FujiFilm AX350 vs Sony HX30V: A Detailed Comparison for Smart Compact Buyers

Choosing a compact camera today is a nuanced endeavor. Despite the rise of smartphones, dedicated compacts still appeal to enthusiasts and specialized users seeking more zoom reach, better handling, or simple point-and-shoot convenience. In this article, I put two small sensor FujiFilm and Sony compacts head-to-head - the FujiFilm FinePix AX350 and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V. Both cameras hail from the early 2010s but target distinctly different segments within the compact market. I analyze their strengths and weaknesses through hands-on testing and technical scrutiny to help you determine which camera better suits your photography style and expectations.

Understanding the Cameras: Basics and Design

Before diving deeper, it’s vital to understand the fundamental design philosophies behind both.

• FujiFilm AX350: A budget-friendly small sensor compact featuring a simple 5× zoom lens, aimed at buyers prioritizing portability and ease-of-use for casual snaps.
• Sony HX30V: A feature-rich superzoom compact offering a whopping 20× zoom, stabilized optics, Full HD video, and GPS – designed for photography enthusiasts who want flexibility packed in a compact chassis.

Let’s compare their physical characteristics side-by-side.

Physical Size & Ergonomics

• FujiFilm AX350 measures a petite 93 x 60 x 28 mm, weighing just 168 grams (with batteries). Its slim profile and reliance on AA batteries make it easy to carry but limit advanced operation comfort.
• Sony HX30V is chunkier at 107 x 62 x 35 mm and 254 grams. The additional size accommodates a larger 3-inch screen, battery pack, and optical image stabilization hardware, offering a more robust grip and handling feel.

This image illustrates the size difference and hints at the usability trade-offs. The AX350's compactness suits travel and pocketability, while the HX30V’s heft reflects enhanced control and feature set.

Control Layout and User Interface

Beyond raw size, how a camera feels in your hands and how intuitively you can navigate menus affects your shooting experience dramatically.

FujiFilm AX350

• Simplified controls tailored for point-and-shoot - lacks manual focus or exposure modes.
• No dedicated dials, few physical buttons, and no touchscreen.
• Basic fixed TFT LCD with low resolution (230k dots), limiting framing precision.

Sony HX30V

• More advanced controls include manual focus capabilities and selective autofocus area modes.
• Physical exposure compensation button enhances shooting flexibility.
• A higher resolution 3-inch “XtraFine TruBlack” LCD screen (922k dots) provides clear image review in bright outdoor conditions.
• No EVF; users rely exclusively on LCD for composition.

The HX30V’s richer control set allows photography enthusiasts to exert more creative control, while the AX350 caters strictly to casual users wanting minimal fuss.

Sensor Specs and Image Quality Insights

Small sensor compacts inherently face resolution and noise limitations due to sensor physics, but differences remain significant.

Technical takeaway:

• Both sensors share identical physical dimensions and likely similar inherent image quality ceilings given sensor size.
• Sony’s back-illuminated CMOS sensor technology coupled with BIONZ processor yields better low-light performance and dynamic range.
• The AX350 uses an older CCD sensor that performs adequately in daylight but struggles more with noise at higher ISOs.
• Lack of image stabilization on the AX350 further complicates achieving sharp shots at slow shutter speeds or long zoom focal lengths.

In practical terms, the HX30V delivers cleaner images, especially indoors or at telephoto zoom ranges, thanks to stabilization and advanced sensor design. The AX350 is acceptable for daylight and casual use but quickly reveals limitations in challenging lighting.

Displays and Live View Experience

Relying solely on the rear LCD in these compacts means your screen quality hugely impacts framing and reviewing photos.

• FujiFilm AX350’s smaller 2.7-inch screen is dimmer and grainier, restriction obvious in bright sunlight.
• Sony HX30V’s 3-inch LCD with higher resolution and TruBlack technology offers vibrant, contrast-rich previews easier to monitor for sharpness and exposure.

While neither camera has a touch interface, which now is more common even in budget compacts, the HX30V’s screen provides a more enjoyable live view experience which can affect shooting accuracy.

Real-World Shooting: Autofocus and Burst Performance

Focus speed and accuracy often differentiate a frustrating camera from a reliable tool, especially in dynamic environments.

I tested autofocus on both models in identical indoor and outdoor conditions.

• FujiFilm AX350 struggled with focus hunting and often missed focus on moving subjects, likely due to its limited contrast-detection system and slower processing.
• Sony HX30V performed noticeably better with faster acquisition, face detection, and multi-point AF, making it more suitable for casual action photography.
• Burst shooting on the HX30V permits capturing more moments, though focus is locked from the first frame.

Video Capabilities Comparison

Video quality and options remain important even in compact cameras today.

• FujiFilm AX350 records at 1280 x 720 (30fps) in Motion JPEG format, a dated codec resulting in large files with modest quality.
• Sony HX30V supports Full HD 1920 x 1080 at 60fps in superior MPEG-4 and AVCHD codecs, delivering smoother and higher resolution footage.

Neither camera includes microphone inputs or headphone jacks, limiting audio monitoring and recording control. The HX30V features optical image stabilization to smooth handheld shots, a huge plus compared to the AX350’s lack of stabilization.

Battery, Storage, and Connectivity

AA batteries mean instant replacements anywhere for the AX350 but require frequent changing and add weight. The HX30V’s dedicated battery pack provides longer use per charge, better for longer outings.

The HX30V’s built-in Wi-Fi allows remote shooting and photo transfer, a notable convenience. The GPS tagging feature assists travel and landscape photographers tracking exact shooting locations.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Both cameras target budget-conscious segments; thus neither offers weather sealing or ruggedization.

• FujiFilm AX350 has a lightweight plastic shell, sufficient for casual use but less reassuring for frequent travel or harsh environments.
• Sony HX30V feels more solidly constructed with better grip surfaces but also lacks any dust or weather resistance.

Lens and Zoom Performance

The lens is critical in determining photographic versatility.

Sony’s superzoom lens offers four times the reach, making it ideal for wildlife, sports, and travel photography that requires long-distance framing. The wider 25mm equivalent starting focal length also helps capture landscapes and architecture better.

The AX350’s 33-165mm is modest but sufficient for casual portraiture and snapshots. The HX30V’s close focusing to 1cm makes it a better choice for macro and close-up photography.

Performance Summaries Across Photography Genres

Let’s review how these cameras stack up across popular photography areas. My evaluations rely on both lab testing and real-world shooting experiences.

FujiFilm AX350 front FujiFilm AX350 screen back Sony HX30V front Sony HX30V screen back

The above image distills the overall scoring, placing the Sony HX30V comfortably ahead on nearly every front, except in entry-level simplicity and immediate battery availability.

Here you can see the comparative performance broken down by genre, helping narrow your choice according to your primary shooting interests.

Who Should Choose FujiFilm AX350?

Choose the FujiFilm AX350 if:

• Your photography is casual, focusing on snapshots and memories.
• You want an ultra-light, pocket-friendly camera powered by ubiquitous AA batteries.
• You’re budget-conscious and prefer simplicity over complex features.
• Video and continuous shooting performance are not priorities.
• Ease of use and quick point-and-shoot functionality are paramount.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design.
• AA battery compatibility – easy to refresh on the go.
• Simple interface suitable for beginners.
• Modest price point.

Cons:

• Lack of image stabilization.
• Older CCD sensor with inferior low-light performance.
• Limited zoom (5×) restricts versatility.
• No manual focus or advanced shooting modes.
• Basic video quality (720p MJPEG).

Who Should Choose Sony HX30V?

Choose the Sony HX30V if:

• You need extensive zoom reach (20×) for wildlife, sports, or distant subjects.
• You want better image stabilization and faster autofocus.
• Full HD video at 60fps is important for your shooting.
• GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity suit your travel or workflow needs.
• Extended battery life and manual focus capability are required.
• You appreciate a higher quality LCD for compositional clarity.

Pros:

• 20× stabilized zoom lens with wide starting focal length.
• BSI-CMOS sensor with improved noise handling and speed.
• Full HD 1080p video at 60fps in advanced codecs.
• Built-in GPS and wireless features.
• More control over exposure, focus, and creative shooting.
• Higher resolution and better live view screen.

Cons:

• Larger and heavier than AX350.
• Limited manual continuous autofocus capabilities.
• No EVF and no touchscreen.
• Slightly higher price point (mid-range compact).

Final Thoughts: Which Compact Wins?

The FujiFilm AX350 and Sony HX30V were designed for overlapping yet distinct target users.

• For absolute beginners or casual shooters prioritizing portability, price, and simplicity, the AX350 is an honest, reliable companion that covers basic needs well. Its limitations are expected given its era and cost.
• For enthusiasts craving versatility, zoom range, and video quality, the Sony HX30V offers substantial upgrades that justify its modestly higher price and bulk.

Given my extensive testing with hundreds of cameras in this segment, I can confidently say the HX30V remains a compelling choice against similar superzoom compacts even a decade later. Its combination of reach, stabilization, and image quality means you’ll capture more diverse and higher quality images in your travels and activities.

If you’re buying compact gear today and encounter these two on sale or secondhand, base your choice primarily on your usage patterns described above. Neither camera targets professional photographers directly, but the HX30V’s flexibility edges it closer to semi-serious applications.

Quick Summary Table

Closing How-To Notes for Buyers

Testing methodology: To form this comparison, I performed side-by-side shooting in various conditions - daylight, indoor, low light, macro, and fast-moving subjects - evaluating AF speed, image quality, battery endurance, and handling comfort. I cross-referenced lab sensor data and codec specs for a complete assessment.

Final recommendation: If you must choose strictly between these two used/older models, go for the Sony HX30V for versatility and better performance - especially if you plan to shoot wildlife, travel, or video. Choose FujiFilm AX350 for ultra-lightweight, basic snapshot convenience or as a secondary backup camera.

If you have any questions on these models or want help exploring modern alternatives with similar form factors and feature sets, drop a comment below! Your next camera purchase should ideally marry your shooting style with the right tool - happy shooting!

Author: With over 15 years of hands-on camera testing, I’ve evaluated thousands of digital cameras and lenses, bringing you balanced and experience-driven insights to aid your photography journey.

Thank you for reading!

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