Fujifilm S2000HD vs Samsung ST600: A Hands-On Comparison for Every Photographer's Needs

When approaching cameras as different as the Fujifilm FinePix S2000HD and the Samsung ST600, it’s a bit like comparing a bridge camera to an ultracompact: each designed with distinct intentions and user priorities. Drawing from years of camera reviews and my own field testing, I’m diving deep into what makes each tick - and more importantly, what really matters when you’re deciding between these two for your photography toolkit.

Let’s unpack their specs, performance, and real-world usability through the lens of various photography genres and disciplines. Along the way, I’ll share candid impressions and clear recommendations so you can see which aligns best with your creative ambitions and budget.

Shapes, Sizes, and Feel: Which camera fits your hands and your lifestyle?

First impressions count, and nothing beats holding and using a camera to feel if it’s “right.” The Fujifilm S2000HD, a 2009-era bridge camera, evokes a classic DSLR form but without interchangeable lenses. The Samsung ST600, introduced a year later, embraces ultra-compact portability, designed for grab-and-go convenience.

Right off the bat, you see that the Fuji’s body is chunkier at 111 x 79 x 76 mm and heftier too (426 g). That thickness accommodates a beefy 15x zoom lens, but it means carrying more weight, which may tire out your wrist on long shooting days. Ergonomically, it offers an SLR-like grip and dedicated mode dial - both appreciated for precise control.

By contrast, Samsung’s ST600 is ultra-slim at 104 x 60 x 20 mm, weighing a mere 150 g - nearly a third of the Fuji’s weight! This makes it perfect for travel, street shooting, or casual documentation. But you sacrifice manual control, as the body and buttons are minimalist.

In practice, if you prefer a camera that feels solid and substantial with a firm handhold, the Fuji S2000HD wins here. However, if discretion, portability, and ease-of-carry top your list, the Samsung ST600 will impress you.

Control Layout and Interface: Ready at your fingertips or buried in menus?

How a camera’s controls and ergonomics respond under pressure can dictate how much you enjoy the shooting experience.

The Fujifilm features a more traditional control scheme: a mode dial offering Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, and full manual exposure modes. Physical buttons dedicated to exposure compensation and flash are present, and the remaining controls fall logically under your fingers.

Samsung’s ST600 is more minimal. It has some manual modes but lacks a dedicated mode dial. Its touchscreen interface - one of the earlier implementations on a compact in 2010 - adds convenience but may require more menu diving compared to physical buttons.

In practical terms, if you’re someone who favors tactile physical controls for quick adjustments mid-shoot, I find the Fuji S2000HD’s approach less frustrating. The Samsung’s touchscreen is responsive but might slow you down if you’re used to manual dials and buttons.

Bottom line: For hands-on shooting disciplines like wildlife or sports, Fuji’s layout is preferable. For casual travel or street photography, Samsung’s clean interface works nicely.

Peering into the Sensor: What’s under the hood matters most

Lens and body styling are one thing, but ultimately image quality pivots on the sensor.

Both cameras rely on small 1/2.3” CCD sensors, but Fuji’s S2000HD packs 10 megapixels vs. Samsung’s 14 megapixels. At first blush, you’d think Samsung wins on resolution, but it’s more nuanced.

The sensors are nearly identical in physical size - 28.07 mm² in the Fuji, 27.72 mm² in the Samsung - which means pixel pitches vary (bigger pixels often yield better light-gathering and lower noise). Both have anti-alias filters, which slightly dull sharpness but avoid moiré. Neither supports RAW output, which limits post-processing flexibility severely compared to modern mirrorless or DSLRs.

The Fuji’s max native ISO caps at 6400, Samsung at 4800 with boost to 6400. In my low-light testing, both struggle beyond ISO 400 - typical for older CCDs - but the Samsung fares slightly better at base ISOs thanks to its newer sensor design.

Dynamic range differences aren’t formally tested by DXO for these models, but user reports and my field shots indicate both suffer limited shadow recovery - a known drawback of small sensors from that era.

In short: The Samsung ST600’s sensor delivers higher resolution and slightly better ISO baseline, but neither camera shines in high ISO or RAW processing. If image quality is your priority, both will disappoint advanced users, but Samsung edges out Fuji in resolution and base ISO noise.

Backscreen and Viewfinder: Where composing and reviewing images happen

How you see your scene and check your shots is vital.

Fujifilm sports a modest 2.7-inch fixed LCD with just 230k-dot resolution. This low res makes critical focusing or image review on detail tricky. There’s an electronic viewfinder, but unfortunately, it lacks resolution specs and coverage making it a less-than-reliable framing tool - you may find yourself relying mainly on the rear screen.

The Samsung ST600, meanwhile, features a larger, bright 3.5-inch fixed LCD with a high 1152k-dot resolution. The touchscreen adds interactive flexibility. There’s no viewfinder at all, which may dishearten traditionalists but fits the camera’s compact ethos.

From experience, I prefer Samsung’s back screen for composition and reviewing images - especially when shooting outdoors in brighter conditions where Fuji’s low-res screen struggles.

However, no optical or effective electronic viewfinder on either hurts usability in intense or fast-paced photography scenarios.

Real World Photography: How these two cameras perform across genres

Let’s shift gears and look at how these cameras handle various types of photography based on their specs and tested performance.

Portraits: Capturing warm skin tones and catching eyes

Portrait photography requires pleasing skin tone rendition, good bokeh, and reliable autofocus - often with face or eye tracking.

Sadly, neither camera offers advanced face or eye detection autofocus. The Fuji uses a contrast-detection AF, no subject tracking, and the Samsung’s autofocus is contrast-based but augmented with center-weighted AF area and some multi-area detection.

Fujifilm’s longer zoom means slightly more background blur options at telephoto focal lengths, but limited max apertures (F3.5-5.4 vs F3.3-5.5) restrict shallow depth-of-field effects.

Skin tones are typical of CCD sensors from the era - pleasantly neutral in both, though Fuji’s vintage color science adds a slightly warmer tone that many portrait shooters appreciate.

My takeaway: For casual portraits, Fuji offers marginally better lens reach and warmer color renditions, but neither camera produces the professional shallow depth or precise eye AF that modern portraits demand.

Landscapes: Chasing dynamic range and fine details

Landscape shooters crave high resolution, wide dynamic range, and weather sealing.

Both cameras lack weather sealing and robust build - so treat with care in harsh environments.

Samsung’s 14MP sensor offers more pixel detail, which helps with crops and fine textures. However, from field tests, Fuji’s 10MP sensor images appear punchier thanks to slightly better lens contrast and colors.

Neither sensor is remarkable for dynamic range, losing shadow detail quickly in challenging light.

Zoom-wise, Fuji’s 15x zoom (28-414 mm equivalent) offers broader focal length freedom, though landscapes typically lean on wide angle (28 mm and below), so Samsung’s 27 mm wide isn’t far off.

In conclusion, Samsung gives higher resolution detail, but Fuji’s broader zoom and warmer tone might appeal more to those prioritizing versatility and color.

Wildlife Photography: The need for speed and reach

Wildlife photography demands fast autofocus, long reach telephoto, and rapid burst shooting.

The Fuji S2000HD shines here due to its 15x zoom lens reaching 414 mm equivalent - a considerable advantage over Samsung’s more modest 5x (27-135 mm) zoom.

Unfortunately, continuous shooting speed is slow on Fuji - just 1 fps - and autofocus is contrast-detect only, lacking tracking and face detection. Samsung doesn’t even list continuous shooting speed, implying it’s not designed for action bursts.

So speedwise, both cameras are underwhelming, which aligns with their market placement.

Still, for reaching distant wildlife subjects, Fuji’s longer lens is a big plus. But expect missed shots due to slow AF and frame rates.

Sports Photography: Tracking fast-moving targets

Sports photography ratchets up requirements for autofocus accuracy, tracking sophistication, and high frame rates.

Neither Fuji nor Samsung come close to DSLR or mirrorless standards here.

Fuji’s AF system lacks tracking or continuous AF, and shooting speed caps at 1 fps, which is very limiting. Samsung doesn’t specify burst rate but is unlikely to excel.

In practice, you’ll find both cameras struggle to keep moving subjects sharp and to capture decisive moments in sequences.

If your main focus is sports, I’d steer towards a dedicated DSLR or mirrorless system - but if you must choose between these two, Fuji’s physical controls at least make some manual adjustments possible.

Street Photography: Stealth, speed, and discretion

Street photographers need a compact, unobtrusive camera with quick AF and good low light handling.

Samsung’s ST600, at only 150 g and slim profile, excels at discretion compared to the bulkier Fuji bridge camera.

The ST600’s touchscreen and quick 5x zoom make framing fast without drawing attention. Its maximum aperture of F3.3-5.5 along with good base ISO performance also helps in mixed lighting.

Fuji’s larger size and louder zoom motor make it less stealthy.

So if your priority is spontaneity and low profile on the streets, Samsung ST600 is the better pick.

Macro Photography: Getting in close with precision

Macro work calls for close minimum focusing distances, precise manual focus, and ideally image stabilization.

Samsung lets you get as close as 5 cm for macro subjects, compared to Fuji’s 10 cm minimum. That extra closeness and higher resolution make Samsung favorable here.

Fuji lacks image stabilization, while Samsung includes optical stabilization that helps steady shots at close focus lengths.

Manual focusing on both is limited (Samsung lacks manual focus), so precise AF is key - both use contrast-detection autofocus, which can hunt in macro scenarios.

For casual macro enthusiasts, Samsung’s combination of closeness, stabilization, and resolution makes it a stronger proposition.

Night and Astrophotography: Low light and long exposures

Shooting in very low light or stars tests ISO performance, exposure flexibility, and noise control.

Fuji’s shutter range tops out at 1/1000 sec minimum and 4 seconds maximum - very limited for astrophotography which often requires 15+ seconds or bulb mode. Samsung offers longer max shutter speed at 1/1500 sec min but doesn’t list max exposure range, likely also limited.

Both cameras max at ISO 6400 boosted, but effective noise performance degrades significantly beyond ISO 400.

Neither supports long exposure noise reduction or RAW, which is a significant drawback.

In practice, neither camera is ideal for astrophotography, though Fuji offers slightly more manual exposure flexibility.

Video Capabilities: Does one outperform the other for multimedia creators?

Video is increasingly vital in cameras, even small compacts.

Both provide HD 720p video recording at 30 fps.

Samsung ST600 records in Motion JPEG format - inefficient in compression, generating large files - and offers frame rates down to 15 and 60 fps at lower resolutions. It includes HDMI output for direct playback.

Fuji records 1280x720p at 30 fps as well but lacks HDMI and external microphone ports on both cameras, limiting cinematic potential.

Neither camera has built-in stabilization for video - Samsung compensates with optical stabilization, which helps in handheld clips.

Audio input isn’t an option for either, and video controls are basic.

Bottom line: For casual HD video, Samsung offers slightly more versatility with HDMI output and frame rates, but both will disappoint serious videographers.

Travel Photography: Versatility, battery life, and size matter here

Travel shooters demand compactness, battery stamina, and broad focal lengths to capture diverse scenes.

Samsung’s ST600 ultracompact body and low weight win here - easy to stow in a coat pocket or purse.

The Fuji S2000HD’s 15x zoom lens offers wider zoom range, better flexibly covering wide landscapes to distant subjects without switching lenses.

Battery life info for both is missing from specs, but bridge cameras from this period typically use AA batteries or proprietary solutions; expect moderate endurance on both.

Samsung’s modern MicroSD support and touchscreen interface enhance portability and ease-of-use.

For the traveling enthusiast wanting lightweight with decent image quality, Samsung’s ST600 wins. For someone prioritizing lens reach over bulk, Fuji might be acceptable.

Professional Use: Can either cut it for demanding workflows?

Neither camera supports RAW files - a major limitation for any professional workflow seeking maximum image quality.

Connectivity is basic - only USB 2.0 ports, no Wi-Fi, GPS, or NFC.

Build quality is consumer-grade only, no environmental sealing for rough conditions.

Absence of external flash support restricts lighting options.

Ergonomics and controls favor Fuji with manual modes and exposure compensation, but the lack of RAW and slow AF systems mean these cameras are ill-suited for professional assignments.

Summing Up the Overall Performance Ratings

Here’s a snapshot of their overall strengths and weaknesses in camera scoring I assembled based on my tests and experience:

Fujifilm S2000HD

• Strengths: Strong zoom range, manual controls, solid build
• Weaknesses: Slow continuous shooting, no stabilization, limited video features

Samsung ST600

• Strengths: Portability, touchscreen interface, optical image stabilization
• Weaknesses: Limited zoom range, no manual focus, modest sensor performance

Genre-Specific Performance Insights

This table pulls together how each camera handles various photography types:

The Fuji S2000HD excels in wildlife (reach) and offers manual controls good for landscape and portraits. The Samsung ST600 scores highest in street, macro, and travel - situations valuing portability and ease.

Conclusion: Which camera deserves your hard-earned money?

Both the Fujifilm FinePix S2000HD and Samsung ST600 represent interesting relics of their time - small-sensor compacts catering to different user needs. From thousands of cameras tested, here’s my distilled advice:

Choose the Fujifilm S2000HD if:

• You want extensive zoom reach for wildlife or distant subjects
• Prefer manual exposure options and physical controls
• Are comfortable with a slightly heavier camera and modest image quality

Choose the Samsung ST600 if:

• You prioritize lightweight, pocketable design for travel or street shooting
• Value touchscreen ease and optical image stabilization
• Prefer higher resolution images and closer macro capabilities

Neither camera can satisfy professional needs today due to lack of RAW, poor high ISO, and limited autofocus performance - but for entry-level enthusiasts wanting simple point-and-shoot in specific scenarios, both can hold their own.

Sample Images to Visualize Differences

Finally, here are some representative shots from both cameras to illustrate color rendering, sharpness, and exposure handling in real-use conditions:

See how Fuji leans toward warmer tones, while Samsung offers brighter, high-detail photos. Both reveal sensor limitations in shadow detail and noise in low light.

If you want a bridge camera with manual control and zoom prowess, Fuji is your pal; if you want a pocket-friendly, stabilized compact for everyday snapshots, Samsung is a delightful companion. Whichever you choose, understanding these nuances ensures your expectations match the camera’s capabilities - and that’s the best way to be happy with your next purchase.

Happy shooting!