FujiFilm Finepix Z90 vs Samsung TL320: Ultracompact Showdown for the Informed Photographer

In the ultracompact camera arena, where pocketability meets usability, choosing the right tool can feel like navigating a crowded bazaar. Both the FujiFilm Finepix Z90 (a.k.a. Finepix Z91) and the Samsung TL320 (also marketed as WB1000) represent notable entries from 2011 and 2009 respectively, targeting casual photographers who crave simplicity without completely sacrificing control. But what exactly are you getting with each, and how do they measure up under the weight of real-world photographic demands?

Having spent ample time with both cameras in varied settings - from museum galleries and city streets to impromptu wildlife glimpses - I’ll unpack their technologies, handling, image qualities, and fit for different photographic needs. For enthusiasts and professionals hunting a secondary or travel-friendly snapper, this thorough head-to-head should illuminate which might merit shelf space.

First Impressions: Size, Feel, and Controls

At first glance, both cameras look textbook ultracompacts: small, pocketable, and streamlined. The FujiFilm Finepix Z90 clocks in at 95x57x20 mm and weighs a mere 133 g with battery, emphasizing slimness and lightness. The Samsung TL320 is slightly bulkier at 97x61x21 mm - not a massive difference, but tangible in-hand. The Fuji’s thinner profile favors ultra-minimalist carry, while the Samsung’s modest heft contributes to a bit more substance, which can translate to steadier grips in use.

Ergonomically, the two let us contrast straightforward versus slightly more control-laden designs. FujiFilm’s layout is austere, leaning heavily on a touchscreen interface - a 3.0-inch, 230k-dot TFT touchscreen - sparing physical buttons and dials, which is a double-edged sword (more on this later). Samsung opts for non-touch interaction with a 3.0-inch, 460k-dot screen, featuring a more traditional button-and-dial interface, including dedicated shutter speed and aperture controls.

The TL320’s greater button count and manual exposure options hint at a camera courting more technical users. Fuji’s touchscreen simplicity suits casual snapshots but risks frustrating enthusiasts who prefer tactile immediacy. For street photography, Samsung’s interface lends itself to rapid adjustments without peering too long at menus, while Fuji’s touchscreen can distract from sensing decisive moments.

Both lack viewfinders, relying fully on rear LCDs, which ties into handling preferences in bright sunlight - an Achilles heel for ultracompacts that we’ll explore in the screen section.

Sensors and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

The sensor specs for both cameras are surprisingly close, but subtle differences sway the scales in actual shooting. Both employ 1/2.3-inch CCD sensors - a size typical for ultracompacts of their generation with inherent limitations on dynamic range and high ISO performance compared to larger APS-C or Micro Four Thirds sensors.

In terms of resolution, FujiFilm edges ahead with 14 megapixels compared to Samsung’s 12, theoretically offering tighter detail reproduction. Though slight on paper, in practice, the extra resolution helps crop flexibility in landscapes or portraits without overly compromising noise levels.

Conversely, Samsung’s sensor has slightly better baseline sensitivity starting at ISO 80, with Fuji’s minimum ISO at 100. This is a marginal advantage but can help in very brightly lit scenarios or optimizing dynamic range across exposures. Both max out at ISO 3200, but in typical ultracompact fashion, usable ISO tops out far lower to avoid noisy, mushy results.

Color science varies too. FujiFilm cameras have long been praised for their film simulation modes and color rendition, imparting more immediate pop and nuanced skin tones. However, in this budget ultracompact, the effect is muted but still noticeable. Samsung’s color output tends more toward neutrality and cooler tones but can require post-processing tweaks for vibrant portraits.

In real-world shooting under daylight or shade, I found Fuji’s images to deliver slightly crisper micro-contrast and better detail retention. Samsung held its own in neutral scenes but occasionally struggled with exposure latitude in challenging lighting.

Lens and Optical Characteristics

The fixed lenses of these ultracompacts self-limit creative freedom but play a pivotal role in versatility and image sharpness since neither camera supports interchangeable glass.

FujiFilm’s slightly longer telephoto reach gives it an edge for capture scenarios requiring moderate zoom - street candid moments or environmental portraits come to mind. Samsung starts wider at 24mm, beneficial for landscapes and interiors needing more context.

Samsung’s lens boasts a notably faster maximum aperture at the wide end (f/2.8 vs f/3.9), an advantage for low-light snaps and achieving shallow depth of field. That said, the slower telephoto end caps at f/5.8, narrower than Fuji’s f/4.9. In day-to-day practice, Samsung’s wider aperture contributes to cleaner, brighter images in dim conditions but with more vignetting near edges at wide zoom.

Both lenses include sensor-shift image stabilization, critical for handheld shooting here. FujiFilm’s system felt slightly more effective in my hands, reducing blur from shake noticeably at longer focal lengths. Samsung’s stabilization is competent but less assertive, necessitating slower shutter speeds for very crisp frames.

On the close-up front, Samsung’s lens focuses down to 5cm, nearly half the distance of Fuji’s 9cm minimum focus, granting more convincing macro capability. If detail hunting on flowers or small subjects is in your plan, Samsung is the preferred option.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance

Focusing speed and accuracy naturally influence capturing decisive moments. Both cameras rely on contrast-detection AF with no dedicated phase detection - typical for compact models of their vintage.

FujiFilm supports touch autofocus with face detection disabled, whereas Samsung integrates face detection but lacks touchscreen; its focusing system is more traditional.

The FujiFilm camera offers single, continuous, and tracking AF modes, usable via touchscreen interface. While the tracking AF can help maintain focus on moving subjects, I noted it often hesitated in low contrast environments, slowing responsiveness. Continuous AF at 1 fps is sluggish compared to mirrorless or DSLR standards but typical for this category.

Samsung’s face detection autofocus is surprisingly snappy in good light and with relatively high contrast subjects. It lacks continuous AF and tracking but compensates with faster initial focus lock times - the kind of speed helpful for snapshots of friends and fleeting street moments.

Neither camera excels for sports or wildlife photography, but Samsung’s AF responsiveness and wider aperture lend it slight preference for quick imaging demands.

Display and User Interface: Touchscreen Versus Traditional

For ultracompacts, LCD quality is critical since no viewfinder is present.

Samsung’s higher-resolution screen means sharper image previews and more precise menu navigation, especially welcome for assessing focus and exposure in the field. Fuji’s touchscreen is responsive but less crisp visually, making fine-tuning exposure or focusing trickier.

From a usability perspective, Fuji’s touchscreen adds convenience in selecting AF points or swiping menus but lacks tactile feedback, which sometimes forces you to peck multiple times. With Samsung, dedicated physical buttons and dials allow quicker adjustments under pressure and reduce inadvertent settings changes - a boon for on-the-move shooting.

The absence of viewfinders on both models is a limiting factor for bright conditions outdoors. Fuji offers no evidence of anti-reflective treatments, while Samsung’s brighter screen is somewhat easier to view but still struggles in direct sun.

Video Capabilities: Entry-Level HD Recording

Both cameras provide basic video recording features typical of circa 2010 ultracompacts.

Neither camera excels in video beyond casual snapshooting for family or travel memories. Fuji’s video at 720p/30fps is serviceable but prone to noise in low light. Samsung offers multiple frame rates at 720p, providing more flexibility but with similar quality constraints.

No external audio inputs and lacking 1080p or higher resolution limits appeal for serious video is a consistent shortcoming. Image stabilization helps reduce shake during handheld filming but cannot substitute for modern hybrid autofocus or higher resolutions.

Battery Life and Storage

Ultracompacts often endure criticism for battery stamina, and here both cameras perform near the minimum threshold.

FujiFilm’s NP-45A battery claims approximately 220 shots per charge - modest for day trips but enough for brief outings with spare batteries recommended. Samsung doesn’t specify battery life, but user reports confirm roughly 200-250 shots per charge, comparable.

Both utilize SD/SDHC storage, with Samsung adding support for MMC and MMCplus cards, an archaic but once-common standard. A single slot each keeps expanding storage flexible but means cautious data management during longer shoots.

Durability and Build Quality

Neither camera offers environmental sealing or ruggedized protection - no waterproofing, dustproofing, shockproofing, or freezeproofing.

Build quality is solid for pocket cameras but with a plastic feel. Fuji’s lighter weight can feel fragile to some, while Samsung’s extra heft imparts a more reassuring grip. Neither survives harsh conditions or rough handling well.

Travel photographers and casual users should consider protective cases for both models if intending use beyond gentle urban or indoor environments.

Sample Images and Genre-Specific Performance

To visualize practical output, I tested both cameras across popular photography genres:

FujiFilm Finepix Z90 front FujiFilm Finepix Z90 screen back Samsung TL320 screen back

Portrait Photography

• FujiFilm: Produces warmer skin tones and slightly more natural bokeh given the f/3.9 aperture on the wide end. Touch AF helps place focus on the center eye but no dedicated face or eye detection.
• Samsung: Face detection autofocus performs admirably here, consistently locking onto faces quickly. Shallower f/2.8 aperture at 24mm aids background separation but softness is noticeable at wide apertures.

Landscape Photography

• Resolution and dynamic range are limited by sensor size but Fuji’s 14MP gives a slight advantage in detail retention. Samsung’s 24mm wide angle is more versatile for expansive scenes but stopped down corners show softness.
• Neither camera sports weather sealing, so cautious shooting outdoors in marginal weather is advised.

Wildlife Photography

• Neither camera is ideal due to slow autofocus and weak burst rates.
• Fuji’s lens reach to 140mm offers more framing flexibility for distant subjects, but slow 1fps continuous shooting hinders capturing action.
• Samsung’s faster AF helps in grabbing occasional bird-in-flight shots but limited zoom is restrictive.

Sports Photography

• Fast-moving subjects challenge both cameras’ autofocus and buffer capacity.
• Samsung’s single-shot AF and exposure-priority modes lend limited control.
• Fuji’s continuous AF and tracking modes exist but perform sluggishly.

Street Photography

• Samsung’s more tactile controls and faster AF assist in quick candid captures.
• Fuji’s touchscreen and minimalistic design favor snapshots but slow AF responses can miss fleeting moments.
• Both cameras maintain low profiles but Fuji’s thinner design is less obtrusive in social settings.

Macro Photography

• Samsung’s 5cm macro focusing superiority enables closer, sharper close-ups.
• Fuji’s 9cm minimum focus leaves macro shots less compelling, but stabilization aids handheld work.

Night and Astro Photography

• Both struggle with noise at ISO beyond 800, limiting use for astrophotography.
• Fuji’s slightly higher megapixels do not compensate for noisy shadows.
• No specialized exposure modes for long exposures.

Video Use

• Entry-level HD video suitable for casual use.
• Samsung’s HDMI output offers external viewing benefits but no mic or headphone jacks on either.

Travel Photography

• Both cameras fit compactly in pockets or small bags.
• Battery life requires spares for longer journeys.
• Samsung’s wider angle and faster lens favor travel versatility; Fuji’s lighter weight aids portability.

Professional Use

• Neither camera supports RAW formats, limiting post-processing.
• Lack of full manual controls on Fuji and limited continuous shooting impairs professional workflows.
• Samsung’s manual exposure modes provide modest creative control.

Performance Ratings and Value

When broken down by photographic disciplines:

Samsung edges FujiFilm slightly in autofocus and handling, especially favoring more technical users seeking manual options underlying casual simplicity. Meanwhile, FujiFilm’s sensor resolution and lighter form tilt appeal toward ease and portability.

Who Should Consider Which?

Choose the FujiFilm Finepix Z90 if…

• You prize pocket-friendly size without bulky heft.
• You prefer touchscreen operation and simple point-and-shoot workflows.
• Your primary use is casual photography, light travel snapshots, and family portraits with a focus on convenience.
• You value slightly higher resolution for general photography and moderate zoom reach.
• You’re budget conscious; Fuji tends to retail at a lower price point (~$220).

Choose the Samsung TL320 if…

• You want more manual exposure controls and faster AF responsiveness.
• You value physical buttons and dials over touchscreen for fast adjustments.
• Macro photography is of interest with closer focusing capability.
• You desire a slightly wider wide-angle lens for landscapes and interiors.
• You don’t mind a slightly bulkier camera for better grip and optical quality.
• Budget is flexible with street prices around ~$380.

Final Thoughts: Two Dogs with Different Tricks

To sum it up, the FujiFilm Finepix Z90 and Samsung TL320 stand as competent but limited ultracompact cameras, products of an era when point-and-shoot simplicity still reigned before smartphone cameras matured to today’s standards.

FujiFilm’s lightweight, touchscreen-first design targets casual users valuing simplicity and portability. Its sensor favors a bit more detail and better zoom reach, but limited manual controls and modest screen resolution constrain fine control.

Samsung TL320 serves photographers desiring a bit more exposure flexibility and faster AF performance, paired with a more traditional ergonomic layout. Its wider angle and closer macro focusing expand creative possibilities, making it a stronger all-rounder at a premium.

Neither is ideal for demanding professional tasks, sports, wildlife, or serious videography. They do, however, cover bases well for travel, everyday snaps, and low-key street shooting.

If you seek a straightforward compact companion light enough to carry all day, the Finepix Z90 fits nicely. For the more hands-on photographer who won’t compromise on exposure control and fast responsiveness, the TL320 remains a solid pick.

I hope this deep dive clarifies their unique strengths and drawbacks grounded in real experience, helping you align your next compact camera purchase with your photographic ambitions. As always, hands-on testing remains irreplaceable - if possible, try each to see which intuitively clicks with your style.

Happy shooting!