Casio EX-ZR400 vs Olympus FE-5010: A Hands-On Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals

Choosing the right camera often hinges on understanding subtle differences in technology, handling, and performance. Today, we delve into two small sensor compacts: the Casio EX-ZR400 and the Olympus FE-5010. Both appeal to photography enthusiasts wanting a lightweight, easy-to-use option, yet their design philosophies and capabilities diverge significantly. Drawing on years of testing similar cameras, here’s an in-depth, practical comparison to guide your decision.

First Impressions: Size, Handling, and Design

From the moment you pick up either camera, ergonomics become apparent. The Casio EX-ZR400 presents a chunkier profile that signals more advanced controls and grip comfort, while the Olympus FE-5010 sticks to a slimmer, pocket-ready build focusing on portability.

Casio EX-ZR400

• Dimensions: 105×59×29 mm
• Weight: 205g
• Comfortable, substantial grip
• Larger 3-inch display with 461k-dot resolution
• Button layout offers quick access to manual modes and settings

Olympus FE-5010

• Dimensions: 96×57×21 mm
• Weight: 130g
• Slim and compact for ultra-portability
• Smaller 2.7-inch LCD with 230k dots, less sharp
• Simple button layout emphasizing auto modes

When it comes to handling, the EX-ZR400 feels like a camera designed to grow with your skills, whereas the FE-5010 is perfect for quick snapshots on the move. Ergonomics and control layout contribute significantly to shooting confidence, especially in manual or semi-manual modes.

Sensor and Image Quality: Understanding the Core

Both cameras use 1/2.3" sensors, common in compact models, but differ radically in sensor type and resolution, impacting image quality and usability.

Why Sensor Type and Resolution Matter

• BSI-CMOS (Backside Illuminated CMOS): Offers better light-gathering efficiency, translating into improved low-light performance, reduced noise, and faster readout speeds.
• CCD Sensor: Known for natural color rendition in daylight, but generally struggles in low light and with fast readouts.

Our tests show the Casio EX-ZR400 provides noticeably cleaner results at ISO 800 and above, granting more flexibility for indoor and night shooting. Meanwhile, Olympus’ CCD sensor struggles beyond ISO 400, with noise and softness becoming apparent.

In resolution terms, Casio’s 16MP sensor offers extra detail and cropping flexibility, beneficial for larger prints or digital post-processing.

Lens and Zoom Range: Versatility vs Simplicity

One critical consideration, especially for travel and wildlife enthusiasts, is the zoom range and aperture.

This specification comparison is a straightforward win for Casio’s EX-ZR400 in terms of zoom reach and close-up capabilities. The superzoom range from wide 24mm to telephoto 300mm is outstanding for compact cameras and remarkably versatile for:

• Wildlife and sports photography: Reach distant subjects without sacrificing portability.
• Macro shots: 1cm focusing distance offers creative close-ups in nature or product photography.

Olympus’ FE-5010 offers a shorter 5× zoom which limits telephoto reach but still suits casual outdoor and family photography. Its 3cm macro range is effective for everyday close-ups but less specialized.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance

Autofocus accuracy and speed profoundly affect your ability to capture fleeting moments and achieve sharp results.

The EX-ZR400 supports continuous shooting at an impressive 30 frames per second, useful for sports and action photography. Its multi-area AF with tracking also improves focus retention on moving subjects. In contrast, the FE-5010 lacks tracking and continuous shooting, limiting its effectiveness for fast or unpredictable motions.

Our hands-on tests confirm Casio’s AF is more responsive and reliable across various lighting conditions, crucial for wildlife photographers and event shooters.

Screen and Viewfinder Usability

Neither camera provides a viewfinder, which can be a disadvantage in bright sunlight or for stability.

The EX-ZR400’s larger and higher-resolution display offers a clearer preview and easier composition, especially when reviewing images or navigating menus.

While neither model features a touchscreen or an electronic viewfinder, the Casio’s improved screen significantly enhances user experience in the field.

Image Stabilization and Low-Light Handling

Both cameras feature sensor-shift image stabilization, but Casio’s BSI-CMOS sensor combined with its processor yields better low-light capability.

• Casio: Stabilization reduces blur effectively at telephoto focal lengths and slower shutter speeds.
• Olympus: Stabilization is present but less effective due to sensor and processor limitations.

Maximum ISO differences (3200 for Casio vs 1600 for Olympus) confirm Casio’s advantage under dim conditions, vital for night shooting or indoor portraits.

Video Recording: Basic to Moderate Quality

The Casio EX-ZR400 significantly outperforms Olympus for video with full HD recording and high-speed capture modes for creative slow-motion clips. Olympus’ standard definition video is outdated by modern standards and best suited for casual use only.

Battery Life and Storage

• Casio EX-ZR400: Rated at 500 shots per charge using a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack. Uses SD/SDHC/SDXC cards.
• Olympus FE-5010: Battery life unspecified but uses lithium-ion battery (LI-42B). Storage via xD-Picture Card or microSD (adapter required).

The Casio’s longer battery life and modern, ubiquitous SD card compatibility make it more practical, especially for extended fieldwork or travel.

Durability and Environmental Resistance

Interestingly, Olympus FE-5010 is advertised with environmental sealing, a rare feature for an entry-level compact camera, potentially beneficial for rugged outdoor conditions. Casio lacks weather sealing, advisable to keep it away from moisture and dust.

Price, Value, and Who Should Choose Which

• Casio EX-ZR400: Even though retail price is not currently listed, typical pricing aligns with mid-range superzoom compacts from its era. It is better suited for enthusiasts requiring manual controls, superior zoom range, and better image/video quality.
• Olympus FE-5010: Around $130 in the used market, extremely affordable, ideal for beginners or casual shooters prioritizing simplicity, environmental sealing, and pocketability.

Photography Genre Suitability: What Each Camera Excels At

We rated both cameras across genres based on specifications, test results, and practical use:

Portrait Photography

• Casio EX-ZR400: Superior color rendition due to CMOS sensor, better bokeh from longer focal length and f/3 aperture at wide end. Manual focus helps precise skin tone rendering.
• Olympus FE-5010: Basic portrait capability, lacks manual exposure modes and skin-specific enhancements.

Landscape Photography

• Casio EX-ZR400: Higher resolution benefits large prints. Wider 24mm equivalent helps capture expansive scenes.
• Olympus FE-5010: Limited zoom and lower resolution. Environmental sealing adds durability for outdoor shoots.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• Casio EX-ZR400: 30 fps continuous shooting and AF tracking make it a rare performer in this category for small compacts.
• Olympus FE-5010: Not suited for fast action; no continuous shooting or AF tracking.

Street Photography

• Olympus FE-5010: Small size, discreet profile, and decent image quality make it suitable for street use when portability is paramount.
• Casio EX-ZR400: Bulkier but offers more control and reach if you prefer zooming and manual settings.

Macro Photography

• Casio EX-ZR400: 1 cm minimum focus distance is impressive, yielding detailed close-ups.
• Olympus FE-5010: 3 cm minimum macro focus is okay for casual use but less creative.

Night and Astro Photography

• Casio EX-ZR400: High ISO up to 3200 and exposure times as long as 15 seconds enable astrophotography and night shots.
• Olympus FE-5010: ISO capped at 1600 and shorter shutter range limits low-light performance.

Video Uses

Casio’s HD video, slow motion, and higher frame rates are a definite advantage for vloggers and multimedia content creators.

Comprehensive Image Quality Samples

Here is a side-by-side gallery of test shots under varied conditions, emphasizing daylight, low light, and telephoto crops.

Casio EX ZR400 front Casio EX ZR400 screen back Olympus FE 5010 front Olympus FE 5010 screen back

Observations from samples reveal sharper edges and better noise handling in Casio’s images, while Olympus images are softer with more noise, especially in shadows.

Final Performance and Ratings Overview

An aggregated performance scoring across key categories clarifies how these cameras stack up overall.

Casio EX-ZR400 scores higher overall, driven by image quality, zoom versatility, and manual controls. Olympus FE-5010 remains a solid budget compact for casual users and travel.

Conclusion: Which Camera Fits Your Needs?

Choose the Casio EX-ZR400 if you:

• Demand higher image quality and resolution
• Value manual shooting modes and control customization
• Need versatile superzoom telephoto reach (24–300mm)
• Shoot sports, wildlife, or fast action
• Want HD video plus slow motion features
• Appreciate a larger, sharper LCD for composition
• Don’t mind a slightly bulkier camera for advanced capability

Opt for the Olympus FE-5010 if you:

• Prioritize portability and lightweight design
• Need a rugged, weather-sealed body for casual outdoor use
• Shoot mainly in well-lit environments at shorter focal lengths
• Prefer simplicity with mostly automatic shooting modes
• Have a limited budget and want a straightforward point-and-shoot
• Seek a camera easy to slip in a pocket or bag for everyday snapshots

Photography is a deeply personal pursuit. These two cameras reflect different philosophies: the Casio EX-ZR400 encourages creative growth and serious shooting, while the Olympus FE-5010 invites casual documentation with rugged protection. Try both if possible to see which aligns best with your style.

For each, consider pairing with SD cards, spare batteries, and protective carrying solutions. And whether you’re crafting portraits, chasing wildlife, or capturing travel memories, these cameras can serve as reliable companions on your photographic journey.

Happy shooting!