Fujifilm F770EXR vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20: A Deep Dive into Compact Superzoom Cameras for Enthusiasts

Choosing the right compact superzoom camera can be challenging, especially when the options come from respected brands like Fujifilm and Panasonic, both known for their innovation and quality in photography gear. Today, we'll look closely at two cameras from this category - the Fujifilm FinePix F770EXR, announced in early 2012, and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20, released just months after. Each packs a hefty zoom range into relatively small bodies but serves slightly different buyer profiles.

Having personally tested hundreds of compact superzoom models over the years, I’ll guide you through the technical nuances, real-world performance, and shooting experience with both these cameras. Whether you’re a casual enthusiast, a budding travel photographer, or an advanced user hunting for value without forgoing features, this comparison will give you the clarity to pick the right fit.

Getting to Know the Hardware: Size, Design, and Handling

Let's start by holding these cameras in our hands and exploring their build and ergonomic design - often overlooked but crucial for comfortable shooting over long sessions.

• Fujifilm F770EXR: As a compact superzoom model, the F770EXR measures 105 x 63 x 36 mm and weighs approximately 234 grams. Its minimalist compact body is designed for portability, easily fitting in a jacket pocket or small bag - ideal for those who prioritize low bulk.

• Panasonic LZ20: By contrast, the LZ20 takes a "bridge camera" approach with an SLR-like body measuring 120 x 76 x 80 mm and weighing 499 grams - more than double the Fujifilm’s weight. It feels solid and substantial in the hand, offering a traditional grip and a more pronounced lens barrel, aiding steady shots during long zooms.

The Fujifilm’s compactness makes it slip into everyday carry scenarios, while the Panasonic’s heft could appeal if you prefer a camera that feels more robust and DSLR-style in handling. Your choice here depends on the balance you need between portability and grip comfort.

Control Layout and Top-Down Usability

Examining the physical control arrangement reveals how intuitive the cameras are for fast-paced shooting and manual adjustments.

• The Fujifilm sports a streamlined design with essential mode dials and buttons reachable without complicated hand repositioning. Notably, it includes shutter and aperture priority modes, and even a manual exposure mode - features often rare in compact cameras at this price. This versatility provides photographers room to experiment creatively.

• The Panasonic LZ20 is simpler in controls with fewer direct exposure adjustments available (no aperture or shutter priority) but provides exposure compensation. This approach targets users preferring automatic or semi-automatic modes but still wanting some manual expression.

In this arena, Fujifilm offers better manual control access, empowering more advanced users, whereas Panasonic prioritizes simplicity for casual users.

Inside the Engine: Sensor Technology and Image Quality Factors

Image quality is paramount, so we dig into sensor specs, image processing, noise handling, and resolution to understand which camera will give you better shots.

Sensor Size and Type

• Fujifilm F770EXR

  • Sensor: 1/2" EXR CMOS
  • Dimensions: 6.4 x 4.8 mm (30.72 mm² sensor area)
  • Resolution: 16 megapixels
  • Max ISO: 3200 native, 12800 boosted

• Panasonic LZ20

  • Sensor: 1/2.3" CCD
  • Dimensions: 6.08 x 4.56 mm (27.72 mm² sensor area)
  • Resolution: 16 megapixels
  • Max ISO: 1600 native, 6400 boosted

Although both cameras have 16MP sensors, Fujifilm's slightly larger, newer EXR CMOS sensor generally outperforms Panasonic's older CCD sensor, especially in low light and high dynamic range scenarios. The Fujifilm's sensor technology inherently supports better noise control, wider ISO range, and richer color depth. My personal lab tests echo this, showing clearer detail retention at higher ISOs and more balanced dynamic range in shadow/sunlit scenes.

Additionally, the EXR functionality on the Fujifilm allows flexible pixel binning and prioritization modes (e.g., high dynamic range or high sensitivity), granting creative control over image character.

Viewing the Results: LCD Interface and Usability on the Back

Since neither camera includes an electronic viewfinder, the rear LCD is critical for composing shots and navigating menus.

Both cameras have a 3-inch fixed-type TFT LCD with 460k resolution, which translates to generally clear and responsive displays outdoors with some reflective challenges. However:

• The Fujifilm F770EXR's LCD is slightly brighter with better color accuracy, valuable for assessing exposure and colors in the field.
• The Panasonic LZ20's screen sometimes feels sluggish in updating previews, likely linked to its CCD sensor and image processing pipeline.

Neither has a touchscreen, so navigating menus relies on physical buttons. The Fujifilm’s interface feels more polished with clear menu hierarchies and quick access to key functions like ISO or white balance.

Zoom, Lens Performance, and Macro Abilities

Zoom capability often drives the purchase for superzoom cameras; let's compare the lenses and close-up performance.

Zoom Range and Aperture: Though Panasonic edges slightly on max focal length with 525mm versus Fujifilm’s 500mm, both provide substantial reach, suitable for telephoto nature shots or distant subjects. Panasonic’s lens is a touch faster wide-open (F3.1 vs. F3.5) which can help in moderate low-light conditions.

Macro Performance: Panasonic boasts a 2 cm close focusing distance compared to Fujifilm’s 5 cm, making it better for true macro-style shots of flowers, insects, or texture detail.

Image Stabilization: Fujifilm uses sensor-shift stabilization, while Panasonic offers optical IS. In practical testing, Fujifilm’s sensor-shift IS is very effective during telephoto shooting, reducing handshake blur significantly, especially valuable in low light or at full zoom. Optical IS on Panasonic is sound but slightly less effective, and the heavier body requires you to stabilize the camera firmly.

Flash: Panasonic’s flash has a longer range, beneficial for indoor or night fill light for wider scenes.

Autofocus System and Shooting Responsiveness

Speed and accuracy of autofocus make a major difference, notably for sports, wildlife, or street photography.

Despite both cameras relying on contrast detection AF without phase-detection, my experience shows Fujifilm’s AF to be snappier and more reliable, especially in varied lighting, thanks in part to its superior processor and sensor combination.

Panasonic’s system with 9 AF points offers focused framing options, but its AF speed trails Fujifilm by a noticeable margin, which may frustrate when photographing moving subjects.

Shooting Modes, Exposure Controls, and Creativity

For enthusiasts and semi-pro users, creative control is important.

• Fujifilm F770EXR shines with:

  • Manual exposure mode support
  • Shutter and aperture priority modes
  • Exposure compensation options
  • AE and WB bracketing
  • Face and smile detection
  • Custom white balance

• Panasonic LZ20:

  • Manual exposure mode only (no P, A, S modes)
  • Exposure compensation and AE bracketing
  • Face detection autofocus
  • Custom white balance

If you want to delve deeper into controlling depth of field or motion capture, the Fujifilm F770EXR offers more flexibility; the Panasonic feels more oriented toward point-and-shoot simplicity.

Burst Rate and Continuous Shooting Capabilities

Burst shooting matters if you want to capture action or fleeting candid moments.

• Fujifilm F770EXR has a strong burst mode at 11 fps, quite good for this camera class.
• Panasonic LZ20 only manages 1 fps, too slow for freezing action effectively.

If your photography includes sports, wildlife, or unpredictable subjects, Fujifilm clearly wins here.

Video Recording Capabilities

Aside from stills, let’s consider video for vlogging, events, or capturing motion.

The Fujifilm supports Full HD recording in more efficient H.264 codec, delivering better quality at manageable file sizes. The Panasonic is restricted to 720p HD with Motion JPEG, which is less efficient and results in larger file sizes.

Neither model supports external microphones or headphone monitoring, limiting professional video needs, but Fujifilm’s better codec and image stabilization make it more capable for casual video.

Day-to-Day Practicalities: Battery, Storage, and Connectivity

Your photo shoot extends beyond just pushing buttons.

Battery life on Panasonic is officially rated higher, which matches my real-world experience where Fujifilm needs more frequent charging, especially if you shoot bursts or video.

Fujifilm offers HDMI out for easy TV playback, whereas Panasonic lacks this port, limiting its multimedia versatility.

Sample Images and Practical Evaluation

To illustrate how these specs translate into actual images, here are sample crops and full photos taken under various conditions such as daylight, indoor, and telephoto zoom.

Fujifilm F770EXR front Fujifilm F770EXR screen back Panasonic LZ20 front Panasonic LZ20 screen back

• The Fujifilm F770EXR's images show more accurate and punchy colors, finer detail in shadows, and less noise at ISO 800 and above.
• Panasonic LZ20 photos have a tendency towards softness at max zoom and more visible noise beyond ISO 200, though its macro shots are impressively sharp and vibrant at close distances.

These samples affirm the Fujifilm’s edge for overall image quality and flexibility, while Panasonic is compelling for relaxed macro and zoom enthusiasts on a tight budget.

Performance Ratings Across Key Areas

To summarize performance holistically, here is a scoring comparison based on our hands-on tests evaluating sensor performance, autofocus, build, value, and user experience.

It’s clear Fujifilm scores higher in image quality and autofocus responsiveness, Panasonic remains competitive in battery and zoom range.

Strength in Specialization: How Each Camera Fits Various Photography Types

Different genres demand diverse features. Here’s how these models align with popular photography disciplines.

• Portrait Photography: Fujifilm wins with better skin tones, bokeh capability (due to sensor & lens combo), and face detection.
• Landscape Photography: Fujifilm’s wider dynamic range and resolution boost detail, but Panasonic’s longer zoom and stable body weigh in.
• Wildlife Photography: Fujifilm’s fast AF and high burst rate are decisive here.
• Sports Photography: Same as wildlife - panasonic’s slow burst mode limits it.
• Street Photography: Fujifilm’s compact body and quiet operation favor street candid shots.
• Macro Photography: Panasonic’s 2 cm macro distance gives it the crown.
• Night and Astro: Fujifilm’s superior high ISO handling helps in low light.
• Video: Fujifilm produces sharper HD clips.
• Travel Photography: Fujifilm’s compact size and GPS win for travel ease.
• Professional Work: Neither is a high-end professional tool, but Fujifilm’s RAW support and manual controls edge it ahead.

Final Recommendations: Which Compact Superzoom Suits You?

Choose the Fujifilm F770EXR if:

• You want more manual control modes and flexibility.
• Image quality, especially in low light and dynamic range, is important.
• You plan to shoot action, sports, or wildlife and need faster continuous shooting.
• Video Full HD recording and HDMI output matter.
• You prefer a pocketable, lightweight body for travel or street photography.
• GPS tagging of photos is a desired feature.

Go for the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20 if:

• You value a DSLR-style ergonomics and a more substantial grip.
• Macro photography close focusing (2 cm) is a priority.
• Long battery life is critical during extended outings.
• Your budget is tighter (Panasonic is roughly half the price).
• You primarily shoot in bright daylight and casual settings.

Getting Started and Maximizing Your Purchase

Whichever camera you choose, couple it with the right accessories to enhance your shooting experience:

• For Fujifilm, invest in a fast SDXC card and consider carrying a compact tripod for sharp telephoto shots.
• For Panasonic, add a lightweight neck strap and lens cleaning kit to maintain your zoom lens clarity.
• Learn your camera’s manual exposure and bracketing functions to better handle challenging light situations.
• Explore third-party RAW editors for Fujifilm’s RAW files to really unlock creative potential.

Conclusion: Balancing Performance, Versatility, and Value in Small Sensor Superzooms

Both the Fujifilm F770EXR and Panasonic LZ20 shine in the compact superzoom niche but aim at subtly different user needs. The Fujifilm impresses with advanced sensor technology, sharper images, more creative controls, and video features backing ambitious photographers who want to learn and grow. Panasonic delivers solid zoom reach, macro prowess, and ergonomic comfort at a wallet-friendly price, suited for casual shooters or hobbyists focusing on macro and daylight photography.

By assessing your shooting priorities, budget, and preferred form factor, you can pick the camera that not only fits your photography style but also encourages you to keep creating.

Explore these cameras yourself if possible - hands-on experience remains the best test - and start your next creative adventure equipped with a compact superzoom that puts your vision in focus.

Happy shooting!

Images sourced from our hands-on testing and official product releases.