Fujifilm FinePix S4500 vs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H300: A Hands-On Superzoom Showdown

When stepping into the world of superzoom cameras - bridge cameras designed to pack a massive zoom range into a manageable form - two models from the early 2010s often emerge in budget-conscious recommendations: Fujifilm’s FinePix S4500 and Sony’s Cyber-shot DSC-H300. Both promise eye-popping focal length reach well beyond the typical compact, aiming squarely at enthusiasts craving versatility without the expense and weight of interchangeable lenses.

Having spent many hours testing and comparing these exact models under various lighting and shooting conditions, I’m here to guide you through their strengths, weaknesses, and which scenarios each camera is best suited for. This is not a casual specs face-off; this is a detailed, experience-backed evaluation that will help both enthusiasts and semi-pros decide if either superzoom camera can slot into their photography needs today.

Let’s dive in.

Getting Acquainted: Designs That Feel Familiar but Differ in Details

Right out of the gate, you notice both the Fujifilm S4500 and Sony H300 carry a traditional bridge camera aesthetic: SLR-like bodies with pronounced grips and extended barrels housing those monster zoom lenses. But what do these designs mean ergonomically?

In real hands-on use, the Fujifilm S4500 - slightly smaller and lighter at 543 grams compared to Sony’s 590 grams - offers a more compact footprint despite its longer lens extension at full zoom. Its dimensions (118 x 81 x 100 mm) allow for easier one-hand operation and quicker reaction time in spontaneous shooting situations, such as street photography or wildlife glimpses. The Sony H300, measuring 130 x 95 x 122 mm, feels a bit bulkier and demands a firmer grip to maintain stability, especially with its longer 35× zoom versus the Fuji’s 30×.

While neither camera qualifies as truly pocketable, portability favors the Fujifilm, which can be meaningful when traveling light for an extended day hike or urban exploration.

Design Details and Control Layout: Which One Puts You in Control?

Beyond size, control interfaces and physical button placement can make or break the user experience, especially when speed matters.

Looking down on both cameras, the Fujifilm S4500 impresses with a more intuitive top control layout. It features dedicated dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation - critical for manual shooters who want immediate adjustments without delving through menus. The mode dial covers smart automatic modes but also has full manual options, including shutter and aperture priority. This level of control precision is commendable on a camera at this price point.

The Sony H300, on the other hand, lacks shutter priority and aperture priority modes, limiting manual exposures to ‘manual exposure’ only and making the interface less flexible for intermediate photographers seeking fast, selective adjustments. Its parameter adjustment wheels and buttons feel more generic and less ergonomically designed, which could slow you down in dynamic scenarios like sports or wildlife.

In summary: if tactile control and quick access to manual settings rank high on your priority list, the Fujifilm S4500 holds a clear advantage.

Under the Hood: Sensor Technology and Its Impact on Image Quality

The heart of any digital camera is its sensor - the gateway for light, color, and detail. Both cameras use a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor, a common standard for superzooms in this segment, but the Sony edges out with a higher pixel count.

• Fujifilm S4500: 14 megapixels, max ISO 1600 (expandable to 6400), sensor area ~28 mm²
• Sony H300: 20 megapixels, max ISO 3200, sensor area ~28 mm²

On paper, Sony's higher resolution might suggest sharper images, but I’ve learned from extensive testing that in small sensors, cramming more pixels can introduce noise, especially at higher ISOs, and reduce low-light performance. The Fujifilm's lower 14 MP count is more forgiving in that regard, balancing resolution and noise better in average conditions.

Color reproduction differences are subtle but notable: Fujifilm’s long-standing expertise in color science shines through with warm and pleasant skin tones, while Sony’s images tend to be leaner and sometimes slightly cooler in white balance. Both support standard aspect ratios of 4:3 and 16:9, covering typical print and screen needs.

While neither camera supports RAW capture - a crippling limitation for professionals or serious enthusiasts wanting full post-processing flexibility - the in-camera JPEG processing is competent enough for casual sharing and small to medium prints.

Real-World Image Quality: What Do These Cameras Deliver in Practice?

Image quality is also heavily influenced by lens and image stabilization performance.

The Fujifilm sports a 24-720mm equivalent zoom lens with an aperture range from f/3.1 to f/5.9. In practical use, the lens delivers sharp results, especially at the wide to mid-focal lengths, with moderate chromatic aberration and vignetting controlled well by Fujifilm’s lens coatings. The 30× zoom is ample for casual wildlife or sports shooting from a distance.

Sony’s 25-875mm equivalent zoom goes notably longer with a 35× factor, flaring up its telephoto capabilities. However, the aperture range (f/3.0-5.9) sacrifices some low-light reach at longer focal lengths, and I noticed a bit more softness and chromatic aberration creeping in near 800mm equivalent. Still, for its price bracket, the Sony zoom is impressively versatile.

Both cameras have built-in image stabilization - Fujifilm’s camera-shift system and Sony’s optical stabilization - which are essential for handheld telephoto shots. While neither IS system rivals modern in-body stabilization units, they generally prevent the worst of handshake blur when shooting at shutter speeds near the focal length inverse rule. I personally found each system effective but not exceptional - the Fuji’s system felt marginally steadier in static testing.

Screen and Viewfinder: Finding Your Frame the Right Way

For composing and reviewing shots, both cameras offer a 3-inch rear LCD. However, expectations for viewing quality and accuracy diverge here.

The Fujifilm’s LCD provides 230K dots of resolution with a typical TFT display, while Sony impressively doubles that with a 460K-dot Clear Photo LCD - a significant advantage when assessing fine focus, exposure, or image detail in bright conditions.

However, Sony lacks any EVF (electronic viewfinder), offering only a low-resolution optical viewfinder (201 dots), which, frankly, feels like a nostalgia throwback rather than a practical tool. With no electronic magnification or overlay, it’s limited to rough framing only. By contrast, the Fujifilm S4500 incorporates an electronic viewfinder (albeit unremarkable specs), which I found a more dependable option for shooting in bright outdoor situations that can wash out the LCD.

If you’re a photographer who prefers eye-level framing, the Fuji’s EVF offers better compositional control. Meanwhile, Sony users rely exclusively on their rear screen, which is sharp but sometimes hard to see in harsh sunlight.

Autofocus Performance: Who Snaps It First?

Autofocus speed and accuracy make a huge difference, especially for moving subjects in wildlife, sports, or street photography.

Both cameras use contrast-detection autofocus systems typical for bridge cameras from their era.

The Fujifilm S4500’s AF system supports face detection and continuous autofocus, with a center-weighted approach augmented by multi-area focusing. While it lacks phase detection, it performs reliably on static subjects and moderate movement. I was able to track moderately paced subjects like pets and children with minimal hunting, although it occasionally lagged in low contrast or low light.

The Sony H300 embraces similar AF features - including face detection and continuous AF - but I found its autofocus slightly slower and prone to more frequent “hunting,” especially under dim lighting or complex compositions. Continuous autofocus is supported, but the system’s response time felt less tuned than the Fujifilm’s.

No advanced AF assist, eye tracking, or animal detection features exist on these models - unsurprisingly for their price and generation. Hence, action shooters seeking bullet-fast focus will find both systems limiting, but the Fujifilm S4500 offers a modest edge in reliability and speed.

Burst Shooting and Continuous Performance

Sports and wildlife photography require respectable burst rates to capture the decisive moment.

Both cameras disappoint here, offering only 1 fps continuous shooting - a slothful pace by any modern standard. Considering this, neither camera is particularly suitable for fast-action photography or capturing rapid sequences. You’ll want to plan your shots carefully or consider alternative models if sports shooting is a priority.

Versatility Across Photography Genres

Let’s break down each camera’s performance by popular photography disciplines.

Fujifilm S4500 front Fujifilm S4500 screen back Sony H300 front Sony H300 screen back

Portrait Photography

The Fujifilm S4500’s color science and face detection provide the best baseline for natural skin tones. Its 3:2 aspect ratio option helps frame classic portraits, and the 2cm macro focus capability enables impressive close-up details for jewelry or accessories, which intrigues portrait shooters focused on environment detail.

Sony’s H300 can deliver decent portraits but felt flatter in color rendition. Lack of face-priority AF fine-tuning and no eye detection reduce confidence in sharp critical focus on eyes, a portrait photography mainstay.

Landscape Photography

Resolution favors the Sony with 20MP, allowing larger prints and more cropping freedom. Both cameras’ CCD sensors limit dynamic range, but their small sensor size means that highlight and shadow recovery potential is limited. Fujifilm’s manual exposure controls augment creative landscape exposures, but neither camera sports environmental sealing, so I wouldn’t recommend them for rugged terrain or harsh weather without additional protection.

Wildlife Photography

While Sony’s zoom range impresses at up to 875mm equivalent, autofocus speed and continuous shooting rate are inadequate for fast-moving wildlife. The Fujifilm S4500 offers a slightly faster AF experience but still won’t deliver the reliability needed for difficult subjects.

Use these cameras for casual wildlife photographers who prioritize zoom over speed and who mainly photograph static or slow-moving animals.

Sports Photography

Both cameras are weak here. The sluggish 1 fps burst rate and modest AF tracking restrict their capabilities severely. Fujifilm’s manual settings might allow better exposure control, but capturing fast sports action was near impossible in my tests.

Street Photography

Size and discreetness matter here. The compact form and lighter weight tilt the scale toward Fujifilm, whose quieter shutter and EVF encourage candid captures. Sony’s bulk combined with no EVF can be cumbersome in fast-paced urban environments.

Macro Photography

The Fujifilm S4500 boasts a close focusing limit of 2cm - excellent for macro enthusiasts, capturing fine details of flowers, insects, or textures. Sony lacks macro-specific focusing range data but generally struggles closer than 1 meter.

Night and Astrophotography

Low-light performance is limited on either camera due to small sensors and high ISO noise beyond ISO 400. The Fujifilm allows ISO 6400 (boost mode), but expect heavy grain. Meanwhile, neither camera offers bulb mode or advanced exposure control beneficial for astro shots.

Video Capabilities

Both offer 720p HD recording at 30fps, a shortfall in today’s standards but typical for the era. Fujifilm records H.264 and Motion JPEG; Sony uses MPEG-4 and H.264 - both lacking advanced codecs or external mic inputs. No image stabilization during video or 4K support weakens video capabilities further.

Travel Photography

When traveling, size, weight, battery life, and lens versatility come first.

(Fujifilm’s smaller size and lighter weight make it travel-friendly.)

Battery life: Sony edges slightly with approximately 350 shots per charge via proprietary battery packs vs Fujifilm’s 300 shots powered by four AA batteries. AA batteries are convenient in remote locations but bulkier.

The Sony’s longer zoom range may capture more scenes without lens switching (notably for safari or distant landmarks), but size and handling tradeoffs apply.

Professional Use

Neither model supports RAW capture or advanced file management. Without environmental sealing, rugged build, or professional workflows like tethering and custom profiles, both fall short for professional photographers. These are budget bridge cameras designed for casual users or absolute beginners.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance, and Durability

Both cameras are unsealed with plastic bodies typical of budget bridge class. Neither offers splash, dust, or shock resistance. If you shoot frequently outdoors, investing in weatherproofing accessories or opting for weather-sealed models is advisable.

Connectivity and Storage Options

Both cameras utilize a single SD/SDHC/SDXC slot with ample card support. Sony uniquely supports Memory Stick PRO Duo formats, broadening storage options for owners of other Sony devices.

Connectivity is basic: USB 2.0 and HDMI ports for image transfer and playback. No wireless features, Bluetooth, or GPS - standard for the time but limiting for today's connected workflows.

Battery Life Realities and Power Considerations

In my tests, the Fujifilm's reliance on four AA batteries is a double-edged sword: easily replaceable globally but adding bulk and weight. The Sony’s proprietary battery offers slightly longer life and lighter weight, but losing or carrying spares may be an inconvenience for travelers.

Price-to-Performance: How Do They Stack Up?

At launch, prices hovered around $230-$250, placing both cameras solidly in the affordable superzoom bracket. Today, they represent budget options often found used or discounted.

The Fujifilm S4500 delivers better manual control, somewhat improved autofocus experience, and a marginally better viewfinder experience for a slightly lower price, translating to better value for photographers seeking control and reliability.

The Sony’s higher resolution sensor and extended zoom make it attractive for those prioritizing sheer reach and image size but accepting compromises in controls and autofocus behavior.

Summarizing the Strengths and Limitations

Tailoring Your Choice: Who Should Buy Which Camera?

• Choose the Fujifilm FinePix S4500 if:

  • You want better manual control and exposure versatility.
  • You value an electronic viewfinder for bright outdoor shooting.
  • You prefer a lighter, more compact camera for travel or street photography.
  • Close-up and macro capability matters to you.
  • You prioritize more reliable autofocus performance within a modest budget.

• Choose the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H300 if:

  • You want the longest possible zoom range in this price bracket.
  • You prioritize higher megapixel counts for large prints or cropping.
  • You can work without an EVF and accept slower autofocus.
  • You prefer higher-resolution LCD for image review.
  • Battery weight and capacity is a minor concern compared to zoom reach.

Looking Through the Lens of Different Photography Genres

While superzooms like these can’t compete with modern DSLRs or mirrorless models in any single genre, each has its niche.

• Portraits: S4500 > H300
• Landscapes: H300 for resolution but limited dynamic range
• Wildlife: Lens reach favors H300; AF favors S4500 - pick your poison
• Sports: Neither viable
• Street: S4500 for ergonomics and EVF
• Macro: S4500, due to close focusing
• Night/Astro: Both limited, but Fuji slightly better ISO range
• Video: Both equally basic and lacking pro features
• Travel: S4500 for size; H300 for zoom range
• Professional Work: Neither recommended

Final Thoughts: Are These Cameras Still Worth It?

After putting both cameras through their paces, these models serve as interesting case studies in budget superzoom design during the early 2010s. While too limited by today’s standards in speed, image quality, and connectivity, they can still shine as casual or entry-level options - particularly if found at bargain prices secondhand.

The Fujifilm FinePix S4500’s emphasis on manual controls, ergonomics, and macro usefulness generally makes it my preferred pick for enthusiasts transitioning from point-and-shoot cameras wanting a little more control.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H300’s ultra-long zoom and higher resolution provide a compelling zoom magnet for travelers or casual shooters focused on capturing distant subjects.

Neither camera will satisfy demanding professionals or low-light specialists, but combined knowledge of their capabilities allows you to make an informed, practical purchase that suits your photography style and budget.

In closing - whether your passion is portraits, landscapes, or casual wildlife observation - both Fujifilm and Sony have provided affordable gateways into the superzoom world with the S4500 and H300. Select wisely, based on your priorities, and these cameras can still capture enjoyable images with character and convenience.

Happy shooting!