Fujifilm F750EXR vs Olympus FE-5010: A Comprehensive Comparison of Two Compact Cameras

Choosing the right compact camera can be surprisingly complex, even when we’re considering models released several years ago. With evolving sensor technologies, variable zoom ranges, and differing feature sets, it’s important to understand what each camera truly offers beyond the spec sheet. Today, we’re diving into a detailed comparison of two compact cameras from the late 2000s to early 2010s era: the Fujifilm FinePix F750EXR and the Olympus FE-5010.

I've spent countless hours working with a broad spectrum of compact cameras and small-sensor superzooms across various photography disciplines. Using rigorous side-by-side testing methods - covering real-world shooting scenarios, extensive lab measurements, and usability trials - I’ll break down how these two cameras measure up across key factors including image quality, autofocus performance, ergonomics, and value. Whether you’re a casual snapshooter curious about legacy gear or a collector seeking insights, this comparison aims to give you an expert’s perspective rooted in practical experience.

At a Glance: Designing for Different Priorities

Starting with their physical presence and controls, these two cameras take different routes reflecting their intended audiences.

• Fujifilm F750EXR: This model takes the shape of a compact superzoom bridge camera, measuring 105x63x36 mm and weighing 234 grams. It packs a significant zoom range (25-500 mm equivalent) and a larger 3-inch fixed LCD with reasonable resolution. Its heft suggests it’s designed for photographers who prioritize reach and image versatility over ultimate pocketability.

• Olympus FE-5010: A classic compact with an emphasis on portability, the FE-5010 clocks in smaller and lighter (96x57x21 mm, 130 grams). Its 5x zoom lens covers 36-180 mm equivalent. The smaller 2.7-inch display has noticeably lower resolution. The design reflects a straightforward point-and-shoot approach, prioritizing ease of use and size.

If you frequently shoot outdoors or prioritize travel convenience, the FE-5010’s compactness is a definite plus. However, the Fuji's bulk trades off handiness for extended zoom capacity and potentially improved handling thanks to more substantial controls, which brings me to the next point.

Handling and Interface: A Closer Look at Design Workflow

Good handling transforms the shooting experience. Controls, button placement, and interface feedback can mean the difference between missed shots and intuitive operation.

The Fujifilm F750EXR has dedicated exposure modes - shutter priority, aperture priority, manual exposure - and exposure compensation, allowing greater creative control, an unusual feature for cameras in this class and era. The button layout feels less cramped, making navigation smoother. The fixed 3-inch LCD has a good viewing angle and clarity, enhancing composition accuracy.

Meanwhile, the Olympus FE-5010 offers only fully automatic exposure modes with no manual or semi-manual control. Its user interface is simplified to appeal to entry-level users, with fewer buttons and a menu structure that's easier for novices but limits creative freedom. The lower-resolution 2.7-inch screen isn’t as precise when judging focus or exposure.

From an expertise standpoint, the F750EXR's combination of exposure modes, larger screen, and logically placed controls make it far better suited for enthusiasts who want to tinker with settings. The FE-5010 aims at quick point-and-shoot convenience - fine for snapshots, but less so for deliberate photography.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Size and Resolution Matter

Image quality is arguably the heart of any camera comparison. It’s where sensor size, resolution, and processing wisdom come together to create usable photographs.

• Fujifilm F750EXR: The heart of this camera is a 1/2-inch EXR CMOS sensor measuring 6.4x4.8 mm, giving approximately 30.7 mm² of sensor area. It captures 16 megapixels at max (4608x3456 pixels). The EXR processor is Fujifilm’s proprietary solution designed to optimize dynamic range and noise performance depending on shooting mode - smart stuff for a small sensor.

• Olympus FE-5010: Uses a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor, slightly smaller at 6.08x4.56 mm (27.7 mm²), with a maximum resolution of 12 megapixels (3968x2976 pixels). CCD tends to offer a different color signature and noise characteristics compared to CMOS but often consumes more power and lacks the sophisticated on-chip noise reduction now standard on CMOS-based sensors.

The resolution difference means more flexibility in cropping and printing for the Fuji, which also plays nicely with its superior zoom in retaining detail. The sensor size difference is subtle but still influences real-world low-light capability and dynamic range.

Image Quality in Practice

Comparing RAW or even best-processed JPEG outputs from both cameras reveals the F750EXR’s advantage especially in dynamic range and noise control. Color rendition is richer and more nuanced, benefiting from Fujifilm’s EXR mode that can sacrifice some resolution to push dynamic range or reduce noise. The Olympus imagery, though decent for casual use, shows more noise at ISO 400 and above and struggles with shadow recoveries.

Neither camera supports RAW capture, meaning JPEG processing is baked in, but Fujifilm’s processing pipelines noticeably outclass the Olympus here.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: The Need for Speed

Autofocus speed and accuracy are critical for capturing fleeting moments - be it in street scenes or wildlife.

• Fujifilm F750EXR: Features contrast-detection autofocus, augmented with face detection and continuous AF during burst shooting at a notable 11 fps (frames per second). While it doesn’t have phase-detection AF, the tracking and face detection capabilities represent well-implemented software-aided focusing for compact cameras of its generation.

• Olympus FE-5010: Also uses contrast-detection autofocus but with significantly fewer aids. It lacks face detection, continuous AF, or tracking modes, and continuous shooting speed is unavailable, making it less capable at nailing moving subjects.

In real-world tests, the Fujifilm is noticeably faster to acquire focus and track subjects across changing depths, a vital advantage for sports or wildlife photography. The Olympus is fine for static compositions but less reliable in challenging or fast scenarios.

Zoom Lenses and Focal Range: Versatility in Reach

Zoom versatility can make or break a compact camera's fun factor by enabling diverse composition without changing lenses.

• Fujifilm F750EXR: Impressive 20x zoom lens covering 25-500 mm equivalent. Aperture ranges between f/3.5 at wide-angle and f/5.3 at telephoto. This range is exceptional for a compact body, providing much latitude to capture everything from landscapes to distant wildlife.

• Olympus FE-5010: More modest 5x zoom spanning 36-180 mm equivalent, aperture f/3.5-5.6. The shorter telephoto reach limits its flexibility, especially at longer focal lengths needed for wildlife or sports.

While the Fuji's lens is slower at max zoom (which limits low-light usage), its general versatility is a major practical advantage that gives photographers broad compositional freedom. The Olympus suits everyday snapshots and short telephoto portraits but won’t substitute for a superzoom in more adventurous shoots.

Macro Performance and Close-Up Capability

If you enjoy macro or close-up photography, how close you can focus and the magnification levels matter.

• Fujifilm F750EXR: Macro focus range begins at 5 cm. Sensor-shift image stabilization helps handholdability when focusing close and at zoom.

• Olympus FE-5010: A closer minimum focus distance of just 3 cm, making it slightly better at capturing tight macro shots. Also includes sensor-shift stabilization.

For macro shooters on a budget or occasional use, the Olympus edges out in close-focus range, but I found in testing that the Fuji’s sharper lens and sensor resolution sometimes deliver slightly better detail provided good lighting.

Video Capabilities: Recording Quality and Options

Both cameras support HD video but target different quality levels and recording options.

• Fujifilm F750EXR:

  • Full HD 1920x1080 at 30 fps with MPEG-4/H.264 compression.
  • Also records 720p and 480p.
  • Lacks microphone or headphone jacks, limiting audio control.
  • No touchscreen or in-camera stabilization during video beyond sensor-shift still stabilization.

• Olympus FE-5010:

  • VGA video max - 640x480 at 30 or 15 fps, encoded in Motion JPEG.
  • Limited to very basic video functions.
  • No external mic or headphone ports, no stabilization features.

The F750EXR's 1080p capabilities deliver noticeably clearer and smoother video, positioning it as the better hybrid still/video tool especially for casual videographers. The Olympus video quality is adequate for quick clips but far from modern HD standards.

Battery, Storage, and Connectivity

Practical usability extends to battery life and storage compatibility, key for travel or extended outings.

• Fujifilm F750EXR:

  • Uses NP-50A rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
  • SSD/SDHC/SDXC memory card format with a single card slot.
  • USB 2.0 and HDMI output for easy file transfer and display.
  • No wireless connectivity (no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth).

• Olympus FE-5010:

  • Uses LI-42B rechargeable battery.
  • Supports xD-Picture Card (a niche format) and microSD (adapter required).
  • USB 2.0 port only, no HDMI.
  • No wireless features.

Battery life data is sparse, but anecdotal testing indicates the Fuji’s battery offers marginally longer shooting durations, and compatible, commonly available SD cards are a marked convenience advantage over the Olympus’s less common xD cards.

Durability and Environmental Considerations

Shooting outdoors calls for ruggedness or at least some weather sealing.

• Fujifilm F750EXR: No official weather sealing, dustproofing, or shockproof features.
• Olympus FE-5010: Interestingly, it includes basic environmental sealing, uncommon for its class, providing added protection against moisture and dust ingress.

So for casual ruggedness, Olympus FE-5010 edges out slightly - but both are primarily normal compact cameras, not intended for harsh environments without care.

Comparing Test Photos: Real-World Image Quality

Fujifilm F750EXR front Fujifilm F750EXR screen back Olympus FE 5010 front Olympus FE 5010 screen back

Side-by-side sample images reveal the Fuji produces cleaner, sharper photos with noticeably better color fidelity and dynamic range. The 20x optical zoom performs well with minimal distortion at both wide and tele shots. Images from the Olympus tend to appear softer with muted colors and suffer from increased noise at higher ISO. Its 5x zoom lens exhibits some barrel distortion at wide angle.

In portrait scenarios, the Fuji’s face detection and EXR sensor technologies help maintain pleasing skin tones and good eye sharpness, whereas the Olympus struggles occasionally with exposure consistency. Neither camera produces strong bokeh effects due to sensor size and aperture limits. However, the Fuji’s longer zoom and finer resolution provide more creative framing options.

Performance Summary and Ratings

Based on thorough testing criteria covering image quality, handling, autofocus, and features:

Specialty Photography Genres: How Do They Stack Up?

Evaluating specific photographic uses reinforces the cameras’ strengths and weaknesses:

Portraits

• Fujifilm: Wins with face detection, precise autofocus, good color, and zoom flexibility.
• Olympus: Limited by fewer focusing aids and lower resolution.

Landscapes

• Fujifilm: Larger sensor and higher resolution yield detailed landscape images.
• Olympus: Suffers in dynamic range, less ideal for vibrant scenes.

Wildlife

• Fujifilm: Superior zoom and continuous AF make it a better fit.
• Olympus: Limited zoom reach and single-shot AF hinder wildlife captures.

Sports

• Fujifilm: Burst shooting at 11 fps gives a fighting chance.
• Olympus: No continuous shooting, poor for action.

Street

• Olympus: Smaller size and lighter weight favor street photography.
• Fujifilm: Bulkier, but better image quality temptations.

Macro

• Olympus: Slight edge with 3cm close-focus.
• Fujifilm: Better detail at macro distances with sensor-shift stabilization.

Night / Astro

• Fujifilm: Higher ISO ceiling (3200 native, up to 12800 boosted) and better noise control.
• Olympus: Max ISO 1600; more noise.

Video

• Fujifilm: 1080p recording wins easily.
• Olympus: Only VGA video, limited use.

Travel

• Olympus: Small size, lightweight, good environmental resistance.
• Fujifilm: Larger but versatile zoom range, longer battery, excellent image quality.

Professional Work

• Neither is designed for demanding professional workflows, but Fujifilm’s manual exposure and richer image output offer marginally better flexibility.

Final Recommendations: Who Should Choose Which?

Choose the Fujifilm FinePix F750EXR if:

• You want substantial zoom versatility (25-500 mm), excellent image quality for a compact camera.
• Manual exposure controls and semi-manual modes matter to your shooting style.
• You shoot action, portraits, or travel photography and need faster autofocus.
• You care about Full HD video capabilities.
• You're comfortable with a slightly larger, heavier camera for more creative freedom.

Pick the Olympus FE-5010 if:

• You prioritize a ultra-compact, lightweight camera for casual, everyday shooting.
• Environmental sealing or simple handling trump advanced features.
• Your budget is tight and you’re okay with basic image quality.
• You mainly shoot in well-lit situations, casual snapshots, or want a hassle-free point-and-shoot.
• Close-focus macro shots at 3 cm are a nice bonus.

Wrapping Up: Balancing Specs, Experience, and Value

While both cameras emerge from the same era of compact photography, their design philosophies diverge sharply. The Fujifilm F750EXR aims to balance enthusiast features, a powerful zoom, and improved sensor technology, making it a versatile choice for enthusiasts on a moderate budget. The Olympus FE-5010 is a straightforward compact aimed at entry-level users or those who want lightweight gear with ruggedness at a modest price.

Neither competing series holds up to modern standards, especially with the advent of mirrorless and smartphone cameras, but understanding their nuances is essential for collectors or photographers working with legacy equipment.

Based on extensive testing with dozens of comparable cameras, I conclude the Fujifilm F750EXR is the stronger, more versatile camera that still offers useful photographic tools today. The Olympus FE-5010, while limited, shines as a pocket-friendly, durable point-and-shoot.

In this comparison, choosing between the two narrows down to whether you value creative control and zoom reach (Fuji), or lightweight simplicity and basic shooting (Olympus).

Happy shooting, whichever camera you pick!

For readers interested in exploring full specs or seeking further guidance, I recommend handling both cameras in person if possible, as comfort with controls and feel can be highly personal.

Note: All images and technical data compiled through hands-on testing, manufacturer information, and trusted photography test sources.