Fujifilm F770EXR vs Nikon B500: A Hands-On Comparison of Two Small Sensor Superzooms

When it comes to small sensor superzoom cameras, choices abound. Two contenders that appeal to photographers seeking affordability combined with extensive zoom reach are the Fujifilm FinePix F770EXR, announced in early 2012, and the Nikon Coolpix B500, introduced in 2016. Though both target enthusiasts wanting versatile pocketable setups for travel and everyday use, they differ greatly in design philosophy, features, and real-world usability.

Having spent hours testing both cameras extensively - covering diverse shooting scenarios from portraits and landscapes to wildlife and even night photography - I’m ready to guide you through a detailed exploration of their strengths and compromises. Whether you’re a casual snapshooter eyeing a zoom powerhouse or a serious hobbyist balancing cost with capability, this in-depth comparison unpacks everything you need to make a confident buying decision.

First Impressions: Ergonomics and Build Quality

The initial tactile experience often sets the tone for usage comfort and handling control. The Fujifilm F770EXR is a compact, pocketable “point & shoot” style - noticeably slim and lightweight at just 234 grams and pocket-friendly dimensions of 105 x 63 x 36 mm. It’s distinctly designed for portability and ease of slip-in-and-go daily use.

In contrast, the Nikon B500 adopts a larger, bridge-style SLR-like body, weighing 541 grams and measuring 114 x 78 x 95 mm. It’s chunkier and not something you’ll casually tuck in your coat pocket. The B500’s physical heft, while less discreet, offers a firmer grip and more substantial presence, suggesting a step up in handling stability and extended shooting sessions.

If you prefer a truly compact camera for quick grabs or street photography, the Fujifilm’s smaller form factor gives it an edge. On the other hand, the Nikon’s bridge camera body better facilitates long zoom reach comfort, albeit at the cost of portability.

Exploring control layouts reveals further philosophy differences - the F770EXR embraces minimalism with fixed controls and no dedicated electronic viewfinder. Its top plate hosts basic dials and a single function button, which may limit fast manual adjustments in dynamic shooting. The Nikon B500 compensates with a more complex, DSLR-inspired control cluster, including a zoom lever surrounding the shutter release and physical dials, potentially speeding up operational responsiveness.

Neither offers an electronic viewfinder - both rely fully on LCD screens for composition, which we’ll examine next.

Displays and Interface: The Window to Your Image

The Fujifilm’s 3.0-inch TFT LCD screen boasts a modest 460k-dot resolution fixed in place. It’s serviceable under controlled indoor lighting but struggles with sunlit outdoor reflections - a drawback if you rely solely on LCD framing.

Conversely, Nikon’s 3.0-inch display ups the ante with 921k dots and a tilting design, significantly aiding versatility for shooting at high or low angles. The screen’s higher resolution delivers a crisper preview, crucial for confirming focus, especially at extreme telephoto zooms.

Neither camera offers touchscreen functionality, meaning menu navigation remains button-driven. The B500’s larger interface and tilting screen provide better overall usability, especially for live view detailed compositions or video work.

Sensor Specifications and Image Quality: What Lies Beneath

Both cameras employ small sensors typical of compact superzooms, but with subtle differences.

While sensor size differences might seem minuscule on paper, the Fujifilm offers a slightly larger sensor area - about 9% more surface - which theoretically translates to better dynamic range and noise control. The EXR CMOS sensor also distinguishes itself with a unique pixel arrangement optimizing wide dynamic range and low light capture, though real-world gains depend heavily on processing.

I spent time capturing raw files on the Fujifilm and JPEG-only outputs on the Nikon. The raw files offer an advantage for enthusiasts and pros wanting to extract maximum detail and dynamic range through post-processing. JPEG quality from the B500 is decent but generally shows more aggressive noise reduction and less latitude for adjustment.

Regarding ISO performance, expect similar native capabilities up to ISO 3200, but the Fujifilm’s boosted ISO 12800 mode is mostly usable only in emergencies - as noise becomes intense. Both images struggle under low light compared to larger sensor cameras but perform adequately for casual use.

Zoom Lens and Optical Performance: Reach and Versatility

The Fujifilm F770EXR sports a 25-500mm (20x optical zoom equivalent) f/3.5-5.3 lens. The Nikon B500 offers a whopping 23-900mm (40x zoom equivalent) f/3.0-6.5 lens. On paper, the B500 doubles the telephoto reach, opening doors to wildlife and distant sports photography.

But zoom reach isn’t everything - optical quality and handling matter hugely. The Fujifilm lens benefits from wider aperture at the telephoto end (f/5.3 vs f/6.5), allowing slightly better light gathering. Its minimum macro focus range is 5cm, respectable but not class-leading.

The Nikon B500 impresses with a close focusing distance down to 1cm in macro mode - excellent for tight detail shots. However, the very long lens barrel affects balance, especially handheld at full telephoto, unless countered with stabilization.

Both cameras use optical image stabilization. Fujifilm’s sensor-shift IS helps stabilize almost all focal lengths with decent results, while Nikon’s system is also effective but can show limitations at extreme zooms.

Autofocus System: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Neither camera features phase-detection autofocus; both rely on contrast detection AF, which is slower but common in compact cameras.

The Fujifilm offers face detection and continuous autofocus modes, with some tracking capabilities, but autofocus can hunt in low light or fast-moving scenes. The B500 improves on continuous AF tracking and adds selective AF area settings for refined focus control, plus live view AF.

In my tests, the B500’s AF was generally faster and more reliable, especially for wildlife or sports where subjects move unpredictably. The Fujifilm struggles chasing fast subjects, resulting in more missed shots in burst mode despite a higher continuous shooting speed (11 fps vs. 7.4 fps). However, the B500’s lower burst rate sometimes bottlenecks sustained action sequences.

Neither supports animal eye AF, a feature increasing in importance for wildlife photographers today.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Speed: Capturing the Critical Moment

The Fujifilm FinePix F770EXR impresses a burst shooting mode topping 11 frames per second - a commendable figure for a compact superzoom. Its shutter speed maxes out at 1/2000s, sufficient for freezing moderate to fast movement in good light.

The Nikon B500 caps burst at 7.4 fps and offers faster maximum shutter speed of 1/4000s, beneficial in bright light or for more precise motion freezes.

Despite Fujifilm’s higher fps, the Nikon’s more consistent autofocus during bursts generally yields better keeper rates in real-world moving subjects such as sports or wildlife.

Video Capabilities: Recording Flexibility and Quality

Both cameras shoot Full HD 1080p video up to 30 fps (Fujifilm) or interlaced 60i/p (Nikon), using H.264 compression.

Nikon’s B500 offers more frame rate options at HD resolutions and includes stereo sound recording. However, neither camera supports external microphones or headphone jacks, limiting professional audio control.

Stabilization during video is supported optically in both, but the B500’s slower zoom transition and heft can introduce slight handshake during handheld pans.

While neither camera supports 4K or slow-motion video modes, their video output is adequate for casual clips or travel vlogging.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery Life

Connectivity marks a clear divide between the two cameras.

The Fujifilm F770EXR lacks wireless connectivity such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth but includes built-in GPS - a valuable feature for geo-tagging photos without additional devices.

Nikon’s B500 bucks earlier trends with built-in Bluetooth (no Wi-Fi), enabling wireless transfer to phones or remote snapping with Nikon’s SnapBridge app. It doesn’t support GPS.

Regarding power, the F770EXR uses a proprietary NP-50A lithium-ion battery. Exact battery life figures were not official but generally offer moderate shoot counts given its compact size.

The Nikon B500 runs on accessible AA batteries (4x), offering remarkable endurance with claims of approximately 600 shots per set - advantageous for travels where recharging convenience is limited.

Storage options are identical - both support standard SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards and include a single slot.

Performance Across Photography Genres

Let’s zoom into functional performance across key photography types, helping illustrate use-case suitability.

Portrait Photography

• Fujifilm F770EXR: The EXR sensor produces pleasant skin tones, helped by Fujifilm’s color science pedigree. Face detection works, but no eye detection limits precision focusing on critical subject features. Aperture maxes at f/3.5 to f/5.3 mean limited bokeh - background blur is soft but not creamy.

• Nikon B500: Face detection and selective AF give better chance at sharp eyes, though aperture is narrower (f/3.0-f/6.5), limiting background separation. Color rendering is neutral, leaning toward natural but less warm tones.

Verdict: Both cameras are suitable for snapshots and casual portraits. For controlled portraiture, neither matches interchangeable lens cameras but Fujifilm has a slight edge in color warmth.

Landscape Photography

• The Fujifilm’s slightly larger sensor and RAW support enable greater dynamic range and post-processing latitude - important in tricky light. Its 20x zoom covers moderate landscape focal reach with decent sharpness.

• Nikon’s 40x zoom extends framing options impressively, but smaller sensor and JPEG-only output reduce image fidelity in high contrast situations. Tilting screen aids composition at awkward angles.

Neither is weather sealed, so landscape outings in severe conditions require care.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• Nikon’s longer 900mm reach delivers distinct advantages at capturing distant subjects, and better autofocus tracking supports sports and wildlife motion shooting. Burst rate is lower, but yield is higher due to AF reliability.

• Fujifilm’s 500mm max limits framing distant action, and slower AF hinders tracking small, fast creatures.

Both cameras lack ruggedized builds and rapid flash sync, limiting professional sports use.

Street Photography

• Fujifilm’s compactness favors inconspicuous shooting; 20x zoom allows reach without bulky lenses.

• Nikon’s size and bulk detract from portability and stealth.

Low light performance for both is modest but acceptable for urban settings.

Macro Photography

• Nikon B500 excels with 1cm minimum focus distance, allowing impressive close-ups.

• Fujifilm at 5cm is less intimate but still useful for flowers and small objects.

Neither offers focus stacking or bracketing.

Night / Astro Photography

• Both suffer from small sensors and limited light gathering.

• Fujifilm raw mode permits longer exposures with clean-up in post.

• Both have long exposure shutter speeds (up to 8 seconds for F770EXR, 1 second minimum on B500), limiting star trail capabilities.

Neither offers bulb mode or built-in intervalometer for advanced astrophotography.

Professional Work Considerations

Professionals needing reliability, flexible file formats, and seamless workflow integration will find neither camera perfect by itself. Fujifilm’s raw file capacity aids post processing and color grading, but limitations in sensor size and control make it a stop-gap choice rather than a workhorse.

Nikon’s JPEG-only output and bulkiness limit pro appeal, though built-in Bluetooth may streamline casual transfers in the field.

Pricing and Value Analysis

• Fujifilm F770EXR (New price around $480) is positioned as a mid-tier superzoom compact, offering raw support and GPS at a higher cost.

• Nikon B500 (~$300) is a more affordable superzoom bridge camera with greater zoom reach, more connectivity, and longer battery life - an attractive value for entry-level zoom photography.

Your choice here boils down to priority: portability and raw flexibility (Fuji), or zoom reach and battery endurance (Nikon).

Fujifilm F770EXR front Fujifilm F770EXR screen back Nikon B500 front Nikon B500 screen back

Summary Scores and How They Stack Up

Here’s an overall breakdown synthesizing key performance aspects based on methodical lab tests and extensive field usage.

How Do They Perform Across Photography Genres?

Breaking down specific genre suitability succinctly:

Final Verdict: Which Small Sensor Superzoom Matches Your Shooting Style?

Both cameras offer compelling packages in their respective niches, but it’s essential to match features to your needs.

• Choose the Fujifilm FinePix F770EXR if:

  • You prioritize a slim, compact form factor with easy portability.
  • You want the flexibility of shooting RAW for post-processing and better image quality.
  • Weighted toward portrait and casual landscape photography with built-in GPS for travel convenience is valuable.
  • Budget is flexible, and you appreciate Fujifilm’s color science and EXR sensor tech.

• Choose the Nikon Coolpix B500 if:

  • You need the maximum zoom reach on a budget - 900mm is a serious telephoto for a compact.
  • Long battery life powered by AA batteries is a must for extended trips or remote shoots.
  • You want better autofocus speed and tracking for wildlife or moderate sports shooting.
  • Wireless image transfer via Bluetooth enhances your workflow or social sharing.
  • Portability and compactness are less critical than optical reach and battery endurance.

Neither camera replaces an interchangeable lens system for professionals, but each fills a well-defined role in the superzoom compact market.

Personal Reflection and Recommendations from My Experience

Testing these two cameras side by side reaffirmed why small sensor superzooms remain relevant: they blend convenience with reach for moments where hauling bulky gear isn’t practical.

I enjoyed the Fujifilm’s snappy responsiveness and raw image quality, which lend themselves well to controlled shooting environments. The GPS tagging was a nice bonus for travel curation. However, in demanding action scenarios, its autofocus felt laggy, and the limited zoom weight its utility.

The Nikon B500, while bulkier and heavier on the shoulder, proved steadfast for wildlife and distant subjects thanks to its impressive zoom and dependable AF tracking. The battery setup was a practical relief when shooting away from plugs. Lacking raw output was a downside for image control but understandable given its price point.

If you often photograph outdoors, require long zoom flexibility, and desire excellent battery life, the B500 shines. The F770EXR better serves enthusiasts who demand better control over image files and prefer a lighter, more discreet companion.

Whichever you pick, understand the inherent compromises of small sensors: expect limited low light prowess and shallow depth of field effects, but enjoy the ease and reach that define superzoom convenience.

Buying a camera is intensely personal. I hope this detailed comparison enables you to weigh features, performance, and price with confidence rooted in hard-won experience rather than spec sheet rows alone. Happy shooting!