Nikon S800c vs Casio EX-ZR700: Which Compact Superzoom Suits Your Photography Style?

In the vast landscape of compact cameras, the early 2010s brought some intriguing contenders aimed at enthusiasts craving versatile zoom ranges combined with pocket-friendly sizes. Two such models that caught my eye (and my shutter finger) were the Casio EX-ZR700 and the Nikon Coolpix S800c. Announced about a week apart in early 2013, both cameras target casual photographers who want more reach than typical point-and-shoots offer, but without lugging a DSLR or mirrorless rig.

Having spent quality time with both, testing them across various photography disciplines from street snaps to wildlife attempts (don’t ask, squirrels are surprisingly quick), I’m excited to walk you through a detailed, no-nonsense comparison. My goal? Help you figure out which camera, if either, aligns with your needs, budget, and shooting style using information you won’t just get from the spec sheet.

Let’s dive in.

Body and Ergonomics: Size Isn’t Everything, But It Matters

First impressions count - and that includes how a camera feels in hand, carries around your neck, or fits into your travel bag. Both the Casio EX-ZR700 and Nikon S800c are compact, yet they occupy subtly different spots on the scale.

The Casio EX-ZR700 measures 108 x 60 x 31 mm and weighs about 222 grams, while Nikon’s S800c is a bit longer (111 mm), thinner (27 mm thick), and lighter at 184 grams. This slight weight difference may not shake your world but when you’re out for hours - well, every gram counts.

The Casio’s slightly chunkier body offers a more substantial grip, which for me translated into steadier shots during longer telephoto stretches - an important factor since its zoom climbs to a formidable 450 mm equivalent. The Nikon’s sleeker design appeals if you prioritize slip-it-into-jacket-pocket portability and less bulk on your urban wanderings.

While neither camera boasts weather sealing - a perennial disappointment in this category - the build quality feels respectable enough for everyday use. The Casio’s textured grip and straightforward button placement give it an edge in tactile feedback, whereas Nikon leans on its slick OLED touchscreen interface (more on that soon).

If you prioritize ergonomics and shooting comfort, Casio's slightly beefier body feels more camera-like. On the flip side, Nikon’s trim silhouette caters better to those who crave discreteness and light travel days.

Control Layout and User Interface: Classic Buttons or Touchscreen?

Nothing kills photo mojo faster than fumbling through menus or hunting for controls during a fleeting photo opportunity. Both cameras aim to keep things simple but take notably different routes.

The Casio EX-ZR700 sticks to a more traditional compact camera setup - physical dials and buttons for mode selection, exposure compensation, and playback dominate the top and rear. Its 3-inch fixed Super Clear TFT LCD is bright but nothing extravagant. The absence of touchscreen means every setting tweak requires physical navigation, which some pros still prefer - subtle clicks and tactile confirmation simply can’t be beat in fast-paced environments.

Conversely, Nikon’s S800c embraces the touchscreen wave with a 3.5-inch OLED panel complete with anti-reflection coating. Responding swiftly to taps and swipes, it feels more akin to a smartphone in operation, which may appeal to users transitioning from mobile photography. Importantly, the touchscreen adds versatility in framing, reviewing images, and even interacting with the camera’s limited Android-based smart features.

One caveat: the lack of manual exposure modes on Nikon means you’re mostly stuck with automatic or scene selection modes. Casio offers aperture priority, shutter priority, and even full manual control - more freedom for enthusiasts wanting to tinker.

The Casio’s physical controls win points for precision and speed (once you learn their layout), while Nikon’s touchscreen is more inviting for casual shooters and fans of intuitive UIs. I found that on-the-fly manual tweaks were more manageable on Casio, but for travel and street photography where speed and simplicity matter, Nikon’s interface pulled ahead.

Sensor and Image Quality: Small Sensors, Big Differences?

Both cameras share identical sensor sizes - a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm and covering about 28.07 mm² of imaging area. The pixel count stands at 16 megapixels for each, offering a maximum resolution of 4608 x 3456 pixels.

Despite these similarities, sensor performance hinges on more than just numbers. Casio’s sensor is paired with the EXILIM Engine HS 3, while Nikon taps its trusty Expeed C2 processor. This combination influences noise handling, dynamic range, and color fidelity.

In practice, both deliver respectable daylight images, vibrant and suitably sharp for casual sharing or prints up to A3 size. However, Nikon's sensor implements backside illumination technology (BSI-CMOS), which tends to improve light gathering efficiency - something noticeable in low-light situations.

I ran comparative ISO tests across a range of settings. Both perform well up to ISO 400, but Nikon’s images preserve better detail and lower noise at ISO 800 and especially ISO 1600. Casio started showing more luminance noise, with degradation becoming obvious past ISO 800.

Dynamic range is similarly modest on both, typical of small sensors but sufficient for everyday shooting. Highlight preservation was marginally better on Nikon’s files, reducing blown-out skies in landscape shots.

One notable downside for both is the lack of RAW support - a dealbreaker for professionals or serious hobbyists wanting maximum flexibility in post. You're limited to JPEG, which compresses image data and caps editing latitude.

In sum, Nikon edges ahead in low-light quality and dynamic range, but Casio isn’t far behind at base ISOs - provided you keep expectations in check given the sensor class.

Autofocus and Shooting Experience: Accuracy, Speed, and Tracking

Speedy and reliable autofocus distinguishes a frustrating camera from one that gets consistently usable shots, especially for action or wildlife.

Both cameras employ contrast-detection AF, with face detection capabilities but lacking phase detection (common in larger mirrorless or DSLR cameras). The EX-ZR700 uses a central AF point with additional modes, while the S800c features 9 points - giving Nikon a slight leg up in compositional flexibility.

Continuous autofocus or tracking, as advertised, is rudimentary on both, especially when following fast-moving subjects. In my testing:

• Casio EX-ZR700 manages steady focus on slower subjects and medium pace movement but stumbles with unpredictable motion like vehicles or animals.

• Nikon S800c, with slightly faster continuous shooting at 8 fps and a better AF point spread, captures sequences more effectively but still lags behind dedicated sports cameras.

Neither camera offers manual focus assist features, which may frustrate macro or low light shooters requiring pinpoint precision.

Oddly, Casio’s EX-ZR700 claims to support “AF tracking” but has no continuous AF during video or burst mode, limiting its practical effectiveness. Nikon’s autofocus felt snappier overall, a key merit in street photography or casual wildlife snaps.

Bottom line: If autofocus speed and tracking matter, Nikon holds a mild advantage. But for static subjects or leisurely shooting, both suffice.

Zoom Lenses and Optical Stabilization: Reach and Steadiness in Your Hands

If you shop superzoom compacts, it’s all about how far you can tele and how well the camera helps keep things sharp.

The Casio EX-ZR700 sports a more ambitious 25-450 mm equivalent zoom range - an 18x optical zoom! The Nikon S800c, meanwhile, offers a respectable 25-250 mm (10x optical zoom).

The Casio’s telephoto impressive reach lets you fill the frame on distant subjects, ideal for casual wildlife or sports snapshots when you can’t be closer. However, longer zoom needs better image stabilization lest you get blurry photos because of hand shake.

Casio employs sensor-shift stabilization, which works well in reducing motion blur throughout the zoom range though its effectiveness dips at max tele. Nikon features optical image stabilization, a mainstay in superzooms that helps steady lens elements during capture.

In my side-by-side shooting at telephoto extremes, the Casio’s image stabilization was solid, but Nikon’s optical stabilization seemed marginally better at countering high-frequency shakes. Nevertheless, the longer lens on Casio gives you framing flexibility Nikon can’t match - at the cost of slightly more pronounced lens distortion and edge softness near max zoom.

For macro photography, Casio focuses down to 5 cm, outperforming Nikon’s 10 cm minimum focus distance. That makes Casio better for close-up flower or insect shots where precise focusing is vital.

LCD Displays and Viewfinders: Framing and Playback

Neither camera has a built-in electronic viewfinder - a disappointment especially for bright outdoor shooting where LCD visibility becomes tricky.

The Casio comes with a 3-inch, 922k-dot Super Clear TFT LCD, fixed position and without touch. It’s clear and responsive enough indoors but struggles with direct sunlight glare.

The Nikon offers a larger 3.5-inch OLED touchscreen (819k dots) with anti-reflection coatings that aid outdoor visibility. The touchscreen usability adds significant value for framing, quick settings access, and reviewing images.

I appreciated Nikon’s brighter, more detailed screen especially under challenging light conditions. Casio’s display is reliable, but the lack of touch and smaller size feel dated.

Video Recording: Not Just Stills Anymore

Many enthusiast compacts now blur the boundary between stills and video shooters. How do our two contenders fare?

Both capture Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps, with Nikon also offering 720p modes and Casio boasting a few high-frame-rate options (though at lower resolutions) such as 480fps slow motion at 224x160 pixels - not exactly broadcast quality but fun for experimental shots.

Neither has microphone or headphone ports, limiting audio control and monitoring. Nikon's integration of Android allowed access to some apps (remember that trend?), but it’s a mixed bag in terms of stability and usefulness.

Image stabilization in video mode is helpful on both, with Casio’s sensor-shift and Nikon’s optical stabilization performing roughly comparably - enough to smooth typical handheld recording jitters.

If video quality and ease of use are treatments you desire, Nikon's touchscreen and somewhat more refined video modes make it the better all-rounder here.

Battery Life and Storage: How Long and How Much?

Battery endurance frequently separates convenience from constant charger anxiety.

• Casio EX-ZR700 touts an impressive 470-shot per charge rating based on CIPA standards, helped by its more traditional LCD and no wireless features.

• Nikon S800c lags here with only about 140 shots, understandable given its touchscreen and built-in GPS.

Regarding storage, both support SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards with one slot each. Nikon’s USB 3.0 port edges Casio’s USB 2.0 in transfer speed, though this matters mainly if you move lots of files regularly.

If you plan on day-long shooting or travel, Casio’s longer battery life is a clear plus; Nikon users will want spares to avoid missing moments.

Wireless and Extras: Connected or Classic?

Nikon’s built-in GPS tags your images with location data and offers limited wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi). It lacks Bluetooth and NFC, so you won’t enjoy seamless smartphone pairing typical in modern cameras.

Casio offers no wireless features, a drawback for those wanting instant social sharing.

Both lack external flash compatibility, limiting lighting control for serious shooters.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Let’s contextualize the dry specs into real-life use cases tested extensively by yours truly.

Casio EX ZR700 front Casio EX ZR700 screen back Nikon S800c front Nikon S800c screen back

Portrait Photography

Casio’s manual exposure control and face detection help fine-tune skin tones and background blur with its long zoom. That said, aperture maxing at f/3.5–5.9 limits bokeh capabilities relative to interchangeable lens cameras. Nikon’s touchscreen simplifies focusing on eyes and faces but lacks manual modes. Both produce decent portraits in good light. Neither excels at low light portraits.

Landscape Photography

Between the two, Nikon’s better dynamic range and brighter OLED screen make composing and capturing landscapes more satisfying. Casio’s longer zoom adds creative framing options, but softer edges at max tele detract. No weather sealing on either camera means caution outdoors.

Wildlife Photography

For casual wildlife, Casio’s extra zoom reach is a notable advantage. However, slower AF and continuous shooting rate (3 fps vs Nikon’s 8 fps) reduce chances of catching fast action. Nikon's better burst mode makes it more agile but zoom range may feel limiting.

Sports Photography

Neither camera is designed for professional sports - lack of high fps burst, limited AF tracking, and sluggish start-up times handicap performance. Nikon’s 8 fps burst gives casual shooter a better shot at fast moments, but autofocus remains a bottleneck.

Street Photography

Nikon’s discreet size, touchscreen, and faster startup suit street shooting better. Casio’s heftier body and narrower display angle can feel intrusive. Both cameras produce clean images in daylight; low light suffers due to sensor size.

Macro Photography

Casio wins here with 5 cm minimum focusing distance, producing crisp close-ups with ease. Nikon’s 10 cm requires stepping back, making small subjects harder to fill frame sharply.

Night/Astro Photography

Neither camera shines in astro settings given sensor size and lack of RAW. Nikon’s better high ISO makes it more capable for casual night photography, but expect noise and limited star detail.

Video Capabilities

Nikon’s touchscreen and sharper OLED display make framing smoother during video capture. Casio’s high-frame slow-motion modes, though low resolution, offer creative options. Neither is a serious video camera.

Travel Photography

Battery life, versatility, and compactness matter here. Casio’s longer battery and massive zoom range allow you to capture faraway landmarks without changing lenses. Nikon’s ultra-portable design and GPS geotagging support digital travel diaries better.

Professional Work

Neither camera fits professional criteria due to sensor size, lack of RAW, limited manual controls (particularly Nikon), and no external flash. These models serve best as casual backups or dedicated travel companions.

Summing Up Performance with Scores

Let’s take a quick look at the overall and genre-specific performance assessments.

These graphics synthesize extensive lab and field testing data, neatly illustrating each camera’s strengths:

• Casio EX-ZR700 scores highly in telephoto reach, battery life, and manual controls.

• Nikon Coolpix S800c edges ahead in low light, interface ergonomics, burst shooting, and video usability.

Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

Both the Casio EX-ZR700 and Nikon Coolpix S800c cater to distinct user priorities despite inhabiting a similar compact, small sensor niche.

Choose the Casio EX-ZR700 if:

• You crave extra-long zoom reach (up to 450 mm) for wildlife, sports, or distant subjects.

• Manual control modes (aperture/shutter priority, full manual) are important for creative exposure tinkering.

• Longer battery life is a must, especially for extended shoots or travel.

• You shoot lots of macro or close-up subjects, benefiting from the 5 cm minimum focus.

Choose the Nikon Coolpix S800c if:

• You prefer faster continuous shooting (up to 8 fps) and responsive autofocus.

• A large, bright touchscreen OLED display enriches your shooting and playback experience.

• Wireless features like built-in GPS and basic connectivity appeal for travel and social sharing.

• Better high-ISO performance and video usability matter more than ultimate zoom range.

Final Thoughts from My Shoebox of Experience

I’ve tested hundreds of cameras over the past decade and a half, and no compact is flawless - especially when crammed with ambitious features at attractive price points just over $300.

The Casio EX-ZR700 impresses with raw zoom power and manual versatility, making it a handy companion for those who want to explore photography more deeply without carrying big gear.

The Nikon S800c skews towards instant usability and connected features, suiting casual photographers eager for easy sharing and slightly better low-light video.

If I had to pick one to cram into a daybag for diverse shooting scenarios, I’d lean Nikon for its balance of interface polish and solid imaging. But if distant subjects or macro close-ups dominate your interests, Casio delivers the goods with greater authority.

Neither replaces a mirrorless or DSLR system, but both shine as affordable, pocketable superzoomers with distinct personalities - worth testing in person before you buy, ideally.

Choosing your next camera always involves compromise - and context. I hope this deep dive helps you cut through specs and marketing bluster to find the little tool that makes your photography more fun and fruitful.

Happy shooting!