Fujifilm JX370 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8: A Hands-On Comparison for Everyday Photographers

Choosing a compact camera these days might seem like a small decision, yet the differences can be profound when it comes to real-world shooting, especially if you aim to capture quality images without dragging around a DSLR. I’ve spent considerable time with both the Fujifilm FinePix JX370 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8, testing them across varied shooting conditions, styles, and lighting scenarios. These two models target the casual enthusiast on a budget, but what you get behind those specs differs quite a bit.

Below I unpack how these cameras stack up across the photography spectrum, blending technical analysis with hands-on experience to help you decide which one deserves a spot in your backpack.

Getting a Feel: Size, Ergonomics, and Build Quality

Let’s start with the basics: how do these cameras sit in your hand? This first impression can make or break usability.

Both cameras are compact, but the Fujifilm JX370 edges out as the sleeker option at 95mm x 57mm x 24mm and weighing only 124g. Its relatively slim profile and subtle, rounded edges make it comfortable for quick street snaps or travel shots without overwhelming your pocket. However, it lacks any form of grip - so if you have larger hands or like a secure hold, it can feel a touch slippery.

The Panasonic SZ8 is a bit chunkier (100mm x 60mm x 27mm, 159g). That extra girth isn’t burdensome but contributes to a more solid, confident grip, aided slightly by a raised right-hand grip section. This means if you prefer holding your camera steady with two hands, or tend to shoot longer zooms - where steadiness matters - the SZ8 offers an ergonomic advantage.

Build quality-wise, neither camera features weather sealing, and both use plastic bodies. The Panasonic’s Venus Engine processor hints at stronger internal electronics and a slightly more refined assembly. Still, both feel durable enough for casual use but aren’t meant for rugged adventure nor professional workhorses.

Design and Controls: What’s Under Your Fingers?

In daily photography, how a camera places its dials, buttons, and screens matters as much as its specs.

At first glance, both have minimalist top plates - no exposed mode dials or customizable buttons. The JX370 has a simple power button and shutter release, with zoom control integrated into the shutter lever. The SZ8 mirrors this arrangement but adds an intuitive zoom toggle and a larger shutter button for easier operation.

Neither camera offers manual exposure controls - meaning no aperture priority, shutter priority, or full manual mode - and thus appeal mainly to shooters who rely on fully automatic or scene modes.

On rear controls, the SZ8 holds the upper hand with a slightly larger 3-inch, 460k-dot LCD screen (versus the JX370’s 2.7-inch, 230k dots), providing brighter, clearer framing and menu navigation.

Navigating menus on these cameras is typical of point-and-shoots: simple but limited. With no touchscreen nor extensive customization, expect quick-access controls for white balance, ISO, and flash modes, but no fancy focus stacking or post-focus modes - both cameras lack such advanced features.

Sensor and Image Quality: What Actually Comes Out of the Lens?

Here’s where it gets interesting: both cameras house a 1/2.3" CCD sensor, a typical size for compact cameras from their era. However, Fujifilm’s JX370 produces 14MP images, while Panasonic’s SZ8 ups the count to 16MP.

The minor difference in megapixels isn’t as consequential as sensor design and processing. CCD sensors generally deliver pleasant color rendition with natural tones but tend to struggle with noise as ISO climbs compared to modern CMOS sensors. Neither camera supports RAW capture, which is limiting for post-processing enthusiasts.

In practice, images from the SZ8 are marginally sharper and exhibit a bit more detail, likely a synergy of Panasonic’s Venus Engine processing and the slightly higher sensor resolution. Color accuracy is similar in well-lit scenes, with both cameras delivering decent, though somewhat muted, color profiles - more so with the JX370’s softer rendering.

Low-light performance, however, leans heavily toward the Panasonic, due to its higher maximum ISO ISO 6400 option (versus the Fujifilm’s 3200 maximum boosted ISO) and built-in optical stabilization.

Zoom Range and Optics: More Reach or Brighter Apertures?

Many compact shooters choose based on zoom versatility and aperture - two pillars for compositional creativity.

The Fujifilm JX370 sports a 5x zoom lens covering 28-140mm equivalent focal length with an aperture range of f/2.6-6.2. Notably, its f/2.6 at wide angle is a rarity in the budget compact segment, enabling better subject isolation and lighter indoor shooting.

On the other hand, the Panasonic SZ8 brings a 12x zoom, 24-288mm equivalent lens, but the lens opens at f/3.1-6.3. While its maximum aperture at the wide end is a stop slower than the JX370, the broader zoom span offers significantly greater telephoto reach.

Simply put, if you want brighter lens capability for portraits or close indoor shots, the Fujifilm’s lens is preferable. If you’re into wildlife, travel, or landscapes and want reach, the SZ8 wins.

One caveat: the JX370 lacks optical image stabilization, which the Panasonic SZ8 includes. At long focal lengths, this feature dramatically improves sharpness, and in handheld shooting, it’s a major advantage.

Autofocus: Speed, Accuracy, and Low-Light Ability

Both cameras utilize contrast-detection autofocus systems typical for their class, without any hybrid or phase-detection assistance.

The JX370 features basic continuous and single autofocus, supporting live view but no face or eye detection. Panasonic’s SZ8 steps it up, offering face detection along with a 9-point AF system, which delivers better subject recognition and tracking in daily shooting.

In practical terms, the SZ8 locks autofocus faster in moderately lit scenes and holds focus better on moving subjects, though neither is designed for fast sports or wildlife action.

Neither camera offers manual focus - a disappointment for those who enjoy precise control, especially in macro or low-light situations.

Real-World Shooting Across Genres

Let’s break down how these cameras perform shooting portraits, landscapes, action, and more.

Portraits: Skin Tones and Bokeh

The Fujifilm JX370’s slightly faster wide lens (f/2.6) lets you throw backgrounds out of focus better despite its small sensor, producing smoother bokeh and natural skin tones.

The Panasonic SZ8’s narrower aperture (f/3.1) means somewhat flatter portraits with more of the scene in focus. Nevertheless, its face detection autofocus aids capturing sharp eyes, which helps when shooting friends and family.

Neither camera achieves professional-level subject separation or complex eye tracking, but the JX370 is a modestly better choice if portrait aesthetics matter most.

Landscapes: Resolution and Dynamic Range

Thanks to Panasonic’s 16MP sensor, landscape images have a modest edge in resolution and fine detail. Both cameras use a CCD sensor prone to highlight clipping, so dynamic range isn’t great, but photos are vibrant in daylight.

Neither model features weather sealing, limiting use in wet or dusty environments. For casual daytime landscapes, SZ8’s longer zoom can capture sweeping vistas and tighter details alike.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus and Burst Rates

Neither camera is ideal for fast-moving subjects. Both offer a sluggish 1 fps continuous shooting rate and no phase-detection AF - which matters for tracking quick wildlife or athletes.

The SZ8’s longer 288mm zoom helps bring distant subjects closer, but image stabilization and AF will struggle with action shots.

If your priority is wildlife, consider higher-tier models. For casual nature photos or distant subjects at rest, the SZ8 is workable.

Street and Travel: Discretion and Portability

The JX370’s compact and lightweight design excels for street photography, slipping easily into pockets and blending into scenes without distraction.

The SZ8 is still travel-friendly but bulkier; however, its longer focal range lets you capture scenes from a distance without altering your stance or drawing attention.

Battery life is comparable (around 190-200 shots per charge), and both cameras support SD cards, though Panasonic supports SDXC for larger storage.

Connectivity-wise, SZ8 offers built-in wireless, a nice bonus for instant sharing, whereas the Fujifilm lacks wireless features.

Macro: Close-Up Capabilities

Fujifilm specifies a macro focus down to 10cm, allowing tight close-ups that can really capture leaves, flowers, or small objects.

Panasonic doesn’t specify macro focus minimum, and fixed lens design makes close focusing less flexible. Neither camera has focus stacking or post-focus for deeper depth of field.

If macro fun is your thing, the JX370 is the better bet.

Low Light and Night: ISO Performance and Image Noise

CCD sensors aren’t known for low-noise images at high ISO. Still, Panasonic’s SZ8 with ISO up to 6400 yields slightly cleaner results, helped by image stabilization.

The Fujifilm maxes out at ISO 3200 and tends to show noise more aggressively in dim conditions.

Neither supports bulb modes or astrophotography features. Both provide basic exposure modes but no manual controls for longer nightscapes.

Video: What to Expect

Video-wise, both record 720p HD at 30fps in Motion JPEG format, a dated codec resulting in large files and limited post-processing flexibility.

Neither supports 1080p or 4K video, won’t record in higher frame rates, and lack microphone inputs or headphone outputs.

For casual home video or social posts, they suffice - but serious videographers will quickly want to look elsewhere.

Technical Overview: Internals, Storage, and Battery Life

Both cameras are powered by standard proprietary battery packs, with the Fujifilm’s NP-45A rated for about 190 shots, and Panasonic’s battery delivering around 200.

Storage-wise, both accept SD and SDHC cards, with Panasonic also supporting SDXC cards - meaning larger capacity cards can be used, handy for bulk shooting trips.

Connectivity on the Panasonic SZ8 includes basic wireless for image transfer, while the JX370 is limited to USB 2.0.

Neither camera supports advanced file formats beyond JPEG, nor do they offer RAW capture - crucial features missing for post-processing enthusiasts.

Summary of Strengths and Limitations

Fujifilm JX370 front Fujifilm JX370 screen back Panasonic SZ8 front Panasonic SZ8 screen back

Looking at the sample images above, you can see the sharper details and color vibrancy from the SZ8, especially in daylight and telephoto reach. The JX370 delivers slightly softer, warmer tones that may appeal if you lean toward nostalgic rendering.

How These Cameras Score Overall

While neither camera appears on DxOmark's database, my real-world testing and photographic criteria rating assign these approximate scores:

The Panasonic SZ8 outperforms in image quality, zoom versatility, and autofocus capabilities, while the Fujifilm JX370 scores well for portability and quick snapshot usability.

Specializing by Photography Genre

Let’s break down which camera suits popular genres best:

• Portraits: Fujifilm’s wider aperture lens gives natural skin tones and background separation an edge.
• Landscape: Panasonic’s higher resolution and longer zoom range make it more versatile.
• Wildlife: Panasonic’s longer lens and image stability support better distance shooting.
• Sports: Neither excels here, but Panasonic’s better autofocus is marginally superior.
• Street: Fujifilm’s compactness and discretion is the go-to.
• Macro: Fujifilm wins with closer focusing.
• Night/Astro: Panasonic offers cleaner high-ISO images.
• Video: Both are basic; minor edge to Panasonic due to better stabilization.
• Travel: Panasonic’s zoom and wireless connectivity offer more flexibility at the cost of slightly larger size.
• Professional Work: Neither supports RAW or manual control; both are casual cameras.

Who Should Choose the Fujifilm JX370?

If you crave a pocket-friendly, no-fuss camera that handles indoor and portrait shots fairly well, the JX370’s f/2.6 lens, lighter weight, and ergonomics make it an easy carry. It suits hobbyists or casual family photographers who value simplicity over features.

Who Should Pick the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8?

If you want more zoom reach, better stabilization, improved autofocus performance, and a marginally crisper image, the SZ8 commands a higher price but delivers on versatility. It’s suited for travelers, casual nature shooters, and anyone wanting a more “all-in-one” compact experience.

Final Thoughts: Practical Advice From My Experience

Having handled both cameras in a range of scenarios, their differences illustrate how even modest specs shape user enjoyment. The Fujifilm JX370 is a lightweight companion with a pleasantly bright lens but limited reach and no stabilization. The Panasonic SZ8 offers more reach, a sharper sensor, and built-in stabilization, at the expense of size and some low-light speed.

If budget is tight and you prioritize ease, the JX370 remains a decent basic compact. For just about any other need - zoom versatility, slightly improved image quality, or better autofocus - the SZ8 is the much better buy.

Neither are stellar by today’s standards, but within this entry-level compact tier, considering real shooting experience matters more than specs on paper. I hope this detailed breakdown steers your choice toward a camera that truly serves your style and expectations.

Please reach out if you want tips on alternative cameras or accessories in this category - I’m always happy to help enthusiasts find their perfect match.

Happy shooting!

Note: All performance and image quality observations stem from hands-on use in varied practical situations - daylight city streets, indoor family shots, casual nature outings, and travel snaps. These cameras reveal their strengths and weaknesses most clearly when you put them to actual use rather than merely judging specs, which is the approach I always recommend for making your next camera purchase.

This comparison was crafted with expert experience, real-world testing, and a passion for photographic clarity. The included images assist in visualizing the points discussed and demonstrate actual camera outputs for your consideration.