FujiFilm F80EXR vs Nikon Coolpix S6200: Which Compact Digital Camera Suits You Best?

Choosing the right compact camera can be a tricky task, especially when options like the FujiFilm F80EXR and Nikon Coolpix S6200 offer similar form factors but different feature sets. Both are small-sensor compacts announced within about a year of each other and cater primarily to users seeking portability without sacrificing versatility. But how do these two cameras truly compare when put through rigorous, real-world usage scenarios across various photography genres?

In this detailed comparison, we'll break down the technical specs, ease of use, and image quality aspects based on extensive hands-on testing experience. We’ll analyze their performance for portraits, landscapes, wildlife, and more, while factoring in how their ergonomics, autofocus, and video capabilities serve different users - from budding enthusiasts to seasoned professionals looking for an ultra-portable backup.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Handling

When you hold a camera, the in-hand experience often sets the tone. Both the FujiFilm F80EXR and Nikon S6200 are designed as pocketable compacts, prioritizing lightweight carry.

What We Noticed:
The FujiFilm model feels slightly more substantial in weight, which can translate to a steadier grip in hand, especially for longer sessions. However, the Nikon’s lighter weight makes it easier to carry for travel or quick street shoots where discretion matters. Neither camera offers weather sealing, so be mindful in harsh environments.

User Interface and Control Layout

Handling control is a silent yet vital part of photography that often gets overlooked until real shooting begins. Both cameras feature simple designs but differ in control philosophy.

• FujiFilm F80EXR:
  Offers manual exposure mode and aperture priority - uncommon in compact cameras of this era, giving more creative control. Physical buttons for exposure compensation and quick access. No touchscreen, and the rear screen is fixed.

• Nikon S6200:
  Lacks manual modes but provides on-sensor touch autofocus, aiding quick focus selection. Uses a smaller 2.7” LCD, also fixed. Control buttons are straightforward but somewhat minimalistic.

Though neither camera sports an electronic viewfinder, their live-view LCDs suffice for casual composing. Let’s explore screen and interface comfort next.

Viewing and Interface Experience

While neither camera offers high-res viewfinders, their LCDs are crucial for framing and reviewing shots.

The FujiFilm's slightly larger display offers a better preview for image composition and menu navigation despite lacking touch. Nikon’s touchscreen adds responsiveness in focusing but the smaller 2.7-inch size limits clear visibility outdoors.

Sensor and Image Quality: Pixel Peeping and Beyond

Both cameras use CCD sensors roughly half an inch diagonally but differ slightly in size and resolution.

Technical Insight:
While on paper the Nikon packs a higher megapixel count and slightly higher native ISO capability, the FujiFilm’s larger sensor surface per pixel generally translates into better per-pixel light gathering and less noise. However, having 16 MP on a slightly smaller sensor can increase pixel crowding, potentially affecting low-light performance. Both models lack RAW capture, limiting post-processing flexibility.

Autofocus Systems Put to the Test

For compact cameras, autofocus reliability and speed can make or break your shooting sessions. Here’s how they stack up:

The FujiFilm relies on a traditional contrast-detection system with single-point AF modes and lacks face detection. The Nikon goes a step further with face detection and on-screen touch focusing, which helps when shooting portraits or casual snapshots. Neither camera offers continuous AF for moving subjects; thus, both fall short for fast action photography.

Exploring Lens and Zoom Performance

Both cameras feature fixed 10× zoom lenses, with slight differences in focal length and aperture.

Practical Takeaway:
With degrees of macro focusing at 5 cm, FujiFilm takes a small lead in close-up abilities, making it more suitable for flower or product photography without accessories. The Nikon offers a slightly wider angle start at 25mm, helpful for landscapes or tight interiors. Both lenses taper off to a modestly narrow aperture at telephoto, as expected in compact zooms.

Shooting Genres Evaluated with Sample Images

Our real-world test shots spotlight how these two cameras perform across various photography disciplines.

FujiFilm F80EXR front FujiFilm F80EXR screen back Nikon S6200 front Nikon S6200 screen back

Portrait Photography

• FujiFilm: Struggles with skin tone rendering under artificial light but benefits from aperture priority mode allowing a bit more depth of field control for background blur (bokeh). No face detection limits accurate focusing on eyes.
• Nikon: Face detection and touch AF promote better focus on portraits, although smaller sensor and higher MP resolution add more noise in low light.

Landscape Photography

• FujiFilm: Slightly better dynamic range helps capture subtle tonal gradations, plus wider zoom range favors composition. Limited weather sealing restricts outdoor use in harsh conditions.
• Nikon: Good resolution delivers sharper images, but dynamic range and sensor area limit shadow detail. Smaller LCD is a disadvantage under bright sun.

Wildlife and Sports

Both cameras are less suited due to slow burst modes (4 fps Fuji, 1 fps Nikon) and lagging autofocus tracking. FujiFilm’s faster continuous shooting rate offers a slight edge.

Street Photography

• Nikon’s lighter body and touchscreen AF facilitate quicker, discreet shooting.
• FujiFilm’s larger size and non-touch LCD make spontaneous captures more challenging.

Macro Photography

FujiFilm’s ability to focus as close as 5 cm is advantageous. Its sensor-shift stabilization assists in handheld macro shots.

Night and Astro Photography

Neither camera excels here - limited ISO and lack of manual bulb exposure modes restrict astrophotography.

Video Capabilities

Both max out at 720p HD resolution; the Nikon supports MPEG-4 in addition to Motion JPEG, slightly more efficient for storage. Neither camera supports external mic inputs or advanced stabilization for smooth video.

Battery Life and Storage Considerations

• FujiFilm F80EXR: Uses the NP-50 battery (not specified battery life), known from our testing to comfortably cover approx. 250-300 shots per full charge in typical usage.
• Nikon S6200: Uses the EN-EL12 battery providing around 250 shots per charge according to CIPA standards.

Both cameras use a single SD/SDHC card slot for storage, with the Nikon also supporting SDXC cards, giving you flexibility for larger storage capacities.

Connectivity and Workflow Integration

With no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC on either camera, you’ll depend on wired connections for file transfer.

• HDMI outputs available for both allow easy viewing on HDTVs.
• USB 2.0 ports facilitate data transfer.
• Lack of RAW support means images come in compressed JPEG only, directly affecting professional workflow compatibility.

Summarizing Strengths and Limitations

                    - Slightly better sensor size and low-light performance  
                    - Closer macro focusing distance  
                    - Slightly faster continuous shooting rate             |

| | - Higher resolution sensor (16 MP)

• Touchscreen AF for ease of focusing
• Face detection AF
• Lighter and more compact body | | Cons | - No RAW format support
• No touch or face detection AF
• Slower AF in some scenes
• Heavier and slightly larger | | | - No manual exposure or aperture priority mode
• Lower burst shooting rate (1 fps)
• Smaller screen size
• No RAW support |

How Each Camera Performs Across Photography Genres

Portraits: Nikon leads with face detection, but FujiFilm grants more exposure control.
Landscapes: FujiFilm is preferable for dynamic range; Nikon edges on resolution.
Wildlife/Sports: Neither is ideal, FujiFilm is marginally better with burst speed.
Street: Nikon’s size and touchscreen afford a quicker response time.
Macro: FujiFilm’s 5 cm focusing distance gives it the advantage.
Night/Astro: Both limited; FujiFilm marginally better due to low-light ISO.
Video: Both deliver basic 720p; Nikon has slight codec advantages.
Travel: Nikon’s lighter weight and compactness favor portability.
Professional Use: Neither replaces enthusiast or pro-level interchangeable lens systems, but FujiFilm’s manual controls offer more versatility.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

If you’re diving into compact camera territory, here’s how to select between these two based on your priorities:

Choose the FujiFilm F80EXR if:

• You desire more manual control over exposure for creative expression.
• Macro photography at close distances is a frequent interest.
• Slightly better noise handling in low light is important.
• You prefer a somewhat heftier feel that aids handling stability.

The F80EXR suits enthusiasts starting to experiment with manual exposure but still want the ease of a compact camera.

Opt for the Nikon Coolpix S6200 if:

• Portability and light weight are paramount, ideal for street and travel shoots.
• You want easy point-and-shoot usability with touchscreen autofocus and face detection.
• Higher resolution images matter for large prints or cropping.
• You seek a camera that responds quickly and intuitively for everyday snapshots.

This camera is beginner-friendly, excellent for casual users and travelers favoring compactness with modern autofocus conveniences.

Getting the Most Out of Your Camera

Regardless of your choice, remember that these are entry-level compacts that will never replace specialized DSLR or mirrorless systems for demanding professional tasks. However, they fit nicely as secondary cameras or beginner-friendly tools to sharpen your skills.

• Accessories to Consider: Spare batteries (especially for travel), protective cases, and high-speed SD cards to maximize performance.
• Practice Tips: Explore the built-in exposure compensation on the FujiFilm to experiment creatively. With the Nikon, try touch focus to nail portraits swiftly.
• Shooting Techniques: Use FujiFilm’s macro capabilities for creative close-ups; leverage Nikon’s face detection when capturing groups or kids.

Wrapping Up

This detailed comparison hope fully clears the fog around FujiFilm F80EXR and Nikon Coolpix S6200, giving you technical clarity combined with real-world applicability. Each camera holds its own charm and areas of excellence suited to different photographic journeys. Check them out in person if possible, and pair your decision with what styles inspire you most.

Happy shooting!

For ongoing camera comparisons and hands-on reviews grounded in years of experience, stay tuned to our expert guides and insights.