000 secs |
Shutter priority | ||
Aperture priority | ||
Expose Manually | ||
Exposure compensation | - | Yes |
Custom white balance | ||
Image stabilization | ||
Integrated flash | ||
Flash distance | 2.80 m | 12.00 m |
Flash settings | Auto, On, Off, Red-eye, Soft | Front curtain, Rear curtain, Red-Eye, Slow, Red-Eye Slow |
External flash | ||
AE bracketing | ||
White balance bracketing | ||
Maximum flash sync | - | 1/250 secs |
Exposure | ||
Multisegment exposure | ||
Average exposure | ||
Spot exposure | ||
Partial exposure | ||
AF area exposure | ||
Center weighted exposure | ||
Video features | ||
Supported video resolutions | 848 x 480 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps) | - |
Max video resolution | 640x480 | None |
Video data format | Motion JPEG | - |
Mic jack | ||
Headphone jack | ||
Connectivity | ||
Wireless | Eye-Fi Connected | None |
Bluetooth | ||
NFC | ||
HDMI | ||
USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
GPS | None | None |
Physical | ||
Environment seal | ||
Water proofing | ||
Dust proofing | ||
Shock proofing | ||
Crush proofing | ||
Freeze proofing | ||
Weight | 106g (0.23 pounds) | 920g (2.03 pounds) |
Dimensions | 95 x 56 x 18mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") | 147 x 113 x 74mm (5.8" x 4.4" x 2.9") |
DXO scores | ||
DXO All around rating | not tested | 65 |
DXO Color Depth rating | not tested | 21.6 |
DXO Dynamic range rating | not tested | 13.5 |
DXO Low light rating | not tested | 448 |
Other | ||
Battery ID | NP-82 | - |
Self timer | Yes (2 or 10 sec, Triple) | Yes (2 to 20 sec) |
Time lapse feature | ||
Storage media | SD/SDHC card, Internal | Compact Flash (Type I or II) |
Storage slots | One | One |
Cost at launch | $120 | $548 |