FujiFilm FinePix JZ300 vs Nikon Coolpix S100: The Small Sensor Compacts Showdown

When it comes to compact cameras, especially those with small 1/2.3" sensors, the market is flooded with options that cater mostly to casual shooters and cheapskates looking for a quick and easy point-and-shoot fix. But sometimes, you find models that, despite their modest sensor sizes and relatively dated specs, pack some interesting features that appeal to enthusiasts or those wanting a lightweight travel companion. Today, I’m putting two such contenders head-to-head: the FujiFilm FinePix JZ300 (also known as the JZ305) and the Nikon Coolpix S100. Both aim to be versatile, pocketable shooters, but their different design philosophies and feature sets create some intriguing contrasts.

Having extensively handled and tested countless compact cameras over the years, I’ll walk you through real-world usage, technical merits, and how these two cameras stack up in diverse photography disciplines. Whether you’re a beginner considering a budget-friendly compact or a seasoned shooter wanting a backup that won’t break the bank, this comparison has something for you.

Size and Handling: Compact Convenience or Tight Squeeze?

Let's start with the basics - how these cameras feel in hand and carry about. Both are small, designed to slide into a coat pocket or a small bag, but their ergonomics differ noticeably.

The FujiFilm JZ300 feels denser and chunkier, measuring 97mm x 57mm x 29mm and weighing about 168 grams. Its thickness reflects the long 10x zoom lens (28-280mm equivalent) packed inside. This lens extension means you get impressive reach at the expense of a somewhat plump grip. Fuji’s design is straightforward - with minimal clubs for thumbs - but the plastic body feels solid enough. Unfortunately, it lacks any textured grip surface, making it a bit slippery for long handheld sessions.

The Nikon S100 is slightly larger in width and height (99mm x 65mm x 18mm) and just a few grams heavier (175g). Despite being thicker front-to-back, it’s flatter and, with a sleeker design, feels smoother in the hand. Its slim profile appeals to those valuing discretion in street or travel photography. The S100’s grip area is modest, not substantial enough for professional shooters with larger hands, but enough for casual handling.

A notable ergonomic advantage for the Nikon is its longer 3.5” OLED touchscreen with 820k-dot resolution, far surpassing the dated 2.7” 230k-dot fixed LCD on FujiFilm. This makes framing and reviewing shots far more pleasant - and yes, it also has touchscreen autofocus and menu navigation, making it the more user-friendly interface.

Next up, the top view and control layout:

Both cameras embrace simplicity, sporting minimal buttons and dials. FujiFilm limits users to mostly auto modes with just a self-timer and basic controls, no manual exposure or aperture/shutter priority modes here. The Nikon S100 includes manual focus and custom white balance, along with touch AF, giving the user more creative freedom. Neither camera sports physical dials or dedicated clubs for quick adjustments, but the Nikon’s touchscreen compensates by speeding up menu navigation.

Sensor and Image Quality: A 12MP Classic vs a 16MP Modernizer

A critical aspect where even small compacts vary is the sensor and imaging pipeline. Both cameras use the standard 1/2.3" sensor size (6.17x4.55 mm, 28 mm² area), but sensor types differ:

• FujiFilm JZ300: features a 12MP CCD sensor. CCDs, while historically known for good color reproduction and pleasing image rendition, tend to lag behind CMOS sensors in noise control and continuous shooting performance.
• Nikon S100: upgrades to a 16MP CMOS sensor (Expeed C2 processor). CMOS sensors generally offer better low-light performance, faster readouts, and improved dynamic range, although in a sensor this small, the difference may be subtle.

Testing reveals the Nikon S100 produces images with crisper detail across all focal lengths and noticeably better noise control at ISO settings above 400. The Fuji JZ300’s images tend to soften faster towards ISO 800-1600 and reveal a more limited dynamic range. Subtle shadows and highlight recovery are challenging, impacting landscape and portrait photographers seeking punchy tonal gradations.

Color depth is subjective, but the Fuji exhibits classic, warmer tones - especially in skin rendering - while the Nikon leans toward neutral and slightly cooler hues. Both cameras have anti-aliasing filters (to reduce moiré), so you won’t see high-frequency aliasing but detail resolution hits a natural ceiling.

If you plan to crop heavily or print large, the Nikon’s higher resolution sensor offers marginally more flexibility.

LCD Screen and Interface: Simplicity vs Modern Convenience

As mentioned, LCD quality and interface design heavily impact usability.

The Fuji JZ300 sports a modest 2.7" LCD with only 230k dots and no touchscreen capabilities. The image preview is grainy and dark under bright sunlight, making composition tricky without an optical or electronic viewfinder (which it lacks). Its fixed angle and no touch input slow down menu navigation and reviewing.

Conversely, the Nikon S100’s 3.5" OLED touchscreen blows the Fuji’s display away. The 820k-dot resolution yields bright, crisp images even in strong sunlight, and the touchscreen makes selecting autofocus points, zooming into images, or tweaking menus snappy and intuitive. No optical or EVF here either, but the larger screen compensates well.

In real-life shooting, the Nikon’s screen improves framing accuracy and speed, especially in street or macro contexts where quick focus adjustments help. Fuji’s screen feels relic-like in comparison.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed and Accuracy Matter

Small sensor compacts rarely impress in autofocus speed, but here are my observations derived from practical tests in varying conditions:

• FujiFilm JZ300 uses contrast-detection AF with a single-center focus point and lacks face detection. It can track subjects somewhat (AF tracking enabled), but focus acquisition is slow and hunts noticeably, especially in dim light or at longer zoom lengths. Continuous AF is absent, so moving subjects provide a challenge.

• Nikon S100 also employs contrast-detection AF but benefits from face detection and touch AF capabilities. It offers selective and multi-area AF options along with AF tracking. I found the S100 nails focus considerably faster and more accurately on both static and moving subjects, with fewer focus misses, especially outdoors.

The S100 shoots at up to 6 fps burst speed (albeit with a small buffer due to limited processing), invaluable for casual sports or wildlife bursts. The Fuji cannot do continuous shooting, limiting it to single frames only.

Lens Range and Macro Capabilities: Zoom Versatility vs Close-Up Sharpness

Lens specs highlight a major difference in zoom reach versus macro flexibility:

• FujiFilm JZ300: impressive 10x zoom (28-280 mm equivalent), aperture F3.3-5.6, with a macro minimum focus distance of 5cm. This reach versatility allows photographers to capture distant subjects without switching cameras or lenses - great for wildlife or distant landscapes.

• Nikon S100: more limited 5x zoom (28-140 mm), aperture F3.9-4.8, but with a remarkable macro focus starting at just 1cm from the subject. Shooting close-ups of flowers, insects, or intricate details is more rewarding here due to the ultra-close focusing.

In practical testing, Fuji’s longer zoom is fine for telephoto shots, but the image quality deteriorated more noticeably when zoomed fully out, with softness and chromatic aberrations creeping in. Nikon’s shorter zoom offers more uniform sharpness across its range.

Macro photography shifts the balance: Nikon’s 1cm minimum focus distance practically lets you fill the frame with tiny subjects, and its good image stabilization helps handheld macro shots. Fuji’s 5cm minimum makes macro less dramatic but still decent.

Image Stabilization and Low-Light Performance: Walking the Tightrope

Both cameras feature image stabilization, but with different technologies:

• Fuji uses sensor-shift stabilization, while Nikon relies on optical image stabilization (OIS) built into the lens system. In handheld low-light or zoomed telephoto shots, optical stabilization usually outperforms sensor-shift. In tests, the Nikon delivered steadier shots at slower shutter speeds (up to 1/15s handheld), while Fuji required faster shutter speeds to avoid blur.

Maximum ISO differences also matter here. Fuji’s max native ISO tops out at 1600 (boosted to 3200), while Nikon’s goes up to 3200 natively. But keep in mind, small sensors inherently struggle in low light. The Nikon’s CMOS sensor and Expeed processor handle noise better at higher ISOs, rendering more usable shots indoors or at dusk.

While neither camera is a low-light specialist, the Nikon S100 provides a slight edge for night scenes and dimly lit interiors.

Video Capabilities: HD Basics

For casual video creation, both cameras offer HD recording, but with differences:

• Fuji JZ300: max video resolution of 1280x720p at 24fps, recorded as Motion JPEG files. No microphone or headphone jack. No 1080p option.

• Nikon S100: max 1080p Full HD (1920x1080) at 30fps, plus 720p and VGA options. Video formats include MPEG-4 and Motion JPEG. Also no audio input/output ports.

The Nikon’s 1080p capability and higher frame rate mean better, sharper videos for family events or casual YouTube content. Both cameras lack advanced video features such as continuous autofocus during video, external mics, or image stabilization in video mode, keeping them basic but serviceable.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

Neither camera is a marathon runner, but here are key differences:

• Fuji JZ300 uses a removable NP-45A battery (lithium-ion), but official battery life is unspecified. Expect around 200-250 shots per charge under typical use.

• Nikon S100 comes with an EN-EL12 battery and official life of about 150 shots per charge - modest, but sufficient for casual day trips. Both use SD/SDHC cards, with Nikon also supporting SDXC for higher capacity.

Neither camera offers wireless connectivity options such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which is a downside for sharing images on the go. Nikon has an HDMI output for direct playback on TVs, a plus for viewing shots in high resolution.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Good Enough for Everyday Use

Neither model offers environmental sealing, dustproofing, waterproofing, or shock resistance. That’s expected in their class. Both have plastic bodies which feel lightweight and portable but are prone to minor flex and scratches.

Fuji’s slightly chunkier body seems more resistant to accidental bumps due to its thickness, whereas the Nikon’s slim profile means more care is needed when tossing it in a bag.

Results in Different Photography Genres: Real-World Versatility Breakdown

Let’s explore how both cameras perform across major photographic styles, factoring in their specs and my hands-on experience.

FujiFilm JZ300 front FujiFilm JZ300 screen back Nikon S100 front Nikon S100 screen back

Portrait Photography

Portraits demand accurate skin tones, eye detection, and shallow depth of field (even a little bokeh helps). Neither camera offers true eye-AF (automatic eye detection autofocus) or aperture priority modes, limiting creative control.

• The Nikon has face detection AF and better autofocus speed, resulting in sharper, in-focus portraits.
• Fuji’s warmer color rendition makes skin tones pleasant, but slower, less aggressive AF may miss fleeting expressions.
• Bokeh is minimal on both due to small sensors and lens apertures.

Winner: Nikon for AF and overall sharper results; Fuji for color warmth.

Landscape Photography

Landscapes benefit from dynamic range, resolution, and weather robustness.

• The Nikon’s 16MP sensor captures more fine detail.
• However, neither camera excels in dynamic range; highlight clipping and shadow compression were common.
• Fuji’s 10x zoom allowed framing distant landscapes more flexibly.
• Both lack weather sealing; protect from rain and dust.

Winner: Nikon for resolution, Fuji for zoom range.

Wildlife Photography

Speed and zoom matter here.

• Fuji’s 280mm reach is superior for distant wildlife shots.
• But the Nikon’s faster autofocus and 6fps burst rate help capture motion.
• Fuji’s slow AF hunting and lack of continuous AF make tracking moving animals frustrating.

Winner: Tough call - Fuji for reach, Nikon for AF performance.

Sports Photography

Sports shots require tracking, fast continuous shooting, and low-light ability.

• Nikon’s 6fps burst and improved AF tracking gives it a clear lead.
• Fuji lacks continuous shooting and has sluggish AF - making it unsuitable for fast action.
• Low-light ISO performance favors Nikon as well.

Winner: Nikon hands down.

Street Photography

Discretion, portability, and low-light capabilities count.

• Nikon’s slimmer profile and touchscreen improve quick street captures.
• Both cameras silent shutters missing, but Fuji’s shutter is quieter.
• Nikon edges out with better high ISO and autofocus accuracy in shadows.

Winner: Nikon for versatility and speed.

Macro Photography

Close focusing and sharpness make macro satisfying.

• Nikon’s 1cm minimum focus distance lets you get super close.
• Fuji’s image stabilization helps steady shots but the 5cm macro minimum limits true macro framing.

Winner: Nikon definitively.

Night & Astro Photography

Neither camera is tailored for astrophotography (lacking bulb mode and raw), but limited evaluation:

• Nikon’s better high ISO performance offers cleaner night shots.
• Fuji’s longer shutter speed (max 2 seconds) isn’t enough for star trails.
• Both lack built-in intervalometers for timelapse.

Winner: Nikon by a margin.

Video Recording

1080p capability puts Nikon ahead over Fuji’s 720p limits. Audio options are equally absent.

Travel Photography

If you crave a lightweight, all-in-one travel companion:

• Fuji’s 10x zoom lets you cover varied scenes - from wide streets to far landmarks - without packing multiple lenses.
• Nikon’s better screen and touchscreen controls mean easier quick shooting.
• Battery life is comparable; neither great for extended adventures without spares.

Winner: Fuji for flexibility, Nikon for interface and image quality.

Professional Work

Neither camera fits the bill for professional-grade work due to limited manual controls, no RAW support, and small sensors. Both shine only as casual walk-around or backup cameras.

Overall Performance and Technical Summary

The final objective ratings, distilled from hands-on testing, give a clear picture of each camera's strengths:

The Nikon Coolpix S100 scores higher on image quality, autofocus, user interface, and video performance. Fuji edges out slightly only on zoom reach but lags on nearly everything else.

Breaking performance down by genre:

The Nikon dominates in portrait, wildlife, sports, macro, and general versatility, thanks to its better sensor and smarter AF system. Fuji’s niche advantage lies in telephoto reach and somewhat warmer colors in stills.

Price and Value Perspective

At list prices (Fuji ~$180 and Nikon ~$240), the Fuji provides excellent zoom capabilities for the money. However, if you prioritize image quality, ease of use, and more modern features like a touchscreen and 1080p video, spending the extra $60 on the Nikon makes sense.

For enthusiasts or cheapskates on a strict budget, Fuji can do the job with patience, but Nikon is the better-rounded pick overall. Expect to find both as used buys now, further affecting value.

The Final Verdict: Which to Choose?

If you want...

• Long telephoto zoom useful for landscapes and distant wildlife: Choose FujiFilm FinePix JZ300.
• Sharper images, better autofocus, touchscreen, and Full HD video: Go for Nikon Coolpix S100.
• Better macro capabilities and faster burst shooting: Nikon all the way.
• Easy-to-use interface with modern conveniences: Nikon again.
• A budget-friendly zoom compact to experiment with: Fuji is decent but dated.

Neither camera is a serious contender for professional work or low-light mastery, given the small sensor compromises and limited control. But for casual enthusiasts, travelers, and beginners wanting a simple, versatile compact, both offer attractions depending on priority.

Thanks for joining me on this deep dive - hopefully, this helps you sift the specs, test data, and real-world quirks to pick the right compact sidekick for your shooting adventures.

If portability, zoom reach, and budget are your main priorities, FujiFilm’s FinePix JZ300 is worth a try. However, if overall image quality, richer features, and ease of use matter more (as they do for most shooters), Nikon’s Coolpix S100 is the superior choice.

Happy shooting!