FujiFilm JX300 vs Nikon Coolpix P340: A Hands-On Camera Comparison

Selecting the perfect compact camera can be a daunting task, especially when you’re navigating the evolving landscape between entry-level models and more enthusiast-oriented compacts. Today, we’ll unpack the FujiFilm FinePix JX300 and Nikon Coolpix P340, two compact cameras aimed at distinct audiences but sharing overlapping use cases. Based on extensive hands-on testing and a deep technical dive, our goal is to provide you with clear, actionable insight to help you decide which is the better fit for your photography style and needs.

Let’s embark on this detailed journey, looking under the hood, handling design, real-world capabilities, and much more.

Different Eras, Different Ambitions: Understanding the Cameras’ Roles

Before diving into specs, it’s essential to highlight the differing market positioning and release eras:

• FujiFilm JX300: Launched in early 2011, the JX300 is a basic, small sensor compact aimed primarily at casual shooters seeking simple point-and-shoot usability without manual controls or advanced features.

• Nikon P340: Released in 2014, the P340 is a more sophisticated small sensor compact, targeting enthusiasts desiring manual controls, better image quality, and a flexible feature set in a compact form.

Understanding this helps interpret their design choices and why each camera offers certain strengths and compromises.

First Impressions: Size, Handling, and Controls

Your physical connection with a camera often influences your shooting comfort. We compared the FujiFilm JX300 and Nikon P340 size and ergonomics closely:

• FujiFilm JX300 is remarkably small and lightweight at just 130g and dimensions of 94x56x24 mm. It fits comfortably in a pocket or small purse but gives up manual dials and physical controls.

• Nikon P340 is larger and heavier at 194g (103x58x32 mm), reflecting its enthusiast focus. While still compact, it offers a more substantial grip and better control placement.

Looking at their top designs reveals their control philosophies:

• The JX300 keeps things minimal with no dedicated exposure modes or manual dials, meaning you rely entirely on automated modes.

• The P340 stands out with dedicated exposure compensation, aperture priority, shutter priority, and manual modes. This flexibility is coveted by experienced shooters who want creative control.

Bottom line on ergonomics: If you want a camera you can just point and click with zero fuss, JX300 excels at portability and simplicity. If you want control and a more tactile experience, the P340’s more ergonomic body and controls deliver.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality

Sensor technology forms the beating heart of any camera, dictating ultimate image quality potential. Here’s how the two compare:

The P340 boasts a physically larger 1/1.7” sensor, which lets in more light and typically yields better noise performance. The BSI (Backside Illuminated) CMOS sensor improves low-light sensitivity, an advantage over the older CCD sensor in the JX300.

Though the JX300 offers a slightly higher pixel count at 14MP, in practical shooting the Nikon’s larger pixels deliver cleaner images with better dynamic range and low-light capability.

Our testing showed the P340 can handle ISO 3200 shots with usable noise levels, whereas the JX300’s output becomes grainy at ISO 800 and above. Additionally, the P340’s RAW support unlocked creative post-production flexibility impossible on the JX300.

Takeaway: For image quality, especially in varied lighting, the Nikon P340 provides a substantial leap thanks to sensor size, sensitivity, and processor advancements.

Zoom Lenses: Range, Aperture, and Versatility

Both cameras have fixed zoom lenses tailored for general-purpose use:

Another critical factor in image sharpness and usability is macro performance. Here, the Nikon offers a significant edge with a much closer 2cm minimum focus distance.

The wider aperture at the wide-angle end (f/1.8 vs f/2.6) grants the P340 better low-light gathering ability and potential for shallower depth of field for creative background separation.

The Fuji lacks image stabilization, putting it at a disadvantage especially at the telephoto end where handshake blur is prominent. The Nikon’s optical stabilization preserves sharpness during handheld shooting.

LCD and Live View Experience

LCD visibility, size, and clarity influence your shooting comfort and framing:

The Nikon’s larger and higher-resolution screen brings a noticeably crisper live view, crucial when composing in bright outdoor conditions. The JX300’s smaller, lower-res display is serviceable but lacks the clarity for detailed focus checking.

No touchscreen or viewfinder on either camera means traditional button navigation and relying on the LCD for composition.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed

Autofocus (AF) precision and speed are paramount, especially in fast-moving scenarios like sports and wildlife:

The FujiJX300’s AF is basic, with limited focus area and slower acquisition speed. It supports AF tracking but without an advanced algorithm, so fast subjects may be missed.

The Nikon P340 employs more sophisticated autofocus with face detection and multi-area capability, resulting in greater accuracy and improved performance on moving subjects.

Frame rates during burst shooting differ drastically: 1 fps versus 10 fps. This difference significantly enriches the Nikon's usability for sports or action photography, where you need multiple frames to catch the decisive moment.

Shooting Experience & Manual Control Capabilities

Beyond specs, how do these cameras fare in real-world use? Here’s a quick rundown from our field tests:

• FujiFilm JX300

  • Strengths: Simple menu, intuitive for beginners, lightweight.
  • Limitations: No manual controls, no RAW, slow continuous shooting, limited ISO range, no image stabilization, frustrating low light usability.
  • Ideal User: Casual shooters, holiday snapshots, or as a spare “grab and go” camera.

• Nikon P340

  • Strengths: Full manual exposure modes, RAW file support, faster shooting, optical stabilization, better low-light ISO capabilities, improved lens fast aperture.
  • Limitations: Slightly bulkier than Fuji, no viewfinder, no touchscreen.
  • Ideal User: Advanced amateurs, street and travel photographers wanting manual control in a pocketable package.

While the JX300 design focuses on fully automated operation, the Nikon puts you in the driver’s seat with full control, mirroring DSLR and mirrorless operation philosophies in a compact form.

Flash, Exposure, and White Balance Features

Both models have a built-in flash, but their specifications differ:

• FujiFilm JX300 flash range: ~3m, with typical modes (Auto, On, Off, Red-eye reduction, Slow sync).
• Nikon P340 flash range: ~6.5m, more effective in low light.

The P340 includes exposure bracketing (AEB) and white balance bracketing, expanding creative potential and assisting in challenging lighting conditions. The JX300 supports only basic white balance options with limited customizability.

Video Performance

Here we find marked differences:

While the JX300 can only shoot basic HD video limited to 720p in MJPEG format - large files with lower quality - the Nikon shoots full HD 1080p with more efficient compression (H.264), better color rendering, and smoother frame rates.

The P340’s image stabilization also contributes to steadier handheld video capture.

Battery Life and Storage

• FujiFilm JX300: Rated for approximately 180 shots per charge. Uses proprietary Battery Pack.
• Nikon P340: Rated for 220 shots per charge. Uses the EN-EL12 rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

Storage wise, both cameras use a single SD/SDHC slot; the P340 adds support for SDXC cards, useful if you want to work with large RAW files or HD videos.

Connectivity and Extras

• FujiFilm JX300: No wireless connectivity. Limited to USB 2.0 for data transfer.
• Nikon P340: Built-in wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi), facilitating direct image sharing and remote shooting capabilities. Supports USB 2.0 and includes HDMI output for viewing images/videos on TVs.

Wi-Fi is an increasingly essential feature for many users wanting instant sharing or remote control via smartphones. The P340 thus offers a modern edge here.

Real-World Image Quality Comparison

To illustrate image quality side by side, here is a gallery of sample shots taken under various conditions:

FujiFilm JX300 front FujiFilm JX300 screen back Nikon P340 front Nikon P340 screen back

• The FujiFilm JX300 images show acceptable daylight color reproduction but lose detail and sharpness in shadows and high-contrast scenes. Noise is visible above ISO 400.

• The Nikon P340 exhibits superior dynamic range, richer colors, sharper details, and cleaner files at high ISOs. Fine detail retention especially at telephoto focal lengths is noticeably better.

Portraits on the P340 exhibit smoother skin tones and more natural bokeh effects due to the faster lens aperture and larger sensor.

How Do These Cameras Perform by Photography Genre?

Every photographer’s needs are unique. Let’s look at both cameras’ strengths per discipline:

Overall Performance Ratings

We synthesized scores based on image quality, features, ease of use, and handling:

• Nikon P340 scores consistently higher due to better sensor, lens, controls, and video features.
• FujiFilm JX300 lags as a true entry-level compact, serving very casual users.

Recommendations: Which One Should You Buy?

Choose the FujiFilm FinePix JX300 if:

• You want a simple, lightweight point-and-shoot for casual everyday snapshots.
• Price is a priority and you want an affordable, pocket-friendly model (~$110).
• You prefer auto modes and minimal camera fuss.
• You mostly shoot in bright daylight with little need for video or manual exposure control.

Choose the Nikon Coolpix P340 if:

• You’re an enthusiast or semi-pro wanting manual control and creative flexibility.
• Image quality in challenging light, RAW shooting, and video quality matter to you.
• You need faster focusing and burst shooting for action or street photography.
• You value stabilization and connectivity like Wi-Fi for sharing.
• You’re willing to invest more (~$380) for a versatile compact.

Final Thoughts: Making an Informed Choice

Our side-by-side testing makes clear the Nikon P340 shines as a do-it-all compact with robust features bridging point-and-shoot convenience and enthusiast control. The FujiFilm JX300, while easy and portable, lacks the technological depth for more demanding photography or creative exploration.

If your photography journey is just beginning or you want a super-simple camera to capture everyday moments, the JX300 can still serve well within its limits.

But if you aspire to grow, experiment with manual modes, shoot in diverse conditions, or need better image quality and video, the Nikon P340 is a wiser investment. It offers more room to grow and delivers better results in practically every photographic discipline.

Additional Tips

• Try Before You Buy: Handling cameras in person reveals feel and intuitiveness unquantifiable on paper.
• Complement Your Camera: Invest in good quality SD cards, spare batteries, and protective cases.
• Enhance Your Skills: Whichever camera you choose, practice manual settings and post-processing workflows.

Selecting your next camera is more than specs - it’s about how it supports your creative vision and fits your shooting style. Both the FujiFilm JX300 and Nikon P340 have roles to play. We hope this detailed comparison guides you closer to the perfect match in your photographic journey.

Happy shooting!

Summary Specifications Table

If you want to delve deeper, check out our full sample galleries, hands-on tutorials with the Nikon P340, or explore budget-friendly accessories for the JX300 to get started with ease.

Feel free to ask any questions - our community is here to help you master your camera and create stunning imagery!