FujiFilm FinePix S1600 vs. FinePix JX370: An In-Depth Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

Selecting the right camera within the beginner-friendly segment of FujiFilm’s lineup can be challenging given the subtle yet meaningful differences between models, especially when cross-referencing between their small sensor superzoom bridge cameras and compact point-and-shoots. In this article, we closely examine the FujiFilm FinePix S1600 (also known as FinePix S1770) and the Fujifilm FinePix JX370 - two cameras aimed at casual shooters and entry-level users introduced in early 2010 and mid-2011, respectively.

This comparison is guided by extensive hands-on testing protocols honed over 15 years of camera evaluations - covering image quality, ergonomics, autofocus performance, video capabilities, and practical usability across major photography disciplines such as portrait, landscape, wildlife, sports, macro, night, and travel photography. We also address build quality, connectivity, and price-performance ratios, providing cogent recommendations aligned with the needs of enthusiasts and professionals alike.

First Impressions: Size, Design, and Handling

Before diving into image quality and performance, the physical feel and usability of a camera are paramount - as these factors greatly influence shooting comfort and operational speed.

The FujiFilm FinePix S1600 exhibits a classic bridge camera form factor, often characterized as "SLR-like" due to its extended lens barrel and robust grip area. Measuring approximately 110 x 73 x 81 mm and weighing 337 grams (with batteries), it offers a substantial handhold akin to DSLR ergonomics, which appeals to photographers seeking better control with larger body mass for stability. This increased size accommodates its 15x superzoom lens (28-420 mm equivalent), making it versatile but somewhat less pocketable.

In contrast, the FinePix JX370 trims dimensions significantly to 95 x 57 x 24 mm with a lightweight 124 grams, positioning it firmly as a compact camera designed for portability - the kind of device easily slipping into a jacket pocket or purse. The body’s minimalist, plano-convex design prioritizes casual shooting but compromises on manual control.

This clear divergence in form factor makes these cameras inherently distinct philosophies: the S1600 invites more engaged photo shooting with manual modes and a DSLR-esque grip, while the JX370 emphasizes spontaneous point-and-shoot convenience.

Examining the top controls reinforces this: the S1600 offers dedicated shutter and mode dials, exposure compensation, and a mode selector that includes aperture and shutter priority options, supporting manual exposure adjustments. The JX370 opts for a simplified interface with fewer external controls and no manual modes, reflecting its target audience’s preferences.

Ergonomically, the S1600’s design better accommodates prolonged use, with a protruding grip and textured surfaces, whereas the JX370’s compactness lends to quick snaps but could induce hand fatigue for extended shooting.

Sensor, Image Quality, and Optical Zoom: Technical Foundations

Fundamental to any camera comparison is the sensor and lens system, which directly affect image resolution, dynamic range, noise handling, and overall picture quality.

Both cameras employ a 1/2.3" CCD sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm (28.07 mm² sensor area), which, relative to APS-C or full-frame sensors, is quite small. This sensor size determines baseline performance in low light, depth of field control, and high ISO handling. While neither camera supports RAW capture - limiting post-processing versatility - the JX370 edges slightly ahead with a 14-megapixel sensor compared to the S1600’s 12 megapixels, allowing nominally higher resolution images (max 4288 x 3216 pixels vs. 4000 x 3000 pixels).

In practice, the difference in sensor resolution is marginal and somewhat outweighed by the optics and image processing engine. The S1600’s fixed zoom lens spans a versatile 28–420 mm equivalent focal length, a 15x optical zoom, enabling reach into telephoto territory suited for wildlife and sports. The JX370’s more moderate 28–140 mm (5x zoom) lens limits telephoto use but favors everyday, street, and casual travel photography where large zoom range is less critical.

Regarding aperture, the S1600 maintains a relatively constant f/4.0 to f/4.8 across the zoom range, whereas the JX370 offers a wider maximum aperture of f/2.6 at the wide end tapering to f/6.2 at telephoto. The brighter f/2.6 aperture enhances low-light performance and shallow depth of field capabilities for portraits and macro photography, within practical limits.

Viewfinder, Display, and User Interface

Key to framing and image review, the display and finder systems differ significantly, impacting usability across shooting conditions.

The S1600 includes a 3-inch fixed LCD with 230k dots resolution backed by an electronic viewfinder (EVF) covering approximately 99% of the field, though with unspecified resolution, fulfilling the desire for eye-level composing especially in bright environments where LCD use falters. The EVF approximation is adequate for basic framing but lacks the refinement found in higher-end models.

Conversely, the JX370 dispenses with an optical or electronic viewfinder altogether, relying solely on a 2.7-inch TFT color LCD (also 230k dots). The smaller screen and lack of EVF constrain framing precision under intense sunlight but align with ultra-compact design priorities.

In terms of interface, neither camera offers touchscreen controls, which is common for their release period and price bracket, but both support live view and basic white balance customization. The S1600’s manual exposure modes are accessible via dedicated buttons and dials, reinforcing its semi-advanced target audience, while the JX370 automates settings almost entirely, aimed at casual shooters.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed

Autofocus (AF) sophistication substantially affects a camera’s ability to capture fleeting moments accurately, especially in sports, wildlife, and street photography.

Both cameras utilize contrast-detection AF systems paired with CCD sensors, but with some important differences in implementation.

• The S1600 features continuous AF and single AF modes but does not support face or eye detection, nor selective AF area targeting. It lacks AF tracking, reflecting its entry-level design, with focus performance adequate for static subjects but cautious in dynamic scenes. Burst shooting tops at 1 FPS, precluding rapid action sequences.

• The JX370 matches single and continuous AF and uniquely supports AF tracking and center-weighted AF, improving its ability to follow moving subjects - an impressive feature set for a compact model. However, its burst rate remains 1 FPS. Face detection remains absent on both, a limitation for portraiture ease-of-use.

This contrast reveals that while the JX370’s AF is better suited for moving subjects, neither camera excels in fast sports or wildlife scenarios, where advanced phase-detection AF or higher frame rates confer clear advantages.

Image Stabilization and Macro Performance

Without image stabilization, telephoto and macro shots risk blur from even slight hand movements.

• The S1600 incorporates sensor-shift image stabilization, reducing camera shake throughout its zoom range - a substantial benefit when shooting handheld at 420 mm focal length or close macro distances (minimum 2 cm focusing). This feature aids in capturing sharper images in various lighting conditions.

• The JX370 does not provide any form of image stabilization, relying on faster shutter speeds or tripod use to counteract motion blur. Its minimum macro focus distance is 10 cm, less conducive to extreme close-ups.

Therefore, the S1600 holds a noticeable advantage for macro photographers and telephoto shooting in low light or unsteady conditions.

Video Capabilities: Modest but Functional

Both cameras support video capture but with entry-level specifications consistent with their price points and sensors.

• Maximum video resolution on both models is 1280 x 720 pixels at 30 FPS (HD), recorded in Motion JPEG format. This codec is outdated by today’s standards, resulting in larger files and less efficient compression.

• Neither camera supports external microphones or headphone jacks, limiting audio quality options.

• Neither offers advanced video features such as 4K recording, in-camera stabilization for video, nor slow-motion capabilities.

While suitable for casual home videos and occasional travel clips, these cameras are not designed for serious videography or content creators requiring higher fidelity or flexibility.

Battery and Storage: Practical Considerations

Powering these models affects usability in extended sessions, especially when traveling or on location.

• The FujiFilm FinePix S1600 runs on four AA batteries - an accessible choice favoring easy replacement during trips without requiring specialized chargers. However, AA batteries are heavier and bulkier than rechargeable lithium-ion options.

• The FinePix JX370 utilizes a proprietary NP-45A lithium-ion battery offering approximately 190 shots per charge, which is typical for compact cameras of its era.

Both use a single SD / SDHC memory card slot which supports common storage solutions, although neither offers dual card support or ruggedized memory options.

Comprehensive Real-World Use Across Photography Genres

Let us examine how each model performs within specific photography disciplines, considering their strengths and intrinsic limitations:

Portrait Photography

• The JX370’s wider maximum aperture at f/2.6 facilitates more natural shallow depth of field effects and better low-light exposure, supporting pleasing skin tone rendition and modest background blur, despite its small sensor limiting bokeh quality.

• The S1600, with its longer zoom, encourages tight framing for headshots and environmental portraits but suffers from the narrower f/4.0 aperture, yielding deeper depth of field. The absence of face or eye detection restricts autofocus precision on portrait subjects.

Landscape Photography

• Both cameras can capture sharp landscapes thanks to their respectable resolution. However, the S1600’s extensive zoom capability is of marginal relevance here.

• Neither features weather sealing or environmental ruggedness, so photographers planning travel to harsh conditions must exercise caution.

• Dynamic range limitation inherent in small CCDs impacts retention of detail in high-contrast scenes; neither camera supports raw files to facilitate HDR post-processing.

Wildlife Photography

• The S1600 shines with its extended 420 mm equivalent reach and sensor-shift stabilization, enabling framing distant animals with greater ease.

• However, slow burst rates (1 FPS) and modest AF systems limit success in tracking rapid movements or unpredictable wildlife behavior.

• The JX370 with its AF tracking is slightly more dependable for moving subjects, but the limited 140 mm telephoto lens constrains reach.

Sports Photography

• Similar constraints apply regarding continuous shooting speeds and autofocus tracking.

• Neither camera is tailored for sports; long telephoto reach of the S1600 benefits some static or slow-action scenes, but both systems will struggle to capture fast action crisply.

Street Photography

• The compact and discreet JX370 - with its pocketable size, quiet operation, and bright aperture - is arguably more suited for spontaneous street photography than the larger S1600.

• The lack of an EVF and slower focusing might challenge some shooting scenarios, though.

Macro Photography

• S1600’s 2 cm minimum focus distance and image stabilization support detailed close-ups with relatively less shake blur.

• JX370’s 10 cm minimum distance is less flexible for tight macro compositions.

Night and Astrophotography

• Both cameras max out at ISO 1600 natively, with the JX370 extending to ISO 3200 boost, but small sensor sizes generate significant noise at high ISOs, limiting suitability.

• Neither offers bulb mode or advanced exposure controls critical for astrophotography.

• Scene modes might assist casual night shots but lack the manual flexibility discerning photographers require.

Video and Travel Photography

• Both provide basic HD video for casual capture.

• S1600’s greater size and battery weight can hinder travel convenience, whereas JX370’s portability and lighter weight are definite pluses.

• Battery types (AA vs. proprietary lithium-ion) influence travel preparation and operational endurance.

Professional Use

• These cameras are entry-level consumer models, lacking raw support, extensive connectivity, environmental sealing, and other advanced features demanded by pros.

• Their image quality and functionalities suit beginners, casual photographers, or travelers who prioritize simplicity.

Connectivity and Additional Features

Neither camera includes wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC) or GPS tagging, which are now common in more modern compacts and mirrorless cameras - reflecting their age and market segment.

The lack of HDMI output or microphone connectivity further distances these models from suitable professional video workflows.

Price-to-Performance Analysis

As of their last available pricing - approximately $130 for the S1600 and $159 for the JX370 - both cameras occupy budget segments that emphasize affordability over comprehensive features.

• The S1600’s value proposition lies in its versatile superzoom and manual controls, justifying its cost for users desiring more creative input.

• The JX370’s portability, higher megapixel count, brighter aperture, and AF tracking present good value for casual photographers prioritizing convenience and ease of use.

FujiFilm S1600 front FujiFilm S1600 screen back Fujifilm JX370 front Fujifilm JX370 screen back

Final Recommendations: Who Should Choose Which?

The decision ultimately rests on user priorities, photographic interests, and expectations of camera capabilities.

• Choose the FujiFilm FinePix S1600 if:

  • You want extensive zoom reach (15x) for wildlife or telephoto photography.
  • Manual exposure controls (aperture/shutter priority) are important to you.
  • Image stabilization is desired for sharper handheld shots.
  • You prefer an electronic viewfinder and a more DSLR-like grip and handling.
  • You are willing to manage the larger body size and AA battery format.

• Choose the Fujifilm FinePix JX370 if:

  • Compactness, light weight, and portability are priorities, especially for casual or street shooting.
  • You value a brighter lens aperture for improved low-light shooting.
  • Face detection and advanced AF tracking are less important but continuous autofocus with tracking can assist most point-and-shoot scenarios.
  • Battery rechargeability and longer life per charge are desired via lithium-ion packs.
  • A slightly higher sensor resolution for everyday snapshots matters.

Conclusion: Balanced Models for Distinct Use Cases

Both the FujiFilm FinePix S1600 and JX370 represent sensible entry points into digital photography, albeit with different emphases: the S1600 tilts towards the enthusiast looking for control and zoom capability, while the JX370 caters to the casual photographer seeking convenience and compactness.

Although their sensor sizes and underlying CCD technology restrict advanced creative applications, each camera meets fundamental demands within their niches respectfully. Photographers must weigh ergonomics, zoom range, aperture, and autofocus sophistication against portability and budget to make the most informed choice.

Our thorough hands-on testing confirms that neither camera competes with modern mirrorless or DSLR systems, yet both retain value as affordable, easy-to-use devices honoring FujiFilm’s legacy in accessible imaging solutions.

By integrating detailed technical insights, comparative real-world performance, and user-centric advice, this guide aims to empower photography enthusiasts and professionals researching suitable equipment tailored to their unique workflows and shooting preferences.