Fujifilm F750EXR vs. Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS5: A Hands-On Comparison of Two Compact Powerhouses

When it comes to compact cameras with superzoom capabilities, two models often surface in discussions among photography enthusiasts and casual photographers alike: the Fujifilm F750EXR and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS5 (also known as the Lumix DMC-FT5). Released about a year apart - in 2012 and 2013 respectively - these cameras target users seeking versatility in a pocketable form factor. Yet, their feature sets and design philosophies differ markedly, catering to distinct use cases and photographic priorities.

Having spent extensive hours testing both cameras under varied conditions, from urban exploration to rugged outdoor adventures, I’m ready to offer a detailed comparative review. This article dives deep into their design, technology, and real-world performance across diverse shooting scenarios - providing insights based on rigorous hands-on experience, technical analysis, and usability.

First Impressions and Handling: Size, Build, and Ergonomics

At a glance, both the Fujifilm F750EXR and the Panasonic TS5 are compact cameras tailored for portability - but the nuances quickly become apparent upon holding them. The Fujifilm is slightly smaller and thicker (105x63x36 mm, 234g) than the Panasonic (110x67x29 mm, 214g), but weight differences are minimal.

The Fujifilm’s design leans more toward typical superzoom compacts: it has a plastic but robust feel, with rubberized grips that facilitate secure holding. The Panasonic, on the other hand, is explicitly ruggedized; its body is built to withstand harsh conditions, with waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and freezeproof certifications. This added environmental sealing makes the Panasonic thicker but slightly lighter overall - a tradeoff well worth considering depending on your shooting environments.

Neither camera features an electronic or optical viewfinder, relying instead on their rear LCD displays - more on that shortly. The Fujifilm’s lens barrel extends significantly on zoom but retracts neatly for transport. The Panasonic’s zoom range is shorter, but the lens feels sturdy and well-protected against impacts or water ingress.

Control layouts differ as well. The Fujifilm F750EXR offers more traditional exposure options directly accessible, including aperture and shutter priority modes, as well as manual exposure - giving greater creative flexibility for experienced users. The Panasonic TS5 sacrifices some exposure control granularity in favor of straightforward, rugged functionality. It lacks shutter priority mode but provides manual exposure settings, which is commendable in a waterproof compact.

Neither camera has touchscreens, so navigation relies on physical buttons and dials. In practice, I found the Fujifilm’s buttons slightly more responsive and logically placed, facilitating quicker adjustments without fumbling - important when shooting fast action or in challenging weather.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Understanding sensor performance is critical - so let’s unpack the camera chips powering these models.

The Fujifilm F750EXR utilizes a 1/2-inch EXR CMOS sensor measuring approximately 6.4x4.8 mm (30.72 mm²), delivering a resolution of 16 megapixels. This sensor incorporates Fujifilm’s proprietary EXR technology, designed to optimize dynamic range or low noise by rearranging how pixels capture light, depending on shooting mode.

The Panasonic TS5 sports a slightly smaller 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor (6.08x4.56 mm, 27.72 mm²), also with 16 megapixels resolution. It lacks a specialized sensor mode but benefits from Panasonic’s proven image processing, particularly strong in noise reduction.

While both sensors carry anti-aliasing filters to reduce moiré, the Fujifilm’s EXR mode can, in theory, outperform the Panasonic in scenes with tricky lighting. Indeed, in bright landscape exposures, the F750EXR exhibited better dynamic range with more highlight retention and less clipping in shadows when EXR modes were engaged.

Conversely, Panasonic’s advantage emerges in high-ISO scenarios. The TS5’s ISO ceiling extends to 6400 natively, compared to 3200 on the Fujifilm (though the Fujifilm can boost ISO to 12800 digitally). In practice, the Panasonic produced cleaner images with less chroma noise at elevated ISOs, desirable for low-light or indoor shooting.

In terms of resolution, both achieve the same 4608x3456 pixel count, delivering commendable detail for prints up to A3 size or good digital cropping flexibility.

Autofocus and Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Versatility in Action

Autofocus systems shape usability more than almost any other feature - especially for fast-moving subjects or casual snapshots.

Both cameras rely on contrast-detection autofocus (CDAF), lacking phase-detection pixels or hybrid systems common to higher-end models.

The Fujifilm F750EXR offers single, continuous, and tracking autofocus modes, plus face detection. However, it disappointingly omits animal eye autofocus, a feature increasingly valuable for pet or wildlife shooters. Autofocus speed is average; in bright daylight, it locks focus reliably within about half a second but can lag in low contrast or low light conditions.

The Panasonic TS5, meanwhile, arguably provides a more sophisticated AF system with 23 focus points and live view autofocus, enhancing predictive tracking. Although it lacks face detection, continuous AF and tracking modes work effectively in daylight and moderately dim environments. The Panasonic’s autofocus also performed better at spotting and maintaining focus on moving subjects during testing, making it more suited for dynamic action photography.

Burst shooting speeds offer a nod to the Fujifilm with 11 fps continuous shooting versus the 10 fps on the Panasonic. Both maintain these frame rates for a short burst due to buffer limitations - but for casual action sequences, either camera offers respectable performance.

LCD Screen and User Interface: Your Window to the World

Without viewfinders, LCD quality directly impacts framing and review.

Both models have a fixed 3-inch TFT LCD with 460k-dot resolution (roughly 320x480 pixels equivalent). This is decent, though by modern standards somewhat coarse and limited in brightness. Outdoor visibility under direct sunlight is challenging on both, requiring shade or careful angling.

However, Fujifilm’s screen fares slightly better in color accuracy, beneficial for evaluating skin tones in portraits or subtle landscape hues.

Menu systems on both cameras are fairly straightforward but differ in design philosophy. Fujifilm opts for organized tabs and logical ISO/aperture menus. Panasonic’s menus emphasize quick access to rugged mode features like waterproof and freezeproof settings, plus embedded GPS functions - a bonus for travel and adventure photography.

Lens and Zoom Comparison: Exploring Your Focal Range

Here’s where their intended purposes become apparent.

The Fujifilm F750EXR boasts an incredible 25-500mm equivalent zoom (20× optical zoom) with a maximum aperture of f/3.5–5.3. Such reach opens creative doors for tight wildlife or distant architectural shots from a fixed vantage.

The Panasonic TS5 features a more modest 28-128mm equivalent zoom (4.6× optical) with slightly faster apertures at wide end (f/3.3–5.9). This shorter zoom suits landscapes, street scenes, and moderate portraits but won’t rival the Fujifilm for “reach” shots.

Both cameras excel at macro photography with a minimum focus distance of approximately 5cm, useful for close-up texture or detail work. The Fujifilm’s superior zoom range ironically necessitates more careful stabilizing to compensate for shake, even with sensor-shift stabilization. The Panasonic employs optical image stabilization, which handles shake competently through its shorter zoom.

Durability and Weather Resistance: Built for Environments

A defining feature of the Panasonic TS5 is its rugged and waterproof construction. Rated to withstand depths of up to 13m underwater without housing, its shockproof design protects against 2m drops, dust ingress, and freezing temperatures. This robustness appeals to adventure photographers, hikers, and families looking for a no-fuss camera to handle extreme environments.

In contrast, the Fujifilm F750EXR lacks any weather sealing or protective ratings - making it unsuitable for rugged outdoor use without additional care or housing.

If your plans include outdoor expeditions, beach days, underwater excursions, or environments where your camera may take a beating, the Panasonic’s durability is a clear winner.

Battery Life and Storage: Shooting More, Worrying Less

The Panasonic TS5 benefits from a quoted battery life of approximately 370 shots, supported by the proprietary DMW-BCM13 battery pack. It also provides hybrid storage options, including an internal memory buffer in addition to an SD card slot, which can be a lifesaver if you forget a memory card.

The Fujifilm F750EXR uses the NP-50A battery with unspecified official battery life - a downside when planning long outings. In my experience, you can expect fewer than 300 shots per charge, partly due to the power demands of its extended zoom lens and EXR processor. Additionally, only a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot is available, with no internal memory.

Charging both cameras requires proprietary chargers, and neither supports USB charging, so pack accordingly.

Connectivity and Extras: Sharing and Convenience

Connectivity-wise, the Panasonic TS5 offers built-in wireless features, including NFC for quick pairing with compatible devices, plus integrated GPS for geotagging images. This functionality is handy for travel photographers who want seamless image transfers or location data embedded in their shots.

The Fujifilm F750EXR lacks wireless connectivity or GPS - limiting its appeal for those who want instant sharing via smartphones or automatic geotagging.

Neither camera includes microphone or headphone ports, so their video recording capabilities are basic.

Video Capture: How Do They Stack Up?

Video options in compact cameras often take a back seat to still photography, but both cameras support Full HD recording.

The Fujifilm F750EXR records video at 1920x1080 resolution at 30fps, using MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs. The Panasonic TS5 offers the same resolution but supports 60fps for smoother motion capture - a clear advantage for sports or action video.

Neither provides 4K recording or advanced movie modes (such as focus peaking or log profiles), which is expected in this price and class.

Image stabilization helps in handheld video scenarios: Fujifilm’s sensor-shift IS operates internally, while Panasonic relies on optical stabilization within the lens module - both yield reasonably stable footage for casual users.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Let’s apply our observations to specific photographic disciplines:

Portrait Photography

• Fujifilm F750EXR shines with EXR sensor modes enhancing tonal gradations and skin tones. Face detection autofocus assists focusing on subjects, but lack of animal eye AF limits pet portraits. Bokeh at maximum apertures is moderate due to small sensor size - expect some background blur but not creamy defocus.

• Panasonic TS5 lacks face detection but maintains decent color accuracy and employs rapid continuous autofocus to catch expressions. Limited zoom range restricts framing distance for flattering headshots, but it performs well for environmental portraits.

Landscape Photography

• Fujifilm’s superior dynamic range and longer zoom are advantageous for varied compositions - from wide vistas to distant features. However, no weather sealing requires caution in inclement weather.

• Panasonic offers rugged construction and GPS tagging - useful for adventurers documenting outdoor scenes under challenging conditions. The slightly smaller sensor and shorter zoom reduce creative flexibility but output remains pleasing.

Wildlife Photography

• The Fujifilm’s massive 500mm equivalent zoom outclasses Panasonic’s 128mm, critical for distant animals. However, autofocus lag and absence of animal eye tracking can frustrate fast-moving subjects.

• Panasonic’s shorter zoom hinders telephoto wildlife shots but faster AF tracking improves capture rates for closer or larger wildlife.

Sports Photography

• Both cameras provide respectable burst rates (11fps and 10fps respectively). Fujifilm’s exposure control modes help adapt to tricky lighting on the move.

• Panasonic’s robust body can endure rough sports contexts (e.g., trail runs). However, AF speed lags slightly compared to higher-end sport-specific cameras.

Street Photography

• Panasonic edges out due to weather resistance, discrete size, and ruggedness, plus GPS for location tagging city shots.

• Fujifilm offers flexible zoom for candid framing but is less discreet and riskier in wet environments.

Macro Photography

• Both provide 5cm minimum focusing distances and comparable sharpness.

• Fujifilm’s zoom lens makes framing tight close-ups easier, but stabilization struggles on long zoom macro shots.

Night and Astro Photography

• Small sensor sizes on both cameras limit astrophotography potential.

• Panasonic’s higher native ISO ceiling and cleaner noise profile slightly favor low-light capture.

• Neither supports bulb or long exposure modes beyond 8 seconds (Fujifilm) or 60 seconds (Panasonic), restricting star trail creativity.

Video Use

• Panasonic’s 60fps Full HD is smoother but overall video quality and control are basic on both.

• Lack of microphone inputs removes professional audio options.

Travel Photography

• Panasonic’s waterproof and shockproof design combined with GPS and wireless features make it the ideal travel companion.

• Fujifilm excels where zoom reach and image quality trump durability - great for focused shooting from stable transport.

Professional Workflows

• Neither camera supports RAW image files, posing a significant limitation for professionals requiring post-processing latitude.

• File management and connection options are basic.

• Lack of viewfinder impacts usability in bright light or fast-paced assignments.

Fujifilm F750EXR front Fujifilm F750EXR screen back Panasonic TS5 front Panasonic TS5 screen back

Summarizing Strengths and Weaknesses

Who Should Choose Which Camera?

Choose the Fujifilm F750EXR if:

• You prioritize extensive zoom range, especially for distant wildlife or landscapes.
• You want more manual exposure control including shutter priority.
• A better dynamic range and color rendition are important.
• Your shooting is mostly in controlled or mild weather environments.
• You can accept no RAW format but desire solid JPEG quality for casual use.

Choose the Panasonic Lumix TS5 if:

• You need a camera that withstands harsh environments, from underwater to dusty trails.
• Video at 60fps and wireless connectivity (GPS/NFC) are valuable.
• Long battery life and a rugged, compact form factor matter for travel and adventure.
• You prefer faster autofocus with more focus points.
• You can compromise on maximum zoom for durability and ease of use.

Final Thoughts: Making a Practical Choice

Selecting between these two cameras boils down to your primary photography goals and shooting contexts.

If you’re an enthusiast who enjoys zooming into distant subjects, fine-tuning exposure, and shooting in relatively safe, dry locations, the Fujifilm F750EXR remains a viable choice despite its older technology. Its gimmick-free, zoom-heavy design offers flexibility for portrait, landscape, and wildlife shooters who want a lightweight but potent all-in-one camera.

Conversely, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS5 is a remarkably versatile rugged compact - especially appealing to travelers, hikers, and outdoor sports enthusiasts. Its waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof construction combined with GPS and wireless features speak directly to hands-on usage in challenging environments. While it sacrifices some zoom and exposure modes, it compensates with durability and smart autofocus.

Neither camera is a cutting-edge workhorse by today’s standards, but each presents a compelling, budget-friendly alternative for specific use cases.

I encourage prospective buyers to handle both cameras if possible, considering factors such as zoom requirements, ergonomic feel, and environmental exposure. Given their age and price points, you might find one at a bargain in used markets - another incentive to match your shooting style carefully with their strengths.

About the Author:
With over 15 years of professional experience testing cameras from entry-level compacts to flagship DSLRs and mirrorless systems, I specialize in offering in-depth, practical insights that empower photographers to make informed equipment decisions. My reviews derive from thousands of hours spent in studio and field testing, marrying technical rigor with user-focused evaluations.

Whether you lean toward the zoom-heavy Fujifilm or the rugged Panasonic, both cameras offer distinct pathways to creative photography in compact bodies. Choose well, and let your shooting adventures flourish!