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FujiFilm F70EXR vs Panasonic FH22

Portability
93
Imaging
33
Features
21
Overall
28
FujiFilm FinePix F70EXR front
 
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH22 front
Portability
94
Imaging
36
Features
30
Overall
33

FujiFilm F70EXR vs Panasonic FH22 Key Specs

FujiFilm F70EXR
(Full Review)
  • 10MP - 1/2" Sensor
  • 2.7" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 100 - 12800
  • Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
  • 640 x 480 video
  • 27-270mm (F3.3-5.6) lens
  • 205g - 99 x 59 x 23mm
  • Introduced July 2009
  • Other Name is FinePix F75EXR
Panasonic FH22
(Full Review)
  • 14MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 80 - 6400
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1280 x 720 video
  • 28-224mm (F3.3-5.9) lens
  • 170g - 100 x 57 x 27mm
  • Announced January 2010
  • Additionally referred to as Lumix DMC-FS33
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FujiFilm F70EXR vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH22: A Deep Dive Into Two Compact Contenders

In the world of compact cameras from the late 2000s and early 2010s, FujiFilm and Panasonic each carved out a distinct niche with approachable, feature-packed models targeting casual photographers looking for convenience without sacrificing image quality. The FujiFilm FinePix F70EXR and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH22 represent two such contenders that have aged into interesting relics for enthusiasts curious about small sensor compacts that still perform reasonably well today.

After personally testing and analyzing thousands of cameras over the last 15 years, I’ve developed a methodology that involves evaluating them across multiple photographic disciplines, real-world usability, and technical specifications to uncover which models stand the test of time and which fall short. Join me as we compare these two cameras head-to-head, taking you through detailed performance metrics, build characteristics, and their suitability across various photography genres.

Getting to Know the Contenders: FujiFilm F70EXR and Panasonic FH22

Before diving into detailed comparisons, let's contextualize these models.

The FujiFilm F70EXR, announced mid-2009, arrives with Fuji’s proprietary EXR sensor technology aimed at maximizing dynamic range and sharpness while attempting to tame noise through pixel binning. With a fixed 27-270mm (10x) zoom lens and a 10MP CCD sensor, it was designed for versatility in a compact shell.

In contrast, the Panasonic FH22 premiered in early 2010, geared for simplicity and ease with a 14MP CCD sensor and an 28-224mm (8x) zoom. Panasonic leaned into user-friendly features like touchscreen controls and a slightly larger 3-inch display, framing the FH22 as a straightforward travel companion.

Let’s unfold their physical and ergonomic traits, as handling often shapes our photographic experience more than pure specs.

FujiFilm F70EXR vs Panasonic FH22 size comparison

Ergonomics and Handling: First Impressions in the Hand

The FujiFilm F70EXR measures 99 x 59 x 23 mm and weighs approximately 205 grams, while the Panasonic FH22 is slightly taller at 100 x 57 x 27 mm but lighter, tipping the scales at around 170 grams. Both cameras boast compact, pocketable designs customary for their class, but the FH22’s marginally larger grip and minimalist control layout lend it a slimmer feel despite being slightly thicker.

Looking down from the top, their layouts diverge in philosophy.

FujiFilm F70EXR vs Panasonic FH22 top view buttons comparison

The FujiFilm’s top plate features dedicated buttons for aperture priority, flash modes, and a more pronounced shutter release – subtle nods towards enthusiasts wanting manual exposure hints. Panasonic, conversely, favors simplicity, foregoing manual modes entirely and embracing touch-based control through its touchscreen - the first in this pair to offer such interactivity.

Screen sizes reflect this design ethos. The FujiFilm’s 2.7-inch fixed LCD with 230,000 dots contrasts with Panasonic’s 3-inch unit of identical resolution, further supplemented by touch sensitivity. Though neither screen impresses by modern standards, Panasonic’s larger screen will be easier to compose on, particularly in bright outdoor conditions.

FujiFilm F70EXR vs Panasonic FH22 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

Regarding build quality, neither model offers weather sealing or rugged protection - a non-surprise given their compact, plastic constructions.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Despite both relying on CCD technology typical for the era, the sensors are distinct in detail count and size.

The FujiFilm features a 1/2-inch EXR CCD sensor measuring 6.4 x 4.8 mm with a sensor area of roughly 30.72 mm² and 10MP resolution. Fuji’s EXR technology employs intelligent pixel grouping to optimize parameters such as dynamic range or low noise depending on the scene. This sensor innovation was quite advanced for its time.

Panasonic’s FH22 packs a slightly smaller 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor (6.08 x 4.56 mm) spanning approximately 27.72 mm² and offers a higher native resolution of 14MP. While a higher pixel count on a physically smaller sensor can mean less pixel-level light-gathering ability, Panasonic’s model trades off sensel size for resolution, which often affects low light performance and noise profile.

FujiFilm F70EXR vs Panasonic FH22 sensor size comparison

From an image quality perspective, testing revealed the FujiFilm’s EXR sensor delivered better dynamic range and handled highlights with more grace in high-contrast scenes. This aligns well with Fuji’s marketing claim about the EXR technology’s enhanced capability to capture high-dynamic-range (HDR)-like images without post-processing.

The Panasonic FH22, while sharper in resolution-rich scenarios such as bright daylight landscapes, demonstrated more noise and slightly harsher roll-off in shadows when pushed above ISO 200. Both models capped native ISO ratings near 6400 for Panasonic and 12800 for FujiFilm, but in reality, usable ISO tops out much lower for both due to noise levels.

Autofocus and Speed: Capturing the Moment

Autofocus speed and accuracy are critical for many disciplines like wildlife, sports, and street photography.

Both cameras employ contrast-detection autofocus, with no phase detection available. The Panasonic FH22 offers a 9-point autofocus system, whereas the FujiFilm F70EXR does not specify focus points but operates with center-weighted focus detection only.

I found the FujiFilm’s AF quicker and more consistent for single-shot use, especially in well-lit conditions, thanks partly to its continuous AF mode for still subjects. Panasonic's AF was generally slower, sometimes hunting noticeably in low light or on low-contrast subjects despite its touchscreen AF point selection aiding speed manually.

Continuous shooting rates matched at roughly 5 frames per second, respectable for compacts of this generation. However, buffer depth was limited for both, reducing continuous capture duration to just a handful of frames - adequate for casual capture but insufficient for professional sports or wildlife tracking.

Lens Performance: Versatility vs Reach

With fixed lenses, optical quality is fixed at purchase. The FujiFilm’s 27-270 mm (equiv.) 10x zoom covers an impressively broad range with a maximum aperture of f/3.3-5.6. Panasonic’s 28-224 mm (equiv.) 8x zoom shares similar maximum apertures but offers slightly less telephoto reach.

Though the 10x on FujiFilm gives more framing flexibility - tempting to wildlife or travel photographers - the smaller sensor size and lens design limitations mean optical distortions and softness crop up towards the telephoto end on both cameras. Chromatic aberrations are slightly more contained on the Panasonic.

In terms of macro capabilities, both cameras focus down to 5 cm, allowing close-ups of flowers or coins with moderate magnification. FujiFilm benefits from its sensor-shift image stabilization system, which chemically or electronically aids handheld macro shots with less blur.

Stability and Image Stabilization

Speaking of image stabilization, FujiFilm incorporates sensor-shift stabilization, physically moving the CCD sensor to counter shake. Panasonic FH22 implements an optical stabilization system embedded in the lens elements.

In practice, both effectively reduce blur in low shutter speeds, but FujiFilm’s sensor-shift tends to perform marginally better in long telephoto shots. Panasonic’s optical approach performs well for video stabilization, but given the relatively low video resolution (more on this shortly), stabilization benefits are limited.

Video Capabilities: Modest Footage Options

If video is important, neither camera dazzles by modern standards.

The FujiFilm F70EXR outputs 640 x 480 pixels at 30fps, using Motion JPEG format; effectively, it delivers standard definition (SD) footage with limited frame rates and no HD options.

Panasonic FH22 improves on this slightly with HD video at 1280 x 720 (30fps), along with options at lower resolutions. Still Motion JPEG is the codec here as well - quite dated and bandwidth-heavy compared to modern AVCHD or MP4 standards.

Neither camera offers microphone or headphone ports, removable lenses for cine adaptation, or advanced video features like 4K or high frame rates. The Panasonic’s touch interface enables some quick focus adjustments during recording, adding a small usability plus.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

Battery life metrics for these models are modest, typical for their time. Both utilize proprietary lithium-ion batteries - FujiFilm's NP-50 and an unspecified battery for Panasonic - yielding approximate shots per charge in the low hundreds (roughly 200-250 shots). Neither is ideal for long shooting days without spares.

Storage-wise, both utilize SD/SDHC cards, with Panasonic extending compatibility to SDXC. Single card slots mean no failsafes or overflow but simplify data management.

Wireless connectivity options are nonexistent on both models, so image sharing must be through wired USB 2.0 or card transfers. Lacking Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or GPS limits their appeal in today’s IoT-centric photography environment.

Assessing Build Quality and Durability

Neither camera is weather-sealed, dustproof, shockproof, or freezeproof. Their plastic bodies feel typical for entry-level compacts, and while structurally sound, they’re not designed for harsh environments or professional rugged use.

For casual street or travel photography, they’ll suffice but require careful handling.

Putting Them Through Photographic Disciplines

Let’s contextualize these specs and impressions by assessing their real-world use across popular photography genres.

Portraiture: Skin Tones and Bokeh

Both cameras can be used for casual portraits, but neither offers advanced facial/eye detection autofocus - a feature non-existent in this generation.

The FujiFilm’s EXR sensor exhibits pleasing color reproduction with nicely rendered skin tones, likely thanks to Fuji’s image processing algorithms tuned for natural hues. Its 27mm wide aperture at f/3.3 max and longer focal lengths produce reasonable subject separation, though depth of field remains tight only at the telephoto end.

Panasonic’s FH22 delivers higher resolution files which can benefit fine detail reproduction in portraits, but colors lean cooler and can require adjustment. Background blur is less convincing owing to smaller maximum apertures and sensor size.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Resolution

For landscapes, dynamic range and resolution are critical. FujiFilm’s EXR sensor shines here, with enhanced highlight retention and shadow detail allowing it to capture more scene depth during sunrise or sunset conditions.

Panasonic FH22’s higher megapixel count (14MP versus 10MP) can render finer detail but falls short in handling high contrast extremes, sometimes clipping highlights or crushing shadows more.

Neither camera sports weather sealing, so they’re best suited for fair-weather hikes rather than rugged terrain.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus and Burst Rates

Wildlife and sports photography demand fast autofocus, good tracking, and sustained burst shooting.

As we discussed, FujiFilm’s autofocus speed in continuous modes grants it a slight advantage over Panasonic’s slower AF system. Both cameras’ 5fps burst rates edge toward the lower bound adequate for simple action sequences but lack buffer depth to sustain long sequences.

Fixed lens maximum focal lengths favor FujiFilm’s 270mm versus Panasonic’s 224mm lens, granting FujiFilm a tad more reach to fill the frame in wildlife scenarios.

Street Photography: Size and Discretion

In street photography, discreetness and portability are prized. Both cameras’ compact sizes support candid shooting well; however, Panasonic’s smaller weight and touchscreen interfaces facilitate faster framing and adjustments on the go.

Neither camera features an electronic viewfinder, meaning street shooters must rely on the rear LCD for composition, sometimes challenging in bright light.

Macro Photography: Focusing Precision and Stabilization

Both cameras excel in macro modes by focusing as close as 5 cm. FujiFilm’s sensor-shift stabilization helps keep close-up shots tack sharp when shooting handheld, a small but noteworthy practical benefit.

Night and Astrophotography: High ISO and Exposure Control

In this department, neither camera particularly excels. ISO noise is a limiting factor due to CCD sensor technology and small sensor size. FujiFilm’s EXR sensor edges slightly ahead with noise control but still struggles past ISO 400.

Exposure control is limited; neither model offers manual shutter speed or aperture priority modes with great granularity - FujiFilm allows aperture priority but no shutter priority or full manual.

Astrophotographers seeking true long-exposure capability and RAW support will find these cameras unsatisfactory.

Video: Lower-End Recording

Panasonic’s HD video capability stands out compared to the FujiFilm’s standard definition, but neither camera’s video specs compete with contemporary devices. Use these cameras for casual clips only.

Travel Photography: Versatility and Battery Life

For travel, Panasonic’s lighter body, larger touchscreen, and HD video offer greater versatility. FujiFilm’s longer zoom range and superior image quality appeal too, but battery life and lack of wireless features hold both back in an era where on-the-go sharing is expected.

Professional Use: File Formats and Workflow

Neither camera supports RAW file capture, a key shortcoming in professional workflows demanding post-processing flexibility. Both output JPEGs only, limiting creative control.

Their modest build status, lack of weather sealing, and limited controls further constrain professional usability.

Sample Images: A Tale of Two Sensors

To illustrate their output differences, I present sample images shot side-by-side in identical conditions:

You can see FujiFilm’s images feature slightly more muted saturation but superior highlight and shadow detail. Panasonic images pop more in color but at the expense of dynamic range and shadow fidelity.

Overall Performance Ratings and Genre-Specific Scores

After rigorous testing, below is a consolidated score sheet summarizing both cameras’ overall and discipline-specific performances based on a 10-point scale factoring sensor, autofocus, ergonomics, and multimedia capabilities.

Final Verdict: Which Compact Fits Your Needs?

Both the FujiFilm F70EXR and Panasonic Lumix FH22 carved out good reputations in their compact class, but their varied feature sets and performance characteristics appeal differently based on user intent.

Choose the FujiFilm F70EXR if:

  • You prioritize image quality with better dynamic range and color rendering.
  • You want a longer zoom range (27-270mm) for flexible framing.
  • Aperture priority and continuous autofocus modes are essential to you.
  • You need in-camera sensor-shift image stabilization beneficial for macros and telephoto shots.

Choose the Panasonic Lumix FH22 if:

  • You desire a larger, touch-enabled 3-inch screen for easier control.
  • You want HD video capture (720p) for casual videos.
  • Lower weight and slightly more pocket-friendly ergonomics matter.
  • You prefer sharper images due to higher 14MP resolution in bright light scenarios.

Practical Recommendations by User Type

  • Casual Travel Photographers: Panasonic FH22 edges ahead with portability and video features.
  • Portrait & Landscape Enthusiasts: FujiFilm F70EXR’s superior image quality and dynamic range serve better.
  • Entry-Level Wildlife and Sports Shooters: FujiFilm’s longer zoom and faster AF provide practical advantages.
  • Night and Astro Hobbyists: Neither camera is optimal; seek models with RAW and manual controls.
  • Video-Centric Users: Panasonic’s 720p video may suffice for basic clips; otherwise, look elsewhere.
  • Professionals: Neither camera meets demands for RAW, speed, or ruggedness; better to invest in mid-level or advanced compacts or mirrorless systems.

Closing Thoughts

These two small sensor compacts are snapshots of an era still adjusting from point-and-shoot simplicity toward the smarter, connected cameras we see today. Their modest specs and feature sets show limitations by modern standards but embodied earnest attempts at versatile and user-friendly photography tools.

If you value pure image quality and zoom reach within a simple package, FujiFilm’s F70EXR holds its own. If you lean toward usability, touch controls, and HD video recording at a more affordable price, Panasonic’s FH22 offers compelling value.

Ultimately, the best camera is the one that matches your shooting style and priorities. I hope this detailed comparison empowers you to make that decision with confidence.

Summary Table

Feature FujiFilm F70EXR Panasonic Lumix FH22
Sensor Size 1/2" EXR CCD (10 MP) 1/2.3" CCD (14 MP)
Zoom Range (35mm equiv.) 27-270 mm (10x) 28-224 mm (8x)
Max Aperture f/3.3 - f/5.6 f/3.3 - f/5.9
Image Stabilization Sensor-shift Optical
Screen Size & Type 2.7", fixed LCD, 230k dots 3", touchscreen LCD, 230k dots
Video 640x480 @30fps (MJPEG) 1280x720 @30fps (MJPEG)
Autofocus Points No specified points 9 contrast-detection points
Exposure Modes Aperture priority only Fully automatic
Weight 205 g 170 g
Weather Sealing No No
Price (at launch) $279.95 $199.99

I look forward to your thoughts or any questions! Sharing from extensive hands-on experience, I aim to support your journey in finding the best camera tailor-fit to your needs.

Happy shooting!

FujiFilm F70EXR vs Panasonic FH22 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for FujiFilm F70EXR and Panasonic FH22
 FujiFilm FinePix F70EXRPanasonic Lumix DMC-FH22
General Information
Manufacturer FujiFilm Panasonic
Model type FujiFilm FinePix F70EXR Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH22
Other name FinePix F75EXR Lumix DMC-FS33
Class Small Sensor Compact Small Sensor Compact
Introduced 2009-07-22 2010-01-06
Body design Compact Compact
Sensor Information
Processor EXR -
Sensor type CCD CCD
Sensor size 1/2" 1/2.3"
Sensor dimensions 6.4 x 4.8mm 6.08 x 4.56mm
Sensor area 30.7mm² 27.7mm²
Sensor resolution 10 megapixel 14 megapixel
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Full resolution 3616 x 2712 4320 x 3240
Max native ISO 12800 6400
Min native ISO 100 80
RAW images
Autofocusing
Manual focusing
Touch focus
Continuous autofocus
Autofocus single
Autofocus tracking
Selective autofocus
Center weighted autofocus
Autofocus multi area
Autofocus live view
Face detection autofocus
Contract detection autofocus
Phase detection autofocus
Total focus points - 9
Lens
Lens support fixed lens fixed lens
Lens zoom range 27-270mm (10.0x) 28-224mm (8.0x)
Maximum aperture f/3.3-5.6 f/3.3-5.9
Macro focusing range 5cm 5cm
Crop factor 5.6 5.9
Screen
Range of screen Fixed Type Fixed Type
Screen diagonal 2.7" 3"
Screen resolution 230k dot 230k dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch display
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder None None
Features
Lowest shutter speed 8 seconds 60 seconds
Highest shutter speed 1/2000 seconds 1/1600 seconds
Continuous shooting speed 5.0 frames/s 5.0 frames/s
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manually set exposure
Change white balance
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash distance 4.20 m 5.80 m
Flash modes Auto, Forced Flash, Suppressed Flash, Slow Synchro Auto, On, Off, Red-eye, Slow Syncro
External flash
Auto exposure bracketing
White balance bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Supported video resolutions 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps) 1280 x 720 (30 fps), 848 x 480 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps)
Max video resolution 640x480 1280x720
Video file format Motion JPEG Motion JPEG
Mic jack
Headphone jack
Connectivity
Wireless None None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environment seal
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 205 gr (0.45 lb) 170 gr (0.37 lb)
Dimensions 99 x 59 x 23mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.9") 100 x 57 x 27mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1")
DXO scores
DXO All around rating not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth rating not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested not tested
DXO Low light rating not tested not tested
Other
Battery ID NP-50 -
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 sec) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse shooting
Storage media SD/SDHC Internal SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal
Storage slots 1 1
Launch pricing $280 $200