FujiFilm S4000 vs Nikon Coolpix L810: The Budget Superzoom Showdown

When budget-conscious photography enthusiasts ask me for a versatile superzoom camera, two dependable names often pop up from the bargain bin archives - the FujiFilm S4000 and the Nikon Coolpix L810. Both released around the turn of the last decade, these bridge cameras with fixed zoom lenses offered respectable reach and image quality for well under $300. Yet, despite their similarities, a closer look reveals some meaningful differences that can tip the scale depending on your shooting style and priorities.

Having logged hundreds of hours with lightweight travel cams, ultrazoom digicams, and everything in-between, I’ve put these two under the microscope - analyzing everything from sensor tech and autofocus performance to ergonomics and real-world image quality. Alongside hands-on testing and meticulous side-by-side comparisons, this piece will strip away marketing fluff and get straight to what matters for photographers at all skill levels.

Ready? Let’s dive deep into this superzoom face-off and see which of these wallet-friendly workhorses deserves a place in your gear bag.

A Tale of Two Bodies: Size, Build, and Handling

The FujiFilm S4000 sports a classic bridge-style SLR-like body with a fixed lens offering a massive 30x optical zoom. By contrast, the Nikon L810 opts for a more compact form factor, packing a slightly shorter 26x zoom into a sleeker shell.

In-hand, the S4000 feels a bit chunkier and heavier at 540 grams, which is unsurprising given its longer 720 mm equivalent reach. It’s got those clubs-for-thumbs grips on both front and rear that make prolonged shooting less fatiguing. Controls are laid out on a substantial top deck, allowing quick adjustments without fumbling through menus.

On the other side, the Nikon L810 comes in at a featherweight 430 grams with smoother contours and a more minimalist footprint. This makes it particularly well-suited for street or travel photographers who prefer subtlety and portability. The lack of a viewfinder (more on that soon) does mean more reliance on the LCD, which shines brighter here as well.

Regarding the user interface, I appreciate Fuji’s dedicated exposure mode dial allowing quick switching between manual, aperture priority, and shutter priority modes. This will appeal to more experimentative shooters who want precise creative control. Nikon’s approach leans towards simplicity and auto-centric shooting, lacking manual exposure and shutter priority options, which may frustrate those who want to tinker with settings on the fly.

Both cameras sport fixed 3-inch LCDs, but Nikon’s 921K-dot resolution absolutely blows Fuji’s 460-dot screen out of the water in sharpness and responsiveness:

This is a huge boon for live composition, especially outdoors in sunny conditions where Fuji’s screen can feel like looking through foggy goggles.

Build and Weather Resistance

Neither camera sports weather sealing or rugged durability. That said, Fuji’s more robust body materials edged slightly more confident in casual outdoor use, while Nikon feels more delicate and vulnerable to knocks or moisture. Neither is splash or dustproof, so pack accordingly.

Summary:

• FujiFilm S4000: Larger and weightier, better ergonomics and physical controls, manual exposure options
• Nikon L810: Lighter and more compact, better LCD quality, simpler controls but no manual exposure modes

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Both models feature small 1/2.3" CCD sensors - the budget standard at the time - but there are subtle differences that affect output quality.

• FujiFilm S4000: 14 megapixels, 4288 x 3216 resolution, ISO 100-1600 native, up to 6400 boosted
• Nikon L810: 16 megapixels, 4608 x 3456 resolution, ISO 80-1600 native, no boosted ISO

Higher megapixels on the Nikon translate to slightly more image detail in ideal lighting, but it’s a tradeoff as noise performance similarly takes a hit given the tiny sensor area.

CCD sensors tend to render colors with pleasing subtlety but can struggle in low light and at higher ISOs with visible grain. Neither camera supports RAW shooting, meaning you’re stuck with compressed JPEG for all your edits.

In practice, I found Fuji’s images slightly warmer with a more classic film-like Fuji color palette, while Nikon leaned towards cooler, more neutral results. Both cameras do well at base ISO with good sharpness for web or moderate print sizes up to 8x10 inches.

Dynamic range is limited across the board - expect crushed shadows in high-contrast scenes and clipped highlights without easy recovery. This impacts landscape and shadow-heavy portrait shots more noticeably.

FujiFilm S4000 front FujiFilm S4000 screen back Nikon L810 front Nikon L810 screen back

Note how Fuji’s rendition preserves warmer skin tones more naturally, which might sway portrait shooters, whereas Nikon’s higher detail counts are evident in the neatly resolved textures on the architectural shot.

Noise and Low Light Handling

The Fuji extends ISO up to a theoretical 6400, but expect aggressive noise filtering degrading detail well before you reach that ceiling. Nikon’s limited to 1600 but maintains better image detail at the highest usable ISO. Neither is suited for demanding low light photography or night scenes without introducing heavy noise.

Summary:

• Nikon L810 edges with higher resolution and cleaner detail at base ISO
• FujiFilm S4000 delivers warmer tones and extended ISO range (though noisy)
• Both cameras limited by small sensor size, no RAW support, and modest dynamic range

Autofocus and Speed: Catching the Moment

Both cameras utilize contrast-detection autofocus (AF) with face detection, but their performance nuances are crucial for action and wildlife use.

• FujiFilm S4000: continuous AF, AF tracking, face detection, multi-area AF
• Nikon L810: single AF only, face detection, multi-area AF, no continuous or tracking AF

Fuji’s continuous AF capabilities shine when tracking moving subjects, a clear boon for wildlife or sports shooters who don’t want to miss fleeting moments. I tested the AF tracking on fast-moving pets and found it adequate, locking reliably but with an occasional hunting delay in low contrast scenarios.

Nikon’s single AF mode feels sluggish and often requires you to pre-focus or accept the risk of missed shots on moving targets. This limits its appeal for sports or wildlife photography.

Burst shooting rates are very modest on both cameras - Fuji at 1 fps and Nikon slightly faster but still slow at 1.2 fps. Neither can be considered continuous shooting powerhouses.

Summary:

• FujiFilm S4000 better suited for moving subjects due to continuous AF and tracking
• Nikon L810 shows slower autofocus, limiting action photography use
• Both cameras perform similarly poorly at burst speed for fast sequences

Zoom and Macro Performance: Flexibility at Both Ends

Superzoom or bridge cameras are prized for their vast focal length ranges, and here the FujiFilm S4000 slightly outperforms Nikon L810:

• Fuji: 24–720 mm equivalent (30x zoom) with f/3.1–f/5.9 aperture
• Nikon: 23–585 mm equivalent (26x zoom) with f/3.1–f/5.9 aperture

That extra telephoto reach on Fuji gives it an advantage for distant wildlife and some sports or event shooting scenarios where you need every millimeter of close-up power without switching lenses.

For macro photography, the Nikon offers a tighter minimum focusing distance of 1 cm versus Fuji’s 2 cm, making Nikon a better choice for close-up flower, insect, or detail shots.

Both lenses have typical superzoom compromises like softness at max telephoto and some barrel distortion at the wide end, but for casual use the results are quite reasonable.

Summary:

• FujiFilm S4000 offers longer telephoto reach - better for wildlife and distant subjects
• Nikon Coolpix L810 focuses closer for macro, improving tiny subject capture
• Both lenses have typical superzoom optical compromises but usable for general photography

Video and Connectivity: Casual Clips Only

Neither camera targets serious videographers, but they do provide basic HD recording.

• FujiFilm S4000: 1280x720 at 30 fps, Motion JPEG format, no mic input
• Nikon L810: 1280x720 at 30 fps, MPEG-4 format, no mic input

Video quality on both is simple point-and-shoot fare with limited manual options and relatively heavy compression artifacts in fast scenes. Battery life and sensor heat limit continuous recording to a few minutes comfortably.

No wireless or Bluetooth connectivity exists here, so transferring images means plugging in USB cables or removing SD cards. For the era and camera class, that’s expected but feels antiquated for today’s standards.

Summary:

• Basic 720p video, suitable only for casual clips
• No external audio inputs or advanced video features
• No wireless transfers, limiting workflow flexibility

Battery, Storage, and Practical Usability

Both cameras run on 4x AA batteries, popular for travel as these are replaceable worldwide:

• Battery life around 300 shots (typical, varies with flash and zoom use)
• Storage via SD/SDHC cards; Nikon adds SDXC support for larger cards

AA batteries mean you can keep shooting with spares easily but don’t expect marathon sessions without replacement. Neither camera has dual card slots or USB 3.0 speeds, so managing storage and transfers is fairly basic.

How Do They Perform Across Photography Styles?

Looking at the whole picture, here’s how each camera ranks against specific photography genres based on my extensive testing:

• Portraits: Fuji edges with warmer skin tones and manual exposure to finesse settings. Nikon is good for casual portraits but less adaptable.
• Landscape: Neither camera’s sensor makes for stellar dynamic range, but Fuji’s manual controls help piece together better exposures. Nikon’s higher resolution can extract fine detail in daylight.
• Wildlife: Fuji’s longer zoom and continuous AF tracking win this category. Nikon’s autofocus and shorter telephoto limit effectiveness.
• Sports: Neither is ideal; Fuji’s continuous AF gives a slight advantage, but frame rates are both sluggish.
• Street: Nikon’s compactness and lighter weight give it a slight advantage, although the lack of viewfinder can be limiting in bright light.
• Macro: Nikon’s tighter focus distance handily wins here for extreme close-ups.
• Night/Astro: Neither camera has the sensor tech or exposure tools to perform well in low light or astro shooting. Both struggle with noise above ISO 800.
• Video: Similar handshake; Fuji has Motion JPEG which is less compressed but files bloat quickly, Nikon uses MPEG-4 with marginally better compression. Neither supports advanced video features.
• Travel: Nikon’s lighter body and responsive screen make it friendly for long trips, but Fuji’s zoom versatility can cover a wider range of scenes.
• Professional Work: Neither supports RAW or advanced connectivity, limiting workflows for professional shooters. Fuji’s manual modes offer more creative control but still basic for pro use.

Overall Performance and User Ratings

Putting all criteria together, here are the performance scores as per my assessment across technical and practical factors:

The FujiFilm S4000 scores slightly higher overall due to its more versatile zoom range, manual exposure modes, and superior focusing features. Nikon L810 shines in image resolution and compactness but is held back by limited AF and lack of manual controls.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

FujiFilm S4000
Pros:

• Extended telephoto zoom (720 mm equivalent)
• Manual, aperture, shutter priority exposure modes
• Continuous and tracking autofocus
• Built-in viewfinder for composition in bright conditions

Cons:

• Heavier and bulkier body
• Lower resolution LCD screen
• No RAW support or wireless features
• Average battery life and no advanced weather sealing

Nikon Coolpix L810
Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design
• Higher resolution sensor (16MP)
• Sharp and bright 921K-dot LCD screen
• Closer minimum focus distance for macro work

Cons:

• No manual exposure modes (auto only)
• Single, non-continuous AF mode
• Shorter telephoto reach (585 mm equivalent)
• No electronic or optical viewfinder

My Personal Take: Which Camera Fits Your Photography Style?

If you’re a budget-conscious enthusiast wanting more creative control with flexible zoom and a penchant for wildlife or outdoor shooting, the FujiFilm S4000 offers a compelling package. Its manual exposure modes and continuous AF can genuinely help you push your photography further than typical point-and-shoot automatics. Just be prepared for a heavier grip and a less flashy screen.

If your priorities are a lightweight, easy-to-carry camera for casual family snaps, street shooting, or macro close-ups, and you want higher resolution photos with a stunning LCD for easy framing, the Nikon L810 won’t disappoint. It’s straightforward, simple, and convenient for travel or everyday use, but it’s less forgiving when subjects move fast or you want to take full control over exposure.

Final Verdict: Value That Speaks for Itself

For around $280, both cameras deliver excellent bang-for-buck superzoom options with understandable compromises:

Both cameras have aged, but in their day were stalwarts in affordable superzoom photography.

Closing Thoughts for the Cheapskate Photographer

I often tell photography newcomers and budget shooters alike that the “best camera” is the one that fits your hands, your shooting needs, and your wallet simultaneously. Neither the FujiFilm S4000 nor the Nikon L810 will replace your DSLR or mirrorless workhorse, but these cameras can spark creativity and satisfy a broad range of styles without demanding a mortgage.

In choosing between them, weigh how much you value manual control and telephoto reach (Fuji) against compactness and detailed resolution (Nikon). Whichever you pick, spend some time with the settings, and you’ll be rewarded with surprisingly good images for a very modest investment.

Happy shooting!

If you found this comparison useful, feel free to share it with your photography buddies or drop me questions about other camera face-offs. I’ve got a treasure trove of hands-on experience just waiting to help you find your perfect gear match!