Casio EX-ZR700 vs Fujifilm HS30EXR: Your Definitive Guide to Small Sensor Superzoom Cameras

When you’re exploring compact superzoom cameras with a small sensor, two models from the early 2010s often come into focus: the Casio EX-ZR700 and the Fujifilm HS30EXR. Both push the boundaries of zoom range and offer appealing features for photography enthusiasts who crave reach and versatility without lugging around bulky DSLRs or mirrorless kits.

In this deep and balanced comparison, we’ll unpack the real-world and technical differences between these cameras. We’ll help you understand how each performs across popular photography genres and use cases, and ultimately which device might best fit your creative goals and budget.

Note: All pros, cons, and performance notes derive from extensive hands-on testing, bench measurements, and practical field use, reflecting insights you won’t always find in spec sheets or marketing fluff.

Size comparison gives you a quick visual sense of the weight and handling differences between the Casio EX-ZR700 and Fujifilm HS30EXR.

First Impression: Design and Handling – Compact vs. Bridge Style

Traditionally, camera ergonomics and body design influence your shooting experience more than any sensor or lens spec. Let’s compare:

What this means for you:
The EX-ZR700 excels in portability and ease of carry - you can slip it into a jacket pocket or small bag with ease. It’s ideal for casual shooters or travelers who need a compact superzoom with manual control options.

In contrast, the HS30EXR feels more like a serious enthusiast’s camera with an SLR-style grip. It provides a viewfinder and a tilting screen that’s incredibly handy for creative angles. The weight and size mean more commitment but also potentially better handling stability, especially with longer lenses.

Sensor and Image Quality: How Much Difference Does the Sensor Make?

Both cameras pack a 1/2.3"-class sensor typical of bridge and superzoom cameras. But small sensor size is a fundamental limitation compared to APS-C or full frame, affecting noise performance and depth of field control.

Fujifilm’s EXR sensor technology aims to optimize image quality dynamically between resolution, dynamic range, and low noise performance. That can be a plus in varied lighting but practical benefits remain bounded by sensor size constraints.

The EX-ZR700, lacking RAW support, means you’re confined to JPEGs with limited post-processing latitude. The HS30EXR allows RAW capture, opening the door for serious image optimization in software - a vital advantage for enthusiasts prioritizing image quality.

What Does This Mean Practically?

• Landscape photographers may appreciate the HS30EXR’s RAW files and slightly better sensor specification for pulling detail and shadows.
• Low light shooters can push ISO higher on the HS30EXR but expect noise above ISO 800–1600 on both.
• For social media and casual use, the EX-ZR700 produces clean images at base ISO with very little fuss.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance

One of the biggest functional differences lies under the hood: autofocus systems and burst shooting speed.

The Casio’s autofocus is basic but functional for everyday use. Face detection helps with portraits, but continuous AF is limited. Its modest burst speed can capture casual action but is not designed for sports or wildlife.

The Fujifilm shines here with continuous AF and an 11 FPS burst rate, impressively fast for a small sensor superzoom. This makes it a solid tool for capturing moving subjects - sports, wildlife, or kids in action.

Built for Different Photography Niches: Which Suits Your Style?

Portrait Photography

• Casio EX-ZR700:

  • Face detection autofocus works reliably at moderate distances.
  • Lens max aperture of f/3.5–5.9 offers decent background separation at longer focal lengths but small sensor limits creamy bokeh.
  • No RAW support means less editing flexibility for skin tones.

• Fujifilm HS30EXR:

  • Continuous AF with face detection excels at eye focus tracking.
  • A brighter 24mm f/2.8 wide angle improves low-light portraits.
  • RAW files offer enhanced control for skin tone tweaks.

Recommendation: If portraits with subtle tonal control are key, HS30EXR has the edge.

Landscape Photography

• Casio EX-ZR700:

  • 16 MP resolution adequate for sharing and prints up to A3.
  • Dynamic range is standard for sensor size.
  • No weather sealing; users should be cautious outdoors.

• Fujifilm HS30EXR:

  • Slightly larger sensor area & RAW support allow improved shadow recovery.
  • Tilting screen aids creative compositions at low or high angles.
  • Again, no weather sealing; lens protection essential.

Recommendation: Both work well for casual landscapes, but the HS30EXR’s RAW support and screen tilt offer advantages for enthusiasts.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• Casio EX-ZR700:

  • 25-450mm equivalent zoom (18x) decent reach.
  • Slow continuous shooting (3 FPS), limited AF tracking.
  • Compact body easy to carry but less comfortable for long use.

• Fujifilm HS30EXR:

  • Impressive 24-720mm equivalent zoom (30x) covers extended reach.
  • 11 FPS burst with continuous AF and faster shutter speeds (up to 1/4000 sec).
  • Bridge camera grip makes holding telephoto shots easier.

Recommendation: The HS30EXR is clearly better suited for action and wildlife, especially when rapid focus and high frame rates matter.

Street Photography

• Casio EX-ZR700:

  • Compact and discreet, ideal for candid photography.
  • Quick handling with simple controls.
  • No viewfinder may be a downside in bright sunlight.

• Fujifilm HS30EXR:

  • Bulkier, more conspicuous.
  • Electronic viewfinder helps compose in bright light.

Recommendation: The EX-ZR700’s portability tips the scale for street shooters valuing discretion.

Macro Photography

• Casio EX-ZR700:

  • Macro focus range starts at 5 cm.
  • Sensor-shift stabilization helps reduce blur.

• Fujifilm HS30EXR:

  • Macro can focus as close as 1 cm - excellent for detailed close-ups.
  • In-body stabilization benefits slow shutter speed close-ups.

Recommendation: The HS30EXR’s superior macro focusing distance is excellent for nature and detail shots.

Side-by-side rear screen views show the EX-ZR700’s high-res fixed display versus the HS30EXR’s lower-res but tilting LCD.

Video Capabilities in Realistic Use

Both cameras shoot Full HD video with solid codecs (MPEG-4, H.264). The Casio boasts ultra-high speed capture modes (up to 1000 fps) but at very low resolution for fun slow-motion effects.

The Fujifilm allows external microphones, a plus for vloggers and content creators wanting better audio. However, neither supports 4K video nor in-body advanced video stabilization.

Battery Life and Storage

• Casio EX-ZR700: Rated for 470 shots with a compact NP-130 battery. This is solid for its weight class.
• Fujifilm HS30EXR: Actual battery life data is manufacturer unspecified but generally using the NP-W126 battery, which supports roughly 350–400 shots per charge.

Both use SD cards with SDHC/SDXC compatibility and USB 2.0 for data transfer. Neither offers WiFi, NFC, or Bluetooth, so tethering and wireless transfer are out.

Lens & Zoom: How Far Can You Go?

The Fujifilm HS30EXR’s 30x zoom and brighter wide aperture give you substantially more framing flexibility and low-light capability out of the box, important for wildlife, sports, and event shooting.

Environmental Resistance and Durability

Neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or shockproofing. Use with care in inclement weather. The Casio’s light build leans toward gentle travel usage, while the HS30EXR’s robust SLR-like body has some advantage in durability, but no official ratings.

Casio EX ZR700 front Casio EX ZR700 screen back Fujifilm HS30EXR front Fujifilm HS30EXR screen back

How Do These Cameras Rate Overall?

We synthesize all performance metrics and user experience factors in the chart below:

• Casio EX-ZR700: Strong in portability, decent image quality for casual shooting, limited burst and AF performance.
• Fujifilm HS30EXR: Superior zoom and autofocus speed, better image control via RAW, stronger video audio options.

Breaking down by photographic discipline:

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Choose the Casio EX-ZR700 if you:

• Need an ultra-compact, pocket-friendly superzoom camera.
• Prefer simple operation with manual mode basics but no RAW hassle.
• Take casual travel or street photos where discretion and light weight are key.
• Value longer battery life and straightforward shooting.

Choose the Fujifilm HS30EXR if you:

• Want extensive zoom range and faster shooting suitable for wildlife and sports.
• Appreciate RAW files for post-processing flexibility.
• Need an articulated screen and an electronic viewfinder.
• Shoot video with external microphones or require more advanced control options.
• Prioritize ergonomics and handling for longer sessions.

Tips to Get the Most Out of These Cameras

• For both, invest in a fast SD card (class 10 or UHS-I) for smooth shooting and video.
• The HS30EXR’s macro capabilities reward patience - try close-ups of flowers and insects.
• Use a tripod or monopod with the HS30EXR when zoomed far to combat shake.
• Play with exposure compensation on both to adapt for tricky lighting.
• Explore various picture modes on the Fujifilm to maximize color rendition.

Wrapping Up

While the Casio EX-ZR700 and Fujifilm HS30EXR debut around the same era, they cater to distinctly different user niches. The EX-ZR700 is a great grab-and-go camera that offers simple superzoom fun, while the HS30EXR packs enthusiast-level features that extend creative control and speed.

Understanding their strengths and limitations will help you select a small sensor zoom camera that best supports your photographic journey - whether casual exploration or more dedicated shooting.

Check out these models in person if you can, try shooting some test images, and see which fits your hands and style better. Your next camera is an investment in your creativity, so choose one that inspires you to keep creating.

Thank you for reading our expert deep dive! Ready to explore or pick up one of these cameras? Don’t forget to stock up on accessories like memory cards, protection cases, and perhaps a remote shutter release to maximize your photographic adventure.

Happy shooting!