Compact Superzoom Showdown: FujiFilm F300EXR vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40

In the evolving landscape of compact superzoom cameras, two contenders from different eras present an intriguing comparison: the FujiFilm FinePix F300EXR (2010) and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40 (2014). Both cameras aim to offer photographers substantial focal length reach in pocketable bodies, but do they deliver equally in real-world use? Having put hundreds of cameras through rigorous hands-on testing, I’m excited to unpack how these two fare across key photography disciplines, technological features, and usability dimensions.

Whether you’re an enthusiast craving zoom versatility without hauling bulky gear, or a professional eyeing a reliable travel companion with striking focal options, this comparison will dig into the nitty-gritty to inform your next purchase decision. Let’s dive in.

When Size Matters: Body and Handling Dynamics

First impressions count - after all, a camera you don’t want to hold won’t be out shooting very often. These two superzooms come from radically different design philosophies, and their ergonomics reflect that.

The FujiFilm F300EXR is a compact pocket-friendly powerhouse, measuring just 104 × 59 × 33 mm and weighing a featherlight 215g. Its petite frame and simple lines make it effortlessly portable - the kind of camera you can slip into a jacket pocket during urban street shoots or hikes.

In contrast, the Panasonic LZ40 opts for a “bridge” or SLR-like body style, significantly chunkier at 126 × 87 × 94 mm and 524g, more than double the Fuji’s weight. This more substantial heft offers a firmer grip and a more DSLR-ish tactile presence, but at the cost of bulkier carry and less stealth.

Looking from above, the F300EXR’s top panel is minimalist, emphasizing ease of use (more on that shortly), while the LZ40 boasts more pronounced mode dials and a grip that suggests better handling for extended shooting sessions.

From my time with both, the Fuji’s small form factor earns big points in travel and street contexts - it’s barely noticeable yet versatile. The Panasonic feels like a serious tool, better suited when you want that extra focal range with a comfortable grip, or when hand fatigue during zooming matters.

Peering Inside: Sensors and Image Quality Potential

Spec sheets rarely tell the whole story but offer useful context before real-world testing.

The FujiFilm F300EXR features a 1/2" CCD sensor with a modest 12MP resolution (4000 × 3000 max). Its sensor area is around 30.7 mm², slightly larger than the Panasonic’s, and uses Fuji's EXR processing engine designed to balance noise reduction and dynamic range. However, CCD technology by 2010 was already showing its age compared to newer CMOS sensors.

On the other hand, the Panasonic LZ40 sports a 1/2.3" CCD sensor with an impressive 20MP resolution (5152 × 3864 max) and a sensor area of about 28.1 mm². Despite a slightly smaller sensor, the LZ40 captures more detail via higher pixel density - at the risk of noisier images in low light.

In practical shooting, the Fuji’s EXR processor helps squeeze respectable dynamic range, especially in high-contrast scenes such as landscapes. The Panasonic’s higher resolution benefits cropping and large prints but demands good light to maintain image clarity.

Personally, I find the Fuji’s sensor and processor combo better at balancing noise and detail in standard daylight and unequally lit interiors, while the Panasonic delivers on punchy resolution but requires care where ISO hikes occur.

Screen Time: Viewing and Navigation Experience

Both cameras sport 3-inch fixed LCD displays at a 460K-dot resolution - standard fare for their class and eras. The Fuji’s screen is a plain fixed type with no touchscreen, same as Panasonic’s TFT LCD.

Despite similar specs, the LZ40’s interface is more SLR-inspired, giving photographers more control options accessible through dedicated buttons and dial manipulations. The F300EXR leans toward simplicity: its menus and controls are straightforward, perfect for casual photographers not interested in fiddly options.

However, neither camera offers an electronic viewfinder, a notable omission in challenging bright conditions. Both require decent live-view visibility or external sun shades for critical composition, especially given their small sensor sizes limiting depth of field control.

Working with both, I found the Panasonic’s layout supportive for learned adjustments, whereas Fuji prioritized quick point-and-shoot convenience. Your preference here depends on how involved you want to get in exposure tweaking on the spot.

Zooming Stars: Lens Reach, Aperture, and Macro Talents

When shopping a superzoom, zoom range and optical performance can make or break the deal.

The FujiFilm F300EXR delivers a 15× zoom with focal lengths spanning 24-360 mm (35mm equivalent), with a bright-ish aperture ranging from F3.5 at wide angle to F5.3 telephoto. Its macro mode starts focusing from 5 cm, allowing reasonable close-up shots.

Meanwhile, the Panasonic LZ40 goes for sheer reach with a whopping 42× zoom ranged from 22-924 mm, albeit with a slower lens starting at F3.0 wide open and ending at F6.5 telephoto. Its macro capability impresses with a 1 cm minimum focusing distance.

This significant jump in max telephoto (924mm vs. 360mm) makes the Panasonic a go-to for wildlife or distant subjects, where capturing a fast-moving bird or sports action benefits from extra reach. Conversely, Fuji’s wider max aperture across most zoom lengths aids better low-light performance and depth of field control, valuable for portraits and artistic blurring.

During field tests, the Fuji’s macro focus distance felt more forgiving for semi-close range object details, though Panasonic’s 1cm macro extremely shines for insect and fine-texture photography - provided you have patience for the narrower depth of field.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Now, the nuts and bolts of photography: can these cameras hit focus reliably, quickly, and track moving subjects effectively?

The Fuji F300EXR provides contrast-detection autofocus, but only single AF, no continuous tracking, face detection, or multi-area selection. Autofocus points are unspecified or minimal, which limits flexibility. The continuous shooting cap is a modest 2fps, suitable for casual bursts but not for serious sport or wildlife.

The Panasonic LZ40, while also using contrast detection AF, offers nine autofocus points with center-weighted emphasis, plus face detection and continuous AF tracking for moving subjects. However, its burst speed is limited to 1fps, which feels sluggish for fast action despite AF tracking.

In my tests, the Fuji struggled with focus hunting in low light or complex scenes due to limited AF options, but it did lock quickly enough on static subjects. The Panasonic’s AF is more versatile, adjusting and tracking faces and moving objects better, albeit with slower shooting rates.

Neither camera excels in rapid continuous shooting; these models emphasize zoom range over sport-centric speed. For serious wildlife or sports shooters, DSLR or mirrorless options remain superior for autofocus and burst rates.

Portraits and Bokeh: Skin Tone Rendering and Depth of Field

Given their small sensors and fixed superzoom lenses, neither camera can replicate the creamy bokeh or exquisite skin tones of larger sensor cameras, but subtle differences deserve mention.

Freed from RAW files, both cameras deliver JPEG output tuned for pleasing color. The FujiFilm’s EXR processor brings slightly warmer, natural skin tones, aided by its wider lens aperture on shorter focal lengths. Its built-in sensor-shift image stabilization further helps in low-light portraiture, minimizing hand shake.

The Panasonic LZ40 produces somewhat cooler and more clinical skin rendering with less creamy background blur - no surprise given the smaller aperture at longer zooms and higher pixel density limiting smooth out-of-focus transitions.

Ultimately, Fuji’s combination offers a touch more natural and flattering portrait results for casual eyes, whereas Panasonic’s strength is more on detailed, tack-sharp results at longer focal lengths than aesthetic blur.

Landscapes: Detail, Dynamic Range, and Build Robustness

Landscape photographers want sharpness, wide dynamic range, and durable build for outdoor conditions. How do these two compare?

The F300EXR, despite its age, uses Fuji’s EXR sensor design to expand dynamic range in challenging lighting. Its 12MP resolution is adequate for 8x12 prints and online sharing, capturing wide vistas with good tonal gradation. The compact body, however, lacks any weather sealing or environmental protections.

The LZ40 surprises with a very high 20MP resolution, rendering more fine detail and cropping headroom for landscapes. However, its sensor struggles more with noise at higher ISOs and dynamic range is more limited. The bridge-style build, while bigger, also offers no weather sealing.

Both cameras rely on sensor-shift (F300EXR) or optical (LZ40) stabilization to improve hand-held landscape shots, though tripod use remains advisable for best results.

Wildlife and Sports: Zoom, AF, and Speeds in Action

Here the Panasonic’s jaw-dropping 42× zoom and AF tracking show their value versus Fuji’s 15× zoom and basic AF.

In testing with moving wildlife subjects, the LZ40’s autofocus proved more adept at locking subjects mid-zoom and maintaining focus with continuous tracking. The extended telephoto reach allowed capturing distant birds and mammals that the Fuji simply could not frame tightly.

However, both cameras are hampered by slow burst speeds (1fps vs 2fps) and limited buffer depths that constrain their suitability for fast-paced sports. Expect missed shots with rapid sequences.

Neither camera features phase-detection AF or advanced autofocus algorithms common in modern interchangeable-lens systems, so serious sports shooters should temper expectations.

Street and Travel Photography: Discretion, Portability, and Battery

Portability is a key factor for daily walkers and travelers.

The Fuji F300EXR’s compact size (104 × 59 × 33mm, 215g) makes it near invisible - perfect for candid street shots without scaring subjects away. However, its limited battery life and absence of wireless connectivity can be taxing on extended multi-day trips.

The Panasonic LZ40 is much larger and heavier (524g) but benefits from a longer rated battery life of 320 shots, plus a more comfortable grip for long durations. Unfortunately, it offers no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for quick sharing.

For globe-trotting photographers seeking weightless gear, Fuji wins hands-down. For those prioritizing zoom versatility and battery endurance in one package, Panasonic fits better - with caveats about the bulk.

Macro and Close-Up: Focusing Distance and Stabilization

Macro enthusiasts should note significant differences: Fuji’s minimum macro distance of 5cm allows decent close-ups, but Panasonic’s 1cm minimum focusing distance is phenomenal for intricate details like flower petals or insects.

Both cameras offer image stabilization - Fuji with sensor-shift, Panasonic optically - that ease handheld macro shooting. However, precise focusing at extremely close distances remains challenging via LCD live view only, requiring patience.

From my practical experience, the Panasonic’s macro prowess provides unique creative opportunities rare among superzooms, though with a learning curve to get sharpness right.

Night and Astro Photography: High ISO and Exposure Modes

Neither camera is designed for serious night or astrophotography, but some points are worth highlighting.

Fuji’s EXR sensor gave it edge over contemporaries for low-light dynamic range at lower ISOs. Max ISO of 3200 (boost up to 12800) provides some flexibility, though image noise is obvious beyond 800 ISO.

Panasonic’s max ISO is 1600 (boost 6400), with overall more pronounced noise. Both cameras lack bulb or long-exposure modes needed for star trails or deep sky shots.

Built-in stabilization helps handheld night shots, but small sensors limit image quality severely in darkness. Serious night shooters should look elsewhere.

Video Features: Resolution, Stabilization, and Audio Inputs

Video remains basic on both models: maximum 1280×720 HD recording at 24/30fps using Motion JPEG codec.

Fuji includes HDMI output (advantageous for external monitors); Panasonic lacks it. Panasonic offers a microphone input jack; Fuji does not, making Panasonic the better choice for casual videography with external audio mic support.

Neither supports 4K or advanced codecs, and neither offers in-camera electronic stabilization beyond optical/sensor-shift image stabilization. Video enthusiasts will find these limiting, but for casual family or travel clips, either suffices.

Professional Considerations: Workflow, Reliability, and Ecosystem

For professionals, small sensor superzooms are usually backups or situational tools, not primary shooters.

Neither camera shoots RAW, which is a significant limitation. File format flexibility and post-processing latitude are limited to JPEG outputs.

Neither offers weather sealing, extensive build toughness, or ruggedness expected in pro environments.

The Panasonic’s higher megapixel count might intrigue professionals for documentation work where reach and detail outweigh image quality tradeoffs.

Neither brand’s lens ecosystem applies here due to fixed lenses, so no upgrades or lens swaps.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery - The Practical Stuff

Both cameras store images on SD/SDHC cards with a single slot; the Panasonic also supports SDXC, enabling use of larger memory cards.

Neither model offers wireless connectivity like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth - a notable omission in today’s standards but common in cameras of their era.

Battery life details are sketchy for Fuji but Panasonic rates ~320 shots per charge, which is average for bridge cameras.

Value and Pricing: What Does Your Budget Buy?

At launch, the FujiMuseum F300EXR priced around $280, while the Panasonic LZ40 came in closer to $220.

Though the Panasonic offers a much longer zoom and higher resolution sensor for less money, its bulk, slower burst, and narrower aperture values balance the equation.

Photographers prioritizing portability, dependable performance, and better low light rendering may prefer the Fuji, despite the higher price and older tech.

Those chasing ultimate zoom reach on a limited budget, with a forgiving approach to size and somewhat slower responsiveness, might find the Panasonic better suited.

Final Performance Scores and Genre-Specific Strengths

Summarizing through a scoring lens confirms nuanced strengths.

And when dissected by photographic genre:

• Portraiture: Fuji excels in skin tones and bokeh, thanks to wider aperture and EXR processing.
• Landscape: Fuji’s dynamic range retains highlight and shadow detail more gently.
• Wildlife: Panasonic’s enormous 42× zoom and AF tracking dominate.
• Sports: Limited in both, but Panasonic’s AF tracking aids subject lock.
• Street: Fuji’s small size and discretion shine.
• Macro: Panasonic’s 1cm focus distance is a clear winner.
• Night/Astro: Neither ideal; Fuji better at moderate ISO.
• Video: Panasonic edges with mic input.
• Travel: Fuji’s size and weight make it far preferable.
• Professional Use: Neither fits pro demands fully; Panasonic’s resolution helps documentation needs better.

Bottom Line: Who Should Buy the FujiFilm F300EXR or Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40?

Both cameras are relics of a fascinating period when compact superzooms sought to blend pocketability with extraordinary reach. Despite some similarities, their distinct designs and features carve unique roles.

• Choose the FujiFilm F300EXR if you crave:

  • A genuinely pocketable everyday camera
  • Better low-light handling and natural JPEG colors
  • Simplicity without over-complicated menus
  • A “shoot and forget” companion for travel and street photography

• Choose the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40 if you prioritize:

  • Ultimate telephoto reach up to 924mm
  • Higher resolution shots for large printing or cropping
  • Enhanced autofocus capabilities like face detection and tracking
  • A more substantial grip and longer battery for daylong outdoor sessions
  • Some basic video recording with external microphone options

Neither model will satisfy the insatiable demands of professional photographers seeking RAW files, weather sealing, or ultra-fast burst speeds. For such users, modern mirrorless and DSLR cameras with matched superzoom lenses are better bets. But if you want to explore high-zoom photography on a budget, these two offer compelling, albeit different, experiences.

In closing, from the compact elegance of the FujiFilm F300EXR to the formidable zoom and AF options of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40, your choice rides on what photography adventures call you most. Both have their quirks and charms - and as ever, the best camera is the one you enjoy carrying and using.

Happy shooting!

FujiFilm F300EXR front FujiFilm F300EXR screen back Panasonic LZ40 front Panasonic LZ40 screen back