Fujifilm F200EXR vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3: An In-Depth Look at Two Small Sensor Compacts

Choosing a compact camera that genuinely fulfills your creative and practical photography needs can be a challenge, especially when comparing cameras from different generations and design philosophies. Today, I’m diving deep into two small sensor compact cameras - the Fujifilm F200EXR (released in 2009) and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 (introduced in 2013). Both aimed at budget-conscious users wanting all-in-one solutions with versatile zooms and simple operation, but what separates them in real-world shooting? And which one deserves your money and trust?

I've personally spent extensive hands-on time with cameras in this category, and I’ll guide you through their technical specs, operational feel, image quality nuances, and who each model suits best. Let’s begin with an immediate look at their physical footprint and handling.

First Impressions: Size, Ergonomics, and Handling

One of the first things I test when evaluating any compact camera is how it feels in the hand during actual shooting. Ergonomics often fly under the radar but make all the difference during extended use.

As you can see, the Fujifilm F200EXR measures roughly 98 x 59 x 23 mm and weighs about 205 grams, making it somewhat chunkier and heavier than the smaller, lighter Panasonic SZ3 which sits at 95 x 56 x 22 mm and only 126 grams. Holding both, the SZ3 feels slightly better balanced for quick street snaps or travel due to its lighter weight, but I appreciate the F200’s firmer grip and more substantial body, especially when using longer zoom extensions.

The F200EXR's extra heft contributes to perceived stability, which I found helps during slower shutter speeds and macro work. If you prefer a grab-and-go compact without feeling the camera is flimsy, the F200EXR edges out slightly here. But if pocketability is critical, the SZ3’s slimness is an advantage.

Moving on to controls…

Neither camera offers manual focus rings or external dials (typical for compacts), but the Fujifilm’s top plate includes aperture priority and manual exposure modes - rare for cameras in this budget and size niche. This means photographers who want more creative control without lugging a DSLR might appreciate the F200EXR’s flexibility.

The Panasonic SZ3 sticks to full auto and program modes only, favoring simplicity over complexity - which will appeal to beginners who just want point-and-shoot ease.

The Heart of the Image: Sensor Technology and Image Quality

Sensor specs and processing determine the core image quality. While both cameras employ small CCD sensors, there are notable differences.

The Fuji’s sensor is a 1/1.6" (about 48 mm² area) 12-megapixel CCD, whereas the Panasonic carries a smaller 1/2.3" (27.72 mm²) 16-megapixel CCD. At first glance, more megapixels on the Panasonic suggest finer detail, but its significantly smaller sensor size means each pixel is tinier, usually resulting in higher noise and reduced dynamic range in practical shooting.

Through repeated lab and field testing, I expect Fuji’s larger sensor and lower pixel density will deliver cleaner images with better color fidelity - especially under challenging lighting - despite its fewer megapixels.

Both cameras have antialiasing filters to minimize moiré, but none support RAW shooting. I personally find this a limitation for enthusiasts who like to wring the best from post-processing. The Fujifilm’s manual exposure and aperture priority modes somewhat mitigate this, letting you optimize exposure heading into JPEG rendering, but you are ultimately limited by JPEG compression.

In real-world shooting, I found that the Fujifilm's CCD excels in mid to low ISO clean images thanks to its larger photosites. The Panasonic’s sensor, with smaller pixels cramped into a tinier space, produces noisier results above ISO 400 quickly.

LCD Screen and User Interface: Live Feedback Matters

Having a clear and responsive display can greatly assist composition and review on the go.

Neither model offers touchscreens or articulating displays, but both provide 230k-dot fixed-type LCDs with live view - fairly standard for their era and class.

The Panasonic's 2.7" TFT LCD is about average; the fixed Fuji 3.0" screen is slightly larger and more comfortable for framing. However, the lack of coverage specs means you won’t get advanced info overlays on either, and the small size limits reviewing fine focus details in the field.

I recommend investing in a small hood or using live histogram review when using either camera, as these screens do struggle in direct sunlight.

Zoom Range and Lens Performance: Versatility on Demand

Zoom flexibility can be a deal-breaker depending on your photography style.

• Fujifilm F200EXR: 28-140 mm equivalent (5× zoom), aperture f/3.3-5.1
• Panasonic SZ3: 25-250 mm equivalent (10× zoom), aperture f/3.1-5.9

The Panasonic’s longer 10× zoom is very attractive if telephoto reach is your priority - in wildlife, sports or travel scenarios, that extra reach lets you capture distant details without cropping.

The Fuji’s 5× zoom offers a more standard range but retains slightly faster aperture at the tele end, meaning it will perform better in lower light and deliver crisper images with less diffraction.

Lens sharpness is roughly comparable at wide-to-normal zoom settings, but the Fuji has noticeable edge softness at extremes. Panasonic’s longer zoom range introduces more distortion and chromatic aberration near 250mm, visible in detailed scenes. Neither camera offers optical features like aspherical element count to push image quality beyond their sensor limits - they’re budget compacts after all.

Autofocus Systems: Speed and Accuracy Under Pressure

An often underestimated subject, autofocus (AF) can truly define your experience with casual or fast-paced shooting.

Both cameras employ contrast-detection autofocus, a standard for compacts entry-level zone. However, their implementations differ:

From my testing, the Panasonic SZ3 autofocus feels slightly more consistent, especially in light conditions where subject contrast is moderate to high. The 23-point system offers better area coverage and tracking; the continuous AF and AF tracking modes give it a slight edge in keeping moving subjects in focus.

The Fujifilm’s AF performs well in bright conditions but lacks tracking, which can be frustrating for shooting anything in motion - sports, wildlife, or kids running about. The manual exposure mode is a plus for intentional photographers but likely won’t help focus speed.

For street photography or casual portraits - things don’t move too fast - the difference is less severe, but Panasonic’s system definitely shines in action shooting.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Speed Range: Catching the Decisive Moment

Neither camera is a speed demon, but knowing their capabilities helps set expectations.

Both cameras provide moderate shutter speed ranges for typical daylight to low-light exposure flexibility. The Fujifilm’s 8-second slowest shutter speed is a definite plus for night or creative low-light shots (think light painting or slow motion blur). The Panasonic’s 60 seconds is impressive and opens creative possibilities beyond what you expect from a basic compact.

On the burst front, neither camera is suited for fast sports or wildlife sequences. Fujifilm’s specs leave burst speed unclear but undoubtedly slow; Panasonic tops out at a sluggish 1 fps, unsuitable for action but good enough for casual snapshots.

Flash and Low Light Capabilities

Integrated flash can be lifesaving indoors or in poor lighting. Here’s the snapshot:

Fujifilm’s sensor-shift stabilization is useful, offsetting some motion blur from camera shake, especially helpful at telephoto zoom or handheld macro shots. Panasonic’s optical IS is standard but equally beneficial.

High native ISO sensitivity maxes out higher on the Fuji (12800) compared to Panasonic (6400), but keep in mind how noisy images get before you reach these maximum ISOs.

In side-by-side low light testing, the Fuji delivers slightly better image cleanliness at ISO 800 and below, but both cameras exhibit noise and softness creeping in quickly at higher ISOs.

Neither camera includes face or eye AF, which limits low light focusing reliability on people, but their AF assist lamps rarely fail indoors.

Video Shooting: A Budget Compact’s Moving Image Options

Today, even basic compacts are expected to offer competent video recording.

The Panasonic SZ3 provides a clear advantage here with HD 720p video capability versus the Fujifilm's VGA-resolution only. Video quality on the SZ3, while modest, is usable for casual clips.

Neither camera supports external microphones, and both use Motion JPEG - a relatively inefficient codec with large files and limited editing flexibility.

If video is a priority, Panasonic’s SZ3 is the better choice, although I would still advise considering a more recent dedicated hybrid camera for serious video.

Battery Life and Storage Flexibility

How many shots and hours of use you can squeeze out impacts real-world convenience.

I find the Panasonic SZ3's battery life decent for casual use, covering a full day of intermittent shooting without recharge.

Strangely, Fujifilm's battery life isn’t well documented but FCC filings and community reports suggest moderate endurance, limited by the power demands of sensor-shift IS.

Panasonic’s acceptance of SDXC (not available on the Fuji) offers future-proofing for larger storage and longer shooting sessions.

Putting It All Together: Who Should Choose Which?

Let’s summarize the main points:

Fujifilm F200EXR Strengths:

• Larger 1/1.6” sensor with lower pixel density yields better low-light images and dynamic range.
• Sensor-shift IS stabilizes photos effectively.
• Manual and aperture priority modes offer creative control rare at this level.
• Slightly bigger display size.
• Faster max aperture at telephoto end.
• Longer slow shutter speed option for night/astro creativity.

Fujifilm F200EXR Weaknesses:

• Lower max video resolution.
• No raw support limits post-processing control.
• AF lacks tracking and can be slower.
• Heavier and bulkier for travel or street discreetness.
• Uses xD PictureCard alongside SD, an outdated and scarce format.

Panasonic SZ3 Strengths:

• Longer 10× zoom for telephoto needs.
• 16MP resolution for fine detail (with some noise caveats).
• HD video recording up to 720p.
• AF tracking mode supports action shooting.
• Compact, lightweight, perfect for travel and street.
• Uses modern SD/SDHC/SDXC cards.
• Better battery life documentation, internal storage option.

Panasonic SZ3 Weaknesses:

• Smaller sensor leads to noisier images in low light.
• Limited exposure modes (no manual or shutter-priority).
• Less effective optical stabilization compared to sensor-shift.
• Slower shutter range on the slowest side.
• Minimal continuous shooting speed.

Real-World Photography Use Case Comparison

To help you gauge which fits your photography style better, I’ve ranked their genre strengths based on hands-on experience:

• Portraits: Fuji leads with better color and noise control.
• Landscapes: Fuji’s sensor size again dominates with dynamic range.
• Wildlife/Sports: Panasonic’s longer zoom and AF tracking make it preferable, despite image noise.
• Street Photography: Panasonic’s size and weight advantage tip the scale.
• Macro: Both cameras equal given identical 5cm macro focus.
• Night/Astro: Fuji’s longer slow shutter wins.
• Video: Panasonic wins hands-down.
• Travel: Panasonic’s lighter body and higher zoom range edge out Fuji.
• Professional Use: Neither suited for pro work but Fuji’s manual modes offer better control.

Sample Images: Seeing is Believing

Below are sample shots from each camera side by side - in daylight, indoor, and low light conditions - demonstrating colors, detail, noise, and bokeh quality (where applicable).

Fujifilm F200EXR front Fujifilm F200EXR screen back Panasonic SZ3 front Panasonic SZ3 screen back

Notice the Fujifilm images have slightly richer tones and smoother gradients. Panasonic’s telephoto shots can capture distant subjects but at the cost of noticeable softness and chromatic aberrations.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

If you value creative control, slightly better image quality, and plan to shoot portraits, landscapes, or nighttime scenes - and don’t mind sacrificing size/weight and video capabilities - the Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR remains a solid choice despite its age.

Conversely, if you want the ultimate portable all-in-one for casual, travel, wildlife, and video with ease of use, friendly battery life, and extended zoom coverage on a tighter budget, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 fits the bill.

Both cameras represent intelligent cost-conscious compromises with distinct emphases. Neither replaces a modern mirrorless or DSLR in image quality or advanced features, but for beginners or backup shooters craving versatility, these remain credible options.

For enthusiasts considering upgrades: consider cameras with larger sensors (APS-C or Micro Four Thirds) and true manual control for more serious photography. But within their class and price, each model serves a different lifestyle and photographic intent, so weigh your priorities carefully before settling.

Thanks for joining me on this thorough comparison. If you need specific advice on lenses or accessories to complement either camera, or thoughts on bridging from compact to mirrorless, feel free to reach out. Happy shooting!