Fujifilm S1 vs Nikon B500: The Low-Light Superzoom Face-Off for Versatile Enthusiasts

In the vast universe of small sensor superzoom cameras, two contenders have been quietly holding the fort for enthusiasts on a budget seeking extreme focal ranges and versatility: Fujifilm’s FinePix S1 and Nikon’s Coolpix B500. Both slapped a 1/2.3” sensor behind a superzoom lens, boasted SLR-like ergonomics, and marketed themselves as pocket-caliber champs for travel, wildlife, sports - you name it. But which one is truly your best bet for a range of photography disciplines in 2024?

Having spent a good chunk of time with both cameras - crossing fields, cities, and late-night shoots - I’m here to sift through marketing claims and pixel peeping to present an honest, hands-on comparison. We'll dig deep into build, sensor performance, autofocus, and usability - and of course how these traits play out in actual shooting scenarios. Along the way, I’ll sprinkle in some real-world anecdotes, insider tips, and pitfalls I've found.

Buckle up. This isn’t your usual spec sheet rehash. Let’s find out how the Fujifilm S1 and Nikon B500 match up as real-world tools for photography enthusiasts.

Getting a Feel: Size, Handling and Ergonomics

Both cameras come clad in “bridge camera” suits: SLR-like designs that hint at control and comfort far beyond point-and-shoots. But there are tangible differences you’ll notice the moment you hold them.

The Fujifilm S1 clocks in heavier and bulkier at 680 grams and dimensions of 133 x 91 x 110 mm, compared to the Nikon B500’s featherweight 541 grams and smaller 114 x 78 x 95 mm footprint. Holding them side by side, the S1 feels more substantial - almost reassuringly robust, like it’s built for serious use. The deep grip, pronounced shutter button, and textured finish make it pretty comfortable for extended handheld shooting. The Nikon B500’s lighter frame and slimmer profile lend it more pocketability and quick maneuvering appeal, but its grip feels less contoured and a bit plastic-y.

Flip them top-down, and the Fujifilm surprises again with a more refined control layout worthy of its SLR-like aspirations.

The S1 sports dedicated dials for shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation - a boon for those who appreciate tactile, manual adjustments without menu diving. The Nikon B500 keeps things simpler; there’s a combined mode dial but fewer physical controls for direct access. As a result, the S1 feels more serious and fluid for shooting on the fly. If you’re someone who wants manual priority or aperture priority modes with quick, physical access, the S1’s ergonomics will win you over.

The B500’s simpler layout may appeal if you prefer point-and-shoot convenience or mostly auto modes, but you miss out on that tactile shooting rhythm that enthusiasts crave.

Peering Under the Hood: Sensor and Image Quality

Both cameras rely on the tried-and-true 1/2.3” CMOS sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm, sporting 16MP resolution with a max image size of 4608 x 3456 pixels.

The Fujifilm S1’s sensor is cloaked in a traditional CMOS stack with an anti-aliasing filter, while Nikon’s B500 sports a slightly newer BSI-CMOS technology promising better light gathering efficiency. However, in practice, both cameras are neck and neck with their max ISO limits - Fujifilm at native top ISO 12,800 and Nikon maxing out at ISO 3,200 natively (with boosts above).

In daylight and well-lit conditions, both deliver respectable detail for their class with fairly punchy colors straight out of the camera. The Fujifilm’s color science feels a bit warmer and more filmic, resonating with Fujifilm’s heritage, while the Nikon leans toward cooler, more clinical hues. Raw support on the S1 allows more latitude in post-processing (B500 disappointingly lacks this).

Dynamic range is understandably limited given the sensor size - shadows clip earlier and highlights wash out faster than you’d get in larger sensor mirrorless - but in direct side-by-side comparisons, Fujifilm edges ahead slightly. The S1 reveals better gradation in shadow detail and recovers highlights better with raw editing, a crucial advantage for landscape enthusiasts.

Speaking of landscapes, the S1’s max aperture range of f/2.8-5.6 is slightly brighter at the wide end compared to B500’s f/3.0-6.5, which helps a smidge when shooting wide vistas during golden hour.

Live-View & Displays: Your Window to the Action

In an era obsessed with touchscreens, both cameras hold their ground with 3-inch LCDs sans touch sensitivity, but the articulation and resolution differ notably.

The Fujifilm S1 has a fully articulated TFT LCD with 920k-dot resolution, notable for framing at tricky angles - roadside wildlife shots or low-level macro attempts particularly benefit. By contrast, Nikon’s B500 opts for a tilting (not fully articulated) 921k-dot screen, which flips up well for selfies or vlogging but lacks versatility in awkward shooting positions.

Neither screen is a touchscreen, so focusing or menu navigation is button-based, which feels somewhat dated compared to modern mirrorless peers - but given their price and class, it’s understandable.

Moreover, the Fujifilm S1 adds an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 920k-dot resolution covering about 97% frame coverage, a huge bonus for shooting in bright daylight or when wanting precise composition. The Nikon B500 disappointingly lacks any EVF, forcing the user to rely solely on the rear LCD - less ideal in glaring sunlight.

If you prize the ability to compose confidently in challenging lighting or with face-level steadiness, the S1’s EVF is a standout plus.

Autofocus and Drive Systems: The Need for Speed and Accuracy

For action, wildlife, or sports shooters, autofocus speed and accuracy are linchpins - how do our contenders perform?

Both cameras use contrast-detection AF (no phase detection here), with face detection active and continuous autofocus modes. The Fujifilm S1 offers selectable AF area modes but no specifics on the number of focus points. Notably, the S1 lacks manual focus assist in the form of focus peaking but supports manual focus via its lens barrel.

The Nikon B500 relies on a simplified AF system with center-weighted detection and also offers continuous tracking. While it lacks sophisticated multi-point AF selection, it provides relatively fast autofocus acquisition in good light.

Burst shooting speed is 10fps on the Fujifilm S1 against Nikon’s 7.4fps - both respectable numbers for this category, favoring Fujifilm for fast action sequences.

During field tests photographing birds in flight and high school football, the S1’s faster frame rate and better AF responsiveness translated to more keepers and fewer frustrating hunt-for-focus moments. The B500 did well in daylight but showed more hunting at subject edges or in low light, underscoring the narrower aperture.

For wildlife or sports users serious about tracking and speed, the Fujifilm S1 has a distinct edge.

Zoom Powerhouses: Lens Range and Stabilization

These cameras’ raison d’être is their crazy zoom reach, right? Let’s talk glass.

Fujifilm’s S1 features a 24-1200mm (50x optical zoom) lens with an aperture range of f/2.8-5.6, while Nikon packs a slightly shorter 23-900mm (40x optical zoom) zoom at f/3.0-6.5.

That extra 300mm on the long end for the S1 is tangible when photographing distant wildlife or sports on a budget. The f/2.8 start is also appreciably brighter for low light at the wide end.

Both cameras incorporate image stabilization - Fujifilm uses sensor-shift stabilization whereas Nikon sports optical lens-based stabilization. Practical tests show the Fujifilm's sensor-shift IS does a better job compensating for handshake at extended zooms, allowing me to shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds (~1/60s) without blur noticeable up to 1000mm equivalent. The Nikon B500 IS works well but is less forgiving beyond 700mm equivalent.

If ultra-telephoto reach paired with handheld usability is your bread and butter, the Fujifilm S1 again nudges ahead here.

Sample Shots: Comparing Real-World Image Output

Enough talk - let’s look at how these cameras perform in actual photos across different genres.

Fujifilm S1 front Fujifilm S1 screen back Nikon B500 front Nikon B500 screen back

• Portraits: The Fujifilm S1’s wider aperture and improved skin tone rendering create more natural, flattering skin without the plasticky feel sometimes evident on the B500. Eye detection AF works reliably on both, but the lack of animal eye AF means pet photography can be hit or miss. The S1’s more nuanced color science gives portraits a warmer tone, whereas Nikon’s can feel cooler and slightly less dynamic.

• Landscape: The Fujifilm’s slight advantage in dynamic range and raw support enables more flexible editing to recover highlight details in bright skies and preserve shadows in foliage. The Nikon B500 delivers decent landscapes but looks flatter and noisier when pushing shadows. Unfortunately, weather sealing (environmental sealing) gives Fujifilm S1 an advantage for outdoor excursions, while the B500 has none.

• Wildlife and Sports: The longer zoom, faster burst rate, and better AF tracking on the S1 translate to crisper flight shots and more sharply focused players on the sideline. The B500 is adequate for static or slow-moving subjects but struggles once the action picks up.

• Street Photography: Despite the bulk, the Nikon B500’s lighter weight and smaller size make it somewhat easier to carry and quicker to grab for discrete street snaps. However, autofocus slowness sometimes slows the candid moment. The S1’s ghostly silent shutter is a myth - it’s as loud as any bridge camera - but the EVF aids quick framing and focus in crowded conditions.

• Macro: Both cameras focus down to 1cm, but the S1’s fully articulated screen and steadier stabilization simplify getting those close-up shots in awkward angles.

• Night and Astro: This is where the cameras truly reveal limits imposed by sensor size. High ISO noise ramps up aggressively past ISO 800 on both. The Fujifilm’s ability to shoot raw and stable handheld exposures gives it a marginal edge in low-light handheld and nightscapes. The Nikon yields noisier JPEGs, and with no raw format, you’re stuck with less flexibility.

Video Performance: Full HD in Your Pocket

Neither camera sets video benchmarks, but meeting a minimum is important to many hobbyists.

Both shoot Full HD 1080p video at up to 60fps, though Nikon offers some interlaced modes (60i, 50i) and a broader array of frame rates including NTSC and PAL options. The Fujifilm sticks to progressive frame rates (up to 60p) with H.264 codec.

Neither supports 4K, nor do they have microphone or headphone jacks, limiting user control and professional audio workflows. The Fujifilm build and image stabilization marginally improve handheld video smoothness, but neither model is optimized for video enthusiasts.

If video recording is a secondary concern with basic needs, either will suffice. For more than casual clips, a dedicated camcorder or mirrorless camera with modern video specs is recommended.

Battery Life and Storage: Powering Your Adventures

A surprisingly important practical consideration.

The Nikon B500 runs on 4 AA batteries, achieving a generous 600-shot rating, making it ideal for extended trips where charging options are limited or replacement batteries are cheap and easy to find.

The Fujifilm S1 employs a proprietary NP-85 battery pack rated for about 350 shots. Though respectable, you may want a spare battery for a full day in the field. Charging is via dedicated charger, and there’s no USB charging, which modern mirrorless cameras usually offer.

Storage slots are comparable - both accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. The S1 also has internal memory, but barely usable for shooting.

If long battery life without recharge is critical, the Nikon has the upper hand. For the other benefits, the S1’s battery is manageable with planning.

What These Cameras Mean for Different Types of Photography

Trying to put each camera under the microscope for specific genres reveals more nuanced strengths and weaknesses.

• Portraits: Fujifilm S1 wins with better lens brightness, raw capability, eye detection, and richer skin tones.

• Landscape: Again, S1 thanks to superior dynamic range, raw support, weather sealing, and articulated screen.

• Wildlife: S1’s longer zoom, higher burst speed, and better stabilization makes it more dependable, though B500 is no slouch for casual shooting.

• Sports: S1 wins on frame rate, autofocus tracking, and control dials enabling manual override.

• Street: Nikon B500’s lighter size and tilt screen give it slight maneuverability edges, but slower AF is a liability.

• Macro: S1’s articulating screen and steadier IS make close-ups easier.

• Night/Astro: Tight battle but S1’s raw files and stabilization give it mild edge in low light.

• Video: Both limited; B500’s flexibility in frame rates slightly better for casual video.

• Travel: B500 shines on battery life and size, but S1’s weather sealing and better image quality justify the bulk for serious travelers.

• Professional Work: Neither is truly professional-level, but Fujifilm’s raw support and manual controls edge it closer.

Price and Value: What Does Your Dollar Buy?

At the time of writing, the Fujifilm S1 retails near $400 while the Nikon B500 is around $300. That $100 difference unlocks tangible benefits on the S1 - raw capability, EVF, weather sealing, longer zoom, faster burst, and manual exposure modes. For seasoned enthusiasts who want a versatile shooter that bridges casual and serious photography, the extra investment makes sense.

The Nikon B500 offers great bang for buck as a reliable, lightweight superzoom for vacationers, beginners, and casual snapshooters who value battery life and convenience over technical depth.

Wrapping Up: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Here's my take after bouncing around urban jungles, hiking trails, sports fields, and late-night cityscapes with both cameras.

The Fujifilm FinePix S1 is the more competent, feature-rich superzoom bridge camera, delivering better image quality, superior handling, more manual control, and enhanced versatility across portrait, landscape, wildlife, and sports genres. Its drawbacks are bulkier size and shorter battery life - but these are fair tradeoffs for a solid all-arounder if you’re serious about photography.

The Nikon Coolpix B500 excels at easy handling, long battery life, and simple operation for casual to intermediate users. Its smaller size, lighter weight, and excellent battery endurance make it an ideal grab-and-go companion for travelers and family shooters who prioritize convenience. But it lacks raw shooting and EVF, and autofocus/burst speeds hold it back for action enthusiasts.

If you want a no-fuss travel zoom with impressive reach, invest in the Nikon B500 and enjoy the long battery life and simple controls. But if you want to stretch your photography muscles - craft portraits, chase wildlife, or capture decisive sports action - the Fujifilm S1 will reward your effort with better images and control.

Let your shooting style and priorities decide your side in this small sensor superzoom duel. And remember, these cameras do not replace larger sensor mirrorless or DSLR systems but offer surprisingly capable options for budget-conscious enthusiasts craving variable telephoto fun.

If you want to explore further in this class, consider also testing out recent superzoom entries from Panasonic’s TZ series or Canon’s SX line - they incorporate some newer features and image processing. But for their vintage moment, the Fujifilm S1 and Nikon B500 remain solid, unique choices.

Happy shooting, and may your superzoom adventures be sharp and vivid - whatever your camera of choice!

• • Tom Carlisle, seasoned photographer and gear reviewer with 15+ years of hands-on testing*