Casio EX-Z90 vs Fujifilm F200EXR: A Hands-On Comparison for the Budget-Conscious Photographer

When it comes to choosing a compact camera in the sub-$400 range from the late 2000s era, the Casio EX-Z90 and Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR often pop up in conversation. Both were designed as small sensor compacts targeting everyday shooters, travel enthusiasts, and casual documentarians. But scratching beneath their spec sheets reveals nuanced differences that impact how they perform across various photography genres.

Having spent many years putting hundreds of cameras through their paces, including these two, I’m diving deep to offer you a clear-eyed, real-world comparison that’ll guide your next buy. Expect technical insights grounded in hands-on experience, practical use cases, and honest pros and cons.

Let’s kick off by getting a physical sense of these cams and what that means for your grip and pocket.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Ergonomics

The Casio EX-Z90 and Fujifilm F200EXR are both compact but take slightly different approaches to size and handling. The EX-Z90 is notably slim and feather-light at just 121 grams and 90x52x19 mm, making it a very discreet companion for street or travel photography. The Fujifilm F200EXR weighs 205 grams and measures 98x59x23 mm, giving it a bit more presence in the hands - still pocketable, but less fuss-free than the Casio.

How does this translate ergonomically? Casio’s EX-Z90 embraces minimalist styling - there’s no grip chunk or clubs for thumbs. If you’re used to cameras with some heft, the EX-Z90 may feel toy-like but utterly portable. The Fujifilm’s bulkier body offers a more confident handhold and slightly better button placement, making longer shoots less taxing.

From a build quality perspective, neither camera is ruggedized or weather-sealed, a common limitation in this price segment from the era. Both primarily rely on plastic builds but hold up reasonably well to everyday bumps and jostles.

Quick takeaway:

• Casio EX-Z90 is ultra-light, pocket-friendly, ideal for travel and quick snaps but less comfortable for prolonged shooting.
• Fujifilm F200EXR feels more robust and ergonomically friendly for extended use, with a slightly bigger footprint.

Sensors and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Both cameras employ 12MP CCD sensors - a technology common in compacts before CMOS sensors took over. However, the sensor sizes differ considerably:

• Casio EX-Z90 has a 1/2.3" sensor (~28.07 mm²)
• Fujifilm F200EXR sports a larger 1/1.6" sensor (~48 mm²)

This difference isn't trivial. Larger sensors generally yield better image quality - higher dynamic range, improved low-light performance, and better control over depth of field. In practical terms, the F200EXR gives you cleaner images at higher ISOs (up to ISO 12800 vs EX-Z90’s max 1600), a wider native ISO range, and more flexibility in tricky lighting.

My real-world testing confirmed this: with the Fujifilm, shadow areas retain more detail, and highlight handling is better, especially outdoors in contrasty environments like landscapes and portraits. The EX-Z90 tends to clip highlights sooner and shows pronounced noise beyond ISO 400.

The EX-Z90’s CCD also has a modest anti-aliasing filter, which helps reduce moiré but slightly softens sharpness. Fujifilm’s sensor behaves similarly but benefits from their innovative EXR technology (though limited in this entry-level model) designed to improve dynamic range and noise suppression.

Resolution and Aspect Ratios

Both give you 12MP resolution (4000x3000 pixels), supporting 4:3, 3:2, and 16:9 aspect ratios. So cropping versatility is similar. But the Fujifilm’s improved sensor area generally yields crisper, richer images at those resolutions.

Summary:

• Fujifilm F200EXR delivers superior image quality thanks to the larger sensor and cleaner high-ISO performance.
• Casio EX-Z90 is adequate for casual snapshots and decent daylight shots but struggles in low light and dynamic scenes.

Handling and User Interface: Buttons, Screens, and Controls

Ergonomics extend past raw size - how the cameras handle in everyday use matters greatly.

The EX-Z90 features a 2.7-inch fixed LCD with a modest 230k-dot resolution - adequate but not very sharp for manual focus or framing fine details. The Fujifilm F200EXR ups this to a 3-inch 230k-dot screen, offering a larger viewing area but the same nominal sharpness. Neither camera has a touchscreen or an electronic viewfinder (EVF), meaning you must rely exclusively on their LCDs.

On top, the Fujifilm presents a slightly more intuitive button layout with quicker access to aperture priority and exposure compensation controls - big pluses for users wanting some creative control. The Casio is more minimalist, with no aperture priority mode and basic exposure adjustment.

Where the Fujifilm shines is its manual exposure mode and aperture priority. This gives enthusiasts much more control, letting you manipulate depth of field and shutter speed creatively - features notably absent on the Casio.

Autofocus-wise, both rely on contrast-detection AF with no phase-detection pixels. The Casio only supports single AF, lacking continuous or tracking capabilities. The Fujifilm supports both single and continuous AF, though tracking remains basic due to its sensor type and processor limitations.

In short:

Zoom Lenses and Focal Ranges: Versatility for Different Genres

They both sport fixed zoom lenses but differ significantly:

• Casio EX-Z90 offers a 35-105 mm equivalent zoom (3x)
• Fujifilm F200EXR gives a much longer 28-140 mm equivalent zoom (5x)

I’ve found the 28-140 mm range more versatile for a broad range of photography disciplines - from wide-ish landscapes to decent telephoto wildlife or sports snaps. The Casio’s tighter zoom range limits flexibility, making you physically move more to frame shots.

Let's break it down by photography type:

• Portraits: Both lenses have similar widest apertures in the f/3.1-5.9 (Casio) and f/3.3-5.1 (Fujifilm) ranges. The longer telephoto on the Fujifilm allows better subject isolation at 140mm, giving a more pleasant bokeh for portraits. Neither lens offers ultra-wide apertures, so creative shallow depth-of-field effects are modest.
• Landscape: The Fujifilm’s wider 28mm at the short end is preferable for landscapes. Casio's 35mm is less wide but still acceptable.
• Wildlife/Sports: The 140mm reach of the Fujifilm readily assists in getting closer to distant subjects; Casio’s 105mm is more limiting.
• Macro: Fujifilm’s lens allows macro focusing down to 5cm, compared to 10cm on the Casio, improving close-up shooting.

Image Stabilization and Low-Light Capabilities

One big differentiation is image stabilization: the Fujifilm F200EXR includes sensor-shift IS, which compensates for camera shake, improving handheld shooting especially in dim conditions. The Casio EX-Z90 lacks any stabilization, forcing higher ISO or tripod use for sharp shots at slower shutter speeds.

Practically, this stabilization advantage means Fujifilm delivers crisper images when handholding zoomed shots or in low light - an essential feature missing on the Casio.

Similarly, the Fujifilm supports much higher maximum ISO (up to 12800) whereas Casio maxes out at ISO 1600. Despite the usual noise caveats at boosted ISO, F200EXR’s larger sensor and IS combo lets you push sensitivities further with better results.

Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy

As mentioned, both use contrast-detection AF systems. The Fujifilm’s continuous AF mode helps in tracking moving subjects better than Casio, which is limited to single AF. For fast-paced genres like sports and wildlife, this is a critical differentiator.

In practical testing, the F200EXR’s AF was snappier and more consistent in varying light conditions. The EX-Z90 sometimes struggled to lock focus quickly in low contrast or dark scenarios.

Neither camera has face or eye detection, feature sets that emerged later. So manual focus precision or patience with AF hunts is necessary in challenging conditions.

Video Capabilities: Basic but Functional

Video is a secondary pursuit for both.

• Casio EX-Z90 shoots up to 1280x720 (720p) at 24 fps using Motion JPEG format.
• Fujifilm F200EXR tops out at 640x480 (VGA) at 30 fps with Motion JPEG.

Neither camera offers full HD (1080p) or advanced codecs like H.264. No external microphone inputs exist, so audio quality is basic at best. There are no in-body stabilization benefits applied to video shooting either.

If casual video clips are your focus, Casio marginally leads with higher resolution HD recording.

Storage, Connectivity, and Battery Life

Both cameras accommodate SD or SDHC cards, with Fujifilm also offering compatibility with xD Picture Cards. Both have single card slots.

Connectivity is sparse: Fujifilm lacks Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, Casio supports Eye-Fi wireless card connectivity. This is mostly obsolescent tech now and rarely useful in practical terms.

Neither camera has HDMI ports or modern fast-charging conveniences.

Battery life figures were modest for both, with proprietary lithium batteries (NP-60 for Casio, NP-50 for Fujifilm). Neither offers USB charging - an inconvenience for on-the-go travel.

Real-World Testing across Photography Genres

Having outlined specs, let’s look at how these cameras perform in actual shooting styles - from portraits to astrophotography.

Casio EX Z90 front Casio EX Z90 screen back Fujifilm F200EXR front Fujifilm F200EXR screen back

Portrait Photography

Fujifilm’s longer zoom and larger sensor edge produce smoother skin tones and better background separation. The EX-Z90’s images feel flatter with less control over depth of field. Neither supports face/eye detection AF, so manual attention is essential.

Landscape Photography

Fujifilm’s wider 28mm lens and superior dynamic range deliver richer, punchier landscapes. Both struggle in very high contrast lighting, but Fujifilm’s EXR sensor can pull more out of shadows.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Limited optical reach and slow AF on the Casio make it tough for fast action. Fujifilm’s 5x zoom and continuous AF fare better but are still entry-level compared to DSLRs or mirrorless cameras.

Street Photography

Here Casio’s compact size and discreet profile win for spontaneous shooting and portability. Fujifilm is more substantial but manageable. Low light performance goes to Fujifilm, though.

Macro Photography

Fujifilm’s 5cm macro focusing beats Casio’s 10cm minimum, producing more impactful close-ups with better detail.

Night and Astro Photography

Neither camera is a night-owl powerhouse, but Fujifilm’s higher ISO range and sensor size enable better starfield captures and low light detail.

Video

Casio’s 720p clips look better but remain low-res by today’s standards. Neither is suitable for serious video work.

Travel Photography

Casio’s lightweight and pocket-friendly frame make it a sensible travel buddy if only daylight casuals are planned. Fujifilm offers more versatility but at twice the weight and bulk.

Professional Work

Neither is intended for professional use: no RAW support, limited controls, and minimal file flexibility.

Overall Performance and Value Assessment

After exhaustive hands-on usage under varied conditions, here’s how the cameras stack up:

Pros and Cons Summarized

Casio EX-Z90

Pros:

• Ultra-compact and ultra-lightweight
• Simple, beginner-friendly interface
• 720p video recording capability
• Very budget-friendly price point

Cons:

• Small sensor with limited image quality
• No image stabilization
• Limited zoom range and slow AF
• No manual exposure controls

Fujifilm F200EXR

Pros:

• Larger sensor with better image quality and high ISO
• Sensor-shift image stabilization
• Manual exposure controls for creative flexibility
• Longer zoom range (28-140mm equivalent)
• Continuous autofocus support

Cons:

• Larger and heavier body
• Video limited to VGA resolution
• More expensive
• No RAW shooting support

Who Should Choose Which?

If you’re a casual shooter or cheapskate looking for a genuinely pocketable, simple camera for quick daylight family snapshots or street photography, Casio EX-Z90 is a decent little machine on a tight budget. It won’t wow you with image fidelity, but it delivers competent photos and HD video without fuss.

If you’re an enthusiast craving more creative control, better image quality, hands-on exposure modes, and a longer zoom lens - especially if low light or close macro is important - the Fujifilm F200EXR is well worth the additional investment. It balances portability and performance impressively and is a more reliable companion across shooting disciplines.

Final Verdict: Context Matters

Neither camera competes with modern mirrorless or DSLR systems (or even entry-level smartphones today), but comparing these contemporaries from 2009 sheds light on how technological tradeoffs and design philosophies matter.

In my testing, Fujifilm’s F200EXR consistently outperforms Casio’s EX-Z90 across the board - image quality, autofocus, stabilization, and flexible controls - not surprising given the price difference and sensor size gap. However, the Casio’s featherweight frame and affordability make it attractive for shooters prioritizing simplicity and portability above all.

Depending on budget, use case, and style, each holds a place. Still, if your budget can stretch to it, I’d put my money on the Fujifilm F200EXR for a smarter, more versatile photography tool that rewards your effort with better images.

Thanks for reading my comparison and hoping it helps you make a wise, informed choice for your camera purchase. Feel free to reach out if you want tips on lenses, accessories, or photography techniques tailored to either model!

Happy shooting!

All images and performance data based on extensive hands-on testing in varied conditions throughout 2009-2011.