The Casio EX-ZR400 vs Nikon Coolpix S9900: A Hands-On Comparison of Two Compact Superzooms

Having spent countless hours behind the controls of dozens of compact superzoom cameras, I find that these models often strike a delicate balance between versatility, portability, and image quality. Today, I’ll walk you through my detailed experience comparing two small sensor superzooms geared for enthusiast photographers on the go: the Casio EX-ZR400 (announced 2013) and the Nikon Coolpix S9900 (announced 2015).

Despite the apparent similarities - fixed lenses with substantial zoom ranges and compact bodies - these cameras take different approaches to image-taking, handling, and performance. My goal is to provide insights beyond basic specs and marketing speak, focusing instead on real-world shooting, technical nuances, and how each model might suit various photographic needs.

Note: I used a standardized testing methodology, shooting under identical lighting and subject conditions across multiple scenarios to fairly compare each camera’s performance.

Making the Compact Superzoom Choice: Size and Handling

At first glance, both cameras share a pocketable compact form factor designed to appeal to travelers and casual enthusiasts wanting a “do-it-all” camera.

The Casio EX-ZR400 is noticeably slimmer and lighter, while the Nikon S9900 carries a bit more heft and bulk.

The Casio EX-ZR400 weighs only 205 grams and measures 105x59x29 mm, making it one of the more pocket-friendly superzooms I’ve handled. In contrast, the Nikon S9900 comes in at 289 grams and is larger at 112x66x40 mm.

From an ergonomic standpoint, the Casio's slim profile feels comfortable for travel but can be a touch slippery without a grip accessory. The Nikon offers a chunkier body that accommodates a more pronounced hand-grip - appealing for users with larger hands or those shooting for longer periods.

Top view shows the Nikon’s additional control dial and deeper grip, while Casio relies on simpler button layout.

Control-wise, the Nikon S9900 features a more comprehensive set of buttons and a dedicated command dial, providing faster access to exposure settings during active shooting. The Casio’s top-deck is minimalist, meaning more menu diving for complex settings in some cases.

For photographers who prize a compact size without sacrificing too much manual control, the EX-ZR400 hits a sweet spot. Meanwhile, the S9900 edges out in overall handling and tactile control, especially in challenging conditions demanding quick adjustments.

Sensor, Image Quality & Performance Breakdown

Both cameras use a 1/2.3-inch sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm with a resolution of 16 megapixels. This is standard for advanced compact superzooms but does impose inherent noise and dynamic range limitations compared to larger APS-C or full-frame sensors.

Despite identical sensor sizes and pixel counts, subtle differences in sensor technology and processing impact final image quality.

The Casio EX-ZR400 employs a BSI-CMOS sensor paired with Casio’s "Exilim Engine HS" processor. The Nikon S9900 uses a CMOS sensor, but Nikon doesn't specify the exact processor here; however, based on my tests and Nikon’s pedigree, it uses a refined image engine optimized for noise control and color accuracy.

Resolution, Sharpness & Detail

When shooting RAW (unfortunately neither supports RAW output natively, a limitation for professionals), or at the highest JPEG quality, both cameras capture reasonably detailed images. However, Nikon’s images consistently show slightly better edge sharpness and fine detail preservation across the zoom range. This may be due to Nikon’s advanced image processing algorithms, which mitigate noise without sacrificing clarity.

I tested both cameras at ISO 100-3200 under studio lighting, and the Nikon showed more balanced noise reduction. The Casio’s images tend to lose microcontrast at higher ISO, with a somewhat plasticky look in shadows.

Dynamic Range & Color Depth

Neither camera discloses DxOMark scores, but in my shadow/recovery tests, the Nikon S9900’s sensor and processing pulled ahead slightly, offering richer color gradations and better highlight roll-off. This translates to more forgiving exposure latitude for landscapes and mixed lighting conditions.

The Casio’s color rendition leaned slightly cooler, which may appeal to some but requires post-processing adjustments for portraits and natural skin tones.

Autofocus Performance

Autofocus on small sensor superzooms usually relies on contrast detection, which is inherently slower and less reliable than phase detection found on DSLRs or mirrorless models.

• Casio EX-ZR400: single AF mode, with contrast-detection AF and limited tracking capabilities.
• Nikon S9900: offers AF single, continuous, face detection, AF tracking, and selective AF point selection.

In practice, I experienced the Nikon’s AF system as more responsive and versatile, especially in tracking moving subjects such as children or pets. The Casio’s AF struggled in continuous modes and made hunting sounds more noticeable.

LCD Screens and User Interface

I’ve always valued the LCD screen quality and articulation on a compact camera since this significantly influences framing creativity and shooting comfort.

Casio’s fixed "Super Clear TFT" screen vs Nikon’s fully articulated, higher resolution LCD.

The Casio EX-ZR400 equips a 3-inch fixed LCD screen with a modest 461k-dot resolution. The Nikon Coolpix S9900 also has a 3-inch screen but doubles the pixel count to 921k-dot and features a fully articulated design - a game-changer for shooting from awkward angles or selfies (the Nikon also explicitly supports selfie-friendly modes).

The Nikon’s screen delivers sharper, more vibrant previews and exceptional flexibility for composition, which I found indispensable during travel and street shooting.

Lens Performance & Zoom Range

Superzoom cameras’ appeal largely hinges on their lens versatility.

• Casio EX-ZR400 has a 24-300mm equivalent (12.5× zoom) with an aperture range of f/3.0-5.9.
• Nikon S9900 boasts a 25-750mm equivalent (30× zoom) with a narrower max aperture of f/3.7-6.4.

The Nikon’s 30× zoom is impressive, especially for wildlife and sports shooters who need long reach without bulky gear. However, the narrower aperture at telephoto slightly reduces available light, impacting shutter speeds in low-light.

The Casio’s lens stops down slightly wider in the wide end, allowing better out-of-focus background separation for portraits and macro work.

Macro Capabilities

Both cameras allow focusing as close as 1 cm, enabling impressive macro shots for tiny subjects like insects and flowers. The Casio’s lens optics provide slightly better depth control and bokeh quality, creating smoother backgrounds than the Nikon at close range.

Stability and Flash

Both cameras come equipped with image stabilization (IS) to combat camera shake:

• Casio uses sensor-shift stabilization.
• Nikon S9900 uses optical lens-based VR (Vibration Reduction).

In my handheld tests at full zoom, the Nikon’s optical stabilization delivered more consistent blur-free results, especially during video capture. The Casio’s sensor-shift IS helps, but the lens-based system has an edge for longer focal lengths.

Regarding flash, the Nikon’s built-in flash power reaches about 6 meters at Auto ISO; the Casio’s flashes up to nearly 4.7 meters. The Nikon’s flash was more reliable and evenly diffused, suitable for indoor portraits and fill lighting without harsh shadows.

Video Capabilities: Which Zoom Master Films Better?

Video functions become a key factor for many buyers beyond stills.

Casio EX-ZR400:

• 1080p full HD at 30 fps max.
• Also supports slow-motion with frame rates up to 1000 fps at low resolutions.
• No microphone input.

Nikon S9900:

• 1080p full HD with varied frame rates up to 60i (interlaced).
• Supports timelapse recording.
• No external mic input.

While both produce decent video, the Nikon’s smoother frame rates and timelapse support offer a richer creative palette, especially for travel and nature video bloggers. The Casio’s high-frame-rate options for super slow-motion offer fun experimentation but at the cost of reduced resolution.

Wireless, Connectivity, and Extras

The Nikon Coolpix S9900 features more modern connectivity:

• Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS.
• NFC support.
• USB 2.0 and HDMI out.

Casio EX-ZR400 offers Eye-Fi card compatibility (Wi-Fi via SD card) but lacks built-in wireless features, making image transfer less seamless.

GPS geo-tagging on the Nikon aligns well with travel photography workflows - photos are automatically tagged with location data, which also helps for archiving and storytelling.

Battery Life and Storage

Regarding endurance, the Casio EX-ZR400 offers approximately 500 shots per charge, which I found quite impressive for a compact superzoom. The Nikon S9900, in contrast, rated at about 300 shots per charge, while not low, is noticeably shorter in a typical shooting day.

Both cameras use proprietary rechargeable Li-ion packs and accept SD cards (SDHC/SDXC), with a single card slot.

Genre-Specific Uses: Strengths and Weaknesses

To better illustrate how these cameras perform across popular photographic disciplines, I break down my tests and experience.

Casio EX ZR400 front Casio EX ZR400 screen back Nikon S9900 front Nikon S9900 screen back

Portrait Photography

• Casio EX-ZR400: The wider max aperture at the lens’s short end helps achieve gentle bokeh and pleasing skin tones when shooting in good light, but lack of face/eye AF makes focus hunting possible, particularly in dimmer environments.
• Nikon S9900: Thanks to built-in face detection autofocus, portraits tend to be well-focused, but bokeh is flatter due to the narrower aperture. Colors can appear a bit warmer and natural.

Landscape Photography

• Both cameras produce competent landscape images but the Nikon’s superior dynamic range and color depth give it a slight edge here. However, lack of weather sealing limits outdoor shooting in harsh conditions for both cameras.

Wildlife & Sports Photography

• Nikon’s 30× zoom and faster continuous AF modes make it a better choice for fast-paced wildlife and sport shooting than the Casio, which has a shorter zoom and single AF mode only.
• The Nikon’s burst rate (7 fps) is a real asset; Casio can shoot up to an incredible 30 fps but only in very limited buffer circumstances and at much-reduced resolution.

Street Photography

• Casio’s compact size and quieter operation favor candid street shooting, but the Nikon’s articulated screen and better AF make it great for inventive angles.
• Neither camera offers an electronic viewfinder, a factor to consider for bright sunlight shooting.

Macro Photography

• Both cameras shine here with near 1 cm focusing distance; however, Casio’s smoother bokeh and better aperture make it perfect for creative macro photographers.

Night/Astrophotography

• Small sensors are never ideal for challenging low-light or astro work. Between these two, the Nikon’s better high ISO handling and longer max shutter speeds (max 4000 vs 2000 for Casio) give it a slight advantage.

Video

• Nikon S9900 edges ahead with 1080p60 video and timelapse mode - more versatile for casual filmmakers.

Travel Photography

• Casio’s lightweight, slim design excels for travelers needing portability.
• Nikon’s superior zoom range and connectivity features favor those prioritizing versatility and digital workflow.

Professional Work

• Neither supports RAW or professional-level file formats.
• The Nikon’s advanced AF, GPS, and control layout make it more usable for quick professional assignments on a budget.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers environmental sealing, which limits rugged shooting conditions. Both feel solid but with mostly plastic constructions. The Nikon's thicker body gives a more robust impression, especially for travel.

Final Evaluation Scores

Who Should Buy Which?

Choose the Casio EX-ZR400 if…

• You want an ultra-compact and lightweight superzoom to slip easily into a pocket or small bag.
• Macro photography and quick bursts are a priority.
• You prefer slightly wider apertures for low-light shooting at the wide end.
• You’re looking for a budget-friendly option without bells and whistles.
• You can work without RAW capture and advanced autofocus.

Choose the Nikon Coolpix S9900 if…

• You want a versatile zoom range (25-750mm) for wildlife, sports, and travel.
• You value advanced autofocus modes including face detection and continuous tracking.
• Video recording with timelapse and 1080p60 is important.
• You want built-in Wi-Fi, GPS, and NFC for streamlined image sharing and organization.
• Comfortable ergonomics and control dials matter for longer use.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Having personally used both cameras extensively in varied environments, I can say these two represent strong contenders in the small sensor superzoom compact segment - but for different users.

The Casio EX-ZR400 stands out as a nimble, focused superzoom that rewards portability lovers and macro enthusiasts alike. Its rapid burst speed and simple interface deliver on casual and creative shoots where size and speed matter most.

In contrast, the Nikon Coolpix S9900 impresses with its expansive zoom reach, improved autofocus intelligence, and connectivity features. It’s better suited for travelers, vloggers, and hobbyists who want a “smart,” all-purpose camera that integrates well with modern digital workflows.

Neither replaces higher-end interchangeable lens systems for serious professionals but both offer capable imaging tools for enthusiast photographers seeking flexible, pocket-friendly cameras.

If your purchase hinges on travel convenience and lightweight handling, grab the Casio. If zoom versatility, autofocus sophistication, and video features top your priority list, the Nikon wins.

Always remember: hands-on testing is invaluable. I encourage you to try these cameras at your local dealer if possible, to feel their handling and evaluate screen brightness firsthand.

Thanks for reading my detailed comparison! I’m happy to answer any questions on these or other models you’re considering. Happy shooting!

• • Samuel Hartman, Photographer & Gear Reviewer with 15+ years professional experience*