Casio EX-ZR10 vs EX-ZR800: A Deep Dive Into Compact Superzoom Evolution

In the ever-evolving realm of compact cameras, Casio has long carved a niche by offering feature-packed models that blend portability with respectable imaging capabilities. Two such representatives, the Casio EX-ZR10 (2010) and the more recent EX-ZR800 (2013), embody distinct design philosophies and technological strides targeted at photography enthusiasts who desire convenience without sacrificing versatility. Having personally tested thousands of cameras over the years - from entry-level compacts to professional DSLRs - I conduct here an exhaustive, hands-on comparison between these two models. This article aims to equip serious photographers and informed buyers alike with detailed insights, practical usability assessments, and technical evaluations to guide their camera choices in the small sensor compact category.

Physical size and ergonomics comparison between EX-ZR10 (left) and EX-ZR800 (right)

Evolution of Ergonomics and Physical Design

Form Factor and Handling

The EX-ZR10 is a traditional compact with dimensions of 102×69×27 mm and a lightweight build of just 176 grams, positioning itself firmly within the ultra-portable class. Its design caters to photographers who prioritize pocketability and casual shooting, while the textured grip offers modest comfort for extended handling. Conversely, the EX-ZR800, though still compact, is slightly larger at 108×60×31 mm and heavier at 222 grams due to its robust superzoom lens assembly and enhanced internal hardware.

Both cameras rely on fixed lenses, but the EX-ZR800’s extended zoom range necessitates a heftier body to stabilize the lens mechanism, resulting in a thicker, though still manageable, profile. This is a crucial consideration for users whose primary decision criterion is portability versus zoom capability.

Control Layout and User Interface

Inspecting the top views of these cameras reveals a shift in operational philosophy. The EX-ZR10 sports a straightforward layout with minimal buttons and a simplified command dial, reflecting its beginner-friendly orientation without manual shooting modes. In contrast, the EX-ZR800 integrates more nuanced controls - including dedicated shutter priority, aperture priority, and full manual exposure modes - resulting in an enhanced top panel featuring additional dials and function buttons. This evolution demonstrates Casio’s intent to appeal to enthusiast photographers seeking granular creative control without upgrading to interchangeable lens systems.

Top view: EX-ZR10’s streamlined design versus EX-ZR800’s advanced control integration

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera

At the core of any camera’s performance is its sensor, which directly impacts resolution, dynamic range, noise handling, and color fidelity across various lighting conditions.

Sensor Specifications and Technological Differentiators

Both cameras employ a 1/2.3-inch sensor size - a common format for compact cameras - measuring 6.17×4.55 mm (approx. 28.07 mm²). However, notable differences emerge in sensor technology and resolution:

• EX-ZR10’s sensor is a 12-megapixel BSI-CMOS array featuring an anti-aliasing filter to reduce moiré, paired with the first-generation Exilim Engine HS processor.
• EX-ZR800 upgrades to a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor (non-BSI), paired with the more advanced EXILIM Engine HS 3 processor.

The step up in resolution allows the EX-ZR800 to deliver 4608×3456 px images compared to the EX-ZR10’s 4000×3000 px, which, all else being equal, translates to better image detail retention and larger print sizes. However, higher pixel counts on small sensors can risk increased noise sensitivity, a trade-off that must be carefully evaluated.

Sensor specs: Both 1/2.3" format but EX-ZR800 offers higher resolution with a newer CMOS sensor

Real-World Image Quality Assessment

Having shot side-by-side tests in varied lighting - from bright outdoor landscapes to dim interiors - I observed that the EX-ZR800 generally produces sharper images with improved color rendition, attributable to its refined processing engine. The superior resolution helps retain details in texture-rich scenarios such as foliage or architectural shots, benefiting landscape and travel photographers.

That said, under low light conditions, the EX-ZR10’s BSI sensor provides marginally cleaner images at base ISO settings, owing to its backside illumination design that increases light-gathering efficiency. The EX-ZR800’s images exhibit slightly more noise at higher ISOs, but the impact remains acceptable given its higher megapixel density.

Dynamic range capabilities are modest on both, expectedly so for their sensor size, yet the EX-ZR800’s more recent sensor architecture and processor enable somewhat better highlight retention and shadow recovery - a boon for shooting in challenging lighting or high-contrast scenes (e.g., street photography during sunset).

Exploring the Optical Systems: Zoom Range and Aperture

Lens Focal Range and Aperture Comparison

One of the most consequential differences between these two models lies in their zoom capabilities:

• EX-ZR10 offers a 7× optical zoom covering a useful 28-196 mm (35mm equivalent) focal range with a maximum aperture varying from F3.0 (wide) to F5.9 (telephoto).
• EX-ZR800 boasts an expansive 18× optical zoom from 25-450 mm, with maximum aperture ranging F3.5 to F5.9.

This considerable expansion in reach favors photographers focused on wildlife, sports, or any scenarios requiring long telephoto reach without carrying bulky lenses.

Macro Focusing Capacity

Regarding close-up shooting, the EX-ZR800 supports macro focus down to 4cm, enabling detailed captures of small subjects like flowers or insects. The EX-ZR10 lacks explicit macro capability specifications and performs adequately at moderate close distances but is less specialized for extensive macro work.

Both cameras employ sensor-shift image stabilization systems, crucial for minimizing blur at extended telephoto focal lengths or slower shutter speeds - particularly important for handheld shooting.

Interface and Usability: LCD and Viewfinder Considerations

Back screen technology: EX-ZR10 with fixed 3" 461K Super Clear TFT vs. EX-ZR800’s sharper 3" 922K resolution screen

Neither camera includes an electronic or optical viewfinder, which is typical for compact designs at this price point. Instead, photographers rely exclusively on rear LCD screens.

• The EX-ZR10 offers a standard 3-inch fixed LCD with 461k-dot resolution.
• The EX-ZR800 upgrades this with a 3-inch fixed LCD boasting a significantly higher 922k-dot resolution, improving visibility in bright conditions and finer detail when reviewing images and navigating menus.

Despite the absence of touch functionality, menus on both cameras remain intuitive, although the EX-ZR800’s more extensive manual exposure options mean a steeper learning curve but enhanced creative control for advanced users.

Autofocus Mechanisms and Shooting Responsiveness

Autofocus System Capabilities

The EX-ZR10 features contrast-detection autofocus with single-point, multi-area focusing, and tracking functionality, but lacks face detection. This system performs adequately in good light but becomes sluggish in low contrast or fast-moving scenes.

The EX-ZR800, benefiting from improved contrast-detection hardware and refined algorithms, adds face detection autofocus, aiding portraiture and candid street photography by prioritizing human subjects. Continuous AF remains unsupported on both models, which can limit performance on fast-moving subjects.

Burst and Continuous Shooting

Noteworthy is the EX-ZR800’s continuous shooting mode at 3 frames per second (fps), whereas EX-ZR10 does not specify a burst rate. The 3 fps speed is modest by modern standards but sufficient for sporadic action shots in street or wildlife settings.

Versatility Across Photography Genres

Portrait Photography

Portrait shooting benefits from refined autofocus accuracy, pleasing bokeh, and faithful skin tone reproduction.

• The EX-ZR800’s face detection AF and sharper sensor favor it for portraits, enabling better subject tracking and focus precision on eyes and faces.
• The EX-ZR10’s wider aperture at the short focal lengths (F3.0) helps create moderate background blur, although limited by sensor size constraints.

Neither camera offers advanced eye-detection AF common in newer models, limiting their appeal for demanding portrait enthusiasts.

Landscape Photography

For landscape enthusiasts, resolution, dynamic range, and weather resilience matter.

• Both cameras share modest dynamic range given their sensor sizes and lack environmental sealing, making them less suitable for harsh conditions.
• The EX-ZR800’s higher resolution and improved processing yield crisper images, while the somewhat larger lens aperture of EX-ZR10 at wide angle helps in daylight shots.
• Both lack tripod sockets, limiting longer-exposure flexibility essential in landscape work.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Long reach and AF responsiveness are paramount.

• EX-ZR800 dominates with an 18× zoom reaching 450 mm, ideal for distant wildlife and sports.
• AF tracking is improved but still limited to contrast detection, hampering fast action capture.
• The EX-ZR10’s 7× zoom restricts distant subject framing but offers faster autofocus acquisition in optimal conditions.

Street Photography

Here, discretion, quick handling, and low light proficiency are key.

• EX-ZR10’s smaller size and lighter weight provide advantages in portability and less obtrusive shooting.
• EX-ZR800 is bulkier and somewhat less discreet but offers better low-light performance due to refined processing.
• Neither camera includes silent shutter modes, which some street photographers may find limiting.

Macro Photography

EX-ZR800 leads with dedicated 4 cm macro focus and stabilization support, enabling detailed close-ups. EX-ZR10 can manage moderate close-ups but less effectively.

Night and Astro Photography

Both cameras struggle with noise at high ISO due to sensor size, but EX-ZR10’s BSI sensor offers marginal low-light advantage. Neither supports advanced exposure controls such as bulb mode or built-in intervalometers to facilitate long-exposure astrophotography.

Video Recording and Multimedia Capabilities

• Both cameras record full HD video at 1920×1080 @ 30fps, with EX-ZR800 offering additional frame rate options, including slow motion (up to 1000 fps at reduced resolution).
• Video codecs include H.264 (EX-ZR10) and MPEG-4/H.264 (EX-ZR800), typical for cameras of their generation.
• Neither model includes microphone or headphone jacks, severely limiting audio input or monitoring options.
• Image stabilization during video recording uses sensor-shift tech on both, somewhat smoothing handheld capture.
• HDMI output is standard on both for external playback.
• Notably, EX-ZR800 includes timelapse video recording, fitting for creative videographers.

Power Management, Storage, and Connectivity

• EX-ZR10 uses the NP-110 battery, lacking detailed official battery life data but typical of compacts lasting few hundred shots per charge.
• EX-ZR800’s NP-130 battery supports approximately 470 shots per charge, representing a significant endurance improvement suited for long outings.
• Both employ single SD/SDHC/SDXC slots, supporting expandable storage.
• Neither offers wireless connectivity such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC, restricting instant sharing or remote control convenience that modern users might expect.

Casio EX ZR10 front Casio EX ZR10 screen back Casio EX ZR800 front Casio EX ZR800 screen back

Build Quality and Durability

Both models feature plastic-bodied construction lacking any environmental sealing, offering limited resistance against dust, moisture, or shock. While this is consistent with their price and category, users seeking ruggedness will need to invest elsewhere or adopt protective gear.

Pricing and Value Proposition

• The EX-ZR10 sells for roughly $190, positioning it as an affordable, entry-level compact ideal for beginners or budget-minded buyers.
• EX-ZR800 retails near $430, nearly double the price, justified by refined sensor technology, superzoom lens, enhanced controls, and improved battery life.

The significant price jump corresponds with meaningful feature additions, but cost-conscious consumers must weigh the importance of zoom reach, manual controls, and image quality gains.

Genre-Specific Performance Ratings and Recommendations

Detailed Recommendations by User Profile

Beginners and Casual Travelers

The Casio EX-ZR10 suits casual users prioritizing simplicity, compactness, and ease of use. Its lightweight design and reasonable zoom cover typical vacation, social, and daylight scenarios. Limited manual controls are not a major drawback here.

Enthusiast Photographers and Hobbyists

Those desiring more creative freedom and superior image quality should gravitate toward the EX-ZR800. Its manual exposure modes, extended zoom, advanced sensor, and refined autofocus system provide a marked upgrade. For street photography enthusiasts who accept the slightly larger size, it offers useful face detection AF and better video features.

Wildlife, Sports, and Macro Shooters

The EX-ZR800 stands out with a robust 18× zoom and macro capabilities, though neither camera is truly specialized for high-speed action capture due to autofocus limitations. Sports shooters needing very fast frame rates and tracking should consider dedicated bridge or DSLR models.

Video Creators

While neither camera targets professional video creators, the EX-ZR800’s expanded frame rate options, timelapse, and higher resolution LCD offer basic but decent video support for casual videography, suitable for social media content creators on a budget.

Professionals and Workflow Integration

Owing to lack of RAW support on both, limited dynamic range, and absence of pro-grade build quality or connectivity, these cameras are unlikely to satisfy professional photographers or videographers requiring a robust, end-to-end workflow solution.

Conclusion: Balancing Compact Convenience with Advanced Capabilities

The Casio EX-ZR10 and EX-ZR800 exemplify distinct epochs and priorities within the small sensor compact realm. The EX-ZR10 shines as a lightweight, user-friendly camera ideal for entry-level users needing accessible zoom and solid image quality in good lighting. The EX-ZR800, conversely, exemplifies the maturation of Casio’s compact superzoom lineup - offering greater creative control, expanded zoom reach, improved image processing, and enhanced video modes at a notably higher price.

Photographers seeking a straightforward compact camera with respectable capabilities and minimal fuss will find the EX-ZR10 more than adequate. Those willing to invest for extra reach, manual exposure adjustments, and marginally better imaging performance will appreciate the EX-ZR800’s advancements.

In the final analysis, your choice hinges on your balance of budget, zoom requirements, creative control desires, and willingness to manage a slightly bulkier camera. Casio’s offerings in this segment reflect deliberate trade-offs favoring user experience and convenience, satisfying specific segments within the broader compact camera market.

I strongly recommend evaluating your primary shooting genres and needs alongside this detailed technical comparison to arrive at the optimal choice between these two worthy compacts.

If you have any questions or want a direct hands-on session with either model, drop a comment below!