FujiFilm JX300 vs Sony Cyber-shot WX5: A Deep Dive into Two Small Sensor Compact Cameras

Choosing the right compact camera in the entry-level segment can be surprisingly challenging given the sheer number of options and the diverse needs of photographers - from casual snapshots to specialized hobbyist work. Today, we explore two early-2010s era small sensor compacts: the FujiFilm FinePix JX300 (also known as the FinePix JX305) announced in early 2011, and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX5, launched mid-2010. Both aim to serve the general consumer with easy handling, versatile zoom ranges, and affordable entry points, yet significant technical and usability differences emerge once you examine them closely.

Drawing from extensive hands-on testing of hundreds of compact cameras in controlled lab environments and real-world shooting scenarios, this article compares and contrasts these two models in detail - examining sensor technology, image quality, autofocus performance, ergonomics, video capability, and more. Aiming to empower photography enthusiasts and professionals researching a compact backup or budget-friendly travel camera, we will provide nuanced, authoritative insights grounded in practical experience.

Feel in Hand and Body Design: Ergonomics at a Glance

At a glance, both the FujiFilm JX300 and Sony WX5 sport the typical pocketable compact design, but closer inspection reveals clear ergonomic differences that impact usability during long shooting sessions or travel.

The FujiFilm JX300 measures approximately 94 x 56 x 24 mm and weighs in at a mere 130 grams, sporting a clean, rounded plastic chassis with a subtle grip ridge on the right side - though its diminutive size can feel cramped for photographers with larger hands. The low weight aids portability but sacrifices a bit of confidence-in-hand for more deliberate shooting.

The Sony WX5 is marginally more compact in footprint, measuring 92 x 52 x 22 mm, albeit slightly heavier at 146 grams due primarily to its more robust construction and inclusion of optical stabilizer components. Still, its slimmer profile and lightly textured coating provide a better tactile grip, reducing handling strain and offering more confidence when shooting with one hand.

Both models lack an electronic viewfinder, relying solely on rear LCDs for composition, but as we will see, screen resolution and size advantages favor the WX5.

The button and control layouts also differ between models; the FujiFilm’s sparse control scheme focuses on point-and-shoot simplicity without dedicated dials for exposure, while Sony’s WX5 integrates slightly more nuanced options despite remaining beginner-friendly.

Behind the Lens: Sensor and Image Quality Insights

Sensor technology profoundly affects image quality, noise performance, and dynamic range - critical factors for those seeking to maximize image fidelity even in compact cameras.

Sensor Specifications and Technology

Both cameras utilize a 1/2.3-inch sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm, a typical size for compact cameras in this class. This translates to a sensor area of about 28.07 mm² - small relative to APS-C or full-frame sensors - and inherently limited for noise control and shallow depth of field control.

The JX300 houses a 14-megapixel CCD sensor, a technology that, while standard in earlier compact cameras, tends to exhibit higher noise levels at elevated ISOs and reduced dynamic range compared to CMOS sensors. Its anti-aliasing filter is present to mitigate moiré but potentially at a slight cost to sharpness.

Conversely, the WX5 employs a 12-megapixel backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor. BSI architecture enhances low-light sensitivity by orienting photodiodes to receive more light directly, resulting in comparatively better noise performance and dynamic range at higher ISOs - a clear advantage for the WX5’s low-light and video capabilities.

Both cameras utilize an anti-aliasing filter, and neither supports RAW capture, limiting post-processing latitude. The maximum native ISO for FujiFilm is 1600 (boostable to 3200), whereas Sony officially maxes out at ISO 3200, with a higher base ISO of 125, potentially impacting image noise characteristics at lower sensitivities.

Image Quality in Practice

In side-by-side shooting tests, FujiFilm’s JX300 produces images with respectable resolution and color reproduction under well-lit conditions but tends to struggle with highlight clipping in high dynamic range scenes - typical for CCD sensors with narrower dynamic range.

The Sony WX5 demonstrates superior shadow recovery and cleaner images at high ISOs, where FujiFilm’s sensor noise becomes increasingly pronounced. Moreover, subtle color gradations in skin tones and mid-tones render more naturally on the WX5, thanks to Sony’s Bionz image processor optimizing color science and noise filtering.

However, the 2-megapixel resolution difference (14MP vs 12MP) is effectively negligible at standard print sizes and tends not to impact detail discernment by end users when shooting at lower ISO settings or outputting web-resolution images.

Lens and Optics: Zoom Range, Aperture, and Macro

Lens focal length range and aperture directly influence compositional versatility and image aesthetics, especially bokeh and low-light performance.

Focal Length and Aperture Range

• FujiFilm JX300: 28–140 mm (5x zoom) with variable maximum aperture f/2.6–6.2
• Sony WX5: 24–120 mm (5x zoom) with variable maximum aperture f/2.4–5.9

Sony’s slightly wider wide-angle (24 mm) gives photographers an edge in tight interiors and landscape framing, while the Fuji’s modestly longer maximal telephoto extension (140 mm vs 120 mm) benefits distant subject reach, relevant for casual wildlife or sports telephoto use.

The Sony’s lens is also marginally brighter at the wide end (f/2.4 vs f/2.6), aiding low-light shooting and permitting shallower depth of field, though with small sensor limitations, bokeh remains more a creative effect rather than dramatic subject isolation.

Macro Capabilities

Macro mode focusing distances differ considerably: Fuji can focus as close as 10 cm, while Sony excels with a close-focus distance of just 5 cm, nearly doubling macro subject magnification potential. For users interested in close-ups of flowers, insects, or small objects, Sony’s macro capability is appreciably superior.

Image Stabilization

A significant technical advantage of the Sony WX5 is its optical image stabilization (OIS) system, employing sensor-shift technology. This feature is crucial for small sensor compacts when shooting at longer focal lengths or in lower light, reducing hand shake blur.

The FujiFilm JX300 lacks any form of image stabilization, increasing the reliance on fast shutter speeds or tripods to avoid camera shake - often a major drawback in practical shooting conditions.

Autofocus Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Focus Modes

Autofocus (AF) systems dictate how quickly and reliably a camera acquires focus, especially vital for dynamic photography genres such as sports or wildlife.

The FujiFilm JX300 offers a contrast-detection AF system with continuous, single, and tracking autofocus capabilities, though specifications on AF points are not explicit - likely a limited number of focus areas emphasizing center detection.

Sony WX5’s autofocus is also contrast detection-based but is supported by nine AF points with center-weighted and spot metering options. Its autofocus speed in bright conditions is brisk, aided by the Bionz processor, although continuous autofocus is only available in single AF mode - not continuous AF shooting.

Real-world testing notes that the Sony WX5 delivers notably faster and more accurate focus lock than the Fuji JX300, particularly under challenging low-contrast or dim lighting scenarios, enhancing its utility in event or street photography where quick responsiveness is essential.

Viewing and Interface: Screens, Controls, and Usability

The FujiFilm JX300 features a fixed 2.7-inch LCD screen at 230k-dot resolution, which is noticeably dimmer and less detailed compared to the Sony WX5’s 2.8-inch LCD at 461k-dot, nearly double the pixel count. This difference results in the WX5’s rear display providing a substantially clearer, brighter preview with better accuracy for focus confirmation and image review.

Neither camera offers a touch screen or electronic viewfinder, a limitation for framing in bright outdoor conditions, especially for the Fuji due to its weaker screen brightness.

In terms of controls, both cameras lack manual dials or exposure control modes (no shutter or aperture priority), targeting the casual user market. Fuji limits exposure compensation entirely, whereas Sony only minimally supports custom white balance.

Battery life markedly favors the FujiFilm with approximately 180 shots per charge, although Sony does not publish official battery life figures, likely due to the power demands of its OIS and brighter display - typical for compacts, expect roughly 150-200 shots per charge on real use.

Video Capabilities: Resolution, Formats, and Usability

Although neither is designed as a video powerhouse, their video capabilities differ significantly:

• FujiFilm JX300 records a maximum resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels (720p) at 30 frames per second in Motion JPEG format, which is notoriously inefficient in compression and large in file sizes.
• Sony WX5 supports full HD 1920 x 1080 recording at 50 frames per second (PAL standard) using the more efficient AVCHD compression, alongside additional lower resolutions and frame rates for versatility.

Sony’s higher bitrate, resolution, and frame rate options translate into smoother, higher-quality video footage with better detail retention and less compression artifacts - an important consideration for vloggers or casual video shooters.

Unfortunately, neither camera offers microphone or headphone jacks, limiting audio capture options.

Shooting Versatility Across Photography Genres

Compact cameras inherently involve compromises due to sensor size and limited manual controls. Still, contrasting these models across key genres clarifies relative strengths.

Portrait Photography

With limited aperture control and a small sensor, neither creates dramatic background blur; however, Sony’s slightly faster wide aperture and higher sensitivity allow better skin tone rendition and lower noise, especially in softer indoor lighting.

Due to lack of face/eye AF, both cameras require manual framing care, but Sony’s more accurate AF and focus points improve sharpness targeting. Fuji’s lower resolution LCD hampers decisive focusing confirmation for portraits.

Landscape Photography

Here, FujiFilm’s superior resolution (14MP) theoretically yields larger image files for cropping or large prints, but sensor dynamic range limitations blunt highlight and shadow detail recovery compared to Sony’s BSI CMOS sensor.

Fuji’s more extensive zoom may aid distant landscape shots, but Sony’s wider wide angle (24mm vs 28mm) captures broader scenes better.

Neither camera provides weather sealing, restricting outdoor use in adverse conditions.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Both cameras are underpowered for rapid action capture, but Sony’s significantly higher continuous shooting speed (10 fps vs 1 fps) and faster AF prime it for capturing fleeting moments, particularly in bright daylight.

Telephoto range slightly longer on Fuji, but lack of IS and slower AF detracts from utility.

Street Photography

Portability counts here; both cameras are lightweight and discreet, but Sony’s slimmer dimensions and superior focusing responsiveness provide the edge in candid moments. Its better high-ISO performance also enables more ambient-lit shots.

Macro Photography

Sony’s 5 cm minimum focus distance and optical stabilization distinctly outperform Fuji’s 10 cm and no stabilization, enabling sharper, more detailed close-ups with less blur due to hand movement.

FujiFilm JX300 front FujiFilm JX300 screen back Sony WX5 front Sony WX5 screen back

Connectivity and Memory: Modern Conveniences

Neither camera offers Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity (Sony supports Eye-Fi card integration), so sharing requires physical connection to a PC via USB 2.0.

Sony includes an HDMI port for direct playback on HDTVs, a convenience absent in the FujiFilm, facilitating easier review of images and videos.

Both cameras employ a single SD card slot for expandable storage, compatible with SDHC/SDXC cards on Sony, and SD/SDHC on Fuji, ensuring broad compatibility.

Value Assessment: Price vs Features

At launch, the FujiFilm JX300 was priced near $110, considerably more budget-oriented than Sony’s WX5 at approximately $250.

Given this nearly doubled price, Sony offers superior sensor technology, image stabilization, faster autofocus, higher resolution LCD, and advanced video formats. FujiFilm’s sole advantage is a marginally higher megapixel count but lacks many modern features.

For shoppers primarily seeking casual snapshots on the cheap, the FujiFilm remains appealing due to simplicity and affordability. If image quality and versatility (including video) matter, Sony’s WX5 justifies its higher cost.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Recommendations Tailored to User Needs

• Casual Budget Buyers or First-Time Users: FujiFilm JX300 suits users seeking ultra-affordable, straightforward point-and-shoot capabilities for everyday snapshots without concern for advanced features or image excellence beyond daylight scenarios.

• Travel and Street Photographers: Sony WX5’s compact yet responsive design, coupled with superior autofocus and image stabilization, makes it a more capable travel companion for diverse lighting and subject matter.

• Beginner Videographers or Vloggers: Sony’s full HD video in AVCHD format offers smoother footage and better quality for casual video projects compared to Fuji’s limited 720p MJPEG capture.

• Macro Enthusiasts: Sony’s closer macro focusing distance and OIS provide advantages for crisp close-up shots of flora and small objects.

• Wildlife and Sports Hobbyists: Despite sensor and lens limitations, Sony’s faster autofocus and high burst rate outperform Fuji, though neither replaces dedicated super-telephoto or mirrorless systems.

Final Verdict

Despite similar classifications as small sensor compacts, the FujiFilm FinePix JX300 and Sony Cyber-shot WX5 represent two quite different user experiences due to their internal sensor technology, feature sets, and ergonomic nuances. While the older CCD sensor and lack of stabilization in the FujiFilm camera limit its modern relevance, the affordability keeps it attractive for absolute novices or collectors.

In contrast, the Sony WX5's more advanced BSI CMOS sensor, optical stabilization, and video capabilities demonstrate a forward-thinking design pushing small sensor compacts closer to mirrorless territory in terms of usability and image quality within size constraints.

Photography enthusiasts or professionals considering these models as backups or budget compacts will find the Sony WX5 delivers superior performance and flexibility worth its steeper investment. Nonetheless, for ultra-budget users prioritizing simplicity, the FujiFilm JX300 remains a no-frills option that is easy to use and pocket-friendly.

About This Review

Our comparisons derive from meticulous side-by-side testing in studio and various real-world conditions, including natural light portrait sessions, landscape shoots at varying dynamic ranges, and motion capture exercises to assess autofocus and burst performance. Technical measurements such as sensor response curves, noise magnitude analysis at incremental ISO values, and lens sharpness profiles were established using industry-standard SFR charts and test protocols upheld over 15 years of camera evaluation experience.

Our goal is to provide readers a comprehensive, trustworthy, and user-focused evaluation that informs and assists in selecting the camera best aligned with their photographic aspirations.

If you want to explore other compact options or step up to mirrorless to overcome the small sensor limitations discussed here, we invite you to check our related camera comparisons and buying guides which incorporate latest camera releases and technological advancements.

Happy shooting!