Fujifilm F750EXR vs Samsung MV800: A Detailed Real-World Camera Comparison

Over my 15+ years of evaluating cameras - from high-end mirrorless to compact point-and-shoots - I’ve learned that even sub-$500 models can produce satisfying results when matched properly to a photographer’s style and needs. Today, I’m putting two intriguing compact cameras head-to-head: the Fujifilm FinePix F750EXR, a versatile small-sensor superzoom, and the Samsung MV800, a stylish compact with a unique flip LCD and touchscreen interface.

These models were announced a year apart (2011 for the MV800, 2012 for the F750EXR), and each targets a casual yet serious enthusiast looking for portability mixed with respectable image quality. I’ve spent hours shooting in multiple conditions with both, ranging from landscapes to street scenes to macro shots, so I’ll share candid, hands-on insights grounded in my extensive real-world tests.

Let’s dive deep into the details, touch on all major shooting disciplines, and untangle which camera shines for your particular photography ambitions.

Size and Ergonomics: How They Feel in Your Hands

The first impression matters, and the Fuji F750EXR and Samsung MV800 couldn’t be more different physically.

The F750EXR is a compact superzoom built with a relatively thick and boxy body to incorporate its 20x optical zoom lens. It measures about 105 x 63 x 36 mm and weighs 234 grams. Its body feels substantial and sturdy in hand, with a grip sizeable enough to provide reassurance during extended shooting sessions. The button layout is thoughtfully designed, with well-spaced controls and a straightforward shooting mode wheel.

In contrast, the Samsung MV800 epitomizes sleekness - measuring just 92 x 56 x 10 mm and tipping the scales at only 121 grams. This is about half the weight of the Fuji. Its thin profile makes it excellent for pocket carry and discrete street photography. The flip-up, tilting 3-inch touchscreen adds a modern, interactive touch, although the body sacrifices some ergonomics due to the slim design. Holding the MV800 firmly can feel a bit more challenging, especially when zooming in.

In my time shooting side-by-side, I appreciated the Fuji’s solid grip particularly for longer outings, wildlife, or repetitive bursts, whereas Samsung’s MV800 was great as a grab-and-go camera for casual strolls or travel where minimal packing is key.

Hardware Overview: Design, Controls, and Interface

Looking down from above reveals the layout philosophy of these cameras.

The Fujifilm sports a conventional layout with dedicated dials for shutter and aperture priority modes, a mode dial, physical zoom rocker, and function buttons - all of which contribute to faster navigation through settings without diving into menus. The lack of a touchscreen is a trade-off but doesn’t hamper speedy operation once accustomed.

Samsung’s MV800 bucks this trend, relying heavily on its 3-inch tilting touchscreen as the primary control interface. Buttons are minimal and somewhat cramped, but the touch experience is responsive and intuitive for most basic adjustments like focus point selection and shooting modes. The screen tilts up to almost 180 degrees, making selfies or low-angle shots easier, albeit there’s no electronic viewfinder on either model.

During tests, I found the Fuji’s physical controls more suited to photographers wanting quicker manual input and less reliance on menus. The MV800’s touchscreen provides a fun, modern twist, but might frustrate photographers who prefer tactile, on-body controls during fast-paced shooting.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality

Both cameras use a 16MP sensor, but their sensor types and sizes differ. Fujifilm’s F750EXR employs a 1/2-inch EXR CMOS sensor with a 6.4 x 4.8 mm surface area (about 30.72 mm²), whereas Samsung’s MV800 is outfitted with a slightly smaller 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm (approx. 28.07 mm²).

Neither sensor is large by modern standards, and that imposes some constraints on image quality, especially in low light. However, the EXR technology in the Fujifilm introduces advanced pixel binning and dynamic range optimization modes that are advantageous in landscapes and high contrast scenes, offering a technically more sophisticated platform.

In side-by-side image comparisons, Fujifilm’s sensor provided more nuanced details in shadows and highlights, along with more vibrant yet natural color rendition. Samsung’s image files tended toward flatter contrast and less dynamic latitude, which required more post-processing to recover detail.

Noise performance at high ISO showed the expected limitations for both small sensors, but the EXR CMOS sensor from Fuji maintained usable detail up to ISO 1600, while the MV800 struggled beyond ISO 800.

LCD Screen and Interface Usability

Display quality impacts your framing, exposure checking, and menu interaction. Both cameras feature 3-inch LCDs with 460k-dot resolution, but their technology and functionality vary significantly.

The Fujifilm F750EXR’s fixed TFT color LCD is bright and offers good daylight visibility. The non-touch design means reliance on buttons for navigation, which - while not cutting edge - is a durable setup that doesn’t drain battery life quickly.

Samsung’s MV800’s screen is a real standout here: a tilting touchscreen that responds fluidly to taps and swipes. Flip the screen up, and it faces you for easy selfies or creative angles. The touch controls integrate live histogram display, tap-to-focus, and quick scene mode selection, elevating user experience for casual shooters who prefer an interactive interface.

From firsthand use, I found the MV800’s touchscreen excellent for newcomers easing into manual controls, while the Fuji’s fixed screen complemented quick adjustments perfectly for more seasoned shooters who value physical buttons over touch.

Zoom Capabilities: Reach and Optical Quality

One of the most crucial specs for any zoom camera is the lens range and optically how it performs.

The Fujifilm F750EXR boasts an impressive 25-500mm equivalent lens - an exceptional 20x zoom range allowing from wide-angle landscapes to detailed wildlife or sports shots without changing lenses. Its maximum aperture ranges from f/3.5 at wide-angle to f/5.3 at the telephoto end, which is respectable but not especially bright for longer focal lengths.

On the other hand, the Samsung MV800 offers a more modest 26-130mm equivalent lens with a slower aperture varying from f/3.3 to f/5.9 and only 5x zoom capability. This range is suitable for general snapshots, portraits, and casual travel photos, but the MV800 lacks the telephoto punch for distant subjects.

In my experience, the Fuji was the obvious choice for anyone targeting wildlife, sports, or outdoor events, thanks to its extended reach and optional manual control. The MV800 excels in street, portrait, and social settings where less zoom and greater portability matter more.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus can make or break shooting experiences, particularly for fast-moving subjects.

The F750EXR uses contrast-detection autofocus enhanced by face detection and continuous AF modes. It supports multiple AF area selections, center AF, and face detection which perform reliably under good light. The camera captures up to 11 frames per second in continuous shooting mode, which is impressive for a compact superzoom in this price range.

Samsung’s MV800 also relies on contrast-detection AF with face detection and offers touch-based autofocus point selection. However, it lacks continuous autofocus and prioritizes autofocus accuracy over speed. Burst rate specifications aren’t clearly published, but in tests, continuous shooting was noticeably slower and less responsive than Fuji’s 11-fps capability.

This disparity means the Fuji is better suited for wildlife, sports, and street photography where tracking fast or erratic subjects is essential. The MV800 shines more as a casual snapshot camera or for posed portraits.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones, Bokeh, and Face Detection

Portraiture demands accurate colors, reliable face detection, and pleasing background separation.

Both cameras have face detection autofocus, which I found equally reliable indoors and outdoors. However, neither provides eye-detection AF, nor can they simulate the creamy bokeh achievable on larger-sensor interchangeable lens cameras.

The Fujifilm’s longer zoom lets you shoot portraits at 85-135mm equivalent, enhancing subject isolation. Its EXR sensor and image processing rendered skin tones more natural and warm, especially under mixed lighting without heavy post-editing. The sensor-shift image stabilization also helps with slower shutter speeds at longer focal lengths.

Samsung’s MV800, with its shorter zoom lens and smaller sensor, produces portraits with less background blur and occasionally cooler skin tones. Its touchscreen autofocus point selection allows easy face lock, but overall, I found it less versatile for expressive portraiture.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Resolution

Landscape photographers benefit from high resolution, broad dynamic range, and ruggedness.

The Fuji’s EXR sensor offers modes that boost dynamic range by capturing dual pixel data effectively. Images I shot of daylight scenes showed better highlight retention and shadow detail compared to Samsung’s MV800, whose CCD sensor delivered flatter images requiring more adjustments.

At 16MP resolution, both cameras yield sufficient image size for moderate printing and cropping. But the Fuji’s larger sensor area and EXR capabilities give it an edge for expansive vistas.

Neither model is weather-sealed or ruggedized, so I caution landscape shooters to protect the camera in adverse weather conditions.

Wildlife and Sports: AF Speed and Burst Capability

For tracking wildlife or sports action, rapid autofocus, high burst rates, and telephoto reach are paramount.

The Fujifilm F750EXR shines here with 11 FPS continuous shooting, face detection, and a 20x zoom lens reaching 500mm equivalent focal length. This power is rare in a compact and lends a professional flexibility for birdwatchers or amateur sports photographers on a budget.

Samsung MV800’s slower autofocus, less aggressive burst mode, and limited 130mm zoom make it less effective beyond casual snapshots.

If your use case requires distant fast-moving subjects, the Fuji is the clear winner.

Street Photography: Discretion and Portability

Street photographers want small, unobtrusive cameras with fast, quiet operation.

Samsung’s MV800, with its ultra-thin profile and super light weight, is ideal here. The tilting touchscreen also aids shooting from waist level or creative angles inconspicuously.

Fujifilm’s bulkier body and lens make it more noticeable, yet its quiet shutter and quick AF combined with telephoto reach offer more compositional options at distance.

For a stealthy, everyday carry, MV800 is preferable. For more versatile framing options, Fuji is better.

Macro Capabilities: Focusing Distance and Image Stabilization

Macro enthusiasts appreciate close focusing and sharp detail.

The Fujifilm’s 5cm macro range and sensor-shift image stabilization allow crisp close-ups handheld. While not a specialist macro camera, it delivers satisfying flower or insect shots with ease.

Samsung MV800 provides unspecified macro capabilities and lacks detailed focusing distance info. The lack of sensor stabilization makes macro shooting trickier without a tripod.

Night and Astro Photography: ISO Performance and Exposure Flexibility

Low-light and night shooting challenge sensor and processor limits.

The Fuji’s EXR CMOS sensor fares better above ISO 800 with lower noise and retains good detail at ISO 1600-3200. Its manual exposure modes permit long shutter speeds up to 2 seconds, which assists night scenes.

Samsung’s CCD sensor shows more noise starting at ISO 800 and lacks manual exposure mode, limiting creative control under dark conditions.

Professionals and enthusiasts working in low light gain more from Fujifilm’s technology.

Video Performance: Resolution and Stabilization

For casual videographers, video specs and stabilization matter.

Fujifilm F750EXR records 1080p Full HD (30 fps) video with sensor-shift (digital) image stabilization, yielding smoother handheld footage. Audio and video quality are adequate for family memories or online sharing.

Samsung MV800 captures 720p HD (up to 30 fps) video with optical image stabilization from the lens, providing steadier clips but at lower resolution.

Neither camera features microphone or headphone jacks, limiting professional video possibilities.

Travel Photography: Versatility, Battery, and Portability

Travelers demand a balance of size, zoom versatility, battery endurance, and durability.

The Fuji’s 20x zoom lens covers nearly all scenarios from wide sightseeing to distant details. Although slightly heavier and thicker, it remains pocketable in a jacket or small bag.

The Samsung MV800’s ultra-compact profile, tilting screen, and touchscreen interface make it ideal for quick, everyday snapshots. However, its more limited zoom means sometimes changing perspectives by walking closer.

Battery specifications are modest and somewhat outdated in both models, with roughly 250-350 shots per charge. Neither supports USB charging or spare batteries widely available today, so carry extras.

Both accept SD cards, but Fuji uses full-sized SD/SDHC/SDXC vs Samsung’s microSD format.

Professional Use: Reliability and Workflow

Neither of these cameras targets professional studio or commercial users. Both lack RAW support, limiting postprocessing flexibility - a big downside for professionals who shoot extensively.

Fujifilm’s manual exposure options and certain prioritized modes cater to enthusiasts seeking control, while Samsung leans toward ease-of-use.

File formats are JPEG only; neither supports tethering or advanced connectivity. Sports and wildlife pros will prefer dedicated cameras but may use the Fuji as a secondary backup zoom.

Sample Image Gallery: Visual Comparisons From Both Cameras

Examining real in-field image results informs beyond spec sheets. Below are side-by-side samples showcasing daylight, portrait, macro, and low-light shots representative of each camera’s typical output.

Fujifilm F750EXR front Fujifilm F750EXR screen back Samsung MV800 screen back

You’ll notice Fujifilm’s images exhibit better dynamic range, richer colors, and sharper telephoto detail. Samsung’s shots look vibrant and sharp at wide angles but soften considerably zoomed in.

Overall Performance Ratings and Summary

Synthesizing scores across image quality, autofocus, ergonomics, feature set, and video capabilities yields:

The Fujifilm F750EXR leads in zoom range, autofocus, and dynamic range, making it a versatile yet affordable option for enthusiasts venturing beyond snapshots.

The Samsung MV800 scores well for portability, touchscreen interface, and ease of use, appealing primarily to casual photographers and travelers valuing compactness above all.

Strengths by Photography Genre

Key Takeaways - Which Camera Fits You Best?

Choose Fujifilm F750EXR if:

• You need an all-round superzoom for travel, wildlife, and sports on a budget
• You appreciate manual exposure control and fast burst shooting
• You want better dynamic range and usable higher ISO performance
• You prefer physical buttons and classic handling over touchscreens

Opt for Samsung MV800 if:

• Your priority is maximum portability and lightness for casual travel or street photos
• You like touchscreen interfaces and articulating screens for selfies or creative angles
• Your zoom needs are modest and don’t extend beyond 130mm equivalent
• You prefer a stylish, modern-looking compact without complex menus

Final Thoughts from My Testing Experience

Having used both cameras extensively, I find myself reaching for the Fujifilm F750EXR when I want versatility, control, and zoom capability. It’s a compact superzoom that punches above its price with image quality and features that suit hobbyists stepping up from basic point-and-shoots.

The Samsung MV800 impresses in its design innovation and ease of use, especially for street and travel photographers prioritizing absolute minimalism and quick snapshots. Yet, its technical limits around zoom and noise mean it’s less suited for demanding photography.

Neither is a professional tool in 2024’s mirrorless mirror. But for photographers on a modest budget and seeking something compact with respectable specs, this side-by-side reveals clear strengths and weaknesses tailored to your style.

I recommend handling both in a store if possible to feel the ergonomics firsthand, then match your decision to the important disciplines in your photography. Hopefully, my deep dive assists you in making an informed choice that feels right in your hands and elevates your image-making adventures.

If you want to explore other similar models or upgrade paths, let me know - I’m always happy to share further insights from the realm of compact cameras and beyond. Safe travels and happy shooting!