Fujifilm HS35EXR vs Nikon Coolpix B500: Comprehensive Comparison of Two Small Sensor Superzooms

When evaluating superzoom bridge cameras in the small sensor category, the Fujifilm HS35EXR and Nikon Coolpix B500 represent two noteworthy options with distinct design philosophies and feature sets despite their similar market positioning. Both cameras offer versatile focal ranges, user-friendly interfaces, and accessible price points, but key technical differences affect their suitability across various photography genres and usage scenarios. This comprehensive analysis draws on extensive hands-on testing, technical scrutiny, and real-world performance comparisons to equip photography enthusiasts and professionals with actionable insights to determine which model better aligns with their needs.

Physical Design and Ergonomics: Balancing Handling and Portability

Both the Fujifilm HS35EXR and Nikon B500 share an SLR-style bridge camera shape designed to replicate DSLR ergonomics within a fixed-lens package. However, their differences in dimensions, weight, and control layout have practical consequences for prolonged use and portability.

• Physical Size & Weight: The Fujifilm HS35EXR is notably larger and heavier, weighing approximately 687 grams with dimensions of 131 x 97 x 126 mm, as compared to the Nikon B500’s smaller and lighter 541 grams and 114 x 78 x 95 mm footprint. This weight difference influences hand fatigue during extended handheld shooting, especially with longer telephoto utilization.

• Grip and Handling: The HS35EXR’s substantial grip accommodates larger hands securely and emphasizes stable one-handed operation. Conversely, the Nikon B500's more compact body lends itself to easier transport but offers a smaller grip that may feel less secure during vigorous telephoto bursts.

• Button and Dial Placement: The top control layout on the HS35EXR includes dedicated exposure mode dials (shutter priority, aperture priority, manual) facilitating quicker manual adjustments favored by experienced users. The Nikon B500 forgoes such dials, relying mostly on menu-driven options.

The HS35EXR’s analog-like control interface benefits photographers seeking tactile feedback and intuitive exposure refinement, whereas the B500 prioritizes simplicity and ease of use, compromising on rapid manual adjustments.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Realities of Compact Superzoom Sensors

Both models utilize a 16MP sensor approximately 1/2 inch in size, with subtle yet meaningful differences influencing image quality and low light behavior.

• Sensor Specs: The Fujifilm HS35EXR features a 16MP EXR CMOS sensor measuring 6.4 x 4.8 mm, slightly larger in area (30.72 mm²) than Nikon’s BSI CMOS sensor in the B500 (6.17 x 4.55 mm, 28.07 mm²). This modest size advantage translates to potential improvements in noise control and dynamic range under optimal conditions.

• ISO Range: Both cameras offer native ISO 100/80 to 3200, with the HS35EXR allowing expanded ISO sensitivity up to an effective ISO 12,800. Realistically, noise at these extremes limits usability to emergency scenarios.

• Image Processing: Fujifilm’s EXR processor emphasizes dynamic range optimization and color fidelity, while Nikon employs conventional image processing pipelines favoring balanced output. Neither camera delivers RAW processing flexibility on par with larger sensor models but the HS35EXR supports RAW capture, offering advanced post-processing latitude unavailable on the B500.

• Antialiasing Filters: Both sensors include optical low pass filters, mitigating moiré at the cost of fine detail attenuation.

In practical use, the HS35EXR tends to produce cleaner images with richer color gradation in well-lit environments due to its sensor and processor synergy. The B500, while competitive at base ISO, exhibits more pronounced noise and detail loss when operating near its upper ISO limit.

Display Systems and Viewfinders: Impact on Framing and Usability

Precise framing and image review are critical across all photography disciplines, dictating the importance of the rear screen and viewfinder systems.

• Rear LCD: Both cameras employ 3-inch tilting screens; however, the Nikon B500 boasts a higher resolution 921k-dot display versus the Fujifilm’s 460k-dot panel. The B500’s greater pixel density delivers approximately double the clarity, easing manual focus confirmation and image inspection in bright light.

• Viewfinder Presence: The Fujifilm HS35EXR incorporates a 100% coverage electronic viewfinder (EVF), enabling eye-level composition and stabilization when shooting with telephoto focal lengths or in bright conditions. The B500 lacks any viewfinder, relying solely on its LCD screen.

• Touch Capability & User Interface: Neither camera supports a touchscreen interface, requiring navigation through physical buttons. This may affect quick exposure alterations and focusing adjustments.

In fast-paced or outdoor scenarios, the HS35EXR’s EVF offers a decisive advantage, particularly for wildlife or sports photography where stability and visibility are paramount.

Lens and Optical Performance: Zoom Range and Aperture Profiles

Both cameras harness extensive superzoom optics integral to their appeal but diverge sharply in focal length coverage and aperture ranges.

• Focal Length: The Fujifilm HS35EXR covers a 24-720mm (30x optical zoom) equivalence, while the Nikon B500 extends further to 23-900mm (40x optical zoom). This additional reach on the B500 benefits users requiring maximum telephoto flexibility.

• Maximum Aperture: The HS35EXR maintains a slightly brighter aperture throughout the zoom range (f/2.8-5.6) compared to B500’s f/3.0-6.5. The brighter aperture of the HS35EXR enables marginally better low light performance and subject isolation at wider focal lengths.

• Macro Capability: Both achieve close focusing distances down to 1 cm, supporting macro-style shooting.

• Optical Stabilization: Fujifilm employs sensor-shift stabilization, while Nikon adopts lens-based optical stabilization. Real-world testing indicates both approaches provide sufficient shake reduction allowing handheld sharp images up to challenging telephoto focal lengths, though the HS35EXR’s sensor-shift system tends to stabilize effectively across the full focal range.

The longer reach of the Nikon B500 paired with optical image stabilization favors wildlife and distant subjects but at the expense of slower apertures and consequent low-light restrictions.

Autofocus and Burst Shooting: Responsiveness and Tracking Precision

Autofocus speed and accuracy underpin success in dynamic photography genres such as sports and wildlife.

• Autofocus Systems: Both cameras implement contrast-detection AF, without phase-detection or hybrid systems common on advanced cameras. The HS35EXR supports face detection and continuous AF tracking during burst sequences but lacks animal eye AF or advanced subject recognition. The B500 similarly offers face detection with multi-area AF but without animal-specific modes.

• Manual Focus: Fujifilm offers manual focus controls, useful for macro work and creative control, whereas the Nikon B500 lacks manual focus capability, relying solely on autofocus.

• Continuous Shooting Rates: Fujifilm leads with an 11 fps burst rate, delivering faster frame capture beneficial for action photography and selecting peak moments. Nikon’s B500 maxes at 7.4 fps, which is respectable but slightly less accommodating for capturing fast sequences.

• AF Performance in Low Light: Both cameras exhibit slower autofocus acquisition under dim conditions, common among small sensor superzooms, yet the HS35EXR’s manual focus option may offer a user advantage in difficult focusing scenarios.

Video Capabilities: Basic Recording with Limitations

Modern bridge cameras increasingly incorporate video functions, though their value varies significantly.

• Recording Formats and Resolution: Both cameras support Full HD (1920x1080) video at 30p, with Nikon B500 also supporting interlaced 60i in addition to 25p and 50p PAL options. The Fujifilm’s video modes include 720p and 480p fallback, useful for reducing file sizes.

• Video Stabilization: Both cameras offer image stabilization during video capture, with the optical-based system on the B500 slightly more effective in smoothing handheld video.

• Audio Input: Neither camera provides microphone or headphone jacks, limiting professional video usability.

Overall, while video capabilities meet casual shooting needs, neither camera is suited for professional video production intentions.

Battery Life and Storage: Endurance for Extended Shoots

Longevity maps closely to practical usability for travel and event photography.

• Battery Type: Fujifilm employs a proprietary NP-W126 rechargeable battery, delivering approximately 600 shots per charge. Nikon relies on four standard AA batteries, with similar rated endurance but with the convenience of easy replacement in the field.

• Battery Management Considerations: Proprietary batteries offer optimized performance and weight savings, whereas AA batteries provide global availability and flexibility in emergencies.

• Storage: Both cameras utilize a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot for standard memory card compatibility.

Connectivity Options: Modern Convenience vs Legacy Design

Connectivity expands workflow integration and sharing capabilities.

• Wireless Features: The Nikon B500 incorporates built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless transfer and remote operation. This enables connection to compatible devices, streamlining photo sharing and remote shooting.

• Fujifilm HS35EXR: Lacking any wireless or Bluetooth functionality, the HS35EXR requires physical connection via USB 2.0 for file transfer and remote control, which is slower and less convenient.

Durability and Environmental Resistance: Suitability for Harsh Conditions

Neither camera features weather sealing, dust resistance, shockproofing, or waterproof design. Both models are better suited for careful daily use rather than rugged outdoor or adverse weather conditions. Users targeting extreme environments should consider cameras explicitly engineered for durability.

Real-World Photography Performance and Genre Suitability

To contextualize the specifications, practical testing across major photography genres is essential. Below is a breakdown of strengths and compromise areas for each camera.

Fujifilm HS35EXR front Fujifilm HS35EXR screen back Nikon B500 front Nikon B500 screen back

Value and Price-to-Performance Considerations

At launch, the Fujifilm HS35EXR came in around $380, while the Nikon B500 was priced closer to $300. The price differential reflects the Fujifilm’s more advanced manual control scheme, EVF inclusion, and RAW support.

• Fujifilm HS35EXR: Appeals to users seeking more creative control, manual operation, and slightly better image quality at the expense of size and portability.

• Nikon B500: Offers longer reach, improved screen resolution, and wireless conveniences at a lower cost, ideal for casual users prioritizing zoom and connectivity.

Considering used market values, availability of accessories, and support lifespan also inform the financial calculus.

Final Recommendations: Aligning Camera Choice with User Priorities

Choose the Fujifilm HS35EXR if:

• You prioritize manual exposure controls and manual focusing options for creative precision.
• You desire an electronic viewfinder for stable, eye-level composing especially at telephoto.
• You require RAW file capture and ultimate image quality within the small sensor superzoom category.
• Your photographic interests include sports, macro, and low light scenarios where faster burst rates and critical focus control matter.

Opt for the Nikon Coolpix B500 if:

• You need maximum optical reach (900mm equivalent) and longer zoom flexibility for wildlife and distant subjects.
• You favor a higher-resolution rear screen and wireless image transfer capabilities.
• Portability and convenience are important during travel or casual outings.
• You prefer a lighter, smaller camera for extended carry and ease of use without extensive manual control complexity.

Summary

Both the Fujifilm HS35EXR and Nikon Coolpix B500 confer the advantages and inherent compromises tied to small sensor superzoom bridge cameras. The HS35EXR stands out for photographic control, the inclusion of an EVF, and image quality superiorities derived from its sensor and processing architecture. The Nikon B500 compensates with extended zoom reach, enhanced rear display fidelity, wireless facilities, and a more travel-friendly form factor. Ultimately, this detailed comparison arms photographers with a clear understanding of trade-offs to make a strategically informed camera investment tailored to their creative disciplines and shooting conditions.

About This Review

This comparison is based on extensive hands-on testing under varied photographic conditions, including studio and outdoor shooting, rigorous autofocus challenge trials, dynamic range and noise performance assessment via calibrated test charts, and field evaluations of ergonomics and user interface efficiency. Our methodology aligns with industry-standard practices and practical real-world use cases to deliver trustworthy guidance grounded in professional photographic expertise.