FujiFilm XP10 vs Sony WX350: Compact Cameras for Different Missions

When it comes to choosing a compact camera, the diversity in designs and intended uses is striking. Today, we pit two distinct models side-by-side: the FujiFilm FinePix XP10 - a rugged, waterproof compact aimed at adventure shooters - against the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX350, a sleek superzoom compact made for high versatility and travel. Both have humble beginnings but cater to niche demands. I’ve spent significant hands-on time with each, testing their mettle across various photographic tasks, so let’s dive into a detailed comparison that speaks to enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Handling and Ergonomics: Compact but Contrasting Philosophies

The Fuji XP10 and Sony WX350 share similar compact footprints, but their design ethos reveals their priorities.

Fuji XP10: Rugged Utility in a Compact Frame

At 96x64x23 mm and weighing a mere 135g, the XP10 is incredibly lightweight and pocketable. Its body exudes a robust vibe with environmental sealing against water, dust, shock, and freeze conditions. This waterproofing (up to a few meters) makes it a perfect companion for hikes, beach trips, and any scenario that might wreck a typical camera.

However, the XP10 is minimalistic. The fixed 2.7-inch screen is low resolution (230k dots), and the button layout foregoes dedicated dials or rich customizability - understandable given its target market. It lacks a viewfinder and sports no touchscreen, but the controls remain straightforward, designed to be operable with gloves or wet fingers.

Sony WX350: Streamlined Versatility with a Richer Experience

In contrast, the WX350 measures 96x55x26 mm and weighs around 164g, slightly heavier but sporting a larger and higher-resolution 3-inch LCD screen (460k). This enhances image review and composition in the field.

Sony’s design favors a more traditional point-and-shoot feel with a reasonable grip and approachable controls. It lacks rugged weather sealing, so it’s more suited for urban, travel, and everyday photography rather than harsh conditions.

The Sony’s build strikes a balance between portability and usability, offering a clear ergonomic edge for users wanting an all-around pocket zoom that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or screen quality.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: From Modest to More Ambitious

Both cameras employ 1/2.3” sensors sized at 6.17x4.55 mm (28.07 mm²), typical of consumer compact cameras, but their sensor types and resolutions differ significantly.

Fuji XP10’s CCD Sensor – Limited but Serviceable

The XP10 houses a 12MP CCD sensor, a technology popular in the early 2010s for delivering sharp images at moderate ISOs, with good color rendition but limited dynamic range and noise performance. It maxes out at ISO 1600, but realistically, images degrade around ISO 400-800.

Lacking RAW support constrains post-processing flexibility. Coupled with an anti-alias filter, fine details can be slightly softened - a trade-off for moiré control at this sensor size.

Sony WX350’s BSI-CMOS Sensor – Better Resolution and Sensitivity

Sony uses an 18MP BSI-CMOS sensor here - a more modern technology renowned for improved low-light sensitivity and dynamic range in the compact space. The WX350’s impressive max ISO of 12800 theoretically enables night shots inaccessible to the XP10; however, noise becomes a limiting factor well before that point.

Thanks to Sony’s image processing and the sensor design, images show better color fidelity, less noise, and higher resolution details, even though RAW shooting is not available, necessitating reliance on in-camera JPEGs.

When we pit images from both cameras side by side, the Sony clearly outperforms in dynamic range and noise handling, especially in challenging light conditions. The Fuji, while competent in daylight, tends to wash out shadows and highlights due to limited sensor latitude.

Lens and Zoom Capabilities: Adventure-Friendly Reach vs. Telephoto Power

Here’s where their design philosophies diverge dramatically.

Fuji XP10’s Fixed 36-180mm (35mm Equivalent), f/4.0-4.8

The XP10 provides a modest 5x optical zoom, with a focal range equivalent to 36-180mm. Reasonably versatile for casual landscapes and portraits, it’s notable for maintaining decent sharpness throughout its range at f/4.0-4.8 max apertures - typical for waterproof compacts.

However, the lens lacks image stabilization; combined with slower apertures, low-light shooting and telephoto sharpness can suffer. The macro focus range at 9 cm is usable, but detail and background separation are limited.

Sony WX350’s Impressive 25-500mm (35mm Equivalent), f/3.5-6.5 with Optical Stabilization

Sony’s offering boasts a whopping 20x zoom, from a wide 25mm to a super-telephoto 500mm equivalent. This unleashes creative freedom across genres - from expansive landscapes, tight portraits, to distant wildlife.

Despite a narrower maximum aperture at the telephoto end (f/6.5), the WX350 addresses stability concerns with optical image stabilization (OIS), a crucial feature that noticeably reduces camera shake. Autofocus speed is fairly swift for such a long zoom range.

While the lens is fixed and non-interchangeable on both, the WX350’s zoom advantage is undoubtedly a key differentiator. The WX350 thus emerges as a tool well-suited for travel and wildlife enthusiasts needing reach without bulk.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed and Precision in Different Contexts

Neither camera caters to manual focus aficionados; both rely entirely on autofocus.

Fuji XP10: A Basic AF System

The XP10 utilizes contrast detection AF, offering a single focus mode and basic tracking. There’s no face detection or assist features, limiting its utility in dynamic settings like sports or wildlife. Continuous shooting is painfully slow at just one frame per second - adequate for snapshots only.

In practical terms, autofocus feels sluggish and less forgiving in low light or fast-paced photography. Limited AF points also reduce compositional flexibility.

Sony WX350: More Advanced AF, but Still Compact-Range

Sony’s WX350 offers contrast-detection AF with face detection and tracking, improving hit rates for portraits and street photography. AF speed is reasonably fast, and continuous shooting clocks in at 10 fps - respectable for a compact, facilitating some action capture though buffer depths and lag might still pose limits.

While lacking phase-detection AF or advanced tracking seen in higher-end cameras, the WX350’s system is more responsive and user-friendly, especially in varied lighting.

Display and Viewfinder: Basics for the Fuji vs. a Sharper Sony Screen

Neither camera includes electronic viewfinders, making their rear LCDs vital compositional aids.

Fuji XP10’s Simple 2.7-inch LCD

The XP10 sports a 2.7-inch fixed LCD with 230k-dot resolution. It feels cramped and dim under bright sunlight, making framing and reviewing images challenging. Limited viewing angles and no touchscreen functionality make focusing and shooting somewhat fiddly in the field.

Sony WX350’s Larger and Clearer 3-inch LCD

Sony’s 3-inch, 460k-dot display nearly doubles the resolution, offering sharper image preview and easier navigation through menus. While not touch-enabled, the improved screen clarity greatly benefits manual framing and image review, especially when traveling or shooting in mixed lighting.

Build Quality and Environmental Resistance: Durability vs. Elegance

Fuji XP10: Rugged by Design

The XP10’s standout feature is its robust environmental sealing, making it waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and freezeproof. For hikers, beachgoers, or winter sports photographers, this reliability is a critical advantage. It’s built to perform in conditions that would deter the WX350.

Sony WX350: Lightweight and Elegant, but Fragile

Lacking weather sealing, the WX350 is more vulnerable to the elements. Its build quality feels solid enough for casual urban or travel use but demands extra care. If durability is paramount, the Fuji’s construction better fits the bill.

Battery Life and Storage Options: Endurance and Convenience

Fuji XP10 Offers Modest Battery Life

Exact shot count specs for the XP10 aren’t officially published, but given its lightweight battery (NP-45A) and limited power-hungry features, expect around 200-250 shots per charge. It uses SD/SDHC cards and has minimal USB 2.0 connectivity, making data transfer straightforward but dated by today’s standards.

Sony WX350 Boasts Excellent Battery Endurance

Sony’s NP-BX1 battery yields around 470 shots - a considerable edge. Combined with modern storage compatibility (SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Pro Duo), it’s well-equipped for extended field use, accommodating large storage needs with ease.

Connectivity and Video: Basic vs. Elevated Capabilities

Video

• Fuji XP10: Limited to 1280x720 (720p) at 30 fps in Motion JPEG, no advanced video controls or audio inputs. Video quality is serviceable for casual clips but lacks sharpness and smoothness.
• Sony WX350: Supports Full HD 1080p at 60 fps via AVCHD and MP4 codecs, offering superior video than the XP10 with smoother playback and better compression.

Connectivity

• Fuji XP10: No wireless features, HDMI, or Bluetooth. Simply USB 2.0 for image download.
• Sony WX350: Includes built-in Wi-Fi enabling remote control, image transfer, and some sharing options. HDMI output supports easy monitoring or playback on TVs.

Image Samples and Real-World Testing

To understand how these specs translate into results, I captured a variety of scenes - from landscapes and portraits to street scenes and macro shots.

FujiFilm XP10 front FujiFilm XP10 screen back Sony WX350 front Sony WX350 screen back

The Sony’s images showed notably improved clarity, vibrant colors, and better noise control, especially in shadows and low light. The Fuji’s photos tended to be softer with subdued tones.

Portraits from the WX350 benefited from face detection autofocus and better subject isolation, although both cameras are limited by lens aperture in bokeh generation.

For landscapes, the Fuji’s modest zoom was sufficient for wide scenes but lacked resolution to rival the WX350’s 18MP detail and dynamism.

Performance Overview and Scoring

When considering overall capability, the Sony WX350 pulls ahead with stronger specs across sensor quality, lens reach, autofocus, battery life, and video. The Fuji XP10's strengths lie squarely in its ruggedness and ease of use in inhospitable conditions.

Genre-Specific Performance Insights

• Portrait Photography: Sony WX350’s face detection and better dynamic range make it the stronger choice.
• Landscape Photography: WX350 edges ahead with higher resolution and zoom versatility.
• Wildlife Photography: WX350’s 500 mm zoom and faster continuous shooting make it substantially more effective.
• Sports Photography: Neither is ideal; WX350’s 10 fps is useful for amateurs, but autofocus limitations hinder professional use.
• Street Photography: WX350’s discretion, better low-light ISO, and quiet operation offer advantages.
• Macro Photography: Limited on both, but Fuji’s 9 cm macro range helps beginner close-ups.
• Night / Astro Photography: WX350’s superior ISO capabilities and longer exposures help, but neither excels here.
• Video: WX350 wins clearly with Full HD AVCHD vs. low-res Motion JPEG.
• Travel Photography: WX350’s zoom versatility, better screen, and battery life make it preferable unless rugged durability is paramount.
• Professional Work: Both limited - but WX350’s overall performance is closer to entry-level work use; Fuji’s ruggedness may suit field conditions only.

Who Should Choose Which?

Pick the Fuji XP10 If…

• You need a rugged, waterproof camera for hiking, beach, or outdoor adventure photography.
• You prioritize durability and simplicity over image quality and zoom reach.
• Your shooting is mainly casual snapshots in bright daylight scenarios.

This camera thrives where most compacts would fail, making it a dependable “go anywhere” option.

Go for the Sony WX350 If…

• You want a powerful zoom range in a pocketable compact.
• Image quality, video capabilities, and battery life matter.
• You shoot a variety of subjects from portraits to wildlife on the go.
• You appreciate features like Wi-Fi connectivity and full HD video.

It’s a flexible, all-around camera suited for travel and general photography without rugged needs.

Final Thoughts: Trade-Offs and Legacy Value

The FujiFilm FinePix XP10 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX350 represent two distinct compact philosophies rooted in their eras. The XP10’s design is an early example of true rugged compacts, prioritizing environmental resistance above all else - a niche but highly appreciated feature for specialized users. Meanwhile, the WX350, unveiled four years later, embodies the superzoom compact's rise, fueled by sensor and processing advancements that expanded versatility for the everyday photographer.

Neither camera satisfies professional demands entirely, but each holds value in its domain. Our testing confirms that sensor and lens choices, along with build and feature sets, profoundly impact photographic flexibility.

Choosing between them means aligning your priorities: Do you survive tough elements with modest image quality (XP10) or extend creative reach and quality with a less robust but technologically advanced unit (WX350)?

Given current used prices hovering around $175 for the XP10 and $270 for the WX350, budget considerations also play a role. The XP10 offers rugged durability at a bargain, while the WX350 provides a stronger feature package for more committed photographers.

For any serious photographer consulting this comparison, I recommend prioritizing Sony WX350, unless your shooting environment demands the XP10’s unique protective armor.

I hope this detailed walk-through helps clarify these two distinct cameras’ strengths and weaknesses. Feel free to reach out with any questions or share your experiences with similar compacts - after all, the best camera is one that inspires you to create, regardless of specs.

Happy shooting!