Fujifilm F660EXR vs. Panasonic Lumix SZ10: A Comprehensive Comparison for Small-Sensor Superzoom Enthusiasts

When it comes to small-sensor superzoom compact cameras, the market often positions these devices as convenient, versatile travel companions for enthusiasts who want a lightweight option without the hassle of interchangeable lenses. Among these, the Fujifilm F660EXR and the Panasonic Lumix SZ10 stand out as two notable contenders released just a few years apart, sporting robust zoom ranges and compact builds. I’ve spent countless hours putting both models through their paces across various photography disciplines to help you decide which might best fit your needs.

Today, I’ll dive deep - dissecting every important feature with real-world testing insights and a critical eye drawn from over 15 years of hands-on camera experience. Whether you’re interested in portraiture, wildlife, landscapes, or casual travel shots, this thorough comparison will expose the strengths and limitations of each. Along the way, we’ll take into account ergonomics, sensor performance, autofocus, and even video features.

Before getting started, let's get a quick physical context for these two cameras.

Building the Foundation: Size and Handling

Size and handling are significant factors, especially when portability is important. Looking at their dimensions and weights, as illustrated above, the Fujifilm F660EXR measures 104 x 59 x 33 mm, weighing in at 217 grams, while the Panasonic SZ10 is slightly more compact at 99 x 60 x 30 mm and lighter at 177 grams. The SX10’s thinner profile translates to a somewhat less bulky presence in the pocket or bag, which might appeal to street photographers or travelers prioritizing stealth and unobtrusiveness.

Ergonomically, the furrowed grip of the Fujifilm offers a better hold during extended shooting sessions. My hands felt more secure on the F660EXR, especially at longer focal lengths where stability becomes crucial. The Panasonic, while nicely engineered, leans towards a flush, flat grip, which might not inspire as much confidence in dynamic shooting situations.

The top view comparison reveals another point: control placement. Fujifilm gives a slight edge with more accessible manual exposure controls, including aperture and shutter-priority modes - a boon for those who want more creative control without diving into full manual mode. The Panasonic SZ10, by contrast, simplifies controls considerably, removing shutter and aperture priority features altogether, which limits flexibility for the more experienced photographer, but might appeal to casual point-and-shoot users.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Both cameras feature 16MP sensors approximately sized at 1/2-inch class, which in the realm of compact superzooms is somewhat standard. However, subtle differences in sensor technology and image processing architectures have substantial effects on output.

The Fujifilm F660EXR utilizes an EXR CMOS sensor measuring 6.4 x 4.8mm with a sensor area of about 30.72 mm², while the Panasonic SZ10 employs a slightly smaller 1/2.3" CCD sensor with 6.08 x 4.56 mm dimensions and roughly 27.72 mm² area. That extra 10% sensor area in the Fujifilm translates to a modest advantage in gathering light, generally producing cleaner images, particularly in low light.

During daylight testing using standard ISO 100, both cameras perform well, delivering respectable image resolution and decent dynamic range for their classes. However, the Fujifilm noticeably handles shadows and highlights better. The EXR processor intelligently optimizes extended dynamic range without the jarring artifacts commonly found in small sensors, thanks to Fujifilm's unique sensor pixel grouping methods.

The Panasonic’s CCD sensor, though solid, shows more clipping in bright or high-contrast scenes and reveals noisier shadows as ISO climbs beyond 400. Additionally, note the Panasonic’s top native ISO is capped at 1600, compared to 3200 for the Fujifilm, offering some headroom advantage for the latter in dimmer scenarios.

In real-world landscape shots - paying close attention to foliage gradients and sky graduations - the Fujifilm’s edge in dynamic handling is clear. It preserves color gradations and detail where the Panasonic’s output sometimes falls flat or slightly muddy.

User Interface and Rear Screen Experience

Both models feature 3-inch screens with 460k-dot resolution. However, a key difference in form is the Panasonic SZ10’s tilting screen, offering flexible angles for shooting in difficult positions (low or overhead), while the Fujifilm’s display remains fixed.

For photographers who frequently shoot at waist level, or those capturing in awkward angles like street photography or macro work, that tilt function is a distinct advantage. The Panasonic also supports live view autofocus with continuous and single modes, whereas the Fujifilm’s live view lacks touchscreen controls, limiting some real-time exposure and focus adjustments.

Yet, the Fujifilm’s menus and control layout, despite the static screen, feel slightly more intuitive for enthusiasts. It provides greater tactile control through dedicated buttons and dials, allowing faster adjustments without hunting through digital menus - a crucial factor when time is limited.

Interestingly, a lack of touchscreen input on both cameras may discourage some, but it’s understandable in this entry-level compact zoom category, aiming for cost-effectiveness and battery preservation.

Autofocus Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus (AF) performance is a lifeline for any compact camera aiming to serve diverse photography needs, from wildlife to sports. Both cameras use contrast-detection autofocus systems, though implemented differently.

The Fujifilm F660EXR boasts continuous autofocus and face detection enabled by contrast detection but lacks phase detection elements or focus tracking for moving subjects. It does provide an 11fps continuous shooting mode, which is impressive on paper, although practical burst sustainability is limited due to slower buffer clearing.

The Panasonic SZ10 offers continuous and single AF modes with face detection, but its continuous shooting rate is much slower - about 1.4fps - making it less suited to capturing fast action sequences. The SZ10’s AF tracking is non-existent, limiting its utility for wildlife or sports photography where moving subjects are common.

In hands-on testing, the Fujifilm felt decidedly quicker and more responsive, holding focus reliably during panning shots at telephoto zooms. The Panasonic, while accurate for still subjects, occasionally struggles with focus hunting when trying to track subjects moving rapidly toward or away from the camera.

Evaluating Zoom Ranges and Lens Characteristics

Zoom versatility is often the primary selling point of these models - both utilizing fixed zoom lenses that cover wide to telephoto ranges with respectable reach.

• Fujifilm F660EXR: 24–360mm equivalent (15x zoom), max aperture f/3.5–5.3
• Panasonic SZ10: 24–288mm equivalent (12x zoom), max aperture f/3.1–6.3

The Fujifilm’s 15x zoom is a clear advantage in framing composite wildlife or sports shots without needing to get too close. Its lens also retains a comparatively wider maximum aperture, especially at telephoto, aiding in maintaining shutter speeds and creating background separation.

That said, both lenses exhibit typical superzoom compromises: softness and vignetting wide open, especially in the corners. Stopping down by 1 or 2 stops mitigates image softness, but at the telephoto end, expect some loss in sharpness compared to prime lenses.

For macro photography, the Fujifilm claims a close focus of 5cm, which allows detailed close-ups with decent magnification. The Panasonic does not specify a macro focus range, and in practice, struggles to reach critical close distances; this makes Fujifilm the stronger choice for shooters who delight in detail-rich close-ups - think flower or insect photography.

Image Stabilization: Sensor-Shift vs. Optical

Both cameras incorporate image stabilization to offset handshake - essential for superzoom models, which magnify even slight hand tremors.

• The Fujifilm F660EXR features sensor-shift stabilization, which moves the sensor itself to counteract camera shake.
• The Panasonic SZ10 employs optical image stabilization, adjusting lens elements to stabilize the image projected onto the sensor.

During my testing, sensor-shift stabilization on the Fujifilm proved more effective across focal lengths and in low light, permitting shutter speeds up to 2-3 stops slower than usual without noticeable blur. Panasonic’s optical IS works well but felt slightly less consistent at longer zoom ranges, where handshake becomes more pronounced.

Neither system is perfect, and both cameras depend heavily on steady hands or a tripod for slower shutter speeds - especially when shooting indoor or twilight scenes.

Flash and Low Light Usability

Integrated flashes on these cameras are basic but functional.

• Fujifilm’s built-in flash covers a range of roughly 3.2 m wide and 0.9 m telephoto, offering multiple modes including red-eye reduction and slow sync; the Panasonic’s flash has a longer range at 5.2 m but fewer modes.

In dim environments, the Fujifilm better controls noise through higher ISO options (up to 3200 native, 12800 boosted), coupled with EXR sensor benefits. The Panasonic maxes out at ISO 1600 native, limiting exposure latitude.

Still, at ISO 800 and above, noise becomes visible on both models, as we’d expect from small sensors. So reliance on flash or supplemental lighting remains critical for serious low-light photography.

Video Capabilities in Practice

For videographers considering these cameras as casual video recorders, here’s how they stack up:

• Fujifilm F660EXR shoots Full HD 1080p at 30 fps using efficient H.264/MPEG-4 encoding.
• Panasonic SZ10 maxes out at 1280x720p (HD) at 30 fps, using Motion JPEG, a less compressed format resulting in larger file sizes and increased noise.

The Fujifilm records smoother, higher-resolution footage with better compression efficiency, making it preferable for casual video vignette work. Neither camera offers microphone ports, headphone jacks, or in-body audio control; so for quality sound, external gear is necessary.

Neither model supports modern video features such as 4K recording, image stabilization during video, or advanced frame rate options, so video functionality is firmly basic.

Additional Aspects: Connectivity, Storage, and Battery Life

Connectivity influences workflow and convenience:

• The Fujifilm F660EXR lacks wireless features but includes GPS for geotagging - a useful plus for travel photographers logging locations.
• Panasonic SZ10 features built-in wireless (Wi-Fi), facilitating straightforward image transfer to smartphones or cloud services, but lacks GPS.

Battery life also factors into prolonged shooting:

• Fujifilm: about 300 shots per charge (NP-50A battery)
• Panasonic: approximately 200 shots, a bit on the lower side

Both cameras utilize SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with a single storage slot. Fujifilm’s higher battery capacity aligns with its more advanced features and improved usability over extended sessions.

Who Will Benefit Most? Use-Case and Genre-Specific Performance

Neither the Fujifilm F660EXR nor the Panasonic SZ10 aims to replace high-performance APS-C or full-frame cameras, but their place lies in providing versatile, budget-friendly superzoom solutions.

Here’s a breakdown of their strengths across key photographic disciplines:

Overall Performance and Value: Our Expert Ratings

Considering all aspects from sensor performance to ergonomics, I compiled an overall assessment informed by prolonged testing.

In sum, Fujifilm F660EXR emerges as the more capable model, with greater flexibility, better image quality, and improved autofocus and video. Its slightly greater bulk is outweighed by enhanced control and build.

The Panasonic SZ10 presents a lighter, more straightforward superzoom suitable for casual users and travelers who prize convenience over creative control.

Real-World Image Quality: A Gallery Walkthrough

Let’s put some of these features into visual context. Below is a curated gallery featuring raw JPEG outputs from both cameras, under similar shooting conditions.

Fujifilm F660EXR screen back Panasonic SZ10 front Panasonic SZ10 screen back

Notice how the Fujifilm sample exhibits sharper details, richer tonal gradations, and more effective noise control in shadow regions. The Panasonic’s images are softer with slightly subdued color saturation - a testament to its more basic processor and CCD sensor.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

So, which camera deserves your attention?

• Choose the Fujifilm F660EXR if:

  • You want the most out of a small-sensor superzoom, with strong image quality and versatile controls
  • You shoot portraits, wildlife, or landscapes seriously and require manual exposure modes
  • You frequently record Full HD video and want GPS for travel logging
  • You don’t mind a slightly larger and heavier body for better ergonomics

• Choose the Panasonic SZ10 if:

  • Portability and ease of use top your priority list
  • You are a casual photographer or traveler aiming for a simple, ready-to-go superzoom
  • Wireless image transfer is essential for quick sharing
  • You accept modest video quality and slower autofocus as trade-offs for light weight and compactness

While both cameras are quite dated now, they fulfill distinct niches. The Fujifilm F660EXR feels like a mini enthusiast's tool, perfect for those who want creative options within a compact package. The Panasonic SZ10 is more beginner-friendly and designed for snapshots and family travel with minimum fuss.

Methodology and Testing Notes

Our review involved side-by-side shooting under controlled conditions and field scenarios over multiple days, including indoor, outdoor, daylight, low light, and fast-action environments. We measured shutter response times, autofocus accuracy using standardized charts and moving targets, battery performance in automatic and power-save modes, and video stability.

These hands-on tests were accompanied by detailed image analysis using RAW file proxies when available (note: both cameras lack RAW support) and JPEG output examination at 100% crop to assess sharpness, noise, and artifacting.

This empirical approach ensures our opinions arise from direct experience bolstered by industry-standard evaluation techniques.

Summary Table for Quick Reference

In conclusion, both cameras offer interesting entry points to small-sensor superzoom photography, though I strongly prefer the Fujifilm F660EXR for those who demand more from their gear and don’t mind the incremental weight and complexity. The Panasonic shines when lightness and simplicity are paramount.

Hopefully, this detailed comparison has illuminated the right choice for your photographic goals. If you want further hands-on guidance or lens system advice, feel free to ask - I’ve spent thousands of hours testing cameras just like these!

Happy shooting!

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