Unveiling the Choices: Fujifilm S4200 vs Nikon Coolpix S9100 - An In-Depth Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals

Selecting a compact superzoom camera today requires navigating a complex array of factors: sensor technology, lens versatility, image quality, and user interface, among others. Here we dissect two legacy but still relevant models - the Fujifilm FinePix S4200 and the Nikon Coolpix S9100 - each vying for your attention in the small sensor superzoom segment. Drawing upon hands-on testing of thousands of cameras and rigorous analysis, this article provides a detailed, balanced comparison that addresses the nuanced needs of photography enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Throughout this comparison, we will integrate side-by-side images, sensor analyses, and genre-specific performance to illuminate which camera aligns best with distinct use cases.

A direct look at the physical dimensions and build of the Fujifilm S4200 (left) and Nikon S9100 (right).

Body Design & Ergonomics – Handling Matters More Than You Might Think

In daily use, a camera’s feel and layout drive its intuitive operation and, ultimately, its creative potential. The Fujifilm S4200 adopts a bridge-style SLR-like body design, measuring 118 x 81 x 100 mm and weighing 543 grams - substantially bulkier than the Nikon S9100, which sports an all-compact build at 105 x 62 x 35 mm and trims down to just 214 grams. This size difference is consequential: the S4200’s heft affords a deeper grip, potentially improving stability for telephoto work or longer sessions, but at the cost of portability, where the Nikon excels.

Both cameras utilize a fixed lens system aimed at convenience, but their lens barrel lengths reflect these design philosophies - the Fuji’s large body accommodates the mammoth 24-576mm equivalent zoom (24x), compared to Nikon’s shorter 25-450mm (18x).

Ergonomically, neither camera features illuminated buttons, which can hinder night-time operation. The Nikon’s traditional point-and-shoot form is more pocketable and discreet for street or travel photography, while the Fuji's SLR mimicry may benefit those migrating from DSLRs who prefer dedicated dials and a sturdier grip.

The top-plate layout highlights Fujifilm’s dedicated exposure mode dial versus Nikon’s minimalistic approach.

User Interface & Controls – Balancing Simplicity and Creative Control

Upon examining the top view design, the Fujifilm S4200 features dedicated exposure modes including aperture priority, shutter priority, and manual exposure, empowering photographers with more granular control over exposure, a rare attribute in this segment. In contrast, the Nikon S9100 lacks aperture and shutter priority modes, offered only in automatic or program settings, potentially limiting creative input but lowering the learning curve for casual users.

Neither camera incorporates touchscreens or articulating displays, but both offer fixed 3-inch LCDs differing in resolution and technology. The S4200’s TFT color LCD provides 230k dots, while the S9100 significantly improves visibility with a 921k dot TFT-LCD featuring anti-reflection coating - a tangible leap affecting framing and menu legibility, especially under bright sunlight.

Neither model supports a dedicated top screen for status info, although the Fuji includes an electronic viewfinder covering 97% of the frame, which may appeal to users familiar with EVF shooting. Nikon’s S9100 forgoes a viewfinder entirely, relying solely on its LCD.

Comparing rear display clarity, Nikon’s higher resolution LCD enhances confidence in manual framing and image review.

Sensor Technology - The Heart of Image Quality

Both cameras employ the same sensor format: 1/2.3-inch, measuring approximately 6.17 by 4.55 mm with an active sensor area of 28.07 mm². This small sensor inherently limits dynamic range and low-light capability compared to APS-C or full-frame counterparts, yet differences in sensor design and processing reveal nuanced tradeoffs.

The Fujifilm S4200 uses a 14-megapixel CCD sensor, a technology known for color fidelity and smooth tonal transitions but generally struggles with noise control at higher ISOs and faster readout speeds. Meanwhile, the Nikon S9100 leverages a 12-megapixel backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor, which improves light gathering efficiency and noise performance, particularly in low-light scenarios. The Nikon boosts the maximum native ISO up to 3200 compared to Fuji's 1600, suggesting better high-ISO usability.

Despite the Fuji’s higher resolution output (4288 x 3216 pixels vs. Nikon’s 4000 x 3000), the actual perceptible detail and dynamic range favor the Nikon due to modern CMOS architecture and integrated Expeed C2 image processor, enhancing in-camera noise reduction and detail preservation.

A breakdown of sensor dimensions and architecture, illustrating parallels and distinctions in CCD vs CMOS technologies.

Autofocus System & Performance – Speed vs Accuracy

Autofocus mechanisms play critical roles across all photography disciplines. Their responsiveness and precision dictate success rates, especially in dynamic environments such as sports or wildlife shooting.

• The Fujifilm S4200 employs a contrast-detection AF system with face detection but omits touch or animal eye AF, with an unspecified number of focus points. It does, however, support AF continuous, single, and tracking modes. However, its continuous shooting speed is notably limited to 1 fps, constricting its utility in action sequences.

• Conversely, the Nikon S9100 features a nine-point contrast-detection AF with face and multi-area tracking capabilities, though manual focus support here is notable. Its burst shooting of 10 fps significantly outperforms the Fuji, enabling better chances to capture decisive moments.

In practice, Nikon’s more advanced AF and faster burst rate make it the preferred camera for subjects in motion - sports and wildlife especially benefit. The Fuji may suffice for static subjects like portraits or landscapes but lags when tracking fast-moving targets.

Both cameras lack phase-detection AF, an expected compromise at this price and sensor size segment.

Lens & Optical Performance – Versatility and Image Quality

The Fujifilm’s phenomenally long 24-576mm (35mm-equivalent) zoom, delivering 24x magnification, excels in reach but comes at a cost in maximum aperture range from f/3.1 to f/5.9, limiting low-light usability and background separation at longer focal lengths. Impressively, its macro mode enables focusing as close as 2 cm, allowing for detailed close-ups uncommon in bridge cameras.

The Nikon S9100’s more modest 18x zoom spans 25-450mm equivalent, with a maximum aperture range f/3.5 to f/5.9, slightly slower at wide but similar at telephoto. Its macro minimum focus distance is about 4 cm - respectable but less versatile compared to the Fuji’s more aggressive close focusing.

Both cameras feature sensor-shift image stabilization, critical at long telephoto focal lengths to reduce handshake blur, with the Fujifilm claiming stabilization across a larger zoom range. However, the Nikon's newer optics and BSI CMOS sensor tend to produce slightly sharper results, particularly wide open.

For portrait work, the Fuji’s wider aperture at 24mm and the extended reach theoretically allow more pronounced background blur at distance, but given the small sensor and fixed aperture zooms, bokeh remains limited on both. Still, the Fuji’s wider focal length range facilitates tighter framing, potentially improving subject isolation.

Image Quality in Practice – Real-World Results

Fujifilm S4200 front Fujifilm S4200 screen back Nikon S9100 front Nikon S9100 screen back

Through rigorous field trials and studio testing under controlled lighting, key observations emerge:

• Color rendition: Fujifilm maintains its signature film-inspired color science, rendering pleasing skin tones and warm hues, particularly beneficial for portraitists. Nikon’s color tends toward neutral, closer to natural appearance, preferred by landscape and documentary photographers.

• Detail & Resolution: Despite nominally more megapixels, Fuji’s CCD sensor tends to lose fine detail in shadows and exhibits more noise beyond ISO 800. Nikon’s CMOS sensor maintains cleaner detail at higher ISOs, thanks also to better noise reduction processing.

• Dynamic Range: Both cameras exhibit typical small-sensor limitations; highlight clipping can be abrupt and shadow details compressed. Nikon’s BSI sensor displays slightly improved dynamic latitude, critical for landscapes and HDR-style shooting.

• Low-light handling: Nikon’s wider ISO range and sensor design pay dividends here, delivering usable images up to ISO 1600 and sometimes at 3200, whereas Fuji’s noise amplifies quickly past ISO 400.

Video Capabilities – Are You Ready to Shoot HD?

For multimedia enthusiasts, video functionality is increasingly important. Here, the Nikon S9100 holds a clear advantage: it records Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps with H.264 compression, enabling crisp, modern HD capture. The Fuji S4200 lags behind with only 720p HD at 30 fps, coupled with Motion JPEG format, resulting in larger files and less efficient compression.

Neither model offers microphone or headphone jacks, nor 4K support, reflecting their launch era and market tier. Both cameras include basic electronic image stabilization during video, although the Nikon’s sensor-shift stabilization combined with its superior processor yields noticeably smoother footage.

Battery, Storage & Connectivity

Battery life is practical but unremarkable for both. Fujifilm’s use of four AA batteries is a double-edged sword - it enables field-replaceable power without proprietary rechargers but adds weight and can be less efficient for long shoots. Nikon’s proprietary EN-EL12 lithium-ion battery delivers about 270 shots per charge, roughly comparable but more eco-friendly and compact.

Both cameras offer a single SD card slot compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC storage cards, sufficient for most users, though none feature dual slot redundancy, limiting fail-safe options for professionals.

Neither model supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, or GPS, a common omission for their time but limiting instant sharing or geo-tagging convenience.

Durability & Weather Resistance

Neither the Fujifilm FinePix S4200 nor the Nikon Coolpix S9100 has environmental sealing, dustproofing, waterproofing, shockproofing, or freezeproofing. Both are intended for casual consumer use rather than extreme professional environments. Their build quality is solid for their respective classes - especially the Fuji’s heavier polycarbonate body - but expect cautious use in adverse weather or rugged conditions.

Performance Summaries & Scoring

Reviewing overall ratings formulated from sensor performance, autofocus, burst speed, video, ergonomics, and real-world image quality:

• Fujifilm S4200 scores higher in portrait and macro photography, benefiting from its longer zoom and closer focusing distance.

• Nikon S9100 outperforms in sports, wildlife, night, and video, due to faster burst, better AF system, and superior low-light sensor performance.

• Both cameras are competent in landscape and travel photography, though Nikon’s compactness and color neutrality may sway wildlife and travel enthusiasts.

Discipline-Specific Insights

Portrait Photography

The Fujifilm S4200’s film-inspired color rendering coupled with face detection autofocus supports flattering skin tones. However, the small sensor limits depth-of-field control and thus bokeh separation. Nikon’s face detection is comparably reliable, but color is cooler and less nuanced.

Landscape and Nature

Nikon’s dynamic range and CMOS efficiency offer a better platform for detailed landscape shots. Fuji’s higher megapixel count doesn’t translate into markedly finer textures due to noise. Weather sealing is absent on both; careful environmental consideration is needed.

Wildlife and Action

Nikon’s faster 10 fps burst and multi-area AF make it better suited for unpredictable wildlife movement or sports. Fuji’s slower 1 fps continuous shooting limits its action capture.

Street Photography

Nikon’s compact size and light weight favor discreet shooting. The lack of viewfinder on Nikon perfectly suits street candid shots using the LCD. The Fuji’s bulkier profile and EVF may hinder spontaneity but grant compositional precision.

Macro Photography

The Fujifilm’s aggressive 2 cm macro focus enhances close-up potential, an advantage over Nikon’s 4 cm limit. Sensor limitations, however, temper detail reproduction.

Night and Astro

Nikon’s extended ISO range and cleaner noise profile support better night and astrophotography. Neither camera provides long exposure modes beyond 8 seconds (Fuji) and 4 seconds (Nikon), necessitating tripod use and post-processing for astro endeavors.

Video Use

Nikon’s Full HD 1080p at 30 fps with efficient compression makes it more versatile for casual videography, while Fuji’s capped 720p limits output quality. Neither camera supports advanced manual video controls.

Travel Essentials

Portability (Nikon), battery versatility (Fuji’s AA use), and zoom range (Fujifilm) must be balanced. For long travel, Nikon’s compactness and video format favor travelers prioritizing lightweight gear.

Professional Reliance

Neither camera offers RAW file support or advanced workflow integration, limiting professional utility. The Fuji provides manual exposure control, potentially better for controlled environment work, but overall reflect consumer-level design.

Technical and Value Analysis Summary

This side-by-side underscores the Fuji as a cost-effective long-zoom bridge option with manual exposure flexibility, while the Nikon emphasizes speed, image quality, and full HD video at a higher price.

Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?

If your primary focus is on macro and portrait photography, favoring color rendition and a lengthy zoom with manual controls, and you do not require fast action capture or HD video, the Fujifilm FinePix S4200 represents a practical, budget-conscious choice. Its heavier body may be less suited for travel, but once handled, its ergonomics and exposure control provide satisfying creative options.

Conversely, for those prioritizing sports, wildlife, street photography, and HD video capture, where autofocus speed, burst performance, and low-light capability dominate, the Nikon Coolpix S9100 delivers clear advantages. Its compact profile enhances portability for travel and street use, and improved sensor technology aids in advanced shooting conditions.

Ultimately, the decision hinges on prioritized use cases and ergonomics preferences. While neither camera rivals mid-range mirrorless or DSLR models available today, both fulfill specific niches within small sensor superzoom offerings and serve well as primary or backup tools for enthusiasts.

This detailed comparison draws from both datasheet specifics and extensive hands-on evaluation, ensuring you have the expertise required to make an informed choice aligned with your photographic aspirations.

For a closing visual recap, here's a glance at how these cameras stack across diverse photography genres, combining sensor performance, speed, ergonomics, and output quality:

If you seek a small sensor superzoom for casual to semi-serious photography, now equipped with thorough insights, you can confidently select the model that best serves your unique photographic journey.