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FujiFilm S1600 vs Panasonic FZ300

Portability
78
Imaging
35
Features
26
Overall
31
FujiFilm FinePix S1600 front
 
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300 front
Portability
59
Imaging
37
Features
73
Overall
51

FujiFilm S1600 vs Panasonic FZ300 Key Specs

FujiFilm S1600
(Full Review)
  • 12MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 100 - 1600
  • Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
  • 1280 x 720 video
  • 28-420mm (F4.0-4.8) lens
  • 337g - 110 x 73 x 81mm
  • Released February 2010
  • Additionally Known as FinePix S1770
Panasonic FZ300
(Full Review)
  • 12MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fully Articulated Screen
  • ISO 100 - 6400
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1/16000s Maximum Shutter
  • 3840 x 2160 video
  • 25-600mm (F2.8) lens
  • 691g - 132 x 92 x 117mm
  • Revealed July 2015
  • Old Model is Panasonic FZ200
Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

FujiFilm S1600 vs Panasonic Lumix FZ300: A Deep Dive into Small Sensor Superzooms

When it comes to selecting a bridge camera in the small sensor superzoom category, deciding between models released five years apart can be a bit tricky. The FujiFilm FinePix S1600, announced back in early 2010, and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300, introduced in mid-2015, both promise substantial zoom ranges and SLR-style ergonomics. But which is the better tool for your photographic adventures today? Having spent years testing hundreds of such cameras in various real-world scenarios, I want to walk you through a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Let's explore the core technologies and features, then assess how each machine performs across all major photography genres, from portraits to wild landscapes and high-speed sports. I'll also share my hands-on impressions regarding ergonomics, usability, and value. And, of course, the verdict that matches your uses and budget.

Size, Build, and Handling: Ergonomics in Everyday Use

Starting with the physical frame is always a good idea, since a camera you don’t enjoy holding will limit your creativity no matter how technically capable it is.

FujiFilm S1600 vs Panasonic FZ300 size comparison

Both cameras take on that classic bridge camera profile – SLR-like body and grip with a fixed zoom lens featuring a long focal reach. The FujiFilm S1600 measures 110 x 73 x 81 mm and weighs only 337g, making it highly pocketable for a superzoom with a 15x lens. The Panasonic FZ300 is larger and noticeably heavier: 132 x 92 x 117 mm, tipping the scales at 691g, roughly double the Fuji.

Why the size difference? The FZ300 packs a lens with a whopping 24x zoom and a constant F2.8 aperture, plus a more robust, weather-sealed body. You'll feel these qualities in hand: the Panasonic communicates a solid, professional heft that inspires confidence, especially for outdoor and travel use. The Fuji is lighter and more compact but decidedly plasticky, which suits casual photographers or those valuing portability.

Ergonomically, both offer SLR-style grips, but the FZ300's button layout and larger thumb rest make one-handed shooting easier and natural. The Fuji’s controls are simpler, aligned with its 2010 vintage and aimed at beginners.

FujiFilm S1600 vs Panasonic FZ300 top view buttons comparison

Looking from the top reveals a familiar mode dial on each, but the FZ300 stands out with a comprehensive set of physical controls - including a dedicated AF mode switch and an electronic viewfinder with 1440k-dot resolution and 100% coverage, versus the Fuji’s more basic EVF with unspecified resolution and 99% coverage.

In summary: The Fuji is the lightweight starter’s choice, while the Panasonic appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate solid build, extensive control, and weather resistance for serious fieldwork.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

No matter how flashy the lens or body, image quality usually boils down to sensor tech and processing engines.

FujiFilm S1600 vs Panasonic FZ300 sensor size comparison

Both cameras employ a 1/2.3-inch sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm with around 12 megapixels. The FujiFilm relies on an older CCD sensor, common in 2010-era compacts, while the Panasonic features a CMOS sensor paired with its Venus Engine processor - standard for 2015 superzooms.

How does this affect image quality? In practical terms, the CMOS sensor in the FZ300 offers better dynamic range, lower noise at higher ISO, and faster readout speeds beneficial for burst shooting and video. The Fuji’s CCD, though respectable for basic daylight snaps, struggles as ISO climbs past 400, revealing noticeable grain and color shifts.

Speaking of ISO, the Fuji caps at ISO 1600 max native sensitivity, with no boosted ISO options, while the Panasonic extends comfortably to ISO 6400, maintaining cleaner images. RAW shooting is supported only on the Panasonic, allowing more creative post-processing latitude - a big advantage if you care about image fidelity.

Comparing resolution, both cameras max at 4000x3000 pixels, but image quality nuances come through in detail reproduction and noise management, where the FZ300 is noticeably superior thanks to newer hardware.

The Display and User Interface: Your Window to the World

The rear screen and EVF interface largely dictate your shooting experience. Both cameras have a 3-inch display, but the FZ300’s screen has 1040k dots - much sharper and clearer than Fuji’s low-res 230k dot panel. Not only that, the FZ300’s screen is fully articulated and touchscreen-enabled, which makes shooting at odd angles or navigating menus effortless.

The Fuji offers a fixed screen with no touch capabilities, typical of its era and price point. Its on-screen menus are straightforward but lack the polish of later models.

FujiFilm S1600 vs Panasonic FZ300 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

In terms of viewfinders, Panasonic’s bright EVF with high resolution and 100% field coverage gives you a true representation of your scene, vital for precise composition, especially in bright daylight. Fuji’s viewfinder is serviceable but less detailed.

If you prioritize comfort and shooting flexibility - think self-portraits, macro low angles - the Panasonic’s articulating touchscreen wins hands down.

Autofocus and Speed: Capturing the Moment

Autofocus (AF) performance is crucial across many genres such as wildlife, sports, and street photography.

The FujiFilm S1600 uses a contrast detection AF system, without face or eye detection features and no tracking whatsoever, which makes it suitable mostly for static subjects or controlled environments.

By contrast, the Panasonic FZ300 sports a significantly advanced AF system with 49 focus points, touch AF, continuous AF tracking, face detection, and selective AF modes. In my testing, the FZ300 locked focus quickly and accurately on moving subjects even under low light; a testament to its improved processor and AF algorithms.

And when it comes to burst shooting, Fuji manages a paltry 1 fps continuous shooting rate, limiting your ability to capture rapid action or fleeting moments. The Panasonic excels here with 12 fps continuous shooting, a massive advantage for sports, wildlife, or any fast-paced scenario.

Lens and Zoom Capability: Reach and Brightness

What’s a bridge camera without an impressive zoom?

The FujiFilm S1600 carries a 15x fixed lens equivalent to 28-420mm with variable aperture ranging from F4.0 to F4.8. Decent reach for casual use but the aperture is relatively narrow, meaning less light capture especially at the telephoto end.

Panasonic packs a much more versatile 24x zoom covering 25-600mm equivalent focal length with a constant bright aperture of F2.8 throughout the zoom range. This is rare and highly valuable, enabling consistent exposure and better subject isolation at all focal lengths.

For macro enthusiasts, Panasonic’s minimum focus distance is just 1cm - significantly closer than Fuji’s 2cm - allowing you to capture fine details with ease.

Image Stabilization: Shaky Hand Savior

Both cameras incorporate image stabilization, but the techniques differ. The Fuji uses sensor-shift stabilization to counteract small movements, helpful given the long telephoto reach.

Panasonic implements optical image stabilization integrated in its lens assembly - a more effective system known for better performance, especially at longer focal lengths or video shooting.

The net effect: Panasonic delivers steadier frames in low light and when zoomed in, reducing blur and enhancing sharpness.

Flash and Low-Light Performance

Both cameras come with a built-in flash, but with different capabilities.

Fuji’s flash range maxes out at 4.4 meters, while Panasonic’s goes up to 8.8 meters (at auto ISO) - double the distance, essential for indoor or night shots without external lighting.

Additionally, the FZ300 supports external flash units, adding versatility, whereas the S1600 does not.

Combined with the Panasonic’s superior high ISO performance, you’ll find it far more capable for dimly lit environments and night photography.

Video: From Casual Clips to 4K Quality

Both cameras support video recording, but look very different in capabilities.

FujiFilm’s S1600 delivers HD at 1280x720 pixels and 30fps, recorded in Motion JPEG format. This is a low-resolution, somewhat outdated codec generating large files, with no professional options like manual audio input or stabilization.

Panasonic takes video seriously: 4K UHD (3840x2160) recording at 30p and 24p, Full HD at up to 60fps, plus advanced codecs (MPEG-4, AVCHD). It also features 4K photo mode for effortless still captures, built-in microphone input for better audio control, and optical stabilization that smooths handheld footage.

If video is on your list, Panasonic eclipses the Fuji by a wide margin - no contest.

Connectivity and Storage

In connectivity, the FujiFilm S1600 falls short: no wireless features, no HDMI, and only USB 2.0 for transfer, reflecting its entry-level positioning and age.

The Panasonic FZ300 adds built-in Wi-Fi, letting you remotely control the camera via smartphone or instantly share images. It also offers HDMI output, useful for tethered shooting or external monitors.

Both cameras use a single SD/SDHC slot, but the Panasonic expands compatibility to SDXC cards, supporting larger, faster media.

Battery Life and Power Management

The Fuji relies on four AA batteries, which are easy to find worldwide but add bulk and inconsistent power longevity compared to dedicated batteries.

Panasonic powers the FZ300 with a proprietary lithium-ion battery rated for approximately 380 shots per charge - typical for mirrorless and bridge cameras, delivering longer operational time with less weight.

Going Beyond Specs: Real-World Performance Across Genres

Now, let me pull together these specs and experiences and break down how each camera fares in various common photographic genres.

Portrait Photography

Here, accurate skin tone rendering, eye detection AF, and pleasing bokeh matter.

The FujiFilm S1600 lacks face or eye detection autofocus, making sharp portraits harder unless subjects hold still. Its variable aperture and smaller sensor limit background blur, resulting in flatter images.

The Panasonic FZ300, however, includes face detection and fast AF that locks sharply on eyes, even in lower light. The bright, constant F2.8 aperture delivers a more attractive depth of field separation for softly blurred backgrounds, enhancing subject isolation. You’ll appreciate this when shooting portraits.

Landscape Photography

Landscape shooters demand detail-resolving power, wide dynamic range, and weather-resistant gear for field conditions.

While both have identical sensor sizes and resolutions, the Panasonic's improved sensor and processor deliver better dynamic range and less noise in shadows, crucial for high-contrast scenes.

The FZ300’s weather sealing - dustproof and splashproof - is a real boon when shooting outdoors in challenging conditions. The Fuji has no such protection.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Speed counts.

FujiFilm’s sluggish 1 fps burst and slow AF hamper tracking moving animals or athletes. Panasonic's 12 fps continuous shooting, touch AF tracking, and quick focusing make capturing decisive moments easier.

Moreover, the longer 600mm telephoto on the Panasonic is a distinct advantage for distant wildlife.

Street Photography

Discretion, rapid AF, and portability come into play.

The Fuji’s compact size and lightweight build are pluses, but the slow focus and viewfinder limitations may frustrate fast-paced candid work.

The Panasonic's size is bulkier but delivers much faster AF and the articulating touchscreen helps with low-angle and inconspicuous shooting.

Macro Photography

With a 1cm minimum focus distance and postfocus capability (letting you select focus after shooting), Panasonic dominates. Fuji’s 2cm minimum and no focus bracketing make close-ups more rigid.

Night and Astro Photography

Panasonic’s maximum ISO 6400, coupled with better noise control, makes night scenes more feasible. Fuji maxes at 1600 with noisier outputs.

Long exposures and bulb modes on both are limited; nevertheless, the Panasonic’s broader shutter range and ISO sensitivity offer greater versatility.

Video Responsibilities

I’ve alluded to this - Panasonic’s 4K video, hybrid AF, and onboard mic jack make it a powerful hybrid still/video camera.

Fuji’s modest 720p video suits casual users only, disadvantaged by rudimentary codecs and lack of stabilization in video mode.

Travel Photography

Here, size, versatility, battery life, and durability are key.

Fuji’s compactness is tempting for airplane carry-ons, but limited features and poor weather sealing could limit exploration.

Panasonic’s bulk is offset by excellent zoom range, bright aperture, robust build, and longer battery life - a more travel-ready companion if you’re willing to carry the extra weight.

Professional Work and Workflow Integration

Panasonic supports RAW files, enabling deeper post-processing workflows professionals demand, while Fuji does not.

Build quality, reliable autofocus, and secure lens performance make the FZ300 a better choice if your work depends on consistent results.

Final Word: What Fits Your Photography?

When I look across all categories and real-world use cases after extensive hands-on testing, the choice comes down to your priorities and budget.

  • If you seek an ultra-affordable, lightweight point-and-shoot with a respectable zoom for casual family photos or travel, the FujiFilm S1600 fits well. Its simple controls and modest price ($129.99) lower the barrier of entry. However, low-light behavior, slow AF, and video limit creative latitude.

  • If you demand versatility, speed, weather sealing, robust video features, and image quality – and are willing to invest significantly more ($597.99) – the Panasonic Lumix FZ300 is superior across the board. It provides a powerful all-in-one solution for enthusiasts wanting to shoot portraits, wildlife, landscapes, and video with confidence.

Ultimately, the FZ300 offers better longevity due to newer technology, while the S1600 can still satisfy absolute beginners or those on a tight budget.

For Those Who Want a Quick Summary:

Feature FujiFilm S1600 Panasonic Lumix FZ300
Sensor 12MP CCD, 1/2.3" 12MP CMOS, 1/2.3"
Lens Zoom Range 28–420mm (15x), variable F4.0–4.8 25–600mm (24x), constant F2.8
Image Stabilization Sensor-shift Optical
Autofocus Contrast Detect, no face/eye 49 points, face detection, tracking
Continuous Shooting 1 fps 12 fps
Video Resolution 720p, Motion JPEG 4K UHD, AVCHD/MPEG-4
Screen Fixed, 3" 230k dots (non-touch) Fully articulated, 3" 1040k dots, touchscreen
Weather Sealing No Dustproof, splashproof
Weight 337g 691g
Battery 4x AA batteries Proprietary Li-ion
Price (as of review) ~$130 ~$600

Wrapping Up

I hope this detailed head-to-head sheds light on where each camera shines and where it falters. Having tested both extensively in studios, wilderness, and urban settings, I've come to appreciate each for what it is.

If your budget and Lightroom workflow allow, the Panasonic FZ300 is the clear winner for serious imaging on the go, also offering future-proof features in video and connectivity. Meanwhile, the FujiFilm S1600 remains a charming, no-frills companion for simple snapshots with respectable zoom capability.

Whichever you choose, these cameras prove that small sensor superzooms continue to carve their niche by blending compact convenience with extended reach. Happy shooting!

If you want to see these cameras in action side-by-side, check out my sample galleries above and peruse the comparisons - my hands-on experiences can help you feel confident about your next purchase.

Thanks for reading, and do let me know in the comments which camera matches your photography ambitions!

FujiFilm S1600 vs Panasonic FZ300 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for FujiFilm S1600 and Panasonic FZ300
 FujiFilm FinePix S1600Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300
General Information
Make FujiFilm Panasonic
Model type FujiFilm FinePix S1600 Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300
Also referred to as FinePix S1770 -
Type Small Sensor Superzoom Small Sensor Superzoom
Released 2010-02-02 2015-07-16
Physical type SLR-like (bridge) SLR-like (bridge)
Sensor Information
Chip - Venus Engine
Sensor type CCD CMOS
Sensor size 1/2.3" 1/2.3"
Sensor dimensions 6.17 x 4.55mm 6.17 x 4.55mm
Sensor area 28.1mm² 28.1mm²
Sensor resolution 12MP 12MP
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Maximum resolution 4000 x 3000 4000 x 3000
Maximum native ISO 1600 6400
Minimum native ISO 100 100
RAW support
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Touch focus
AF continuous
AF single
Tracking AF
Selective AF
AF center weighted
Multi area AF
AF live view
Face detection focusing
Contract detection focusing
Phase detection focusing
Total focus points - 49
Lens
Lens mount type fixed lens fixed lens
Lens zoom range 28-420mm (15.0x) 25-600mm (24.0x)
Maximal aperture f/4.0-4.8 f/2.8
Macro focusing distance 2cm 1cm
Crop factor 5.8 5.8
Screen
Type of screen Fixed Type Fully Articulated
Screen sizing 3 inches 3 inches
Screen resolution 230 thousand dots 1,040 thousand dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch function
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder Electronic Electronic
Viewfinder resolution - 1,440 thousand dots
Viewfinder coverage 99% 100%
Features
Lowest shutter speed 8s 60s
Highest shutter speed 1/2000s 1/16000s
Continuous shooting rate 1.0fps 12.0fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manually set exposure
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Set WB
Image stabilization
Integrated flash
Flash distance 4.40 m 8.80 m (at Auto ISO)
Flash modes Auto, On, Off, Red-eye, Slow Syncro Auto, auto w/redeye reduction, forced on, forced on w/redeye reduction, slow sync, slow sync w/redeye reduction, forced off
Hot shoe
AE bracketing
WB bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment metering
Average metering
Spot metering
Partial metering
AF area metering
Center weighted metering
Video features
Video resolutions 1280 x 720 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps) 3840 x 2160 (30p, 24p), 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 30p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p)
Maximum video resolution 1280x720 3840x2160
Video file format Motion JPEG MPEG-4, AVCHD
Mic port
Headphone port
Connectivity
Wireless None Built-In
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environment sealing
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 337 grams (0.74 pounds) 691 grams (1.52 pounds)
Dimensions 110 x 73 x 81mm (4.3" x 2.9" x 3.2") 132 x 92 x 117mm (5.2" x 3.6" x 4.6")
DXO scores
DXO All around rating not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth rating not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested not tested
DXO Low light rating not tested not tested
Other
Battery life - 380 photos
Style of battery - Battery Pack
Battery ID 4 x AA -
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 sec) Yes
Time lapse feature
Type of storage SD/SDHC SD/SDHC/SDXC card
Card slots 1 1
Price at launch $130 $598