FujiFilm F80EXR vs. Fujifilm F500 EXR: A Hands-On Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

Choosing the right compact camera can be a head-scratcher, particularly when two models share so much heritage and branding but diverge in features that matter in day-to-day use. Today, I’m putting two close FujiFilm cousins - the FinePix F80EXR and the FinePix F500 EXR - through a practical, in-depth comparison. Both hail from Fuji’s EXR series, known for their sensor technology designed to optimize image quality under different shooting conditions. But beneath these similarities, the cameras have distinct strengths, quirks, and use cases. Having tested both extensively, I’m here to share insights you won’t find just skimming spec sheets.

Let’s break down what each offers, how they stack up on everything from portraiture to video, and who should pick which given their budget, style, and demands.

Handling and First Impressions: Size, Design, and Ergonomics

Starting with the most basic but critical aspect of a camera - how it feels in the hand - the FujiFilm F80EXR and F500 EXR both settle firmly in the compact category but cater slightly to different photographer tastes.

Though the F500 EXR is marginally larger and heavier (104x63x33mm, 215 g vs. 99x59x28mm, 210 g for the F80EXR), this translates to a more substantial grip and an offset "muscle" for your right hand. It’s the kind of subtle improvement that adds confidence when shooting superzoom shots or extended handheld sessions - settings where stability matters. The F80EXR’s more pocketable stature means it’s ideal when portability is king, but sometimes that comes at the cost of as sure a grip, especially if your mitts are on the bigger side.

Moving to control layout - while neither camera offers fully customizable “clubs for thumbs” top LCD clones or illuminated buttons, both sport typical FujiFilm ergonomics, but the F500 EXR boasts a more generous 460k-dot resolution rear LCD compared to the F80’s 230k dots, enhancing clarity and framing precision. I’m particularly fond of the F500’s TFT color LCD monitor, which brings livelier images and smoother liveview AF feedback.

Operationally, the F500 feels a tad more modern in usage, with dual priority exposure modes (shutter and aperture priority), while the F80 lacks shutter priority. Both share manual exposure capability and exposure compensation - a must-have trio for enthusiasts looking to get better with a camera beyond auto mode. From my hands-on shooting, the ergonomics edge narrowly to the F500 EXR, especially for users zooming in frequently or needing to dial in exposure quickly on the fly.

Sensor, Image Quality & ISO Performance: Technology Under the Hood

This comparison boils down heavily to sensor technology and processing. Both cameras feature a 1/2" sensor with dimensions measuring 6.4 by 4.8 mm, roughly 30.7 square millimeters - small by APS-C or full-frame standards, but common for superzoom compacts in this price and era.

The F80EXR uses a 12-megapixel CCD sensor, whereas the F500 EXR upgrades to a 16-megapixel EXR CMOS sensor, a shift that contributes to several practical improvements:

• Resolution and Detail: The F500 tops out at 4608x3456 resolution vs. the F80’s 4000x3000 pixels. Having tested prints and crops side by side, the resolution extension improves image detail in good light, especially noticeable in landscapes or macro images.

• ISO Range and Low Light: The F80 maxes out comfortably at ISO 1600 native (boost to 12800 software-extended), but noise levels become unpleasant above ISO 800, unsurprisingly given CCD architecture. The F500’s EXR CMOS sensor is capable of ISO 3200 native, and even though extended ISO 12800 is available, it’s more of a last-resort setting. Practically, the F500 cleaner noise profiles at ISO 800-1600 allow for better handheld low-light shots, which I found particularly useful for street or event photography.

• Dynamic Range and Color Depth: While neither camera was DXOmark tested officially, Fuji's EXR series technology was designed to maximize dynamic range via pixel binning or high saturation modes on the CMOS variant. The F500 certainly pulled more shadow details in twilight scenes with less banding, and color rendition reproves crisper, more nuanced out of the box.

For portrait shoots, this matters because skin tones demand subtle gradation and minimal grain to maintain flattering results - which the F500 better sustains without overprocessing. The F80 is not a slouch here but demands meticulous noise reduction in post.

Autofocus Systems, Burst, and Speed: Catching The Moment

Another focal point in my testing was how well each camera can track moving subjects - be it a hyperactive kid, a sports game, or wildlife fluttering about at dawn.

The F80EXR sports a contrast-detection AF system with single-shot only autofocus. This renders it a little sluggish for erratic motion, and you’ll notice a delay and occasional “hunting” when trying to focus quickly in dim light or at long distances.

The F500 EXR, however, improves on this with continuous autofocus (AF-C), tracking autofocus, and multidimensional AF areas. While not phase detection, the tracking AF with contrast detection is reasonably responsive and noticeably smoother. I shot a small indoor basketball game, and the F500 froze moments better, allowing me a higher keeper rate when shooting in continuous mode (albeit at a modest 3 fps compared to the F80’s 4 fps).

This may seem like a downer for the F500 on burst rate, but in practical terms, the ability to blend continuous and tracking AF more than makes up for it - especially if you’re chasing wildlife or sports.

Neither is loud or intrusive when focusing, which helps in quieter scenes like weddings or street photo walks.

Zoom and Lens: Optics That Extend Your Reach

The lenses on these two provide quite different zoom capabilities fundamentally influencing the type of photography you can comfortably explore.

• F80EXR: 27-270 mm equivalent focal length (10x zoom), f/3.3-5.6 max aperture
• F500 EXR: 24-360 mm focal length (15x zoom), f/3.5-5.3 max aperture

FujiFilm F80EXR front FujiFilm F80EXR screen back Fujifilm F500 EXR screen back

The F80 gives a more moderate starting focal length, which is well-suited for portraits and general shooting; however, the F500 delivers significantly more reach with its 360 mm telephoto. This extended zoom is invaluable for wildlife and sports where subjects are often at a distance. From my experience, the 15x zoom also allows for more creative framing without moving your feet - or annoying bystanders.

The trade-off is the slightly narrower aperture at the wide end on the F500, which means you’ll need to compensate with ISO or slower shutter speeds in dim light. Both employ sensor-shift image stabilization, which I found effective in reducing handheld shake, especially at telephoto ranges. The F500’s stabilization felt a touch more robust, likely thanks to firmware improvements a year after the F80 launch.

Display and Viewfinder: Seeing Your Shot Clearly

Neither camera sports an electronic viewfinder (a pity for daylight shooting), but their LCDs differ considerably.

At 3 inches, both screens are the same size, but the F500’s 460 k-dot TFT screen presents brighter, sharper live previews and playback images, which made assessing focus and exposure easier under urban daylight conditions. The F80’s 230 k-dot fixed LCD suffices for casual use but sometimes struggled to communicate fine details like sharpness or noise during playback - something to consider if you rely on the rear screen for reviewing shots on location.

Neither has touchscreen, which is common for models of this vintage and price; however, both offer live view with contrast-detection AF, excellent for composing videos or macro shots where precise framing counts.

Video Performance: From HD to Social Media

Video in both cameras aligns with their vintage but differs somewhat:

• The F80 shoots 720p (1280x720) at 30 fps with Motion JPEG compression. This means files are large, and compression artifacts may show with complex motion.
• The F500 steps up to full HD 1080p at 30 fps with MPEG-4 encoding - a clear advantage for content creators wanting cleaner, more compressed footage ready for editing or rapid sharing.

Neither camera features microphone or headphone jacks, external mic support, or 4K capabilities (unsurprisingly for each model's era), making them less suited for professional video. But they perform adequately for casual clips, travel vlogging in good light, or family footage.

Image stabilization aids video smoothness on both cameras, but the F500’s extended zoom range coupled with steadier stabilization really helps keep handheld video usable at telephoto lengths.

Battery, Storage, and Connectivity: Practical Everyday Considerations

Both models share the same NP-50 battery pack and SD/SDHC card slots, but the F500 additionally supports SDXC, allowing higher capacity cards - great if you prefer bulk shooting or video recording.

Neither includes wireless connectivity such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which isn’t a surprise given their launch dates. However, digital photographers today may find this limiting if instant social sharing or remote control are on the list. You’ll rely on USB 2.0 transfer speeds and HDMI output for offload and external review.

Battery life isn’t officially specified for either but expect moderate endurance typical for compact zoomers of the era - roughly a couple hundred shots per charge under average conditions. Carry spares if you plan extended outings.

Shooting Experience Across Photography Genres

Now, let’s dive into performance by photography types. I’ve tried both cameras in the field and distilled observations reflecting real-world conditions.

Portraits: Skin Tones and Bokeh

• F80EXR: Produces pleasing skin tones under daylight, aided by the classic FujiFilm color science (usually a plus). With an aperture maxing at f/3.3 wide and 27 mm focal length start, background blur is moderate but respectable for casual portraiture.

• F500 EXR: Marginally narrower aperture at f/3.5 but longer zoom allows for tighter framing from farther away, effectively increasing background blur and subject isolation. The improved sensor also smooths skin tone rendition, especially in natural light.

Neither has face or eye detection autofocus - typical for cameras in this segment - so manual care with focus placement is needed for critical portraits.

Landscape: Resolution, Dynamic Range, and Weather Resistance

Both are compact with no weather sealing or ruggedness - so avoid extreme outdoor conditions unless careful with rain and dust.

F500’s superior 16 MP resolution and dynamic range edge gives it a leg up when printing large or cropping landscapes. The F80’s CCD sensor produces decent images but is more prone to highlight clipping and deeper shadows.

Wildlife and Sports: AF Tracking and Burst

As touched on earlier, F500’s continuous and tracking AF plus longer 15x zoom and better stabilization makes it preferable for moving subjects.

The F80 can shoot a bit faster at 4 fps single shot mode, but its AF sluggishness and single AF mode make keeping pace with action tricky.

Street Photography: Size, Low Light, and Discreteness

The F80’s smaller size and slightly quieter operation lend it to being a more discrete companion for street shooters. The more modest zoom allows for less obtrusive framing.

However, the F500’s cleaner high ISO capabilities mean better low light performance. For those who prioritize speed and invisibility, the F80 is your pick; for better image quality and zoom reach, choose the F500 but expect to carry a heftier camera.

Macro: Close Focus and Stabilization

Both excel with their 5 cm macro focusing limits and powerful image stabilization. The sharper sensor of the F500 reveals more fine texture and detail.

Night and Astrophotography: ISO and Exposure Modes

Neither competition features bulb mode or complex exposure multitasking that astrophotographers crave, but thanks to the EXR CMOS sensor, the F500 can produce cleaner shots at ISO 800 and 1600, allowing more handheld night shots.

Video Analysis: Handheld and Vlogging

The F500’s 1080p video with better stabilization and compression formats outclasses the F80’s 720p. For casual travel vloggers or family video shooters with limited budget, the F500 is worth the extra investment.

Travel: Battery, Weight, and Versatility

Thanks to its slightly smaller size, the F80 is easier to stash in a jacket or bag. Battery life is comparable, but the F500’s longer zoom and improved sensor give better framing flexibility on the road or excursions.

Professional Work: Reliability and Workflow Integration

Neither camera offers RAW shooting or advanced workflow support, which limits use for professional photographers who need maximal post-processing flexibility. Both primarily target enthusiasts or casual pros wanting easy JPEG quality.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Both cameras share similar plastic-bodied builds with limited dust, water, or drop resistance. Given the lack of any environmental sealing, I wouldn’t recommend either for harsh conditions or prolonged dust exposure.

Connectivity and Software

Both rely on USB 2.0 and HDMI for transfer and display. No Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC means connection to modern mobile workflows is limited unless using card readers or intermediary steps.

Price and Value: Stretching Your Dollar

At the prices listed (F80EXR around $400, F500 EXR around $430), both cameras sit in a fair segment for enthusiast compact superzoom models considering their age.

The question becomes: what do you want to prioritize?

If the budget is tight, and your main concern is a pocketable, decent generalist with simple use, the F80 fits well into casual, snapshot-style photography. But if you want improved image quality, longer zoom, better video, and more versatile autofocus, the F500 is a smarter spend despite a slight price premium.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

If I had to advise a diverse crowd of lens lovers from hobbyists to semi-pros:

• For casual travel, street shooting, and portraits: The FujiFilm FinePix F80EXR offers solid color science, easy handling, and a decent zoom for day-to-day moments and affordable price tags.

• For wildlife enthusiasts, amateur sports shooters, and video casuals: The Fujifilm FinePix F500 EXR is your better weapon, bringing sensor upgrades, rich resolution, continuous AF, and full HD video wrapped in a manageable but slightly larger body.

Neither is going to replace a DSLR or mirrorless powerhouse but both are dynamic players in their category. My testing showed that if you lean toward cropping, extended telephoto reach, and value video or low light handling, stretching for the F500 is justified and pays dividends.

On the other hand, if portability, snapshoot simplicity, or budget dictate, the F80 is a worthy and charming little shooter that punches well above its weight for typical everyday photography.

Pros and Cons Summary

FujiFilm FinePix F80EXR

• Smaller, lighter for pocket portability
• Good color rendering and exposure modes
• Higher continuous shooting speed (4 fps)
  – Lower resolution
  – Slow AF, no continuous or tracking AF
  – 720p video with MJPEG (large files)
  – Lower-resolution rear screen

Fujifilm FinePix F500 EXR

• Improved sensor (16 MP EXR CMOS) with better image quality
• 15x zoom stretch with slightly faster lens aperture at long end
• Continuous and tracking autofocus for action shots
• Full HD 1080p MPEG-4 video support
• Higher-res LCD for clear framing
  – Slightly larger and heavier
  – Slightly slower max burst rate (3 fps)

Choosing between these two FujiFilm EXR compacts comes down to your photography priorities and willingness to compromise on size, zoom length, autofocus behavior, and video capabilities. Both remain solid performers in the small sensor arena, and with thoughtful use, can deliver satisfying results across many genres without breaking the bank.

Happy shooting - and may your next photographic adventures be filled with sharp focus, beautiful light, and terrific memories!

I hope this detailed comparison helps you zero in on the FujiFilm model that suits your creative goals and shooting style. As always, I encourage hands-on trials when possible since cameras are as much about feel as they are specs.